New to Sikhism

Akasha · #1 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 10:27 AM

Hello! Gora here from Halifax, NS Canada.

I am new to Sikhism and have some questions... but I'll give you a bit of background how I found this beautiful faith first:

All through my life, I have had some deeply personal spiritual experiences that put my birth religion into question. Those were basically Out Of Body experiences and I always viewied them as a gift from God that brought me closer to my spirituality, but my birth religion (Catholic) thought differently. So I went on many years search....

In my teens, I became interested in quantum physics and how it suggests that this world is an illusion, and that consciousness (not matter) is the base of all reality. Basically the deeper the look into matter... the more it dissolves into nothingness. I knew that somehow this was significant in relation to metaphysics. If the core of all reality is ONE pure consciousness (God) that means God is within us and everything. (totally not Catholic teachings)

In my early 20's I joined the Navy and in one of my first foreign ports I bought a beautiful cd that I heard playing. It was a cd by Singh Kaur. That was my first introduction to Sikhism. About 10 years later I seriously started to study Sikhism, read the Guru Granth Sahib (in English) and was amazed when I found out it agrees with quantum physics about reality. It was my exact belief about God and the Universe! I was amazed how it told about countless galaxies and planets at a time when most of the world thought the Earth was flat! Thatthis reliaty is an illusion, and that there is ONE God within us and everything!
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/new-to-sikhism/38811-new-to-sikhism.html

I only recently (at 36) made the decision to contact the local Gurdwara. I was surprised when the president was very helpful and told me he had many offers from members to help me! And I was even more surprised to find a white Sikh here is a member... and he is very prominent in Canada through a run in politics. He has been answering questions for me, and wants to bring me to GUrdara this Sunday! EEEKK! I am SOOOOOO nervous!

So my questions are:

1. I was gifted a kara from a Sikh friend in the UK. Would it be disrespectful if I wore it? I obviously know the significance and meaning of it. I don't want to give the wrong idea...

2. What do I wear? I have many plain cotton Indian long tunic tops (I wear them in the Summer because I burn easily and they are cool) would that be ok with a light scarf and loose kahki pants?

3. I feel bad since my hair is not long (due to my career in the military) I have 4 yrs left then plan to grow it out... will I be looked down upon because of this? My hair is VERY difficult to deal with if I try to grow since its VERY curly naturally. I think the only way I could grow it out is if I could cover it ALL the time - which brings me to the next question...

4. When I get out of the military in 4 years, could I wear a dastar? All Indian women Sikhs I have seen in person don't wear turbans... just a chunni at Gurdwara and nothing the rest of the time. Would that be very odd here in Canada... especially in the Maritimes? Would it be seen as over the top?

5. Should I bow to Guru Granth Sahib on Sunday and how exactly do I do it (step by step)?

sorry for the newbie questions!
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811

Of note: I already meditate at home, and starting to read bani - I am taking this as a step by step approach. Trying to get in the routine of getting up early for now... and concentrating on Japji Sahib for now. Will add more later.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Ishna · #2 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 14:07 PM

Welcome to SPN Akasha bhenji (sister)

It's always nice to meet a fellow gori (white female) Sikh.

It's really good that you're going to a Gurdwara Sahib! I hope you have a really enjoyable experience. Phoning ahead like you've done is a good idea, it's always a bit easier if you've got someone to show you around. It's always a bit nerve racking but you'll be fine.

Quote:

1. I was gifted a kara from a Sikh friend in the UK. Would it be disrespectful if I wore it? I obviously know the significance and meaning of it. I don't want to give the wrong idea...

You don't have to wear it if you don't want to. You might want to save it until you feel Sikhi is definately something you'd like to get into. It wouldn't be a disrespect if you wore it.

Quote:

2. What do I wear? I have many plain cotton Indian long tunic tops (I wear them in the Summer because I burn easily and they are cool) would that be ok with a light scarf and loose kahki pants?

Yep, sounds good.

Quote:

3. I feel bad since my hair is not long (due to my career in the military) I have 4 yrs left then plan to grow it out... will I be looked down upon because of this? My hair is VERY difficult to deal with if I try to grow since its VERY curly naturally. I think the only way I could grow it out is if I could cover it ALL the time - which brings me to the next question...

You'll probably find half the sangat at the Gurdwara has cut hair. You'll also find clean shaven men. There are people at all stages along their Sikh journey at the Gurdwara.

Quote:

4. When I get out of the military in 4 years, could I wear a dastar? All Indian women Sikhs I have seen in person don't wear turbans... just a chunni at Gurdwara and nothing the rest of the time. Would that be very odd here in Canada... especially in the Maritimes? Would it be seen as over the top?

