Features Overview
WHAT IS SIKH?
The word Sikh (pronounced "sickh") means 'disciple' or 'learner.' The Sikh religion was founded in Northern India in the fifteenth century by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and is distinct from Islam and Hinduism. Sikhism is monotheistic and stresses the equality of all men and women. Sikhs believe in three basic principles; meditating on the name of God (praying), earning a living by honest means as well as sharing the fruits of one’s labor with others. Sikhism rejects caste and class systems and emphasizes service to humanity.
WHAT LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN AND WRITTEN?
The Punjabi language is an Indo-European language that originates in the Punjab region. Punjabi is spoken by 130 million native speakers, making the language the tenth most spoken language in the world. Reflecting the diverse peoples and cultural influences in this part of the world, the Punjabi language is written in multiple scripts: Shahmukhi (پنجابی ) which is a Perso-Arabic script, and the distinctive Gurmukhi (ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ) script. Gurmukhi is the sacred script in the Sikh religion, meaning “from the mouth of the Guru.” Gurmukhi was standardized by the second Sikh Guru, Guru Angad Devi Ji, in the sixteenth century so that Guru Nanak’s divine message would not become misinterpreted over time.
HOW TO IDENTIFY A SIKH?
Many Sikhs maintain the Khalsa identity — those who have been initiated/baptized (Amritdhari) and live by the full Sikh discipline. They can often be identified by the Five Ks, which are articles of faith given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji:
Kesh (Uncut Hair) – Sikhs keep all hair uncut as a symbol of acceptance of God’s will.
Kanga (Wooden Comb) – Kept in the hair to keep it neat and symbolize discipline and cleanliness.
Kara (Steel Bracelet) – A reminder of one’s connection to God and to always act righteously.
Kirpan (Small Sword) – Represents courage and duty to protect truth and defend others.
Kachhera (Unisex Cotton Undergarment) – Symbolizes self-control and moral integrity.