Is sikhism (religion of Vaheguru) way better than so called "Christianity"? Yes.

Started by SatanLucy

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#1 β€’β€’β€’

Vaheguru teaches many good teachings, such as:


  1. Do not frighten anyone, and do not live in fear of anyone.
  2. Share with others
  3. There is one God. His name is Truth. He is the Creator. He is without fear. He is without hate. He is beyond time. He is unborn. He is self-existent
  4. The highest religion is to rise to universal brotherhood, to consider all creatures your equals.
  5. Where there is forgiveness, there is God Himself.
  6. First there is life in water, by water all beings are created.
  7. Conquer your mind, and you conquer the world.
  8. Why search outside? The Lord dwells within your own heart.
  9. I am a sacrifice to those who have love for the Lord.
  10. This world is a dream; only the Name is real.
  11. All are equal; there is no one high or low.
  12. Not by one’s own effort, but by God’s Grace, is liberation obtained.
  13. Examine your own self; this is the essence of wisdom
  14. In suffering, we remember the Lord; in pleasure, we forget Him.
  15. He who is content is wealthy; he who desires more is poor.
  16. Speak only that which will bring honor.
  17. Gathering wealth, one finds no satisfaction.
  18. I ask for only one gift: that I may never forget You.
  19. Recognize the Light within yourself; there is no stranger.
  20. The Divine Light is within all; through the Guru, it is revealed.
  21. The moment you forget the Name, that moment is wasted.
  22. True worship is loving devotion.
  23. Rituals do not bring union; love does
  24. Peace comes through acceptance of the Divine Will.
  25. Forgetfulness of the Name is the greatest suffering.
  26. He alone is great, who considers himself small.
  27. Compassion is the root of righteousness.
  28. Caught in illusion, the world forgets its Creator.
  29. Eat modestly, live honestly, and share with others.
  30. In duality there is suffering; in oneness, peace.
  31. There is one Light in all; there is no other.
  32. The fearless live in the Fear of God
  33. The Lord is my mother, father, and friend.
  34. I am sustained by His Name.
  35. Pain and pleasure are both His gifts.
  36. The True Guru removes all fear.
  37. In one instant, God can change everything
  38. Seeing One, the mind becomes whole.
  39. What you seek outside is already within.
  40. Those who trust in God are never defeated.



Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of India by Guru Nanak in the 15th century, emphasizing one God (Waheguru), equality, honest living, selfless service (Seva), and devotion to the Divine Name (Nam Japo). Its core tenets, summarized as "honest work, meditation on the Divine Name, and sharing with others," guide Sikhs to live a spiritual life in the world, rejecting superstition and rituals, with guidance from the holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib. The faith promotes universal brotherhood, social justice, and service, with a global following of over 25 million. 


Core Beliefs & Principles

  1. One God (Waheguru): Belief in one formless, timeless, and universal Creator.
  2. Equality: All humanity is equal before God, regardless of caste, gender, or background.
  3. Three Pillars: Honest living (Kirat Karni), remembering God (Nam Japna), and sharing with others (Wand Chakna).
  4. Seva (Selfless Service): Serving the community and humanity without expectation of reward.
  5. Honest Living: Earning an honest living and avoiding professions like alcohol, tobacco, or gambling. 

Key Practices & Symbols

  1. Gurdwaras: Sikh places of worship, featuring communal kitchens (Langar) serving free vegetarian meals to all.
  2. Guru Granth Sahib: The holy scripture, considered the living Guru, containing teachings of the Sikh Gurus and other saints.
  3. The Five Ks (for initiated Sikhs - Khalsa): Uncut hair (Kesh), a wooden comb (Kanga), steel bracelet (Kara), special undergarment (Kachera), and a small sword (Kirpan).
  4. No Idolatry: Sikhs worship God, not idols or empty rituals




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#2 β€’β€’β€’

Thefuck?

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#3 β€’β€’β€’

Christianity already failed at 1: Do not frighten anyone.


Christianity scares children with stories of Hell.


In Vaheguru, there is no Hell nor Heaven. We are all equal parts of vaheguru. I am not better than you. You are not better than me.


Vaheguru teaches equality, peace, and most importantly, not frightening others.

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#4 β€’β€’β€’
@linate

these quotes are from "Guru Granth Sahib" book.

