What is Sikhism?
Sikhism is one of the youngest major world religions, founded in the 15th century in Punjab, India, by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and shaped by the teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus. The word Sikh means “learner” or “seeker of truth.” Today, Sikhism is followed by over 25 million people worldwide, making it the fifth-largest religion.
Sikhism emphasizes living a truthful, humble, and honest life while remembering God, serving others, and working for the well-being of all (Sarbat da Bhala).
Core Beliefs of Sikhism
One God – Sikhs believe in one universal, formless God who is the Creator, present in all, and beyond time and gender.
Equality of All – Sikhism rejects discrimination based on caste, race, gender, or religion. Everyone is equal before God.
Guru Granth Sahib Ji – The holy scripture of Sikhism, treated as the eternal Guru, containing hymns of Sikh Gurus and saints from different faiths.
Three Pillars of Sikhism (taught by Guru Nanak Dev Ji):
Naam Japna – Remembering and meditating on God’s Name.
Kirat Karni – Earning an honest living through hard work.
Vand Chakna – Sharing with others, especially those in need.
“ ...Ik Onkar Satnam Karta Purakh Nirbhao Nirvair Akal Murat Ajuni Saibhang Gur parsad ”
Three
Principal of
Sikhism
"Kirat Karo"
Work hard & Honest
" Wandh ke Chhakho"
Share what you have with the needy
"Naam Jappo"
Remember God throughout the day
Sikh Way of Life
Seva (Selfless Service): Serving humanity without expectation.
Langar (Community Kitchen): Free meals offered in every Gurdwara to all people, symbolizing equality and compassion.
Five Ks (Articles of Faith): Sikhs who are initiated (Khalsa) keep the five articles of faith—Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (wooden comb), Kachera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (ceremonial sword).
Daily Prayer & Simran: Sikhs connect with God through prayers, hymns, and meditation.
WHAT IS LANGAR SEVA?
The Langar or free kitchen was started by the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is designed to uphold the principle of equality between all people of the world regardless of religion, caste, colour, creed, age, gender or social status. In addition to the ideals of equality, the tradition of Langar expresses the ethics of sharing, community, inclusiveness and oneness of all humankind. “..the Light of God is in all hearts.” (sggs 282)
- ADDRESS
- 8015 Buckhall Road, Manassas,
- VA 20111
- PHONE NUMBER
- 703-368-1300
- langar@sikhcenterofvirginia.org