Sikh’s desire to build a close, loving relationship with God. Prayers are repeated multiple times each day. Sikhs are prohibited from worshipping idols, images, or icons.
The Moola Mantra – is the first hymn composed by Guru Nanak, recited daily:
“There is only one God, His Name is Truth, He is the Creator, He is without fear, He is without hate, He is beyond time, He is beyond birth and death, He is self-existent.”
Rahras – evening prayer
“O God since I have fallen at your feet, I do not care for anybody else. I do not follow the religious ways preached by various religions believing in Ram, Mohammed, Puran or Qur’an. The Simritis, Shastras and the Vedas lay down different doctrines. But I do not recognize any of these. O God, I have written these hymns with your grace and kindness. All that has been said is in fact spoken by you.”
Sikhs have rejected the caste system of the Hindu religion. They believe that everyone has equal status in the eyes of God. This is a very important principle that permeates all Sikh beliefs, behaviors, and rituals.
The Sikh Code of Conduct - A Sikh must not take hemp, opium, liquor, tobacco, or any intoxicant.
Sikh names – Men use the name Singh which means “lion.” Women use the name of Kaur which means “princess.” This practice is a reflection of the absolute rejection of the Hindu practice of caste. In Hinduism at the time, one’s last name often identified their caste in society. This rigidly determined where they were positioned in society. Caste is totally incompatible with Sikh’s beliefs of equality. Many Sikh’s now use “Singh” or “Kaur” as a middle name.
The Five K’s:
Clothing practices followed by Khalsa saints: Kesa – long hair, never cut. A turban that is used to cover the hair. Kangah – comb. Kacha – short pants. Kara – metal bracelet. Kirpan – a ceremonial dagger
