Sikhism - Its origins and philosophy

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that emerged in the Indian subcontinent in the 15th century. It was founded by Guru Nanak and further developed by a lineage of nine successive Gurus. This article explores the origins of Sikhism, its key concepts, how it compares to other religious or philosophical traditions, the role of priests, gender roles within the faith, beliefs about the afterlife, and the presence (or absence) of idol worship in Sikh practice.

Sikhism was founded in the Punjab region of present-day India and Pakistan during the late 15th century. Guru Nanak (1469–1539) is considered the founder of the faith, and he rejected the prevailing religious divisions between Hinduism and Islam. Guru Nanak preached a message of unity, equality, and devotion to one God, emphasizing internal spirituality over ritualistic practices. The teachings of Guru Nanak and the nine Gurus who followed him are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the central scripture of Sikhism.

Sikhism has a strong presence in Punjab, India, which remains its spiritual and cultural heartland. Today, significant Sikh communities exist in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Malaysia, among other countries. The Sikh diaspora continues to grow, spreading the faith’s teachings worldwide.

Sikhism is both a religion and a philosophy. It provides a structured belief system centered on monotheism, while also emphasizing moral conduct, selfless service, and meditation. Unlike many religious traditions, Sikhism does not subscribe to asceticism or enforced rituals but encourages an active and righteous life.

The key tenets of Sikhism include:

• Ek Onkar – The belief in one formless, omnipresent God.

• Naam Japna – Remembrance and meditation on God’s name.

• Kirat Karni – Honest and ethical living.

• Vand Chakna – Sharing wealth and helping the less fortunate.

• Equality – Sikhism strongly opposes caste discrimination and promotes gender equality.

• Seva (Selfless Service) – Devotion to humanity through acts of charity and community service.

Sikhism shares some similarities with Hinduism and Islam due to its geographical and cultural origins, yet it is distinct in many ways:

• No Idol Worship: Unlike Hinduism, Sikhism does not worship idols or images.

• No Clerical Hierarchy: Unlike Islam or Christianity, Sikhism does not have a centralized religious authority like a pope or caliph.

• Guru Lineage and the Guru Granth Sahib: Sikhism follows the teachings of ten human Gurus and ultimately considers the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru.

• Focus on Practical Living: Sikhism encourages adherents to lead a householder’s life rather than renounce the world for spiritual enlightenment.

Sikhism does not have a formal priesthood in the traditional sense. Instead, any knowledgeable and devout Sikh can lead prayers and recite from the Guru Granth Sahib. The closest equivalent to priests are Granthis, who serve as custodians of Sikh scriptures and assist in religious ceremonies but do not hold any divine authority.

Sikhism upholds gender equality, and women can perform the same religious duties as men. Women can read from the Guru Granth Sahib, lead congregational prayers, and participate in religious discourse without restriction.

Sikhism teaches the concepts of reincarnation and karma. The ultimate goal of life is to attain mukti (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death by merging with God. Unlike some religions that describe heaven and hell as physical places, Sikhism views them as states of consciousness shaped by one’s actions and spiritual progress.

Sikhism firmly rejects idol worship. Sikhs do not pray to statues or images but instead focus their devotion on Naam Simran (meditation on God’s name) and the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib is revered as the eternal Guru, but it is not worshipped as an idol.

Sikhism is a distinct and vibrant faith that emphasizes monotheism, equality, service, and devotion to God. Founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century, it continues to thrive as a major world religion. Unlike many other traditions, Sikhism rejects idol worship, caste divisions, and priestly authority, focusing instead on personal spirituality and ethical living. Through its core values of justice, humility, and community service, Sikhism offers a profound and practical spiritual path for its followers around the world.