Islam Why Sikhism?

[Ryadd]

To start I will introduce myself and explain why I have asked this question to direct responses along a certain path.

I am Canadian, 21, and currently taking socio-political thought and religious studies. I am ethnically Indian, and born to Sikh parents, however my religious affiliation (if you can call it a religious affiliation) is atheism. I have always been interested in religion, and especially Sikhism because of my obvious background with it. I chose to explore Sikhism for a paper because of that very reason, and I thought what better way to gain insight then to ask those actively within the community.

I am asking this community to open up about their religion and beliefs and hopefully learn a lot in doing so. So with that out of the way, here are my questions.

1) What are the reasons you either believe you are sikh, or what makes you sikh.
2) Why did you choose sikhism over any other religion or lack of religion (please no hate comments towards other faiths).
3) Do you personally believe in evolution
4) What are your personal thoughts on reincarnation
5) What do you feel about the role or state of Sikhism today.
6) (This may be a leading question, but growing up in an Indian household and experiencing Indian community, I feel it is a very important one to ask) What are your thoughts on Indian women/girls in modern society. And what would you say to Indian women/girls participating in interfaith/interracial marriages/relationships.

Thank you for all your help. I look forward to reading some insightful comments.

 

[spnadmin]

Excellent questions Ryaad ji and I wish you good fortune with the thread. Hope it makes your research paper better. I will answer in a little bit, right now it is 1 am in the morning on my planet coordinates.

 

[Archived_Member_19]

1) What are the reasons you either believe you are Sikh, or what makes you Sikh.

Guru's Will and my stubbornness

2) Why did you choose sikhism over any other religion or lack of religion (please no hate comments towards other faiths).

i am a Sikh but might not be a follower of Sikhism

3) Do you personally believe in evolution

Minds Evolve.

4) What are your personal thoughts on reincarnation

We reincarnate everyday. We kill the Me everyday and it is reborn everyday.

5) What do you feel about the role or state of Sikhism today.

no comments

6) (This may be a leading question, but growing up in an Indian household and experiencing Indian community, I feel it is a very important one to ask) What are your thoughts on Indian women/girls in modern society. And what would you say to Indian women/girls participating in interfaith/interracial marriages/relationships.

Depends on how religious you are.

Also on cultural compatibility, Value system compatibility and family acceptance.

 

[spnadmin]

amarsanghera ji

This is a good topic for discussion and your answers are intriguing enough to spur further discussion. I am still wondering about my own answers.

 

[lotus lion]

Hi Ryadd,

Welcome to the Forum.

1) What are the reasons you either believe you are sikh, or what makes you sikh.

For me there is no question that I am not a Sikh, even if I am not the best I can be yet, I am still reaching, learning and applying.

Part of this comes from my Form which initially connected me to the Teachings for Sikhi and made it more conducive to my practice, but moving further, I am completely submerged into this via the material I read, The company I keep, the places I go and my upbringing to name but a few.

2) Why did you choose sikhism over any other religion or lack of religion (please no hate comments towards other faiths).

Religious Affiliation, a natural affinity, which I feel is the same for almost all people initially, but my attraction to the Sikh Dharma stems from the fact that we have the complete original word of the Guru's and it is still preserved for all to see in the Harmandir Sahib, Aka Golden Temple.

But moving deeper then that the tolerance and acceptance that the Dharma teaches is hard to find in other Dharmas which such clarity and abundance.

The Dharma is founded on Love and Peace and I would describe it as leading the Holy Life whilst still being able to be a Family Man.

It teaches me to respect everyone, and fully acknowledges that there are other paths to enlightenment (My translation):

Rāh ḏovai ik jāṇai so▫ī sijẖsī.
One who realises that there is more then one path that leads to the One will be freed
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ang 142

Because of this, I have become a very open person who looks beyond physical manifestation and look for the common underlying teaching and normally see parallels, which I would not have otherwise.

In doing so, my strength and conviction in Sikhi increases as other Dharmas teach the same topic from another angel so in understand it better. It reinforces my faith essentially.

3) Do you personally believe in evolution

Being perfectly honest, this has never been an issue for me on a Spiritual level as it does not alter my practice.

There is a story that goes that there was a person who was hit by an arrow dipped in poison and needed attention.
A person came and ran to help him. Just as he was about remove the arrow, the injured person stopped him and said before you do so, I need to know where the arrow head came from, Which tree the Shaft came from, the Flock to which the Bird who provided the feathers to make the Fletching came from, the name and ancestry of the person who shot him and where the ingredients came from to make the poison.

The other person said I can tell you these things, but it would be of no value as it would not assist in relieving your pain.

On top of that, Science is always changing. I am pretty certain that you have heard of the Plum pudding Model, This then changed to the Proton-Neutron-Electron model and now we are moving towards string theory. Each has their place and will no doubt change with time.

Simply walk the path, Practice and everything will appear at the right time.