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#5 β€’β€’β€’

Sikhs do their own thing, I am not going to badmouth their little ethnoreligion. In many ways they're Noahides to Judaism without realising they are (search what a Noahide has to adhere to).


I really don't care about challenging Sikhism. They do their thing and keep it chill. Obviously, it's less chill if you're their family member and an apostate but nowhere near what Muslims do and in terms of disowning apostates (Islam may even 'honour kill' them or some sick stuff), religions like Christianity, Judaism and Hinduism more likely to do it than Sikhs, by far.


The main thing I don't get their full logic on the no hair cutting (even women are commanded to be hairy, they cover it up in clothing consistently so most non Sikhs don't notice unless the woman has moustache hair.


It isn't the same as saying 'don't clean shave', they basically mandate alack of grooming yet blatantly regularly groom their beards (just not shave it off) It even looks like they often trim it as it grows to maintain slick shaping.


Sikhism is a Punjabi ethnoreligion (Jews oftentimes wrongly state they're the only one, there are multiple ethnoreligions on Earth) what makes Jews unique is they use the same word for the ethnic member and religious adherent.


If you're not Punjabi and want to be Sikh, be sure you suit never shaving or barely any trimming ever. Yes, even pubic hair of any kind.


Yes. even back there.

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The US is a definitively secular nation, founded on complete separation of the State and religion. The Left Wing of US realise this but don't realise that pure freedom requires as low tax and free access to guns as possible. The Right Wing of US don't realise that secular pure freedom means the LGBTQ+ and abortion agendas both end up in line with US's liberty-first ethos.

It is left-wing to be pro-life. You are backing poor babies being born at the inconvenience of the already-born. Go figure.

#6 β€’β€’β€’
The main thing I don't get their full logic on the no hair cutting


Vaheguru, the creator, created all humans perfectly. So to alter hair or do circumcision is considered terrible and opposition to divine will.

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#7 β€’β€’β€’

tho there is no any punishment for cutting your hair. this religion has no Hell, and those details are more of recommendations than commands.

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#8 β€’β€’β€’

"If you are asking whether God will punish those Sikhs who cut their hair, the answer is absolutely not. Projecting revengeful and punishing characteristics and human emotional responses into God is pretty much on the same level as worshipping a statue. It is giving limited characteristics to that which has no limit. To my understanding, picturing God as a person with emotions and thoughts/points of view is idolatry at the least. The path set by Guru Nanak is one of love and pure devotion. There may be several reasons for a Sikh to decide to cut his/her hair. It will often be related to insecurity, fear, doubt, lack of clarity regarding its importance or even too much emphasis on fashion/looks and whatever Maya poses as a reality. But as Sikhs, we are to embrace people’s challenges and inspire them toward awareness. Not punish or condemn. That is not Sikhi. That kind of attitude (very much present in current Sikhi) was adopted from the Europeans who ruled India. Europeans were mislead for several hundreds years that religion was a game of reward and punishment; a view highly discordant with what the founder of their religion ever taught. However, Sikhi is not yet so adrift from its original message. We are Sikhs, students. So we are here to learn from each other and educate each other. Anyone who believes that learning occurs through instilling fear, is not a Sikh, it doesn’t matter how long a beard, how spectacular a turban that person wears. Sikhi is about the kind of person you are first, and within that, we carry a certain appearance (Roop). It’s like walking on the fine edge of a sword. Truth is that a true Sikh is never afraid or insecure of wearing the Guru’s Bana and keeping Guru’s Kesh. Yet, he/she realizes that they are at the Guru’s feet by His Grace, Gurprasaad. So they would never attempt to punish or accuse others for not having received the Grace of following the path. After all, it is God who keep some near, and some far, according to their destiny. We can only be compassionate and eventually, everyone will dwell in unity with the Creator nonetheless. Instead we can inspire and share that Grace, with a loving attitude and kindness. That is our call. Nothing more."


https://www.quora.com/According-to-Sikhism-would-those-Sikhs-be-punished-who-cut-their-hair

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#9 β€’β€’β€’
@SatanLucy

Sikhs are not judged by the hair they keep.

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#10 β€’β€’β€’

Also, I am still not on high level enough to reject all reality and accept all hair and grow all my hair to infinity. I mean, hair doesnt stop growing. If you let it grow endlessly, eventually it reaches the floor and then you realize why you actually need a turban.

