The Sikh Faith

The Sikh faith was revealed through the teachings of the 10 gurus, the first of whom was Guru Nanak who was born in 1468 CE in the Punjab, India. The 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, vested spiritual authority in the Holy Sikh Scriptures, the Guru Granth Sahib. Sikhs believe that there is one God who is both transcendent and immanent.

Consciousness of God and God's grace can be realised and received through contemplation, truthful living and selfless service to others. A Sikh's way of life is goverened by the following principles: Nam Simran - remembering and praying to God at all times, Kirat Karna - earning a living by honest means, Wand Shakna - sharing with the poor and needy, Sewa - selfless service to God and humanity, Equality - to treat all humans as equal.

The Sikh place of congregational worship is called a Gudwara. It consists of two halls, a prayer hall and a larger hall where the congregation sits together and shares a community meal. On entering the Gudwara heads must be covered with a scarf and shoes removed. Sikhs give utmost respect to the Holy Scriptures which contains the word of God.

Guru Gobind Singh introduced the concept of equality by making it obligatory for baptised Sikhs to share Amrit (holy water), adopt the same name of Singh (for men) and Kaur (for women) and wear the five articles of faith  - Kesh (uncut hair, often worn with a turban), Kangha (a small wooden comb), Kara (an iron/steel bangle), Kirpan (a short sword) and Kachhera (shorts).

A Sikh festival or holy day is called a Gurpurb: Remembrance Day. This usually refers to the birth or death of the Gurus. Sikhs do not take alcohol, tobacco or other intoxicants. Observant Sikhs, especially those who are baptised are vegetarian. They also exclude eggs and any food containing animal derivatives.