About the Book

Sikhism started by Guru Nanak, born in 1469, and the philosophy he propagated has now spread too many parts of the world. The book is one of the first of its kind to highlight the message of the ten Gurus. It also includes the Sikh traditions, culture, customs, manners and ceremonies. Sikhism is one of the natural gifts of India to the world as it is tolerant to other faiths, and believes that everyone is equal and worships the One God (Ik/Ek Omkar), who has been given different names by different religions. Sikhism encourages people to live in peace and also to be tolerant of beliefs and traditions of other faiths. Guru Nanak declared there was only One God (Ik/Ek Omkar), and preached the principal of fatherhood of God and brotherhood of man. Sikhism accepts the doctrine of Karma, transmigration, repetition of the name of God, necessity of the Guru, etc. The book offers everything that its title promises, and also reflects the attitude and beliefs of the Sikhs on matter like the meaning of absolute, Nam Simran etc. It is intended for every one interested in knowing about the traditions, customs, manners and ceremonies of the Sikhs.

About the Author

Ramesh C. Dogra MBE received his M. Phil. at the University of London and has written twenty books and many articles on many South Asian topics, particularly in the fields of Indology, Sikhism and Bhutan. He retired as Librarian (South Asian Studies), at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London in September 2002. In January 2003s New Year's Honour List, in the UK he was awarded MBE (The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his contribution to South Asian Studies.

Mrs. Urmila Dogra, a retired Civil Servant in London, has been associated with the research projects of Mr. Dogra since 1986. She is a co-author of nine books.

Introduction

This book is planned to meet a fundamental need to the study of Sikh culture, traditions, customs, manners and ceremonies. Sikhism is one of the natural gifts of India to the world as it is tolerant to other faiths, and believes that everyone is equal and worships the One God (Ik/Ek Omkar), who has been given different names by different religions. India has been a great country of spirituality and mysticism since Vedic times. The Indian people emphasis on spiritual experience in all its forms and has given birth to many religions and also diversity of spiritual teachings, meditation and yogic practices in the world. Sikhism is an integral part of Hindu culture and character. It believes that meditation, remembering the name of God (Nam Simran), and good moral life are the only ways to reach God. Goodness is shown in Sikh actions; Sikhs are expected to help others and always work to support themselves. Sikhism encourages people to live in peace and also to be tolerant of beliefs and traditions of other faiths.

Guru Nanak declared there was only One God (Ik/Ek Omkar), and preached the principal of fatherhood of God and brotherhood of man. Everybody was known as Bhai (brother) or Bebe (sister, mother or elderly woman).

He told people that (a) Vedas, Puran and Quran taught love of humanity; (b) in the eyes of God every person (poor or rich) is equal; (c) taught people to discard rituals and surrender to Lord for peace of mind; (d) and stimulated the people against priesthood, caste system, polytheism and tyranny. He also preached them that their misfortunes were due to their misdeeds in the past life, arid assured them that good actions in life would bring them salvation.

Sikhism accepts the doctrine of Karma, transmigration, repetition of the name of God, necessity of the Guru, Bhakti (remembering the Holy Name of God or singing the praises of God with implicit faith and incessant devotion), and rejects Maya (materialism which lures man away from God). The keynote of the Guru's instruction was greater simplicity in belief and worship. Guru Nanak propagated in repetition of God's name, but he gave a new name to God (Ik/Ek Omkar Sat Nam). Guru Nanak wants his follower to repeat the name of such a God who is ever true.

The book offers everything that its title promises, and also reflects the attitude and beliefs of the Sikhs on matters like the meaning of absolute, N am Simran (remembering the name of God), the function of the Guru Gran the Sahib, tradition of Guru ship, scriptures, liturgical texts, Rahitnamas, duties of family in performing ceremonies from birth to death. It is intended for general readers, students from School to University level, and also for Sikh/ Hindu people and other readers who are interested in knowing about the traditions, customs, manners and ceremonies of the Sikhs. We hope that this book will be useful to all those interested in the subject.

Contents