Sihkism Flashcards
Sikh
The word means disciple or student, and it refers to followers of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century in the Punjab region of India. They believe in one God and follow the teachings of the Ten Gurus, enshrined in their holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib
Disciple (Sikhism)
In the context of Sikhism, it is someone who follows the teachings of Gurus, adhering to the principles of Sikhism. Every Sikh is considered a disciple, learning from the Guru Granth Sahib and striving to live a life in accordance with its teachings
Kabir
A 15th-century Indian mystic and poet whose teachings influenced Sikhism. He criticized both Hindu and Islamic orthodoxy and emphasized devotion to a formless God. Some of his hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture
Nanak (Guru Nanak)
The founder of Sikhism and the first of the Ten Gurus. He emphasized the oneness of God, equality of all humans, rejection of caste distinctions, and devotion to truthful living
Guru (Sikhism)
A spiritual teacher who imparts wisdom and guides followers on the path to enlightenment. There are Ten Gurus in Sikh history, and after the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, the Guru Granth Sahib (holy scripture) was deflated the eternal Guru
Arjan (Guru Arjan)
The fifth Sikh Guru and the first Sikh martyr. He compiled the Adi Granth, the original version of the Guru Granth Sahib, and contributed significantly to the development of Sikh scripture and identity
Adi Granth
Meaning “Original Collection,” is the first edition of the Sikh holy scripture compiled by Guru Arjan. It later became the Guru Granth Sahib when the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, declared it the eternal Guru of the Sikhs
Amritsar
A city in the Indian state of Punjab and is home to the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), the holiest gurdwara (place of worship) in Sikhism. Founded by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru, is is a major spiritual and cultural center for Sikhs
“Original Collection”
Refers to the Adi Granth, the foundational scripture of Sikhism compiled by Guru Arjan. It contains hymns and writings from the Sikh Gurus, as well as saints from other traditions, promoting unity and devotion to God
Khalsa
The collective body of initiated Sikhs, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. They are required to follow a strict code of conduct, including wearing the five Ks (Kes, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan) and maintaining a lifestyle of honesty, devotion, and defense of justice
Kaur
Meaning “Princess;” the surname given to all Sikh women by Guru Gobind Singh to symbolize equality and dignity. It rejects the caste system and promotes the idea that Sikh women should be treated with respect and as equals to men
Lion (Singh)
The surname given to all Sikh men by Guru Gobind Singh. It symbolizes bravery, strength, and fearlessness. By adopting the name Singh, Sikh men reject caste distinctions and embody the ideals of the Khalsa
Sat Nam
A common Sikh mantra meaning “Truth is my identity” or “Truth is the Name.” It emphasizes the importance of living a truthful and authentic life in alignment with the divine truth
Kes
Refers to the practice of keeping hair uncut, as mandated by Guru Gobind Singh for members of the Khalsa. It symbolizes respect for the natural form given by God and is one of the Five Ks, the articles of faith worn by Sikhs
Kangha
A small wooden comb that is used to keep the hair clean and well-groomed. It is one of the Five Ks and represents the importance of cleanliness and order in the life of a Sikh
