Hum 130 Sikhism

Running head: SIKHISM

Sikhism

James Kelly

Axia College of University of Phoenix

Sikhism

The word “Sikhism” derives from “Sikh”, which means a strong and disciple. There are about 23 million Sikhs worldwide, making Sikhism the 5th largest religion in the world. Approximately 19 million Sikhs live in Indian, primarily in the state of Punjab. Large populations of Sikhs can also be found in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, (Religion Facts [RF], 2005). Sikhism preaches a message of devotion and remembrance of God at all times, truthful living, equality of mankind and denounces superstitions and blind rituals. Sikhism is open to all through the teachings of its 10 Gurus enshrined in the Sikh Holy Book and Living Guru, Sri Guru Granth Sahib, (RF). Sikhism emerged in 16th-century India in an environment heavily permeated with conflicts between the Hindu and Muslim religions and was influenced by reform movements in Hinduism as well as some Muslim influences, (RF). Sikhism had reflected greatly on its cultural context and as a result, it developed into a movement unique in India.

Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak Dev, who was born in 1469 to Hindu family. Guru Nanak preached to Hindus, Muslims and many others, and in the process he attracted a following of Sikhs (disciples). Guru Nanak believed teaching religion was a way to unite people, but in practice he found that it set men against one another. He particularly regretted the antagonism between Hindus and Muslims. Guru Nanak’s most famous saying is, “There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim, so whose path shall I follow? I shall follow the path of God”, (RF, 2005).

Guru Nanak taught his followers that salvation does not mean entering paradise after a last judgment, but a union and absorption into God, the True Name. Sikhs do not believe in a heaven or hell. Sikhs also reject the belief in incarnations of God, believing that God makes his will known through the Gurus, (RF,...