Sikhism

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region by Guru Nanak in the late fifteenth century. It is a distinct faith with its own scripture, practices, and history, not an offshoot of any other religion. Sikhs believe in one God, the equality of all human beings, and a life of honest living, devotion, and service to others. The tradition was shaped by Guru Nanak and the nine Gurus who followed him.

The central scripture of Sikhism is the Guru Granth Sahib, which Sikhs regard as the eternal living Guru rather than merely a book. It contains hymns and writings from several of the Sikh Gurus as well as from other saints and poets, and it is treated with profound reverence in Sikh worship. Another important text is the Dasam Granth, a collection associated with the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, whose contents and role are the subject of scholarly discussion. Both texts can be read in the U-God library.

Sikhs believe in one God, the single formless Creator of all existence, often referred to by the term Ik Onkar, meaning one supreme reality. God in Sikh belief is eternal, without gender in the human sense, and present within all creation. Sikhs seek to draw close to God through devotion, remembrance of the divine name, honest living, and service. The tradition rejects idol worship and emphasizes direct devotion to the one Creator.

Guru Nanak (1469 to 1539) was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the Sikh Gurus. Sikhs believe he taught the oneness of God, the equality of all people regardless of caste, gender, or background, and the importance of honest work, sharing, and remembering God. His teachings, preserved in hymns, form part of the Guru Granth Sahib. He was followed by nine further Gurus who continued and developed the tradition.

Sikh practice centers on remembering God through prayer and meditation on the divine name, living honestly, and sharing with those in need. Many Sikhs gather at the gurdwara, the Sikh place of worship, where the Guru Granth Sahib is read and where the community kitchen (langar) serves free meals to all as an expression of equality and service. Selfless service (seva) is highly valued. Initiated members of the Khalsa follow additional commitments, including the articles of faith often known as the Five Ks.