Religious Studies & Theology vocabulary · World Religions and Traditions
Sikhism
Meaning in religious studies & theology, with examples
/ˈsiːkɪzəm/nounCommon term
In religious studies & theology, Sikhism means: A monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak in the Punjab region of South Asia around 1500 and shaped by ten successive human Gurus.
In Turkish: Sihizm, Sih dini
How it is used
Followers are Sikhs. The scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, is honoured as the eternal Guru. The place of worship is the gurdwara, which includes a free community kitchen (langar). The best-known gurdwara is the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar.
Example sentences
In Sikhism, the scripture Guru Granth Sahib is treated as a living Guru.
Serving free meals to all visitors is a central practice of Sikhism.
Common collocations
the Sikh Gurus
Sikh scripture
Sikh community
Sikhism and Hinduism
Related terms
monotheismBelief that there is only one God; Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Sikhism are usually described as monotheistic religions.
HinduismA family of religious traditions that developed in South Asia, with no single founder, sharing scriptures such as the Vedas and ideas such as dharma, karma and rebirth.
syncretismThe blending of beliefs, practices or symbols from different religious traditions into a new form.
templeA building dedicated to the worship of a god or gods, especially in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and ancient religions; in Jewish history, the Temple in Jerusalem.
