Discussion UsefulNotes / Sikhism

I think we should change the quote to something from the religions holy text itself, rather than something an unamed British general said about how good they were as soldiers.

Sikhs have a few tenets such as the 5 Ks: Kesh(uncut hair), Kachera(long underwear), Kanga(wooden comb), Karra(steel bangle) and Kirpan(dagger). All of these make up the indentity of a Sikh and are essential to their faith although these have created many troubles for the Sikhs such as a the right to carry a dagger. Still many Sikhs find ways to adapt as best they can such as only carry blunt kirpans.

The Sikh faith is one that rejects many of the Hindu practices such as sati, where the wife is burned after a dead husband, as well as many unequal traditions such as the caste system. Sikhism is a belief that stresses that all are equal no matter what caste or religion and infact they don't claim exclusivity on God, alson know as Wahe Guru, nor do they claim their religion is the only true path. They teach their followrs to live a pious life with a strong emphasis on respect towards others particularly the family.

What they prohibit is again matters of inequality as well several self-indulgent and anti-social tendencies. As such they prohibit against superstition, adultry, avarice, slander and many such others. They cannot consume intoxicants or barbituates like alcohol and nor can they eat ritually killed meat. Sikhism is unique in that it has its own fighting style which is known as Gatka. This martial art primarily relies on weapons but it practices with an array of blade weapons but it also includes other such tools like bows. The style is taught to be used in situations when one is facing a single or multiple opponents. It is noted as an asthetically pleasing art and so there are many show preformances with the art. Sikhs give worship in a building known as a Guduwara which is always open to all including non-Sikhs provided they remove any foot wear and cover their heads. Within Guduwaras there is the langaar halls where free food is served out which is always vegitarian. such duties are carried out by volantees providing Seva, which is charitable acts. Seva is encouraged amosnt Sikhs in order to help them become better individuals and give to the community.