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History at a Glance

Sikhism, one of the world’s youngest major religions, was founded in the 15th century in Punjab (modern-day India and Pakistan). It is based on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the nine Gurus who succeeded him. Sikh history reflects a rich tradition of spiritual awakening, community service, and valiant struggles for justice and equality.

Founding and Early Teachings

  1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539)
    • Founder of Sikhism.
    • Emphasized equality, monotheism, and the rejection of caste and ritualism.
    • Spread the message of divine unity and selfless service during his extensive travels (Udasis).
  2. Core Teachings Introduced by Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
    • Naam Japna: Meditating on God’s name.
    • Kirat Karni: Honest labor and work.
    • Vand Chakna: Sharing with others, especially the less fortunate.

Development Under the Ten Gurus

  1. Guru Angad Dev Ji (1504–1552):
    • Introduced Gurmukhi script, laying the foundation for Sikh scriptures.
  2. Guru Amar Das Ji (1479–1574):
    • Established the tradition of Langar (community kitchen).
    • Advocated gender equality and rejected Sati and purdah systems.
  3. Guru Ram Das Ji (1534–1581):
    • Founded the city of Amritsar, which became a central hub for Sikhism.
  4. Guru Arjan Dev Ji (1563–1606):
    • Compiled the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
    • Constructed the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib).
    • Martyred for refusing to convert to Islam, exemplifying the Sikh stand for religious freedom.
  5. Guru Hargobind Ji (1595–1644):
    • Introduced the concept of Miri-Piri (spiritual and temporal leadership).
    • Armed the Sikh community for self-defense.
  6. Guru Har Rai Ji (1630–1661):
    • Advocated for compassion and healing.
    • Continued the peaceful propagation of Sikhism.
  7. Guru Har Krishan Ji (1656–1664):
    • Became Guru at the age of five.
    • Served humanity during a smallpox epidemic and sacrificed his life helping the sick.
  8. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675):
    • Fought against the forced conversion of Hindus by the Mughals.
    • Martyred for upholding religious freedom.
  9. Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666–1708):
    • Founded the Khalsa in 1699, instituting the five articles of faith (5 K’s).
    • Declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.

Key Historical Events

  1. Creation of the Khalsa (1699):
    • Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa, a community of saint-soldiers dedicated to upholding justice and righteousness.
  2. Sikh-Mughal Conflicts:
    • Sikhs fought numerous battles against the Mughal Empire to resist oppression and protect religious freedom.
  3. Post-Guru Era (18th Century):
    • Sikh leadership transitioned to the Misls (confederacies).
    • Sikhs faced brutal persecution under Mughal rulers like Zakariya Khan but emerged stronger through unity and resilience.
  4. Rise of the Sikh Empire (1799–1849):
    • Under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikhs established a powerful and prosperous empire in Punjab.
    • The empire was known for its secular policies and military prowess.
  5. British Colonization and Singh Sabha Movement (19th–20th Century):
    • After the fall of the Sikh Empire, Punjab came under British rule.
    • The Singh Sabha movement revitalized Sikh identity, emphasizing education and religious reform.
  6. Partition of India (1947):
    • The partition led to widespread displacement and violence in Punjab.
    • Sikhs played a crucial role in the socio-economic rebuilding of India and abroad.

Modern Era and Diaspora

  1. Global Expansion:
    • Sikhism has spread worldwide, with significant communities in Canada, the UK, the US, and Australia.
  2. Contributions:
    • Sikhs are recognized for their contributions to charity, military service, and the promotion of peace and justice.
  3. Recognition:
    • The Sikh turban and articles of faith are symbols of commitment to equality, freedom, and humanitarian values.

Significance of Sikh History

  1. Spiritual Growth:
    • Sikh history highlights the journey of connecting with the divine while living a disciplined, moral life.
  2. Courage and Sacrifice:
    • Reflects unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and protecting the oppressed.
  3. Humanitarian Service:
    • Embodies principles of universal brotherhood, selfless service, and compassion.
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