Basic Articles

The Fundamental Pillars of Sikhism

1

Unity of God

There is but One God. He is Unborn, Omni-potent, Infinite, Formless, All-knowing and All-pervading.

2

Equality

All men are equal. God is our Mother & Father and we are His children. There is none high or low on account of birth, sex, position or riches.

3

Faith

One must have perfect faith in the Guru. The word Sikhism literally means the way of the disciple. The disciple must follow the Guru's word.

4

Love of God

We can love God only when we cease to love ourselves. We must first destroy the ego (haumai).

5

Character-building

If the mind is impure, it cannot deserve union with Divinity. Guru Nanak Sahib says: "Truth is no doubt great, but greater is truthful living." The development of character is the only foundation on which the edifice of disciple-ship can be raised. Conquer the five deadly sins-lust, anger, greed, attachment and pride, Morality is an important step in the path of discipleship.

6

Nam Simran

The practice of the Name is an-essential duty of a Sikh. The Guru seeks the dust of the feet of those who remember the Name and make others remember it. Simaran is the practice of the presence of God. It is God-vision. As we think, so we become. It is by meditation that we attain to the glory and greatness of the Almighty.

Source text extracted from the officially audited SGPC archives.