Thanks,

Lotus

 

[lotus lion]

4) What are your personal thoughts on reincarnation

Makes perfect sense to me. There are essentially 3 views to take upon death.

1) The body is but an organic matter and the consciousness, instincts and awareness it possesses is but a by-product of it. Upon Death, the body disintegrates and all consciousness stops immediately.

A passage to ponder upon:

Rāg gūjrī mėhlā 5.
Raag Goojaree, Fifth Mehl:

Kāhe re man cẖiṯvahi uḏam jā āhar har jī▫o pari▫ā.
Why, O mind, do you plot and plan, when the Dear Lord Himself provides for your care?

Sail pathar mėh janṯ upā▫e ṯā kā rijak āgai kar ḏẖari▫ā. ||1||
From rocks and stones He created living beings; He places their nourishment before them. ||1||

Mere māḏẖa▫o jī saṯsangaṯ mile so ṯari▫ā.
O my Dear Lord of souls, one who joins the Sat Sangat, the True Congregation, is saved.

Gur parsāḏ param paḏ pā▫i▫ā sūke kāsat hari▫ā. ||1|| rahā▫o.
By Guru's Grace, the supreme status is obtained, and the dry wood blossoms forth again in lush greenery. ||1||Pause||

Janan piṯā lok suṯ baniṯā ko▫e na kis kī ḏẖari▫ā.
Mothers, fathers, friends, children and spouses-no one is the support of anyone else.

Sir sir rijak sambāhe ṯẖākur kāhe man bẖa▫o kari▫ā. ||2||
For each and every person, our Lord and Master provides sustenance. Why are you so afraid, O mind? ||2||

Ūde ūd āvai sai kosā ṯis pācẖẖai bacẖre cẖẖari▫ā.
The flamingoes fly hundreds of miles, leaving their young ones behind.

Ŧin kavaṇ kẖalāvai kavaṇ cẖugāvai man mėh simran kari▫ā. ||3||
Who feeds them, and who teaches them to feed themselves? Have you ever thought of this in your mind? ||3||

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ang 10

2) We have but One Life here on Earth and upon Death will be re-born in an Eternal state of Heaven or Hell. People who do not believe this are cast into hell immediately, irrespective of the fact if their practice was 'better' then the person who was born into it who push this philosophy.

3)The final option, The Dharmic one, is that this life is but one link in long chain of lives that we lead, and it will move forward into the future and has extended back into the past.
Depending on the way that we conduct ourselves we will be in better or worse position next time. This cycle continues indefinitely until we make a conscious effort to break away from it and become one with the Source.
Anyone can do this, irrespective of the Dharma they have been born into as long as they are made up of Simiar building blocks. This is my current understanding anyway.

5) What do you feel about the role or state of Sikhism today.

Could be better. The Dharma is incredible, but currently we are not to concerned about it, generally speaking.

Having said that There are organizations that are making headway in the correct direction, e.g. www.Sikhcourse.com and Sikh Research Institute as well as Khalsa Aid who help everyone practically.

6) (This may be a leading question, but growing up in an Indian household and experiencing Indian community, I feel it is a very important one to ask) What are your thoughts on Indian women/girls in modern society. And what would you say to Indian women/girls participating in interfaith/interracial marriages/relationships.

Please Note, I have to stress that this is my own personal view and I hope that you do not feel that this is for all Sikhs. I am but one voice in a sea of millions.

If I may speak frankly, I believe that Sikh Women are infact the real keepers of the Dharma and we are instructed to respect all women via scripture and the Gurus as one completes the other.

When you say Modern Society, may I ask you to qualify that? If by this you mean having pre-marital relationships, then I would have say that I am not for it.

In partaking in these relationships, one begins to align themselves with having multiple partners and when they get married, if they get married, these needs will most possibly not be fulfilled in the relationship, which can only really pressure them to look else where due to the habit cultivated.

As a result, the more partners a person has, the less likely it is of them having a successful marriage and being Non-positive role models for their children if they have any.

Having had these conversations with others who say it is OK, when I ask them how they would feel if their mother had several sexual partners before they met their father, they do not look too pleased.

Interracial, I am frankly not too fussed as long as they have Dharma at heart, and these things will happen. Punjab was/is a massive melting pot of People from Persia, Greece, Central Asia, Afghanistan and the Middle East to name but a few, all adding to the ethical mix.

Interfaith, I am not too keen on, and if I may say without seeming non-forward, because it results in the dissolving of the Dharma, particularly as Sikhs are not to clued up on the teachings in the first place.

I have answered your questions as frankly as I could and I hope that is has been of some assistance Ryadd.

Please feel free to expand on anything.

My Best regards,

Lotus

 

[KulwantK]

Sikhism addresses both the Head and the Heart. That works for me. It is balanced, and it makes sense, emotionally, analytically, philisophically, and psychologically for me. Yes, I think the idea of evolution is a valid one, however I also hold that can be such a thing as spontaneous creation, so to speak.

