Ans. It is true that the Sikh empire went the way Baba Faridhas written: ਗੰਢੇਦਿਆਂ ਛਿਅ ਮਾਹ ਤੁੜੰਦਿਆ ਹਿਕੁ ਖਿਨੋ॥ (SGGS, P. 488) “It takes six months (for the formation (of human body in mother’s womb), but only one moment to break it asunder (the death)”. There are four main reasons for the demise of […]
Q. 98. Describe the main reasons why the Sikh empire ended so fast. Read More »
Ans. A decision arrived at with an ethical base (according to Sikh Teachings) is called a “Gurmata”.Historically, before starting a religious or a social project its proposal used to be presented to the congregation for opinion. After discussion an opinion poll was taken. If the decision to adopt this ‘Mata’, or proposal, was unanimous then
Q. 78. What is “Gurmata” and how is it passed? Read More »
Ans. The fifth Nanak, Guru Arjan Dev said: ਪਰਮੇਸਰ ਕੈ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਜਿ ਹੋਇ ਬਿਤੀਤੈ ਸੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਆਖਿ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ॥ (SGGS, P. 373) “Nanak tells whatever happens at the portal of God”. One can easily infer and, consequently, firmly believe that the founding Gurus of Sikhism have not borrowed any thing, in terms of philosophy, from anywhere
Q.64. How is Sikhism an independent, sovereign religion? Read More »
Ans. Gurdwara is one of the most important institutions of Sikhs. During his travels (udaasis), wherever Guru Nanak went and established his congregation, he founded a “Dharamsaal”. Over time Dharamsaal evolved into what is now known as Gurdwara. The meaning of the term ‘Gurdwara’ is, through Guru or Guru’s door, e.g., ਗੁਰੂ ਦੁਆਰੈ ਹੋਇ ਸੋਝੀ
Q.54. What do we understand by the term ‘Gurdwara’? Read More »
Ans. According to the decision of the “Panth” (collective Sikh nation) there are five Takhats (seats of temporal power)*: The construction of Akaal Takhat was started on July 9, 1609. Gur Bilas Patshahi Chhevin gives the following description: In the month of Asarh (Bikrami calendar), on Panchmi (fifth Lunar day) Guru Har Gobind started a
