Message of Sikhism Part - III

Sikhism Ideology

Sikhism does not accept the ideology of pessimism. It advocates optimism and hope. 

The maxim, "Resist not evil but whosoever shall smite thee on the right cheek, turn to him the other also", does not find any place in Sikh way of life. On the other hand it enjoins its followers:

"When an affair past every other remedy It is righteous, indeed, to unsheathe the sword."

---(Guru Gobind Singh)

The Sikh Scripture

The message of Sikhism is contained within the sacred writings of the Gurus, forever enshrined in the Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib (the writings of Guru Gobind Singh form another compilation). 

The Guru Granth Sahib consists of the writings of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and ninth Gurus, as well as the writings of several prominent saints who were either contemporaries of, or lived before, the Sikh Gurus. 

The writings of these non-Sikh mystics correspond to the teachings of the Sikh Gurus; and more importantly, the inclusion of their writings into the Sikh holy scripture indicates the universality of Sikh philosophy. Written in musical measures of Indian classical music called ragas, the Guru Granth Sahib literally serves as the ultimate guide of spirituality (the living embodiment of the spirit of the Gurus) and is revered (deeply respected or admired), not worshiped, as such by the Sikhs.

Concept Of God

According to Sikh religious thought, God is both transcendent (beyond or above the range of normal or physical human experience) and immanent (existing or operating within). 

God is beyond the empirical universe (what can be sensed or measured), but resides in it as well. Since God exists within and beyond existence itself, human beings can aspire toward living and acting in accordance with His will.

To Be Continued...