- Simran and Seva: These are the Foundation of Sikhism. It is the duty of every Sikh to practise Naam Simran daily and engage in Sewa whenever there is a possibility- in Gurdwara; in community centre; old people's homes; care centres; major world disasters, etc....
- The Holy trinity of Sikhism: Guru Nanak formalised these three important aspects of Sikhism:
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- Naam Japna: – A Sikh is to engage in a daily practice of meditation and Nitnem by reciting and chanting of God’s Name.
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- Kirat Karni: - To live honestly and earn by ones physical and mental effort while accepting God's gifts and blessings. A Sikh has to live as a householder carrying out his or her duties and responsibilities to the full.
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- Vand Chakna: - The Sikhs are asked to share their wealth within the community and outside by giving Dasvand and practising charity (Daan). To “Share and consume together”.
- Kill the Five Thieves: The Sikh Gurus tell us that our mind and spirit are constantly being attacked by the Five Evils – Kam (Lust), Krodh (Rage), Lobh (Greed), Moh (Attachment) and Ahankar (Ego). A Sikh needs to constantly attack and overcome these five vices.
- Positive Human Qualities: The Sikh Gurus taught the Sikhs to develop and harness positive human qualities which lead the soul closer to God and away from evil. These are: Sat (Truth); Daya (Compassion); Santokh (Contentment); Nimrata (Humility); and Pyare (Love).
The tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh forbade Sikhs to eat Kutha meat or have relations with muslim women1
References
1) One God
God is the Creator of the Universe
God isn't born and will never die God is present everywhere
2) Equality
All human beings are equal
People of all religions and races are welcome in Sikh Gurdwaras Women have equal status with men in religious services and ceremonies
3) Birth and Death
After a person dies, his soul is born again in another body, human or animal
One's next life depends on his deeds in the past life The human life is supreme and it is through this life that we can achieve oneness with God Finding God takes us out of this life cycle
4) Non-Violence
Sikhs are a peace loving people and stand for Truth and Justice
Guru Gobind Singh Ji said, "It is right to use force as a last resort when all other peaceful means fail." these can be summed up in the mul mantra (or mool) which is: there is one god whoose name is truth god is the creator and is without hate god is timeless gods spirit is throughout the universe god is not born nor will die to be born again god is self-existent by the grace of the gurus
god is made known to man kind.
- ^ Sau Sakhi 100 Stories Guru Gobind Singh
Diagram showing some of the important Sikh beliefs - Click here to enlarge
