Equality within the Sikh community
All members of the Sikh community are seen as equal. All individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, class or wealth, should be treated with respect and dignity. Through their actions within the gurdwaraSikh place of worship. Literally, the 'doorway to the Guru'. and the local community, Sikhs show their belief in the oneness of humanityThe Sikh belief that all humans are equal because Waheguru created everyone equally..
Guru NanakGuru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Gurus, who lived from 1469 to 1539. taught that women must be respected. Many Sikhs believe that he taught that without women, there wouldn’t be any one at all.
The oneness of humanity is reflected within the gurdwara and the Sikh community through the following:
- There is no distinction between men and women within the gurdwara and the community.
- Both men and women can take part in all aspects of worship.
- All men and women can lead worship by reading the Guru Granth SahibThe Guru Granth Sahib is the most important Sikh holy book. It is a collection of songs, prayers and hymns from the Sikh Gurus and other holy men, as well as teachings from other faiths. It is treated as a living Guru. and playing music.
- All individuals are equal within the sangatCongregation in a Sikh gurdwara..
- Anyone who wishes to can be initiated into the Sikh faith and become part of the KhalsaThe Sikh community, literally 'the community of the pure'. Refers particularly to initiated Sikhs.. Sikhs do this by taking part in the Amrit Sanskar ceremonyThe rite of initiation into the Khalsa (Sikhs who commit themselves to a daily discipline). and becoming an Amritdhari SikhA Sikh who has been initiated into the Khalsa..