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#11 β€’β€’β€’
@SatanLucy

Having long hair would be natural to you being a trans.

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#12 β€’β€’β€’

Also, I really dont want to be put in mental hospital again, and not cutting hair ever would probably do that because people dont usually wear turbans in my country either, and people who decide if you go to mental hospital or not are muslims.

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#13 β€’β€’β€’
@Debby

I do have long hair, I just have to cut it at some point when it gets so long it becomes unsustainable.

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#14 β€’β€’β€’
@GreatfulGoy

Yes Christianity, Sikhism, it's all basically the same...Ignorance based concepts relative to the unknowable.


Though like a lot of Christians, a lot of non-devout British folk of Sikh heritage do not conform to Sikh traditions.


And like a lot of Christians, they will happily sing along and dance like nutters at wedding parties.

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#15 β€’β€’β€’
@SergeantLynch

You cannot see the unseen. So everyone is ignorant of great Vaheguru.


Many Gods and people try logic and science, but they cannot see the unseen Vaheguru.

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#16 β€’β€’β€’
@SatanLucy

In Sikhism, 

Waheguru (the Wondrous Teacher or Lord) is understood as a formless, invisible, and incomprehensible divine entity. While the Divine is not seen in a physical form by the masses in the literal sense, the presence of the Divine is considered "clearly visible" in creation, nature, and the enlightened souls. 

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#17 β€’β€’β€’
@SatanLucy

Exactly.


Imagine something give it an ethereal Eastern name, Bob's your Uncle and sets a go go.

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#18 β€’β€’β€’
@SergeantLynch

Sikhs are a very religious people, deeply committed to a faith centered on one God, selfless service (Seva), equality, justice, and living a truthful, honest life, with practices like daily meditation (Naam Japna) and adherence to a code of conduct (Rehit Maryada) that includes wearing the 5 Ks and running large community kitchens (Langar) for all. Their devotion emphasizes finding divinity within oneself and serving humanity as a path to God, rejecting superstitions and blind rituals for practical spirituality. 

Core Beliefs & Practices:

  1. One God (Waheguru): Belief in one formless, timeless Creator, emphasizing unity and divinity in all beings.
  2. Spiritual Devotion: Constant remembrance of God (Naam Japna) through meditation and prayer.
  3. Honest Living: Earning an honest living (Kirat Karni) and sharing earnings (Vand Chakna).
  4. Service to Humanity (Seva): A core tenet, exemplified by volunteer work and the free community kitchens (Langar) at Gurdwaras.
  5. Equality & Justice: Strong belief in the equality of all people, regardless of caste, gender, or religion, as taught by the Gurus.
  6. The Five Ks: For initiated Sikhs (Khalsa), these visible symbols (uncut hair, comb, steel bracelet, undergarment, sword) represent commitment to the faith.
  7. Guru Granth Sahib: The holy scripture, treated as the living Guru, containing wisdom from Sikh Gurus and other saints. 

Way of Life:

Sikhism isn't just about Sunday services; it's a 24/7 commitment to spiritual growth, ethical conduct, and social responsibility, integrating faith into daily actions like working, serving, and meditating. The emphasis is on making this life on Earth a spiritual experience, not just waiting for an afterlife. 


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#19 β€’β€’β€’
@Debby

For some.


Though Sikhs are simply people with a label, just like anyone else that chooses to adopt a religious or tribal label...And some British Sikhs are far less devout than others...Not sure how it goes down in the Punjab, where those who identify as Sikh make up about 50% of the population.

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#20 β€’β€’β€’
@SergeantLynch

Sikhism operates in India as a significant, albeit minority, religion (roughly 1.7% to 2% of the population) that holds disproportionately high influence in agriculture, the armed forces, and politics

, particularly in the northern state of Punjab. While Sikhs are generally respected as patriotic, hardworking, and generous, the community faces modern challenges related to economic anxiety, drug issues, and political tensions stemming from the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and separatist movements. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of how Sikhism functions in India:

Cultural and Social Role

  1. Heartland in Punjab: While scattered throughout India, about 77% of Indian Sikhs are concentrated in Punjab, where they constitute roughly 58–60% of the population.
  2. Gurdwara Management: Major shrines are managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC), an elected body often considered the supreme authority for religious affairs.
  3. Service (Seva): Gurdwaras are centers of community life that provide food (langar) and shelter to all, regardless of background.
  4. Caste Dynamics: Although Sikhism explicitly rejects the caste system, it is still prevalent in social life within Punjab. However, it is less pronounced than in Hindu communities. 

