When was Sikhism Founded?

When was Sikhism Founded?

Sikhism was founded in the late 15th century, with its inception attributed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469.

Introduction

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of India, and its rich history is marked by the teachings of its founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and the ten successive Gurus who followed him. Sikhism, with its unique blend of spirituality, equality, and community service, has made a significant impact on the world since its inception. In this article, we will delve into the history of Sikhism, exploring when and how it was founded.

The Birth of Sikhism

Sikhism emerged in the late 15th century in the Indian subcontinent. Its inception is attributed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in the village of Talwandi (now in Pakistan) on April 15, 1469. Guru Nanak’s early life was marked by a deep spiritual inclination and a profound sense of social justice. He embarked on a series of spiritual journeys, covering extensive regions, including parts of India, Pakistan, Tibet, and the Middle East. During these travels, Guru Nanak engaged in dialogues with people of various religious backgrounds, including Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists, which profoundly influenced his philosophy.

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The Teachings of Guru Nanak

Guru Nanak’s teachings emphasized the importance of devotion to one God, equality among all people regardless of their caste or creed, and the rejection of idol worship and superstitions. His profound spiritual experiences led him to compose hymns and verses, which later became the foundation of Sikh scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib.

Guru Nanak’s message centered on the concept of “Ik Onkar,” which means “One God.” He believed in the oneness of God and the equality of all humans. He introduced the idea of “seva” or selfless service to humanity, encouraging his followers to live honest and truthful lives while remembering God in every aspect of life.

The Formation of Sikh Community

Guru Nanak’s teachings attracted a following, and his message of unity and equality resonated with people from diverse backgrounds. His devotees, known as Sikhs, formed a community, and Guru Nanak laid the foundation of Sikhism by appointing his successor, Guru Angad Dev Ji, who continued his spiritual mission.

Successive Gurus

Guru Nanak was succeeded by nine more Gurus, each of whom contributed to the development and expansion of Sikhism. They continued to emphasize the core principles of Sikhism, including selfless service, equality, and devotion to the one God. The Gurus also played a vital role in compiling and preserving the teachings of Guru Nanak and their own compositions, which collectively make up the Guru Granth Sahib.

Formation of the Khalsa

The tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, played a pivotal role in shaping Sikhism’s identity. In 1699, he initiated the Khalsa, a community of baptized Sikhs who were committed to the principles of Sikhism, which included wearing the five articles of faith (the five “Ks”) and adhering to the Sikh code of conduct. The Khalsa played a significant role in defending Sikh principles and protecting the community.

Conclusion

Sikhism, with its origins in the late 15th century, is a religion deeply rooted in the teachings of Guru Nanak and his successors. It stands out for its emphasis on monotheism, equality, and selfless service. The Gurus who followed Guru Nanak preserved and propagated his teachings, and their efforts led to the formation of a distinct Sikh identity. Today, Sikhism is a vibrant religion with millions of followers worldwide, and its values of compassion, tolerance, and social justice continue to inspire and resonate with people of various backgrounds.

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