LEARN ABOUT SIKHISM

FAQ

Sikhi (sik-ee), or Sikhism (sik-izm), is the world’s 5th largest organized religion; there are more than 25 million Sikhs worldwide and over 500,000 Sikhs in the United States. Founded in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century, Sikhism is a monotheistic religion; there is one Creator, considered formless and eternal. Guru Nanak (1469-1539 CE), the founder of Sikhism, taught equality of all people, honesty, hard work, and service to others. An emphasis on egalitarianism and active engagement with the world distinguished the new Sikh religion from the Hindu and Muslim traditions active in the Punjab region at the time.

Sikhs first came to the U.S. in the 1890s, initially settling on the West Coast. Today, Sikh communities are found across the country. Throughout their history in the US, Sikh Americans have been active in fighting for immigration and citizenship rights for minority communities, as well as involved in all aspects of American life, including entertainment, law-enforcement, the arts, academia, and politics.

Some Key Terms

  • Gurdwara

    A Sikh house of worship and place of community gathering.

  • Ik Onkar

    Symbol reprenting the key Sikh tenet that there is one Creator

  • Kaur

    Middle or last name often used by Sikh women, signifying equality.

  • Singh

    Middle or last name often used by Sikh men, signifying equality.

  • Khanda

    A symbol of Sikhi representing an eternal Creator and the temporal and spiritual worlds and the balance between them.

  • Turban – Worn by Sikh men and some Sikh women, covers uncut hair, and is a symbol of honor and dignity.

    Sikhi – Punjabi word for the Sikh religion, which Sikhs prefer to use rather than “Sikhism.”

    Sri Guru Granth Sahib – The scared scripture of the Sikhs.

    Langar – A free community meal prepared and served by volunteers at a gurdwara.