Sikhism Flashcards
Approximatey how many sikhs are there in the world?
20 million
Where do the majority of the sihks live?
In Northwestern india - the Punjab region
What does sikh mean?
Disciple/student
Apporimately how old is Sikhism?
500 years old
How many spiritual leaders are there in sikhism?
10
Who was the first spiritual leader?
Guru Nanak
When did Guru Nanak found sikhism?
1499 after receiving a message from god
What is the name of the sikh holy book?
Guru Granth Sahib
What are some of the 10 sikh teachings?
That religion should unite, not divide.
That charity or community involvement is more valuable than ritual/asceticism.
Equality for all - regardless of gender or religion. This includes:
Rejection of the Caste System, rejection of gendered roles in religion.
There is one god who is without form or gender. Therefore:
Do not worship multiple idols, there is truth in all religions, and all lead to the one truth.
What do sikhs believe in?
Karma, Samsara, Mukti (Moksha) and equality
What do sikhs reject?
The Hindu Caste system, worshipping idols
What are sikhs aims of life?
To have a good karma
To break the cycle of reincarnation (moksha/mukti)
How can sikhs overcome moksha?
Charity
Meditation
What are the 5 vices?
kam (Lust),
krodh (Rage or uncontrolled anger),
lobh (Greed),
moh (Attachment or emotional attachment) and
ahankar (ego)
What are the 5 virtues?
Sat (truth)
Daya (compassion)
Santokh (contentment) Nimrata (humility)
Pyaar (love)
What are the 5 articles of faith?
Kesh - uncut hair: Sikhs do not cut hair or beards to remain in the image that god gave us
Kanga - comb, made of wood - to keep uncut hair neat and clean
Kara - bracelet, made of steel worn on right hand –a reminder of noble actions, a symbol of eternity and connection to God
Kuchha – under-shorts (boxers) to represent modesty and fidelity
Kirpan - ceremonial small blunt knife symbolizing freedom, liberty and justice
What is Khalsa?
It is a community of sikhs that have taken Amrit and achieved purity
What do you do to take amrit?
It is a ceremony from ages around 10+, when you make promises. A holy sugar infused water is sprinkled on your head and you are purified
What promises to sikhs make during Amrit?
No smoking
No drinking
Follow the 5ks