Sikhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Sikhism - Essay Example A few Sikhs accept their religion to be a cleansed Hinduism, however most believe it to be an immediate divine revelation, with no association with some other religion (Robinson, 2005). Whatever be its’ roots, Sikhism has developed as a religion in its’ own right, with its’ remarkable history, convictions, supplications, practices and idea of God. The word ‘Sikh’ in Punjabi is characterized as ‘disciple’ and suggests a devotee of God. ‘Guru’ is a Sanskrit word for educator. In Sikhism, the Gurus are viewed as Enlightened Masters. The Reht Maryada, the official Sikh Code of Conduct, characterizes a Sikh as any man or lady who puts stock in One Immortal Being, the ten Gurus, the Guru Granth Sahib-the heavenly book of the Sikhs, the lessons of the Gurus and the immersion presented by the tenth Guru and doesn't owe loyalty to some other religion. The historical backdrop of Sikhism is reflected in the life of its’ Gurus. The main Guru was Guru Nanak Dev (1469 †1539), who established the Sikh religion. He was naturally introduced to a Hindu family. He achieved illumination at thirty years old, while washing in the stream Bain and announced the undying words, â€Å"There is no Hindu, no Muslim.† He voyaged widely through the Indian subcontinent and the Persian Gulf, spreading his message of one, genuine God with the help of psalms and stories that would contact the ordinary citizens. He was trailed by Guru Angad Dev (1504 †1552), who promoted the Gurmukhi content among the Sikhs and upheld a casteless society. He was prevailing by Guru Amar Das (1479 †1574), who standardized the free Sikh shared kitchen, or langar, restricted the oppression of ladies through the purdah and sati and bolstered widow remarriage. Through prepared missionaries, called Masands, he spread Sikhism all through the nation. The Fourth Master was Guru Ram Das (1534 †1581), who established the sacred city of