A monotheistic religion is a belief system that worships only one god, which was one of the foundations of Sikhism , a religion dating back to the 15th century. The religion was practiced in Punjab, a region found along the border of India and Pakistan. In this article, you will learn about some of the practices, beliefs, and leaders of Sikhism.
Sikhism comes from the word Sikh, which has Sanskrit roots that mean ‘disciple’ or ‘instruction.’
Sikhism is based upon the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Ten other Sikh Gurus would successively follow in his footsteps. The last was the sacred text Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It was the belief of all Sikhs that the Gurus that followed would possess the divinity and religious authority of the first, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The philosophy and practices associated with Sikhism have been referred to as the Gurmet in traditional circles. This references translates in ‘the counsel of the gurus.’
As one of the fastest growing religions in the world, Sikhism has been reported as the fifth largest organized religion across the globe. It has been reported that there are more than 26 million adherents of the religion in the world.
The founder of Sikhism was Guru Nanak, who lived from 1469 to 1538. He was born in a village named Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, which is now found in today’s Pakistan. The location of his birth is now called Nankana Sahib. His father was an accountant of land revenue for the local landlord. His parents belonged to the Bedi clan of Khatri Hindus. When Nanak was a child, he took an interest in religion and God. As a youth, Nanak would not participate in religious rituals or follow customs. He also meditated by himself, which was strange to others. Soon, his desire to explore other notions of life encouraged him to leave his home and partake in missionary journeys.
Faith and justice are the basis of the principal beliefs of Sikhism. The religion encourages adherents to pursue salvation by embracing personal meditation that is disciplined. The main focus is on the name and message of God. Followers of Sikhism are ordained to follow the teachings of the ten Sikh Gurus (also known as enlightened leaders).
The holy scripture called Guru Granth Sahib Ji, as well as the writings of six of the ten Sikh Gurus, are followed by Sikhs. Some of the writings studied in the religion have come from devotees that represent a variety of socio-economic and religious backgrounds.
The traditions and teachings of Sikhism are also linked to the history, society and culture of Punjab.
Those that follow Sikhism are referred to as Sikhs (students or disciples). The majority of adherents of the religion live in Punjab, India. At one point in time, millions of Sikhs called what is now known as Pakistani Punjab their home.