Sikhism

A person who follows Sikhism is called a Sikh. The word Sikh means pupil or disciple. The 2001 Census shows that there are 29, 000 Sikhs in the Birmingham area. Approximately 690 Sikhs live in the Sparkbrook area as a whole and 424 Sikhs live in Balsall Heath.

Sikhism was founded in the fiteenth century in India by the Spiritual thinker Guru Nanak. Guru Nanak taught respect for all religions and the importance of meditation, honest work and caring for others regardless of their religion or belief.

Guru Nanak became the first Guru or teacher in Sikhism. He was followed by other teachers including Guru Arjan, Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh. Their writings form the basis for the scriptures of the Sikh Holy Book, the Guru Granth Sahib.

Like Hindus and Buddhists, Sikhs believe that human beings spend their time in a cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. They believe that Karma determines the quality of life a person receives in their next life. If a person behaves well in their past life they will be rewarded in the next life. The only way to escape the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth is to reach a total understanding of God. Sikhs believe that this can be achieved by looking for God inside themselves, in others and in the world around them. Once they can see and understand the ways of God in the world they can free themselves from the cycle and become united with God.

Sikhs believe that by showing understanding and respect to others you are showing understanding and respect to God. By serving others, you are serving God.

The Sikh place of worship is called the Gurdwara. This is where the Guru Granth Sahib is kept. All Gurdwaras fly the Sikh flag outside. The flag can be orange or yellow and it has the Sikh emblem in the middle.

Sikhs attend the Gurdwara to learn spiritual wisdom, pray for all mankind and to celebrate religious festivals such as Diwali, the festival of Lights and Vaisakhi which is the most important festival in the Sikh calendar; it celebrates the Sikh New Year. The Gurdwara is also open to those who do not practice the religion of Sikhism but would like to take part in prayer meetings or social functions. Sikhs believe that caring for the sick or the poor in the community is an important act of duty to God and the Gurdwara is open to those who need food, shelter and friendship.

Sikhs wear five symbols known as the “Five Ks”.
These are:

Kesh (hair). Sikhs don’t cut their hair or beards. Men usually cover their hair with a turban and women with a headscarf.

Kanga (comb). This secures the hair and symbolises self-discipline and hygiene.

Kirpan (sword). This signifies defence against injustice.

Kaccha (shorts). These act as a symbol of modesty.

Kara (bracelet). This is worn on the right wrist to act as a reminder of Sikh duty.