An Outsider's Thought on the 5ks

have started thread http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-s...tml#post167987
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-sikhi-sikhism/38767-an-outsiders-thought-on-the-5ks.html

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last post on the topic in hand was p2 phew, have reposted it for sake of continuity

Posted BY Linzer

Originally Posted by Sicarius
I am a new Sikhi. I am a Latino, and was raised a Catholic. I feel that this empowers me in some ways to look at new religions objectively.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Sicarius

It was the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, but you should know that we regard all 10 gurus as the same illuminating force. Therefore it makes no real difference If it’s the first or the last. It’s is still and obligation for receiving amrit.
It's not necessary that you cut your hair,wear a turban or use any of the other 5k to go to Gurwara or study the S.G.G.S. .I know plenty of Indian Sikhs here in Mexico that don't but If one day you decide that you want to take Amrit then it would become an obligation.
I think that one day I will receive Amrit so I've started to use the 5 k's . I regard not cutting my hair as accepting how look I am without vanity. I think people in general waste too much of their lives by not accepting themselves as they are.
I go to swim three times a week and I find it hugely amusing that it takes me less time to get dressed, comb and tie my hair and beard( which is quite long now) than some fellows with very short hair. They stand in front of the mirror with gel and blow dryers trying to get that one imaginary hair to stay in place.
As to cleanliness, I think my hair is cleaner now than its' ever been since its always covered.
I wouldn't worry too much about it right now just keep reading Gurbani and Sikh history as well.
Maybe one day you'll change your mind. I did.

One last word, Chazji ,I need to say that you are the only person I know from 3HO that quotes Gurbani and I know quite a few. All the rest just quote YB. "the Maestro said" It gets tiresome.I don't necesesarily agree with your interpretation but keep up the good work. As for Snatam Kaur, yes, she has a nice voice but for me would be better suited to country western. I like traditional Ragas more, to each their own.swordfight

I don't think that Chazji is from 3HO himself, but I think he holds some respect for them for the fact that they pursue meditation and simran. For that matter, I also value some of this approach and holds some respect for them.

With Snatam Kaur,I think she is a great artist and inspiration for the young. My kids have only started to pay some attention to kirtan after listening to and being inspired by her work. So , she should keep up her good work!!!

I can confirm i am not part of the 3HO organisation but i do intend to be happy, healthy and holy in my life....i think we can all be included in that

What is the difference between Raja yoga and Kundalini yoga?
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=38767
Can anyone sum it up?

There is lots of information on the internet about both....but i wouldnt recommend researching too much about them.

Although many have probably had great success with them powered by the love to experience their true selves and God. By Guru's grace from my own experience just following the following advice from guru Ji has worked a treat.

pa(n)chaa kaa gur eaek dhhiaan ||
The chosen ones meditate single-mindedly on the Guru. 2

So providing you are laying the seeds with doing good and not hurting others (physically, mentally and spiritually) and you feel a thirst to 'seek the truth' and nothing but the truth, then just following the above is the best advice.

meditate single mindedly? how can that be done when you're so busy with normal life, or when you close your eyes at night, the mind is still flowing with a zillion thoughts about life. How can we meditate single mindedly in these conditions?

pick a mantra, focus on it in your mind with eyes close....when the mind wonders elsewhere...shake it off and return back to the mantra. keep practicing until the mind starts to relax and leaves you alone.

Then a mantra isnt needed and you can then focus single-mindedly on god and be in silence and open up to the Amrit that flows through you and everything else

Thanks chazSingh, that is what I believe as well