Sikhism
Sikhs follow the teachings of ten Gurus and the scripture Guru Granth Sahib, centered on devotion to one God, equality and service.
Founded by Guru Nanak in 15th-century Punjab, in what is now India and Pakistan.
Core ideas
- One God (Ik Onkar), beyond form
- Equality of all people regardless of caste, gender or religion
- Honest work, sharing with others, and remembering God
- Seva: selfless service
Common practices
- Kirtan (singing scripture)
- Langar (free community meal)
- Daily prayer
Every gurdwara serves langar, a free vegetarian meal open to anyone.
Sacred texts
All traditions' scriptures →Sikhs revere the Guru Granth Sahib as their living Guru. Every gurdwara installs it with great respect, and its hymns are sung (kirtan) and read aloud at every gathering. Screens in many gurdwaras show the words with English translation.
Guru Granth Sahib
Original language: Gurmukhi script
Hymns by the Sikh Gurus and by Hindu and Muslim saints, arranged by musical measure (raag). The English translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa is the one most often shown online.
Nitnem and Dasam Granth
Nitnem is the set of daily prayers, beginning with Japji Sahib at dawn. The Dasam Granth contains writings attributed to Guru Gobind Singh, some of which are part of Nitnem.
Read free online or in an app
- SikhiToTheMax · Free search and reading of Gurbani in Gurmukhi, English and Punjabi; also an app.
- SearchGurbani · Free Guru Granth Sahib with translations and commentary.
- iGurbani · Free iPhone app with Gurmukhi and English translations.
Visiting a local community
Gurdwara
Sikh houses of worship, open to everyone, often with weekend programs and the community kitchen.
Beliefs: The Guru Granth Sahib is the living Guru, honored at the center of the hall.
Worship: Kirtan, readings and prayer (Ardas), usually on Sunday mornings, followed by langar.
On a first visit
- Cover your head (scarves are provided), remove shoes and wash hands.
- Sit on the floor; at langar everyone eats together as equals.
- No tobacco or alcohol on the premises.