Beliefs About God

Beliefs About God in Sikhism

Introduction

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the late 15th century in the Indian subcontinent, with its central tenets enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs. Sikhs believe in the existence of one formless, omnipresent, and eternal God, referred to as Waheguru.

Concept of God (Waheguru)

• Waheguru is beyond human comprehension and is described as transcendent, immanent, and infinite.
• Sikhs believe that Waheguru is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of the universe.
• Waheguru is believed to be without form, gender, or specific attributes.

Characteristics of God

• Sikhs believe that God is Nirankar (formless), Nirvair (without enmity), and Akal (eternal).
• God is also described as Satnam (the eternal truth) and Kartar (the doer).

Mool Mantar

• The Mool Mantar, found at the beginning of the Guru Granth Sahib, encapsulates the core beliefs about God in Sikhism.
• It begins with Ik Onkar, emphasizing the oneness of God.

Role of Guru Nanak

• Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, emphasized the oneness of God and rejected idol worship.
• He promoted the belief in one God who is accessible to all, regardless of caste, religion, or gender.

Role of Guru Gobind Singh

• Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, established the Khalsa and reinforced the belief in one God.
• He encouraged Sikhs to follow a strict code of conduct and uphold the principles of justice and righteousness.

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Beliefs About God

Worship and Meditation

• Sikhs engage in meditation and recitation of Gurbani (hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib) to connect with Waheguru.
• The practice of Naam Simran involves repeating God's name to focus the mind on the divine.

Reincarnation and Salvation

• Sikhs believe in the cycle of reincarnation (samsara) and that the ultimate goal is to achieve salvation (mukti) by merging with God.
• Good deeds, selfless service (seva), and devotion to God are seen as means to attain salvation.

Connection with Nature

• Sikhs have a deep reverence for nature and believe that God's presence can be found in all creation.
• This belief in the immanence of God encourages environmental stewardship.

Equality and Social Justice

• The belief in one God has led Sikhs to promote equality, social justice, and the eradication of discrimination.
• The concept of Sarbat da Bhala (welfare of all) underscores Sikh efforts for the betterment of society.

Conclusion

In Sikhism, the belief about God centers on the oneness of Waheguru, who is formless, eternal, and the creator of the universe. This belief informs Sikh practices, ethics, and the quest for spiritual realization and social justice.