But perhaps this is not so much about others, and Sikhs, as it is about you.

Why are you an atheist?

It is intersting an atheist would even think about taking any sort of classes having anything to do with religion, which could be defined as follows:


A religion is a System by which an individual deals with the Spiritual or Divine aspects of living and how he or she incorporates those aspects into everyday life, and how he or she deals with the concept of Consciousness; how he or she defines Consciousness, and how he or she defines Spiritual.

You have quite a lot to think about. Good Luck!

 

[Archived_Member_19]

:shutup:

 

[Lee]

yes good questions.

1) What are the reasons you either believe you are Sikh, or what makes you Sikh.

I'm a sikh as I belive in God, the ten Sikh Gurus, baptism via amrit, and hold allegiance to no other religoin.

2) Why did you choose sikhism over any other religion or lack of religion (please no hate comments towards other faiths).

I converted to Sikhi because during my initial studies of it, I found that it contains all of the beliefs about God that I had already formulated during the course of my life.

3) Do you personally believe in evolution.

Yes I do.

4) What are your personal thoughts on reincarnation.

I also belive in reincarnation.

5) What do you feel about the role or state of Sikhism today.

You may find my thoughts on this a little odd. I have no feelings at all about the religion of Sikhi, I place more importance on the individuals route to God and personaly think that those who over worry about the state of Sikhi are too emersed in ego. Sikhi teaches us that all is in acordance with Gods will, so I do not worry about where God leads the religion nor the dogma, of the Sikhs.


6) (This may be a leading question, but growing up in an Indian household and experiencing Indian community, I feel it is a very important one to ask) What are your thoughts on Indian women/girls in modern society. And what would you say to Indian women/girls participating in interfaith/interracial marriages/relationships.

I live in the uK, I am a 40 year old white English convert, it seems from my POV that there is a great divide between some of the older generation Indian immigrantes here and the younger. Of course the younger are more Westernised, however this has been going on since before I was born and I know some rather Westernised older Indians or those of Indian decent. The problems here are cultural though not religious. As to interfaith, or interracial relationships or marriages, it is good.

God has populated the world with a wounderous verity of people and mindsets, I think we should endevour to both enjoy and learn from this, rather than let our differancs divide us we should embrace them. On a personal note, my wife and I have been married for almost 20 years now, and it is soley because we are so differant that we have lots to talk about. Differance is good, when we learn to stop fearing it.

 

[vsgrewal48895]

Dear All,

Here are my two cents on;

SIKHISM A UNIVERSAL RELIGION​

ABSTRACT​

The universalism of the Sikh religion lies in its simplicity, reality, and active application of the teachings presented in Sabd Guru in all spheres of life. Any individual can follow the teaching and reach the highest lofts of life and transcend in spirituality. It is the only liberal religion teaching equality irrespective of gender, race or caste and that there is One Creator for the whole creation. It respects other religions but not empty rituals and superstitions.

ਓਅੰਕਾਰਿ ਉਤਪਾਤੀ ॥
Oankar Outpaatee.

The One Universal Creator God created the creation.-----Guru Arjan, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1003-17

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

All humans are born equal in all respects. There is no place for passiveness in Sikhism. It requires action on the part of each individual for spiritual growth. Merely calling One’s self a Sikh one does not get spiritual uplift. He needs to contemplate, deliberate, and reflect upon the Word and apply its teachings to daily life to attain internal piety. Faith without right action is dead. Sikhism asserts that there is only One Creator, who has created everything in the cosmos. We should worship only the creator and not the things or beings, including the Sikh Gurus, created by the Creator.

ਏਕੋ ਕਰਤਾ ਜਿਨਿ ਜਗੁ ਕੀਆ ॥

Ayko Karta Jin Jug Kiya.

There is only One Creator, who created the world-----Guru Nanak, Raag Basant, AGGS, Page, 1188-13

ਕਾਰਣ ਕਰਣ ਕਰੀਮ ॥ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਰਹੀਮ ॥

KaarN KarN Kreem, Kirpa Dhaar Raheem.

God, the generous Akal Purkh, is the cause of all causes, and showers Its Grace and Mercy upon us. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Ram kali, AGGS, Page, 885-8 & 9

The creator has further been projected as Nirgun, one without attributes and invisible, and as Sargun, one with attributes, and as Mother Nature. Guru Nanak, Guru Arjan, and Guru Amardas describe in Raag Maru that God was without attributes for as many as thirty-six Jugs, ages. He was in the form of negativity -- without attributes. Sikh philosophy explains the metaphysical force .responsible for the creation. It also enunciates Hukam, the law of cause of action. It further explains that Guru and Gnosis are required to purify the consciousness of an individual so that it becomes fit it for the companionship of the Eternal within. This leads to a transcendental uplift.