Lots of gori Sikhs wear dastaars. If you became amritdhari you could possibly wear a dastaas IN the military - I don't know if there's any Sikh precedent of dastaar in the military in Canada - you'll need to do some research.

Quote:

5. Should I bow to Guru Granth Sahib on Sunday and how exactly do I do it (step by step)?

It's easy. Walk down the 'runway', wait your turn if there are people ahead of you, when it's your turn put your donation in the money box (any amount, or none if you're so inclined), get on your knees, bend forward touching your forehead on the ground for a few seconds, stand back up, put your hands together in respect, then move to the ladies side of the darbar (prayer hall) and sit down.

When I bow, I put one hand against my chest to hold my chunni in place. The other hand is flat on the floor next to my head. Some women put both hands on the floor, some put the back of their hands on the ground with their palms facing upwards. That's the beauty of Sikhi, it's not so rule-bound as Islam for instance, where you have to turn your feet on certain angles. It doesn't matter. Speaking of feet, when you bow, you can have your toes bent or flat. I see more people with bent toes, but I go flat toes. It really doesn't matter. As long as you keep your head covered you'll be sweet.

Here's another recent thread about visiting Gurdwara: http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/questi...-gurdwara.html

welcomekaur

itsmaneet · #3 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 14:28 PM

Satsriakal Akasha !!

First of all.... heartiest welcome to the ocean of knowledge & spirituality "Sikhism". welcomemunda

As you your self experienced "Guru Granth Sahib Ji" is the only holy Granth that would stand to all the aspects of science. Saying this am not dis obeying other books/religions coz our Gurus taught us that all are good at their places. It's upto us to decide which one is better & can make you meet with Waheguru 'Almighty'.

Coming to your questions -

1. I was gifted a kara from a Sikh friend in the UK. Would it be disrespectful if I wore it? I obviously know the significance and meaning of it. I don't want to give the wrong idea...
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811

It won't be disrectful if you wear it, infact when you get use to it you'll yourself get the feeling it's usefulness in strengthening your inner power, purifying your thoughts etc... wearing a steel kara is not only a religious matter but it again also have a scientific advantage that we can discuss later with time as it's a lengthy topic.

2. What do I wear? I have many plain cotton Indian long tunic tops (I wear them in the Summer because I burn easily and they are cool) would that be ok with a light scarf and loose kahki pants?
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811

When a Sikh enters Gurudwara he never thinks on how he/she would look, what others will feel of him/her coz he/she is not going to Gurudwara to impress people or prove something instead he/she is going to please the Almighty & the Almighty is pleased with a pure, honest & humble prayer. Just wear normal clothes (sober) shouldn't be very showy & do not forget to cover your head with a piece of cloth.

3. I feel bad since my hair is not long (due to my career in the military) I have 4 yrs left then plan to grow it out... will I be looked down upon because of this? My hair is VERY difficult to deal with if I try to grow since its VERY curly naturally. I think the only way I could grow it out is if I could cover it ALL the time - which brings me to the next question...
Again when you are entering Gurudwara you are not there to prove yourself or impress any. You are there to please the Almighty. Just be humble, calm & composed. Regarding your short hair, make sure you cover it with a piece of cloth. Rest you can ask for a help from fello Sikhs there & am sure all will be very helpful to you.

4. When I get out of the military in 4 years, could I wear a dastar? All Indian women Sikhs I have seen in person don't wear turbans... just a chunni at Gurdwara and nothing the rest of the time. Would that be very odd here in Canada... especially in the Maritimes? Would it be seen as over the top?
Ahh...answer is again the same. Never bother about what others say. You should be confident & happy that you are pleasing the Almighty. For females, just keep chunni on your head or keep your hair covered somehow but never with a cap [wearing cap is a sin in Sikhism]

5. Should I bow to Guru Granth Sahib on Sunday and how exactly do I do it (step by step)? sorry for the newbie questions!

It's never a shame to bow before your Master. Even in navy/army you salute your senior. It's just to give respect. Further in Sikhism, Sikh would never force anyone to bow before Guru Granth Sahib Ji.....Most important than bowing head is that one should bow from heart towards the Guru. The day you'll accept Guru Granth Sahib Ji as your Guru/Master you'll never hesitate to bow before Guru Granth Sahib Ji. About how to bow, when you enter Gurudwara premises, notice how people doing it.

I hope hope you'll find my views helpful & remember one thing when you are climbing a mountain you cannot reach the peak at first instance, it takes a lot efforts, difficulties etc. but the time you reach at the peak you feel the air that would make you forget all your difficulties on the way. So, just work on step by step & you'll get the right path by the blessings of "Waheguru"

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh ....

