Sikhism is a religion that has been around for several thousands of years. Since the 15th century BCE, it has been a predominant religious force in India. While there are not as many followers as there are followers of Hinduism, the largest religion of India, it still contains a set of beliefs that have made their mark on the world. Despite how long the religion has been around and how many people follow it, there are many westerners who do not know the first thing about it.
If you are someone who wants to expand your worldview and understand the religions that exist across the planet, then you might want to take time to study some basic facts surrounding Sikhism. By learning about the core concepts and beliefs of this religion, you are doing your part to understand the world with just a bit more accuracy.
All Together
Religion can often be complicated when it comes to gender. Many of the world’s biggest religions, like Christianity and Islam, have been criticized over the centuries for how women are treated like secondary citizens or “less than” in the eyes of various gods. With Sikhism, there is a different philosophy at work. Sikhs believe that both men and women are equals. Since the genders were all created by God, followers of this religion believe that they all have an equal place before God.
Gender might not play a significant role in how people are treated under this religion, but there are still some similarities with other religions of the world. Morality, for example, is a main aspect of Sikhism. A person is responsible for his or her own life, and that means that he or she is going to be looked at to make the correct moral decisions. Sikhs believe that a person should always focus on his or her own character and strive to make responsible decisions that better the individual and the whole of society.
Divine Hair
Sikhs also don headwear that is traditional to India and surrounding areas for various reasons. One of the more common sights that you are likely to see when encountering those of this faith are turbans. A turban is meant to be worn as a way of protecting a person’s hair. People who follow Sikhism believe that their hair is a connection to their bodies and, ultimately, to God. Most devout Sikhs will never cut their hair and wear turbans as a way of connecting with nature and God.
Young men and women will often begin wearing a patka to cover their hair before graduating to a turban. The turban and patka are two important items that members of this faith wear, but there are others to pay attention to. Men and women alike may be seen wearing a kara. A kara is a bracelet that is typically made of steel and is worn to symbolize the unity that mankind has with God. Another important item in the religion of Sikhism is a kirpan. This item is a dagger used ceremoniously, though never as a weapon.
Learning More
Those who are curious about Sikhism might find it helpful to explore texts written in or about India during the 15th century BCE. The religion of Sikhism is predominantly practiced in India, where it was formed, but there are still followers that can be found across the globe. In fact, shrines are common in countries like India, the United States of America, and all over the continent of Europe. If you believe that you could benefit from learning more, then reach out to someone who follows this religion and see what you can understand about this faith.