Sikhism, the forgotten religion was founded in the early 16th century. Sikhism is 500 years old and originated in Northern India, in the Punjab. This religion was founded by Guru Nanak. He is one of 10 main gurus but in Sikh history there are more than just 10 gurus. Guru Nanak was born in 1469. He died, thus ending his guruship in 1539 making him 70 years old. He was the first of 10 gurus which makes his importance obvious. His message was that of love and peace. In guru Nanak’s hymn on the importance of a guru it states, “Through faith in the guru the True Self is known.” He believed that the necessity of a guru was great.
Sikhs believe that God is without form, also called nirguna. Meditation is commonly practiced in this religion while meditating one repeats a name of God thus resulting in bhakti, or spiritual, powerful and mystical experience. These spiritual happenings draw people closer to God and a feeling of belonging. Sikhs believe in one God who is referred to as Wahiguru. They believe in reincarnation and the idea of life after life after life. A sect of Sikhism is called the Khalsa or Orthodox Sikhs who view smoking and eating meat as evil and refrain from doing such things. The males wear the 5 k’s which are: turban (kesh), bracelet (kara), comb (kanga), shorts (kaach), and sword (kirpan). The main focus of Sikhism is to obtain liberation or moksha. They see this as a source or enlightenment.
According to the film there are 20 million members of the Sikh religion. Though it is only 500 years old, it is one of the 5 biggest religions in the world. I also learned in the films that their God is without form or sex. They believe he is one supreme God. They believe it is important to do good and serve others around them. The men and women have a standard dress. The greatest guru, guru Nanak believed in equality.
Personal Reflection -
Of all the religions we have studied thus far, Sikhism has been the most fun and intriguing religion for me to learn. I have enjoyed learning about their standards, beliefs and goals. To me they seem like a loving and motivated people. Learning about their 10 gurus, especially guru Nanak was interesting to me. It’s amazing that one person can make such a great difference in history.
In response to the question of Sikhs having a political right to establish Khalistan, I believe they do have a right to have their own place to call home. I think it is fair and right and just for them to have a place to go to for worship and unity. Many religions have that in our present day and I think it’s good for them to have one if they feel it’s something that would strengthen them as a religion and people.
