Sikhism is a religion founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century in the Punjab region of India. The religion believes in one powerful God. It is counted as the World’s fifth largest organized religion. Sardars across the world follow this pious religion Sikhism, let’s know a little more about this beautiful religion and the community of Sardars.
Simplicity And Sikhism
Sardars believes in simplicity. Sikhism doesn’t encourage believers to perform animal sacrifice, keeping fasts or going on Pilgrims. They believe that to Love God is the truest way of being close to God. They also believe that all days of the week and all numbers are the same. There is no one number or day better than the other.
Equal Status For Women
The third Guru, Guru Amar Das Ji raised his voice against the Sati system which was prevalent at the time. The Gurus in Sikhism spoke about the importance of equality between a man and woman. They taught that in the eyes of God, both men and women are equal.
Symbol Of Sikhism
‘Khanda’, which is a double-edged sword, flanked by two daggers is the Universal symbol of Sikhism. Khanda represents spiritual and worldly powers bound by God’s oneness.
The Names – Singh And Kaur
The Sikh women have ‘kaur’ as their last name while men have Singh as their last name. The Gurus began a system where the women were not supposed to change their names after marriages, ensuring equality for them. The history also has many Sikh women fighting alongside men in battles.
When the Clock Strikes 12
We all have heard about the connection of 12’ o clock with Sardars. But do we know the actual reason behind that? When in 1739, Nadir Shah abducted around 2200 Hindu women along with him, it was ‘Sardar Jassa Singh’ who took the command and attacked Nadir Shah’s camp at midnight. He also rescued all the women.
From then on, whenever any foreign troupe attacked and abducted women, the Sikh army would go on the mission at midnight. Now the next time you see someone making fun of Sardars, you can tell them about their bravery. Also to understand that it’s absolutely uncool to make fun of them.
Gurudwara And The Four Doors
The doors in the Gurudwara are symbols that any person, irrespective of their caste, is welcome. The door of learning, Door of peace, Door of grace and Door of livelihood are four doors respectively at the Gurudwara.
Offering Free Food To One And All
In Sikhism, killing for taste is said to be an unrighteous act. Sikhism believes in simple eating. Their Gurudwaras are known for their large kitchen in which free food is made for one and all. The food served known as ‘Langar’ is served at Gurudwaras for everyone, irrespective of their caste.
Guru Granth Sahib
The holy book of Sikhs – ‘Guru Granth Sahib’ is the compilation of scriptures by Sikh Gurus. The unique aspect is that it is written in form of poetry. The book is given a lot of respect, is kept on a raised platform and covered by a cloth when it’s not being read.
Sikhism And Justice
Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru, stood up against Mughals when they were forcefully converting the religion of the people. He fiercely fought against the oppression of Mughals. It’s known that Mughals publicly executed him for the same.
The Reason They Don’t Cut Their Hair
It is well known that Sardars knot their hair or coil it on top of their head on their solar center. They believe that it is natural and a respect for the God’s creation. Also, it helps in retaining spiritual focus and channelizing one’s radiant energy.
Khalsa- The Sikh Warriors
Khalsa was a special group of Sikh warriors founded by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. It was created to remind Sikhs of their commitment as Khalsa and was a group dedicated to the purity of thoughts and action. Kesh, Kirpan, Kangha, Kaccha, and Kara are five K’s that any Sikh who has been baptized as Khalsa vows to wear.
The Concept Of Turban
The Sikh male wears turbans which are considered to be noble and respectful. It is also known to promote equality and protect the Sikh identity. The culture started during the time of Guru Gobind Singh. The turban is around 6 meters long.
No Sardar Is Ever Seen Begging
You will never find any person wearing the Sikh Turban and begging for money on road. The reason behind this is religious practice and social pressure. They believe in feeding others with their hard work. If any Sardar is found begging by his fellow community member he is offered a small job along with the lecture for bringing discredit to their religion. You will always find Sardars donating food instead of money.
