Sikhism Flashcards
Founder of Sikhism?
Guru Nanak
How many gurus are there?
10
What is Sikhism’s message?
Devotion and remembrance of God at all times, truthful living, and equality
What role did the gurus have and who are they?
They are enlightened spiritual teachers who taught India to live spiritually fulfilling lives with dignity, freedom and honour
Meaning of Sikh?
Student/learner
Describe the origins
- Originated from the Punjab area (India/Pakistan)
- 500 years ago
- Guru Nanak grew up around Hindu/Muslim teachings
- Refused the sacred thread ceremony
- Worked for the government in Sultanpur, and was disgusted with the caste system and exploitation
- Bathed in a river, where God took him and said “There is no Muslim/Hindu, there is only one God”, returning three days later
- Vouched for the quality of humans, and disapproved of the caste system/ethnic and religious division
Place of worship? 3 functions?
Gurdwara
Kirtan: Singing of hymns from Guru Granth Sahib
Katha: Reading of the Guru Granth Sahib and explanations
Langar: Free community kitchen for all visitors
Place of worship protocols?
- Remove shoes, and cover bare heads
- Wash hands/feet
- Everyone sits on the floor (sign of equality)
- Open 24/7
Khanda?
Symbol of Sikhism, a double edged sword (belief in one God), chakkar/circle (God without beginning/end), crossed kirpans (spiritual authority/political power)
Five K’s?
Kesh, kara, kanga, kaccha, kirpan
Kesh?
Uncut hair
Kara?
Steel/silver bracelet
Kanga
Wooden comb
Kaccha
Cotton underwear
Kirpan
Steel sword