Origins of Sikhi
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.4.1
Origins of Sikhi
A distinct faith
- Sikhi began in the Punjab region of South Asia in the late 15th century.
- It was founded by Guru Nanak, who was born in 1469.
- Guru Nanak taught that there is one God who is loving, eternal, and present in everyone.
- He rejected unfair divisions between people and taught the importance of equality and selfless service.
- Guru Nanak said that “there is no Hindu and there is no Muslim. We are all children of God.”
A religiously diverse region
- The Punjab region in the 1400s was diverse. Hindu and Muslim communities lived side by side.
- Guru Nanak was influenced by the spiritual devotion (bhakti) of Hindus and by the faith in one God (tawhid) of Muslims.
- But he created a new and distinct faith. He wished to bring people together, rather than dividing them.
The teachings of Guru Nanak
- Guru Nanak taught that people should live a life of truth, kindness, and devotion to God.
- He believed that God is without form or gender. God can be reached through meditation, prayer, and good actions.
- Guru Nanak encouraged:
- Naam Simran (remembering God’s name) as a way to stay close to the divine.
- Sewa (selfless service) as a way to help others without wanting a reward.
- His followers became known as Sikhs, meaning “disciples” or “learners.”
Test yourself on Origins of Sikhi
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