3. What is Sikhism?

Religiously Literate

With so many religions in the world it can be hard to keep up with what everyone believes. Religiously Literate is here to help! Join Jay and Ryan on this episode as Jay shares some of his experiences in India while visiting the holiest site in Sikhism.

In this episode, we discuss Sikhism, including an overview of history, general beliefs, rituals, and Jay's visits to gurdwaras in India and the United States.

SHOW NOTES:

Adi Granth (also known as Guru Granth Sahib) - The most sacred text of Sikh faith. Initially complied by Guru Arjan in 1604.

Five Ks - Markers of Sikh identity that include:

1. Kesh - Uncut hair
2. Kanga - Wooden comb for top knot
3. Kirpan - Sword
4. Kara - Iron bracelet
5. Kaccha - Underwear

Gurdwara - The Sikh house of worship

Langar - The community kitchen and meal that is served to the community

Singh, Pashaura. “Sikhism: Practicing Tradition Today.” In South Asian Religions: Tradition and Today, edited by Karen Pechilis and Selva J. Raj. London ; New York: Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group, 2013.

The 10 human Gurus with birth and death dates

Guru Nanak (1469-1539)
Guru Angad (1504-1552)
Guru Amar Das (1497-1574)
Guru Ram Das (1534-1581)
Guru Arjan (1563-1606)
Guru Hargobind (1595-1644)
Guru Har Rai (1630-1631)
Guru Harkrishan (1655-1664)
Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621-1675)
Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708)

Sikh drivers are transforming U.S. trucking. Take a ride along the Punjabi American highway LA Times, 2019.

Punjab Region Map

Sikh Distribution Map

Things Not to Say to Sikh People video

Who Are the Sikhs video

Sikhism (World Religions and Spirituality Project)

Music used in this episode is City of Jewels by Destiny & Time