The development of Sikhism begins in the 16th century in the Punjab district in the northern part of the Indian continent, modern-day India and Pakistan region. This religion builds around the teachings of Guru Nanak and other nine Sikh Gurus who gave up everything to follow him. Currently, there are approximately 30 million followers globally (“BBC – Schools – Religion – Sikhism”).
The Sikhs hold a firm belief in one supreme God who protects and guides them. They also believe in everyone’s equality before God (“BBC – Schools – Religion – Sikhism”). Sikhism emphasizes the importance of good deeds as opposed to the mere performance of rituals. The teaching of Gurus and Sikhs lay the foundations of leading a good life by always keeping God in heart and mind, living honest lives, hard work opposed to begging, equal treatment of every human, generosity to the less fortunate, and service to others.
The followers of Sikhism pay reference and reverence to the Sikh scripture known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru Granth Sahib comprise of teachings from Guru Nanak, other Gurus, Sikh, as well as Hindu and Muslim saints. The holy scriptures are inscribed entirely in Punjab and command great respect from all Sikhs as the living word of God. As a show of respect, the Holy book dwells under a canopy in worship places, and Sikhs remove their shoes as they approach the Holy Scriptures.
Sikhism followers go to worship in Gurdwara, the Gateway to Guru. Sikh services mostly happen on Sundays across the region (“BBC – Schools – Religion – Sikhism”). Sikh services include reading the teachings and writings in the Guru Granth Sahib, prayers, and chants from Gurus called Keertan. After every Sikh service, followers join for a shared meal also called Langar.
Work Cited
“BBC – Schools – Religion – Sikhism”. Bbc.Co.Uk, 2014, http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/religion/sikhism/.