Information on Sikhism for Primary school age children Sikhism is a monothelite religion. Mo‐noth‐e‐lite means the belief that there is only one God. No matter what religion we may practise, we believe there is only one God. This symbol contains Punjabi letters which mean “God is one.” The Sikh holy Scriptures start with these words. Sikhs believe and strive for equality for all: equality in the human race, in the cast system, the class system and equality for women. We believe that we are created from Sparks from God, and the Sparks wish to remain pure and to be reunited with God. God is not a man, woman or beast, God takes no form or colour but is viewed as a supreme spirit. The universe is not God ‐ but is in God. We believe in karma: the effects of our actions past, present and future have a consequence upon our souls and desire to return to God. Reincarnation continues until we are seen as worthy. A happy and positive outlook on life and putting your best effort into anything and everything you do is encouraged. Dwelling on gossip, arguments and jealousy is discouraged. The five Ks Kesh: uncut hair and beard, as given by God Kangha: a wooden comb to properly groom the hair as a symbol of cleanliness Katchera: specially made cotton underwear as a reminder of the commitment to purity. Kara: a steel circle, worn on the wrist, signifying bondage to Truth and freedom Kirpan: the dagger, with which the Khalsa is committed to righteously defend Truth. The Three Pillars of Sikhism 1. Living an honest and truthful life 2. Remembering our true purpose in life and not being affected by Maya. Maya means suffering from the delusion that possessions such as money, real estate, valuables, latest fashion crazes, latest gadgets are the only things worth pursuing (remember ‐ we cannot take these possessions with us when we die). Thus, Sikhs are encouraged to question what is actually important: is it the collection of these possessions or is it the love, value and harmony with family and friends, and responsibility towards the world we live in? 3. Charity ‐ giving to the poor and performing Sewa: Sewa means selfless service; undertaking voluntary work: serving humanity and helping anyone/anything in need. It has two purposes: firstly to do good for the community and secondly it is good for the moral uplifting of the person performing the seva (gives you a good feeling). The Five Evils or Five Thieves or Five Sins We are taught to recognise and control the five thieves which are: 1. Kam‐desires: restraining our mental and physical desires, i.e. not acting in an impulsive manner but thinking through ones thoughts and actions 2. Krodh‐ anger: you cannot get rid of your anger but you can learn to control it – control your reactions to it; try not to say horrid things which cause upset or act in any aggressive manner 3. Lobh‐ greed: ensuring that we are not greedy in our wants and needs i.e. taking turns during play, friendships, always wanting our own way, always seeking attention, cheating, taking property which does not belong to you, over consumption of food or material objects. 4. Moh‐ emotional attachment: an unhealthy connection towards material objects or family/friends. Again Maya is recognised here. We are asked to question what is really important in life; we are informed that at times we are alluded in what we think is actually important and a Sikhs role is to find the true purpose in life. 5. Ankhaar‐ ego: This is seen as the worst sin. Sikhism is an egalitarian religion. We believe that all humans are equal and it is important not to allow our egos (our pride) get in the way; we should not be thinking about how more important or popular we are than others because this will lead to treating other people badly or unequally The five evils are counteracted by the following five virtues. The Five Virtues 1. Truth: living an honest and truthful life 2. Compassion: showing compassion towards one and all; helping someone who has been hurt; sticking up for someone who is being bullied; and treating all with respect and care 3. Contentment: being content with what one has; not wanting more thus harbouring resentment and jealousy; dealing with your success or failure in an calm, healthy and productive manner 4. Humility: operating as a humble person who is not overly concerned with one's self appearance or materialistic objects; not boasting; showing your good manners and allowing your friend to have the first “go” 5. Love: love for all irrespective of caste, class, culture, race, religion or physical appearances; acceptance towards any differences; and not bearing resentment in your heart even if you have been wronged I hope that this information has been helpful and has somewhat explained what it means to be a Sikh. The three pillars, five thieves and five virtues are taught to children by being woven into everyday life. Most importantly in Sikhism it is the upholding of these morals and values which is the most important component (thing). These morals and values are similar to the ones held by all the major religions such as Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Although Sikhs may worship in a slightly different manner, we recognise and respect our connections and routes to these religions. A Sikh’s mission is that whatever is placed in our paths, we must place our trust in God who will guide us, teach us the lessons we must learn ‐ however painful these must seem ‐ so that we can be eventually reunited with the Holy Spirit, and escape the cycle of reincarnation. Dalvinder Tilly .