SIKHISM

History

The Sikh religion is considered to be a blend of the Muslim faith and Hinduism. It was founded in the late 5th century a.d. by Guru Nanak.

The Sikhs consider themselves disciples of the ten gurus. Nanak and the nine successors.

The Guru Granth was complied by the fifth Guru - Guru Arjan. The death of Guru Arjan at the hands of the Mughals sparked of the introduction of militant element in Sikhism.

The 10th Guru, Gobind Rai founded the fraternity known as Khalsa which means "Pure". Its members adopted the additional name Singh (Lion) or Kaur (lioness). The Sikh temples are called Gurdwaras. Gurudwara means the gateway to the guru. The biggest fair is on the first of Baisakh. i.e on April 13th, which is also the birthday of the Khalsa itself. The holiest place for the Sikhs is the golden temple at Amritstar founded by the fourth Guru, Ramdas. The Sikhs observes all festivals celebrated by the Hindus.


Teachings

The sikh religion is a blend of Muslim faith and Hinduism. Guru Nanak believed that there was one God, who is not represented by idols or images. Man should serve by leading a good honest life in obedience to his commands and by prayer, in particular by repeating the name of God. Sikhs believe that one can achieve salvation while leading a normal life. They do not believe in fasting, penance or the need to renounce the world to achieve salvation Sikhism preaches that one must get over five deadly sins before approaching god.
1) Lust
2) Anger
3) Attachment
4) Greed
5) Ego.


The five K's of Khalsa
The five K's constituted the visible distinguishing features of khalsa

a.  Kes (long hair)

b.  Kanga (comb)

c.  Kacha ( a pair of shorts)

d.  Kara (iron bangles )

e.  Karpan (sword)

This sect have certain rules - they were not allowed to cut their hair, no smoking or drinking, eating kosher meat was banned, and adultery was forbidden.