• Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded during the 15th century in the Punjab region of India.

• Sikhs believe their religion was revealed by God to a spiritual teacher called a “guru” in the 1400s.

• Today there are no more special gurus. The community of initiated Sikhs and their holy book serve the same role as a guru.

Sikhism is…

Gu = Darkness or Ignorance Ru = light or enlightenment

• Because Sikhism developed in modern-day India and Pakistan, there are some beliefs that Sikhs share with Muslims and Hindus.

• However, Sikhism is its own religion. Sikhs are quick to point out that just because they share some beliefs with different religions, they are not branches of those religions.

• In fact, Sikhism rejects some ideas common in India.

• For instance, Sikhs reject the caste system. Sikhs believe all people are equal before God.

All initiated Sikhs wear a special “uniform.”

• In other religions, it usually just the clergy who wear a special set of clothing. For example, ministers in some Christian churches wear robes.

• All initiated Sikhs wear five special articles of clothing to remind them of their religion.

• Each article of clothing symbolizes a special Sikh belief.

• All five of the special articles of clothing begin with the letter “K” in the Punjabi language, so Sikhs call them the “5 K’s.”

What does it mean to be an initiated Sikh?

• When a Sikh has decided to devote him or herself completely to Sikhism, they go through the Sikh baptism ceremony called amrit.

• Sikhs who are initiated promise the following things:1. To worship one God2. Read the Guru Granth (Holy Book)3. Be part of the Sikh congregation (the Khalsa) around the world.4. Serve others.5. Agree not to worship any created object or living thing.

• Members of the Khalsa all take the same last name. Men take the name “Singh” which means lion. Women take the name “Kaur” which means princess.

**The Guru Panth is also called the Khalsa

to come to learn and pray

During the meal, which is open to all, everyone sits on the floor to eat. This symbolizes the Sikh belief that we are all equal in the eyes of God.

Some Well-Known Sikhs

Dalip Singh Saund

First Sikh to serve in the US Congress

Represented California’s 29th District1957-1963

Manmohan Singh13th and Current Prime Minister of India

2004-Today