Sikh Faith

The foundational principles of Sikhism as officially outlined by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Sri Amritsar.

1A Practical Religion

Sikh faith is a practical religion. It does not consist of a set of dogmas or a set of observances. Sikh faith does not believe in the efficacy of rituals and ceremonies.

2Universal Religion

Sikh faith is a universal religion.

3Opposition to Ritualism

Sikh faith is opposed to all ritualism and formalism.

4Evidence-Based Faith

Sikh faith does not enjoin blind faith. Blind obedience to an external authority is dis-couraged. The death of the intellect can not be a condition of the life of the spirit. Faith does not start with surmises or absurdities.

5Hope and Cheer

Sikh faith is a faith of hope and cheer. Though it affirms Karma, it recognises the possibility of the modification of one’s Karma with the grace of the Guru or God. It does not lead to despair and defeatism.

6Democratic Religion

Sikh faith is a democratic religion. The decisions of the Sangat are regarded as resolutions having the force of law (Gurmatta) Guru Gobind Singh Sahib vested the authority of the organisation in the Panth.