Economic Contribution

  1. Green Revolution Leaders: Sikh farmers were pivotal in the 1970s Green Revolution, making Punjab the "breadbasket of India".
  2. Transportation and Industry: Sikhs have a dominant presence in the transport industry (trucking/taxis) across North India and are active in manufacturing and iron/steel industries.
  3. Prosperity: Sikhs are considered one of the most prosperous communities in India. 

Political and Security Role

  1. Armed Forces: Sikhs are renowned for their martial tradition, making up a significant portion of the Indian Army (estimated at 10-15% of all ranks) and holding many high-ranking positions.
  2. Political Influence: Despite their small numbers nationally, Sikhs have held the highest offices, including Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh) and President (Giani Zail Singh).
  3. Tensions: The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of 1984, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards following the army's entry into the Golden Temple (Operation Blue Star), leading to widespread violence against Sikhs.
  4. Separatism: A minority faction supports the Khalistan movement for a separate state, which is strongly opposed by the Indian government and viewed as a security threat. 

Current Issues and Challenges

  1. Demographic Changes: A decline in the growth rate and a low fertility rate (1.6, the lowest in India) has raised concerns about long-term demographic shifts.
  2. Migration: High rates of emigration to countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia are motivated by economic challenges and lack of local opportunities, particularly for youth.
  3. Drug Menace: Punjab has been facing a serious drug abuse crisis, which has disproportionately affected the youth in the region.
  4. Identity Recognition: The Indian Constitution groups Sikhs with Hindus for certain legal matters (like the Hindu Marriage Act), a point of contention for some who seek distinct recognition. 


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#21 β€’β€’β€’
@Debby

Super.

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#22 β€’β€’β€’
@SergeantLynch

Sikhism revival movements, 

primarily the 19th-century Singh Sabha Movement, aimed to restore Sikhism's "pristine glory" against challenges from other religions and British rule, focusing on revitalizing doctrine, promoting Punjabi, and modern education, leading to broader reforms like the Gurdwara Reform Movement and fostering a strong Sikh identity. Earlier movements like the Nirankari (Baba Dyal Das) and Namdhari (Baba Balak Singh) also sought to purify practices back to Guru Nanak's original teachings, shaping the ground for later revival efforts. 

Key Revival Movements

  1. Nirankari & Namdhari Movements (Mid-19th Century):
  2. Founded by Baba Dyal Das (Nirankari) and Baba Balak Singh (Namdhari).
  3. Sought to bring Sikhs back to what they believed were Guru Nanak's original, uncorrupted practices, focusing on the formless (Nirankar).
  4. Aimed to counter perceived deviations in Sikhism after the fall of the Sikh Empire.
  5. Singh Sabha Movement (1870s onwards):
  6. Context: A reaction to Christian, Hindu (Arya Samaj), and Muslim proselytization, and the decline of Sikh influence post-Annexation.
  7. Goals: Propagate true Sikhism, produce Sikh literature (in Punjabi), fight illiteracy, educate youth, and bring back apostates.
  8. Impact: Revitalized Sikh identity, standardized religious practices, promoted Punjabi, and led to the establishment of Sikh educational institutions.
  9. Gurdwara Reform Movement (Early 20th Century):
  10. A direct outcome of the Singh Sabha's efforts, targeting the control of Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) by corrupt priests (Mahants).
  11. Sought to bring Gurdwaras under the control of the Sikh community, ensuring offerings benefited the faith, not individuals. 

Core Themes of Revival

  1. Reclaiming Identity: Re-establishing a distinct Sikh identity and faith in the face of colonial and other religious influences.
  2. Education & Literature: Promoting Punjabi language and creating religious texts to educate the community.
  3. Orthodoxy & Purity: Returning to what was seen as the original, pure teachings of the Gurus.
  4. Community Control: Demanding control over religious institutions like Gurdwaras. 

These movements collectively revitalized Sikhism, fostering modern Sikh institutions and a renewed sense of purpose and cultural pride. 


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#23 β€’β€’β€’
@Debby

Super Duper.

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#24 β€’β€’β€’
@SergeantLynch

True sikhs are a very successful community.

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