ਸਰਗੁਣ ਨਿਰਗੁਣ ਥਾਪੈ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਦੁਹ ਮਿਲਿ ਏਕੈ ਕੀਨੋ ਠਾਉ ॥

Sargun (Sagun) Nirgun Thaapai Naou, Dho Mil Aykai Keeno Thaaou.

The learned people call the Akal Purkh Seen, with attributes as well as Unseen, without attributes. Both of these features combine together in the formation of the Cosmos. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 387-18

ਰਾਜ ਜੋਬਨ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਤੂੰ ਧਨੀ ॥ ਤੂੰ ਨਿਰਗੁਨ ਤੂੰ ਸਰਗੁਨੀ ॥

Raaj Joban Prabh Toon Dhanee, Toon Nirgun Toon Sargunee.

God is present in many physical forms in the Mother Nature and before the creation; It was Nirgun, unseen, formless or Nirankar. After creation, It is perceived in physical form in Nature. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 211-6

ਨਿਰਗੁਨੁ ਆਪਿ ਸਰਗੁਨੁ ਭੀ ਓਹੀ ॥ ਕਲਾ ਧਾਰਿ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਮੋਹੀ ॥

Nirgun Aap Sargun Bhi Ohi, Kalaa Dhaar Jin Saglee Mohee.

God is absolute and unrelated; and is also involved and related.-----Guru Arjan, Gauri Sukhmani, AGGS, Page, 287-17

ਨਿਰਗੁਣੁ ਸਰਗੁਣੁ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਮੇਰਾ ਕੋਈ ਹੈ ਜੀਉ ਆਣਿ ਮਿਲਾਵੈ ਜੀਉ ॥

Nirgun Sargun Her Her Mera Koi Hai Jeio Aan Melave Jeio.

My Eternal Akal Purkh is absolute and related, unmanifest and manifest; is there anyone who can come and unite me with It? -----Guru Arjan, Raag Majh, AGGS Page, 98-2

ਅਵਿਗਤੋ ਨਿਰਮਾਇਲੁ ਉਪਜੇ ਨਿਰਗੁਣ ਤੇ ਸਰਗੁਣੁ ਥੀਆ ॥

Avgato Nirmaa-il Oopjay Nirgun Tat Sargun Thee-a.

From Its state of absolute existence, God assumed the immaculate form; from formless, It assumed the supreme form. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Ramkali Sidh Gost, AGGS, Page, 940-14

God is indefinable, incomprehensible, infinite, and unfathomable with uncountable attributes but Guru Nanak defined God in his Japji as: There is one God, Self manifested, and Eternal Truth is His Name, Creator, and Immanent Reality. He is without fear; without hate; Timeless Form; Un-incarnated; Self-Existent; Realized by the grace of holy preceptor; Chant and Meditate: True in the Primal Beginning, True throughout the Ages, and True Here and Now. O Nanak, Forever And Ever True.

Guru Nanak also describes God in Raag Sorath, AGGS, Page 597: God is unknowable, infinite, unapproachable, imperceptible, and not subject to death or karma. God is casteless; Unborn, self-illumined, free of doubt and desire. God has no form, no color and no feature; and reveals itself through the True Word of the Sabd. God has no mother, father, sons or relatives; He is free of sexual desire and has no wife. God has no ancestry; and is immaculate; endless and all pervading. God is hidden in every heart, and Almighty’s doors are opened by Guru’s instruction and one becomes fearless in deep meditation. Guru Amardas adds a few more attributes of God in Raag Kalyan;

ਤੂ ਅਮਿਤਿ ਅਤੋਲੁ ਅਪਰੰਪਰ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਬਹੁ ਜਪੀਐ ਥਾਹ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ ॥

Too Amit Atoal Apranper Suaamee Baoh Japee-aa Thaah Na Paa-eaa.

You are Immeasurable, Unweighable, and Infinite, O Creator and Master; no matter how much one may meditate on You, Your Depth cannot be fathomed.
-----Guru Ramdas, Raag Kalyan, AGGS, Page, 1319-7

Vedas and other holy books do not know God’s extent & mystery.

ਵੇਦ ਕਹਹਿ ਵਖਿਆਣ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਣਾ ॥ ਪੜਿਐ ਨਾਹੀ ਭੇਦੁ ਬੁਝਿਐ ਪਾਵਣਾ ॥

Vayd Kaheh VakhiaaN Unt Na Paavnaa, Parhi-ai Naahee Bhayd Bujhi-ai Paavnaa.

The Vedas speak and expound on God, but they do not know its limits. Not by studying, but through understanding, is the It's Mystery revealed.-----Guru Nanak, Var Majh, AGGS, Page, 148-2&3

ਬੇਦ ਕਤੇਬੀ ਭੇਦੁ ਨ ਜਾਤਾ ॥ ਨਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਮਾਤ ਪਿਤਾ ਸੁਤ ਭ੍ਰਾਤਾ ॥

Bayd Kataybee Bhayd Na Jata, Na Tis Maat Pita Sout Bhrataa.

