Sikhism — Definition

Definition

Sikhism is a distinct religious tradition originating with Guru Nanak and developed through the teachings and institutions of the Sikh Gurus. Its religious life emphasises devotion to one God, honest work, sharing, service and remembrance of the divine.

Congregation, communal food, sacred music and scripture help sustain the community. Guru Arjan's compilation of the Adi Granth in 1604, Guru Gobind Singh's founding of the Khalsa in 1699 and the establishment of the Guru Granth Sahib as eternal Guru in 1708 mark different institutional developments.

They should be understood as related stages, not interchangeable founding dates.