*** Sikh ***

 A Sikh is an adherent of Sikhism (preferred endonym Sikhi), a monotheistic religion founded over 500 years ago in the Punjab region of South Asia by Guru Nanak. The word Sikh translates to "disciple" or "learner" in Punjabi, originating from the Sanskrit root śiṣya. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Core Beliefs and Principles

Sikh teachings focus on a direct, personal connection with the divine and practical, ethical living in the everyday world. [1, 2]

• One Supreme Creator: Sikhs believe in one formless, genderless, and eternal God (Waheguru or Akal Purakh) who is present in all creation. [1, 2, 3]
• Equality of Humankind: The faith categorically rejects the caste system, ritualism, and discrimination based on race, class, or gender. [1, 2, 3]
• The Three Pillars: Sikhs are guided by three fundamental duties:
  1. Naam Japna: Keeping God in memory and meditating on the Divine Name.
  2. Kirat Karo: Earning an honest, ethical living.
  3. Vand Chhako: Sharing the fruits of one's labor and giving to those in need (charity). [1, 2, 3, 4]

Lineage of Gurus and Holy Scripture

The spiritual path of Sikhism was shaped by a succession of ten human Gurus from 1469 to 1708, whose collective spiritual essence is viewed as a single light passing from one leader to the next. [1, 2]

• Guru Granth Sahib: Before the passing of the tenth master, Guru Gobind Singh, the eternal spiritual authority was vested in the sacred scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib. Adherents treat this compilation of hymns and poetry as their living, perpetual Guru. [1, 2, 3]

Identity and Practices

Sikh identity is deeply tied to community service, spiritual discipline, and distinct visual markers. [1, 2]

• The Five Ks: Initiated members of the Khalsa (the community of initiated Sikhs founded in 1699) wear five articles of faith: Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bracelet), Kangha (wooden comb), Kirpan (small ceremonial sword for defense), and Kachchera (cotton undergarment). [1, 2]
• The Turban: Most visibly, many Sikh men and women wrap their uncut hair (kesh) in a turban (dastaar), which signifies sovereignty, honor, equality, and commitment to community values. [1, 2]
• Langar: Every gurdwara (Sikh house of worship) maintains a communal kitchen called a langar, serving free vegetarian meals to all visitors regardless of background to practice radical equality. [1, 2]

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