The Vedas and other religious books do not know the mystery of God. Almighty has no mother, father, child or brother. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1021-16

God is One, Being, Power, Absolute Principle, Force, and Substance in Infinite, and without beginning or end.

Guru Nanak and Guru Arjan claimed God created humanity, which is the only religion;

ਏਕੋ ਧਰਮੁ ਦ੍ਰਿੜੈ ਸਚੁ ਕੋਈ ॥ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਪੂਰਾ ਜੁਗਿ ਜੁਗਿ ਸੋਈ ॥

Ayko Dharam Dirrhai Such Koyee, Gurmat Pooraa Jug Jug So-ee.

There is only one religion of Righteousness; let everyone grasp this truth. Through the Guru's Teachings, one becomes perfect, all through the ages.-----Guru Nanak, Raag Basant, AGGS, Page, 1188-15

Guru Arjan commented on this subject in Raag Bhairo. As there were mainly two religions being practiced in India during his time, he tried to make people understand the concept equality so that hatred between them could be removed:

ਨਾ ਹਮ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਨ ਮੁਸਲਮਾਨ ॥ ਅਲਹ ਰਾਮ ਕੇ ਪਿੰਡੁ ਪਰਾਨ ॥

Na Hum Hindu Na Musalmaan, Allah Ram Kay Pindh Praan.

I am not a Hindu, nor am I a Muslim. My body and breath of life belong to Allah and to Raam the God of both. ------Guru Arjan, Raag Bhario, AGGS, Page, 1136-11 & 12

Sikhism does not believe in superstition or miracles, which are irrational beliefs arising from ignorance or fear. It does not include any dogma, chance, practice, or rite unreasonably upheld by faith in magic or just opinions.

ਮਿਥਿਆ ਭਰਮਿ ਭਰਮਿ ਬਹੁ ਭ੍ਰਮਿਆ ਲੁਬਧੋ ਪੁਤ੍ਰ ਕਲਤ੍ਰ ਮੋਹ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ॥

Mithia Bharam Bharam Bauh Bharmia Lubdho Pouter Kalater Moh Preet.

In false doubt and superstition, people wander all around, lured by love and emotional attachment to their children and families. -----Guru Ramdas, Raag Kanrha, AGGS, Page, 1295-17

ਭ੍ਰਮ ਕੀ ਕੂਈ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਰਸ ਪੰਕਜ ਅਤਿ ਤੀਖ੍ਯ੍ਯਣ ਮੋਹ ਕੀ ਫਾਸ ॥ ਕਾਟਨਹਾਰ ਜਗਤ ਗੁਰ ਗੋਬਿਦ ਚਰਨ ਕਮਲ ਤਾ ਕੇ ਕਰਹੁ ਨਿਵਾਸ ॥

Bharam Kee Koo-ee Trisna Ras Pankaj Ut Teekhan Moh Kee Faas, Kaatanhaar Jagat Gur Gobid Charan Kamal Taa Kay Karahu Nivaas.

Superstition is the well, thirst for pleasure is the mud, and emotional attachment is the noose, so tight around your neck. The only one who can cut this is the Guru of the World, the Creator of the Universe. So let yourself dwell at Its Lotus Feet. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri, AGGS, Page, 204-10

Sikhism teaches righteousness, which creates character that will coalesce with God within. It develops a harmony with the infolded Divine nature. Character is the elevation of the conscious. It alone is decisive of the destiny of individual. It gives the conscious inclination to lean towards God and is the only way to final freedom. It is earned through a thousand of hardships, hammering and forging his way with Truth, until it becomes unified with it. The wise alone work with the Laws of God, which are blind but their justice is even handed within as well as without. An ordinary mind learns by experience and the Manmukh by instincts. Wisdom is ever constructive as every being learns to know itself. All are given equal rights to use the entire inner Divine for spiritual growth and liberation. An individual does not have to live in a land of fantasy. Moral life cannot be lived in aloofness. Tranquility that comes through understanding and intellectual grasp of Truth is mental.

ਕਰਮ ਕਰਤੂਤਿ ਬੇਲਿ ਬਿਸਥਾਰੀ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਫਲੁ ਹੂਆ॥ਤਿਸੁ ਰੂਪੁ ਨ ਰੇਖ ਅਨਾਹਦੁ ਵਾਜੈ ਸਬਦੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨਿ ਕੀਆ ॥

Karam Kartoot Bayl Bistharee Ram Naam Fal Hoo-aa, Tis Roop Na Raykh Anaahad Vaajai Sabd Niranjan Kee-aa.

The vine of good actions and character has spread out, and it bears the fruit of the God's Name. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 351-2

Self less service of the humanity in any way takes precedence over every thing else in Sikh Philosophy. Serving the food in Langar irrespective of gender, race, color or caste is another example of equality and SEVA.

