Sikhism Discussion
| 66% In the end, Sikhism may well be considered a reform movement of Hinduism, at least in its origin, and certainly as a syncretism of Islam and Hinduism as it is the first to put forward the notion of God being without religious categorization, in the 15th-16th century Punjab region. God, accordingly, is neither Muslim nor Hindu. God is both imminent and transcendent. Monotheism and reincarnation exist!
alongside each other. The self-denial of the Buddhist is eschewed, but discipline is valued and encouraged.
Indeed, the word “Sikh literally means “disciple,” assuming discipline. The nonviolence of the Jains is respected (Ahimsa), but the Khalsa may be called upon to use their swords (the Kirpan) in defense of their faith, as they have from time to time across history in violent confrontations with others, believing in the Just War theory. This can be witnessed in reflection of the massacre in 1919 at the Golden Temple at the hands of the British, or the Indian army in 1984 (Fisher, 2008).
In short, Sikhisrn’s contribution to the dialogue of world religions across the globe may well be summed up in its insistence on God being beyond the definition of boundary, the essential unity of all religions, the insistence on the equality of the sexes, the banishment of the caste class system of society, the creation of a nonsectarian world, and the beauty of their assertion that when we eat together, we find unity with each other in the communal kitchen. Long live the langar!
Questions for further consideration
1. What is the significance of Guru Nanak’s statement (when coming up out of the water) in relation to world religions?
2. What is unique to Sikhism in the Gurdwara?
3. If Sikhism is ultimately about the unity of religion without prejudice, and the understanding of God without labels, how do Sikhs justify the killing of those of other faiths? 4. In a unique twist. Sikhs believe in reincarnation, but also espouse monotheism, which traditionally denies reincarnation. Are these two incompatible? Why? Why not?
5. What other religious traditions use a weapon (like a sword) to symbolize their faith and dedication? Knights of Columbus? Others?
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