Sikhism

Beliefs, the Khalsa, and historical scholarship

Definition

Sikhism is a religion founded by Guru Nanak in the Punjab region of South Asia in the late 15th century. It is a distinct monotheistic tradition with its own scripture, practices, and history, though it emerged in a region also shaped by Hindu and Islamic traditions present at the time.

Core beliefs

Sikhs believe in one God, formless and beyond full human comprehension, who can be experienced through devotion, meditation on God's name, and righteous living. Sikhs believe that ten human Gurus, beginning with Guru Nanak, successively received and transmitted divine teaching, and that after the tenth Guru, the line of human Gurus ended, with spiritual authority passing permanently to the Sikh scripture itself.

Core values

Sikhism places strong emphasis on the equality of all people, regardless of caste, gender, or social background, expressed practically through institutions like the langar, a community kitchen attached to Sikh places of worship (gurdwaras) that serves free meals to anyone, without distinction, who wishes to eat there. Honest work, sharing with others, and constant remembrance of God are considered central Sikh values guiding daily life.

Sacred scripture

The Guru Granth Sahib is Sikhism's central scripture, a large compiled collection of hymns and writings by the Sikh Gurus and other spiritually significant figures. Sikhs regard it as the eternal, living Guru, treated with the same profound reverence a living spiritual teacher would receive, central to worship and practice at every gurdwara.