ਬਿਨੁ ਸੇਵਾ ਫਲੁ ਕਬਹੁ ਨ ਪਾਵਸਿ ਸੇਵਾ ਕਰਣੀ ਸਾਰੀ ॥

Bin Sayva Fal Kaboh Na Paavas Sayva KarNee Saaree.

Without selfless service, no one ever receives the fruits of their rewards. Serving the Akal Purkh is the most excellent action. -----Guru Nanak, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 992-7

ਸੇਵਾ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਸਬਦਿ ਚਿਤੁ ਲਾਏ ॥ ਹਉਮੈ ਮਾਰਿ ਸਦਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਇਆ ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹੁ ਚੁਕਾਵਣਿਆ ॥

Sayva Surat Sabd Chit Laa-ay, Ha-umai Maar Sadaa Sukh Paa-i-aa Maa-i-aa Moh Chukaavani-aa.

Center your awareness on selfless service-and focus your consciousness on the Word of the Sabd. -----Guru Amar Das, Raag Majh, AGGS, Page, 110-1

ਦੇਖਾ ਦੇਖੀ ਸਭ ਕਰੇ ਮਨਮੁਖਿ ਬੂਝ ਨ ਪਾਇ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹਿਰਦਾ ਸੁਧੁ ਹੈ ਸੇਵ ਪਈ ਤਿਨ ਥਾਇ ॥

Daykhaa Daykhee Sabh Karay Manmukh Boojh Na Paa-ay, Jin Gurmukh Hirda Sudh Hai Sayv Pa-ee Tin Thaa-ey.

They all show off and pretend, but the self-willed do not understand. Service of the Guru willed, who are pure of heart, is accepted. -----Guru Amar Das, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 28-3

ਕਰਿ ਸੇਵਾ ਭਜੁ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ॥ਤਿਆਗਿ ਮਾਨੁ ਝੂਠੁ ਅਭਿਮਾਨੁ ॥ ਜੀਵਤ ਮਰਹਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਰਵਾਨੁ ॥

Kar Sayva Bajh Har Har Gurmat, Tia-ag Maan Jhooth Abhimaan, Jeevat Mareh Dargeh Parvaan.

Do seva -- selfless service; follow the Guru's Teachings, and contemplate on the Name of Akal Purkh. Abandon pride, falsehood and arrogance. Remain dead while yet alive, and you shall be welcomed in Its Court. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Gauri Guarayree, AGGS, Page, 176-14

Purity of mind is a river of God’s silent Grace, quickening man in his righteousness. Guru in Sikhism endows the true science of direct intercourse with the spirit of God. To become one with the God, one must raise his focus from the heterogeneous to the homogeneous. One must let the Sabd of the Holy Word pervade God’s being before one can cherish those lofty heights of bliss. It is most profitable for the individual mind to become totally fixed, graduated, potent and productive by virtue and power of the Holy Naam. Thus God sees all things inwardly accomplished through its pattern and design to move towards maturity and fulfils them accordingly. God is more pleased with internal piety. God’s Grace alone enables the seeker to rise from the life of duality and morality, from which the most skillful could never extricate himself. Divine Grace loosens the binding bolts, lessens the earthly pull that fetters the conscious in the meshes of materiality, and gradually frees it. All praise to the Guru, who makes the seeker one with his God removes the doubt and duality.

ਫੂਟੋ ਆਂਡਾ ਭਰਮ ਕਾ ਮਨਹਿ ਭਇਓ ਪਰਗਾਸੁ ॥ ਕਾਟੀ ਬੇਰੀ ਪਗਹ ਤੇ ਗੁਰ ਕੀਨੀ ਬੰਦ ਖਲਾਸ ॥ ਆਵਣ ਜਾਣੁ ਰਹਿਓ ॥ ਤਪਤ ਕੜਾਹਾ ਬੁਝਿ ਗਇਆ ਗੁਰ ਸੀਤਲ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੀਓ ॥

Footou Aandda Bharam Ka Maneh Bheio Pargaas, Kaati Bayrhi Pageh Tay Gur Keenee Band Khlaas, Aavan JaaN Rehio, Tapat Krhaahaa Bujh Gaeyaa Gur Seetle Naam Dee-o.

The egg of doubt has burst; my mind has been enlightened. The Guru has shattered the shackles on my feet, and has set me free. My coming and going in reincarnation is ended. The boiling cauldron has cooled down; the Guru has blessed me with the cooling, soothing Naam, the Name of the God. -----Guru Arjan, Raag Maru, AGGS, Page, 1002-15 & 16

Gender Equality is another feature of Sikhism; even though it is not universally practiced by certain male chauvinists.

Guru Nanak describes the values of females in Asa Di Var.

