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Explain two Sikh beliefs about being manmukh (man-centred) - AQA - GCSE Religious Studies: A (8062) - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 4
Explain two Sikh beliefs about being manmukh (man-centred). Refer to sacred writings or another source of Sikh belief and teaching in your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain two Sikh beliefs about being manmukh (man-centred) - AQA - GCSE Religious Studies: A (8062) - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Sikh Belief 1: The Nature of Manmukh
Answer
In Sikhism, the term 'manmukh' refers to individuals who are self-centered and governed by their own desires and ego. They are separated from God due to their selfish acts and worldly attachments.
This belief is emphasized in the Guru Granth Sahib (GGS) which states that those who follow their own mind end up committing vices that distance them from spiritual bliss. To overcome the negative influences of being manmukh, Sikhs are encouraged to develop virtues and align their actions with God's will.
Step 2
Sikh Belief 2: The Path to Liberation
Answer
Another important Sikh belief is that manmukh leads to endless cycles of desire and suffering, preventing one from attaining mukti (liberation). The Guru Granth Sahib stresses that when individuals recognize their true selves and align their actions towards God through Naam Japna (meditating on God's name), they can transcend their manmukh tendencies.
GGS 226 elaborates on this by illustrating that the mind, when attached to worldly distractions, fails to recognize the path to spiritual freedom. Overcoming manmukh is essential for achieving a content and fulfilled existence.