Searching · #4 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 17:00 PM

Dear itsmaneet ji
I do not think that anyone goes to Gurudwara to please God. To me its rather a feeling to have a connection with God and Gurdwara is place for it.
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811

In fact it is for one's own choice/ benefit/whatever that one visits a place of worship.

Ishna · #5 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 17:20 PM

Of course, God is not more present in Gurdwara than It is your home or the supermarket or the loo (teehee). The aim it to feel that connection for the maximum time.
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811

Gurdwara for me is like a recharge socket, a re-focus, a touch-base. Hopefully I'll get to the stage when the only recharge socket I need is Guruji Itself constantly, and then hopefully I'll become a bit of a recharge socket for others. peacesignkaur

What is Gurdwara to others?

harry haller · #6 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 19:39 PM

Quote:

What is Gurdwara to others?

A place devoid of Creators presence, full of ritualism, ceremony. I find more connection walking the dog

my own opinion only

itsmaneet · #7 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 19:39 PM

Dear Searching Ji ....

It depends how you take the word 'pleased' ...... !
By 'pleased' above i mean - reaching God, connecting with God, make God happy with my deeds, following the orders of our Gurus

harry haller · #8 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 20:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by itsmaneet

Dear Searching Ji ....

It depends how you take the word 'pleased' ...... !
By 'pleased' above i mean - reaching God, connecting with God, make God happy with my deeds, following the orders of our Gurus

Itsmaneetji

My own opinion is that you are viewing God as you would a human being, with human emotions, someone who is beaming when you do Path, and angry with a furrowed brown when you have a drink. This is the classic description of the Abrahamic God, although brother Vouthon will no doubt post quotations to prove me wrong

In my view, God, the timeless one, the one with no form, no fear, no enemies, is not pleased or disappointed by anything, 'it' is in a state of Naam, it is perfect, beyond imagination, beyond the petty emotions that plague us mortals.

The following of Hukam will enable us all to be in a state of Naam, anything other than that is pointless. Of course once you have been in Hukam for a while, and the contentment and bliss that envelopes you may direct you to praise God, to sing the name with joy, to read Bani, to recite Bani, to get pleasure out of the connection, but that is for yourself, not for God,

Ishna · #9 (**permalink**) 21-Jul-2012, 20:44 PM

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji does talk about pleasing Creator often with the soul-bride metaphor, the bride adorning herself with virtues to win the Husband's affection.

Ang 19:

ਚੰਦਨੁ ਮੋਲਿ ਅਣਾਇਆ ਕੁੰਗੂ ਮਾਂਗ ਸੰਧੂਰੁ ॥
Cẖanḏan mol aṇā▫i▫ā kungū māŉg sanḏẖūr.
The bride may buy sandalwood oil and perfumes, and apply them in great quantities to her hair;
ਚੋਆ ਚੰਦਨੁ ਬਹੁ ਘਣਾ ਪਾਨਾ ਨਾਲਿ ਕਪੂਰੁ ॥
Cẖo▫ā cẖanḏan baho gẖaṇā pānā nāl kapūr.
she may sweeten her breath with betel leaf and camphor,
ਜੇ ਧਨ ਕੰਤਿ ਨ ਭਾਵਈ ਤ ਸਭਿ ਅਡੰਬਰ ਕੂੜੁ ॥੪॥
Je ḏẖan kanṯ na bẖāv▫ī ṯa sabẖ adambar kūṛ. ||4||
but if this bride is not pleasing to her Husband Lord, then all these trappings are false. ||4||
ਸਭਿ ਰਸ ਭੋਗਣ ਬਾਦਿ ਹਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਸੀਗਾਰ ਵਿਕਾਰ ॥
Sabẖ ras bẖogaṇ bāḏ hėh sabẖ sīgār vikār.
Her enjoyment of all pleasures is futile, and all her decorations are corrupt.
ਜਬ ਲਗੁ ਸਬਦਿ ਨ ਭੇਦੀਐ ਕਿਉ ਸੋਹੈ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਿ ॥
Jab lag sabaḏ na bẖeḏī▫ai ki▫o sohai gurḏu▫ār.
Until she has been pierced through with the Shabad, how can she look beautiful at Guru's Gate?
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811
ਨਾਨਕ ਧੰਨੁ ਸੁਹਾਗਣੀ ਜਿਨ ਸਹ ਨਾਲਿ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥੫॥੧੩॥
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38811
Nānak ḏẖan suhāgaṇī jin sah nāl pi▫ār. ||5||13||
O Nanak, blessed is that fortunate bride, who is in love with her Husband Lord. ||5||13||