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Sikhism is the name of the religion, and its followers are known as Sikhs.

Sikhs believe in one God called Waheguru which means ‘Wonderful Lord’ or ‘Wonderful Teacher’. Sikhism has approximately 27 million followers worldwide, with about 83% of Sikhs living in India. Over 430,000 Sikhs live in the UK.

Five key facts

Watch to find out how Nirvair lives her life according to Sikh teachings, including how she worships and what she eats.

What do Sikhs believe and how do they worship?

Click the image below to discover more about Sikhism.

Sikhism symbol

Religious symbol

The Khanda is the symbol of the Sikh faith. It consists of three different types of weapons:

  • A double edged sword or khanda in the centre.
  • A round throwing weapon known as a chakkar.
  • Two single-edged swords called kirpans, crossed either side of the other weapons.
Sikhism symbol

The Khalsa

The amrit ceremony is one of the most important ceremonies in Sikhism. It was started by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, who called for Sikhs to defend their faith against the persecution that was happening to them at the time. Guru Gobind Singh asked for volunteers who were prepared to die for their faith. Five men volunteered, but instead of being killed, they were spared and became known as the panj piare – which means ‘the five beloved ones’. They were the first members of the Sikh community known as the Khalsa.

When Sikhs undergo the amrit ceremony today and join the Khalsa, they must promise to keep all the rules of the Sikh faith, and also to wear the 5 Ks. Click the picture below to find out more about the 5Ks.

Denominations

Over the years, Sikhs who believe in different gurus or different interpretations of Sikh teachings have broken away from Sikhism and formed a number of different sects. These sects are not usually considered part of orthodox Sikhism.

The Three Pillars of Sikhism

The Three Pillars of Sikhism are duties which all Sikhs must carry out. They were formalised by Guru Nanak, and can be summed up in three words: pray, work, give. Click on the picture below to find out more.

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