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Guru Nanak is the founder of the Sikh faith,
which began at approximately the same time as the Protestant
Reformation in Europe (1469). Guru Nanak was succeeded by
nine Gurus, each bringing a different virtue to the faith.
Guru Nanak spread a simple message: “We are all one,
created by the One Creator of all Creation.”
After the tenth Guru is the holy book, Guru
Granth Sahib, which contains the sayings of the Gurus,
as well as songs/ hymns. Worship includes hymns and prayers
from the Granth, and sermons based on its teachings.
The Granth occupies a place of honour during worship
and is always attended to.
Sikhism is a simple, disciplined way of life
based on these principles:
- Nam Japa - To get up each day before sunrise,
to clean the body, meditate on God’s name and recite
the Guru’s hymns to clean the mind. Throughout the
day, continuously remember God’s name with every breath.
- Dharam di Kirat Karni - To work and earn by
the sweat of the brow, to live a family way of life, and
practice truthfulness and honesty in all dealings.
- Vand Ke Chakna - To share the fruits of one’s
labour with others before considering oneself. Thus, to
live as an inspiration and a support to the entire community.
Sikh virtues include Humility, Obedience,
Equality, Service, Self-Sacrifice, Justice, Mercy, Purity,
Tranquility and Courage. Each of these virtues has been emphasized
by a different guru.
The Khalsa is a spiritual brotherhood and
sisterhood devoted to purity of thought and action, with distinctive
external forms to remember their commitment and to maintain
an elevated state of consciousness. Every Sikh baptized as
Khalsa vows to wear the Five "K's": uncut hair,
wooden comb, special cotton underwear, steel circle and sword.
Not all Sikh are Khalsa, but can apply at any time.
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The Sikh gurdwara (temple) is a place of
worship and a safe place for anyone who fears, is hungry,
is homeless or has other needs. After each service, the gurdwara
provides a vegetarian meal, so that no one leaves hungry.
Sikhs earn their living and share with people
through monetary donations and voluntary service. Ten percent
is the “daswand,” which is an expected contribution
to the gurdwara and community to help the needy and look after
the gurdwara.
Gurdwaras have service projects and contribute
to community organizations. For example, one gurdwara has
a large garden with all of the fresh produce going to the
local food hamper program.
Individually, Sikhs are members of various
service and community organizations.
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Sikhism is a lay movement without clergy.
To engage the Sikh community in your area, contact the gurdwara
by looking under “churches” in the yellow pages
or at the Gurdwara
Map. Ask to speak to a lay leader or with the executive
committee.
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