Knowledge & History

Sikhi Facts

A carefully curated collection of foundational principles and historical facts about the Sikh faith, sourced from recognized institutions.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered by Sikhs to be the final, sovereign and eternal living Guru following the lineage of the ten human Gurus of the religion. It was compiled by the fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in 1604, and later finalized by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Source:Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

The Concept of Langar

Langar is the community kitchen in a Gurdwara where a free vegetarian meal is served to all visitors, without distinction of religion, caste, gender, economic status, or ethnicity. It was established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji to uphold the principle of equality between all people.

Source:Basics of Sikhi

Miri and Piri

Miri and Piri represent the two swords of Sikhism, introduced by the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. 'Miri' symbolizes political and temporal authority, while 'Piri' represents spiritual authority. A Sikh is expected to maintain a balance between spiritual devotion and active societal responsibility.

Source:SikhNet

The Panj Kakaar (5 Ks)

Initiated (Khalsa) Sikhs wear five articles of faith at all times, known as the 5 Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb), Kara (an iron bracelet), Kachhera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (an iron dagger). These were formalized by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.

Source:Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)

Dasvandh

Dasvandh is the Sikh practice of giving one-tenth (10%) of one's income to charity or community service. It is a fundamental part of a Sikh's life, emphasizing that wealth should be shared with those in need.

Source:Encyclopedia of Sikhism, Punjabi University Patiala