Sikhs

Sikhism

The Golden Temple at night, lit gold beside a pool.

Many Sikhs say, “Sat Sri Akal.” It speaks of God’s truth.

The Khanda is a Sikh symbol.

What many people call it

Many people call this faith Sikhism. People who follow it are called Sikhs.

A belief many people hold

Sikhs worship one God. A short teaching, Ik Onkar, means there is one God. Sikhs honour ten human Gurus. Guru Nanak was the first.

The Guru Granth Sahib

The Guru Granth Sahib is the holy book and the Guru of the Sikhs. It is a book, not a person you draw. In the gurdwara it rests on a raised seat, under a canopy, covered with fine cloths. It is never placed on the floor.

A gurdwara

A gurdwara is a Sikh place of worship. People take off their shoes and cover their heads. Many gurdwaras serve langar, a free meal. Everyone may sit together. Many gurdwaras fly an orange flag.

Vaisakhi

Vaisakhi is a festival for many Sikhs. It comes in April. People tell the story of the Khalsa, a community that promised to live with courage, honesty, and care. Some families also mark a harvest. Around Diwali, many Sikhs mark Bandi Chhor Divas. People tell a story of release and coming home.

A kind act

Seva means selfless service. Many Sikhs cook, clean, and share. Honest work and sharing are part of the faith.

Food, dress, or another rule

Many Sikhs wear the Five Ks. They are articles of faith, not a costume. Kesh means uncut hair. Many people cover it with a turban or a smaller cloth. A turban is worn with respect. It is not a dress-up joke. Kangha is a small wooden comb. Kara is a steel bracelet. Kachera is an undergarment chosen for modesty. Kirpan is a small sword. It stands for courage and for protecting others. It is not a toy. Do not touch it. Some Sikhs wear all five. Some do not. Langar is often vegetarian, so more people can eat. Some Sikhs eat meat at home. Practices differ.

Pictures

Sikhs do not make pictures of the Gurus. The Guru Granth Sahib is a holy book. The Khanda is a symbol. A turban is worn with respect.