ਭੰਡਿ ਜੰਮੀਆ ਭੰਡਿ ਨਿੰਮੀਆ ਭੰਡਿ ਮੰਗਣੁ ਵੀਆਹੁ ॥-------ਨਾਨਕ ਭੰਡੈ ਬਾਹਰਾ ਏਕੋ ਸਚਾ ਸੋਇ ॥

Bhandh Janmeeyai Bhandh Nimeeyai Bhandh MangaN Vee-aahu.----Nanak Bhandai Bahra Eko Sacha Soey.

From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married. Woman becomes his friend; through woman, the future generations come. When his woman dies, he seeks another woman; to woman he is bound. So why call her bad? From her, kings are born. From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be no one at all. O, Nanak, only the True Akal Purkh is without a woman -----Guru Nanak, Raag Asa, AGGS, Page, 473

The last lesson of culture in Sikhism is the flowering of life, the fruitage of the conscious. It is precious as wisdom, more to be desired than gold. How insignificant mere money seeking looks in comparison with a serene life -- a life that dwells in the ocean of Truth, beneath the waves, beyond the reach of tempests, in the Eternal Calm! Under the Naam, (the Name of God).

ਕੇਤੇ ਬੰਧਨ ਜੀਅ ਕੇ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰ ॥ਸਚਹੁ ਓਰੈ ਸਭੁ ਕੋ ਉਪਰਿ ਸਚੁ ਆਚਾਰੁ ॥

Kaytay BanDhan Jee-a Kay Gurmukh Mokh Du-aar, Suchoh Oorai Sabh Ko Ooper Such Aachaar.

There are so many entanglements for the soul. Only as Guru willed do we find the Gate of Liberation. Truth is above all and above Truth is Truthful conduct.
-----Guru Nanak, Raag Sri, AGGS, Page, 62-11

ਕਲ ਮੈ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨਾਮ ਤੇ ਪਾਵਤ ਗੁਰੁ ਯਹ ਭੇਦੁ ਬਤਾਵੈ॥ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਸੋਈ ਨਰੁ ਗਰੂਆ ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੇ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਵੈ॥

Kal Mai Mukat Naam Tay Paavat Gur Jeh Bhayd Bataavai, Kaho Nanak So-ee Nar Garoo-aa Jo Parabh Kay Gun Gaavai.

In this Dark Age of Kali Yuga, liberation comes from the Naam. The Guru has revealed this secret. Says Nanak; he alone is a great man, who sings the Praises of God.-----Guru Tegh Bahadur, Raag Bilawal, AGGS, Page, 831-6

Naam, the Living Word purges the subconscious errors of thinking, and inclines the heart towards wisdom, takes away self-centeredness of the ego, lifts it above the realm of morality, and floods it with light until it is cleansed and made virgin and immaculate, Niranjan, and stands on the frontiers of the values of spiritual world.

Sikhism does not believe in ignorance but in reason; If ignorance is bliss, why aren't more people happy?

ਗਿਆਨ ਹੀਣੰ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਪੂਜਾ॥ ਔਧ ਵਰਤਾਵਾ ਭਾਉ ਦੂਜਾ ॥

Giaan HeeNan Agiaan Poojaa, Andh Vartaavaa Bhaou Doojaa.

With out spiritual wisdom, the people worship ignorance. They grope in the darkness, in the love of duality. -----Guru Nanak, Sloke Vaaran To Vadheek, AGGS, Page, 1412-4

ਅਗਿਆਨੀ ਮਾਨੁਖੁ ਭਇਆ ਜੋ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੋ ਲੋਰੈ ॥ ਰੈਣਿ ਅੰਧਾਰੀ ਕਾਰੀਆ ਕਵਨ ਜੁਗਤਿ ਜਿਤੁ ਭੋਰੈ ॥ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ ਭ੍ਰਮਤੋ ਹਾਰਿਆ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਿਧੀ ਕਰਿ ਟੋਰੈ ॥ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਭਈ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਨਿਧਿ ਮੋਰੈ ॥

Agiani Manukh Bhaiaa Jo Nahin So Lorai, Rain AnDhaaree Kaaree-aa Kavan Jugat Jit Bhorai, Bharmato Bharmato Haari-aa Anik BiDhee Kar Torai, Kaho Nanak Kirpaa Bha-ee SaaDhsangat NiDh Morai.

Humanity is in spiritual ignorance; people see things that do not exist. The night is dark and gloomy; how will the morning dawn? Wandering, wandering all around, I have grown weary; trying all sorts of things, I have been searching. Says Nanak, He has shown mercy to me; I have found the treasure of the Sadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy.-----Guru Arjan, AGGS, Page, 212-11

ਬਿਦਿਆ ਕੋਟਿ ਸਭੈ ਗੁਨ ਕਹੈ ॥ ਤਊ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਕਾ ਅੰਤੁ ਨ ਲਹੈ ॥

Bidyaa Kot Sabhai Gun Kahai, Ta-oo Paarbarahm Kaa Ant Na Lahai.

