Sikh Beliefs
What is the name for the one God in Sikhism
Waheguru
What is the primary Sikh scripture called?
Guru Granth Sahib ji.
What type of platform is the scripture kept on in Gurdwaras?
The scripture is kept on raised platforms in Gurdwaras.
Name one of the Five K’s that initiated Sikhs must maintain.
kesh (uncut hair), kangha (wooden comb), kara (steel bracelet), kachera (cotton undergarment/shorts), and kirpan.
Are all Sikhs required to maintain the Five K’s?
Not all Sikhs are required to maintain the Five K’s.
Who was the founder of Sikhism, born in 1469?
Guru Nanak dev ji.
Does the Sikh scripture contain stories or music and poetry?
The Sikh scripture contains music and poetry.
What is the ritual fan waved over the scripture a sign of?
The ritual fan waved over the scripture represents royalty and respect.
Which Five K protects the sword arm?
The Kanga (comb) protects the wearer’s sword arm and symbolizes hygiene and discipline.
What is the term for Sikhs who do not maintain the visible identity?
Sikhs who do not maintain visible Sikh identity may be called Sahajdhari Sikhs.
What is the name of the daily prayer that summarizes Sikh theology?
Mool Mantar.
Whose writings, besides Sikh Gurus, are included in the scripture?
The scripture includes writings of Hindu and Muslim religious figures as well as the Sikh Gurus.
What does “Gurdwara” mean?
“Gurdwara” means “door to the Guru” or the house of worship
What is the symbolic meaning of the Kara (steel bracelet)?
The Kara (steel bracelet) symbolizes restraint and commitment.
Name one contemporary challenge faced by Sikhs in America.
A contemporary challenge faced by Sikhs in America is racism and discrimination, including hate crimes.
What does the word “Guru” literally mean in Sikh tradition?
The word “Guru” literally means teacher or enlightenment.
What status does the Guru Granth Sahib have in Sikhism?
The Guru Granth Sahib is considered the eternal living Guru for Sikhs.
Where is the most prominent Gurdwara located?
The most prominent Gurdwara is located in Amritsar, Punjab (Harmandar Sahib).
What new last names are adopted by initiated Sikh men and women?
Initiated Sikh men take the last name Singh (lion), and women take the last name Kaur (princess).
What Sikh idea means “love inspired service”?
The Sikh idea meaning “love inspired service” is Seva.
Which two main authorities did Guru Gobind Singh pass on before his death?
Granth Sahib (scripture) and the Khalsa Panth (community of initiated Sikhs).
Why is it not accurate to call the Guru Granth Sahib the “Sikh Bible” or “Sikh Quran”?
It is a unique poetic scripture representing wisdom and spiritual guidance, not a scripture with narratives or laws like those texts.
What is the initiation ceremony for joining the Khalsa called?
The initiation ceremony for joining the Khalsa is called Amrit Sanchar.
What is Amrit, used in the initiation ceremony?
Amrit is a sweetened water called nectar, used in the initiation ceremony.
What positive Sikh concepts helped the Oak Creek community respond to the 2012 tragedy?
Concepts such as Seva (service), Chardi Kala (optimism), and Sarbat da Bhala (welfare of all) helped the Oak Creek community respond to the 2012 tragedy.