Millions of saints all sing His Praises. Even so, the limits of the Supreme God cannot be found. -----Kabir, Raag Bhairo, AGGS, Page, 1163-6

Science has freed the slave, clothed the naked, fed the hungry, lengthened life, given us homes and hearths, pictures and books, ships and railways, telegraphs and cables, engines that tirelessly turn the countless wheels, and it has destroyed the superstition. Sikh belief is in the natural, in the unbroken and unbreakable succession of cause and effect. But science can come only so far, and then comes God.

Man so far as he is real is identical with God, as soon as he is awakened to his identity, the bonds of ignorance are broken and he gets emancipated in the knowledge of One Reality.

Conclusion:

Man may be afflicted with anxiety, bent with burdens of life, disturbed by doubts, ground by grief, licked by luck, smitten and saddened by sickness and sorrow. Best help in such a situation is to call on his own best energies and efforts, raise himself and his sagging spirit. He has to bear not only his burdens but also to come out triumphant in the highest spiritual sense of the Word. This is called Naam in Sikhism. It is found only through true Guru, the teacher of Universality.

ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੂਰਾ ਜੇ ਮਿਲੈ ਪਾਈਐ ਰਤਨੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ਮਨੁ ਦੀਜੈ ਗੁਰ ਆਪਣੇ ਪਾਈਐ ਸਰਬ ਪਿਆਰੁ ॥ਮੁਕਤਿ ਪਦਾਰਥੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਅਵਗਣ ਮੇਟਣਹਾਰੁ ॥

Satgur Pooraa Jay Milai Paa-ee-ai Ratan Beechaar, Man Deejai Gur Aapnay Paa-ee-ai Sarab Pi-aar, Mukat Padaarath Paa-ee-ai Avgan Maytanhaar.

Meeting the Perfect True Guru, we find the jewel of meditative reflection. Surrendering our minds to our Guru, we find Universal love. In Him, we find the wealth of liberation, and our demerits are erased. -----Guru Nanak, Siri Raag, AGGS, Page, 59-6

Cordially,

Virinder S. Grewal

 

[spnadmin]

Admin note: The posts regarding Sikhism and Atheism are being moved to a new thread so that the original question Why Sikhism can proceed without distraction. Narayanjot Kaur

 

[Josh martin]

imho stick to the religion you were born in

 

[Archived_Member_19]

why Josh ji?

 

[Lee]

I'm with Huck, Josh.

Why?

I myself was not born into any religon. Coming from the UK and being born when I was my parents like most of them at the time, had me Christend into the Church of England. They themselves though(again like most of them at that time) are not really religious at all, but it was the done thing to have your children christend.

After many years of searching for God in my own ways(after many years of deciding wheter such a thing was) I found Sikhi, and it all snapped into place for me.

Look for God where you will, or do not look at all, thats what I say.

 

[Josh martin]

It's an opinion. a humble one at that. (imho)

 

[Lee]

It's an opinion. a humble one at that. (imho)

Heh Josh ji,

I don't think, no hold on, yep, no, no I can't let you get away with that.

What makes you hold this opinion, from where does it come, what is it's source, in short why do you have this opinion?

 

[vegangoth]

1) What are the reasons you either believe you are Sikh, or what makes you Sikh.

I'm not a Sikh mearly a student of Sikhism.

2) Why did you choose sikhism over any other religion or lack of religion (please no hate comments towards other faiths).
So far Sikhism is the only religion that has seemed to fufuill all my own personal requirments of a relgion plus it also seems to be exactly what I belive. If I was to sit and describe what it is I belive religious wise then Sikhism would tick all the boxes.

3) Do you personally believe in evolution
Yes I do but don't have any real emotional attachment to it. I don't get upset if some one belives in creationism. And I wouldn't be upset if it eveloution is disproved.

4) What are your personal thoughts on reincarnation

I belive in it. I love the idea that we get a 2nd chance.

5) What do you feel about the role or state of Sikhism today.
I'm not qualified to anwer that.

6) (This may be a leading question, but growing up in an Indian household and experiencing Indian community, I feel it is a very important one to ask) What are your thoughts on Indian women/girls in modern society. And what would you say to Indian women/girls participating in interfaith/interracial marriages/relationships.

I don't have contact with Indian women on a daily bases but on a personal level I wouldn't treat an indian girl any diffrent from a non india one. As for interfaith/racial marrige I'm all for it.

 

[Josh martin]

Heh Josh ji,

I don't think, no hold on, yep, no, no I can't let you get away with that.

What makes you hold this opinion, from where does it come, what is it's source, in short why do you have this opinion?

Answer goes far beyond the context.

 

[Lee]

Answer goes far beyond the context.

Hey Josh,

Well this answer tells me one of three things.

1) It is an unexamined belife/opinion
2) You can't be botherd to explian
3) The answer goes beyond the context of this debate.

Now I don't know you Josh, but what I have seen of you here I am not prepeard to belive 1 and 2, so 3 it is. Would you mind then either starting a new thread or PM-ing me with your answer?