Sikhism, gurdwaras and authority

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Historic Gurdwaras: Central dome in distinctive style, many smaller domes, balcony windows with decorated arches, gateway entrance, central position where Guru Granth Sahib is kept under canopy marked out by pillars, four entrances...sometimes include pool.

Modern Gurdwara: facilitates communal worship, Guru Granth Sahib kept at one end of room, one main entrance.

Every Gurdwara has a langar, free kitchen and dining room, a flagpole and triangular yellow pendant bearing Khalsa emblem.

Pilgrimage: Sikhs always go on pilgrimages to sacred places, like birthplace of Guru Nanak in Pakistan, or Golden Temple...they go for inspiration and remembrance...it does NOT contribute to liberation or erase sin.

different religious bodies in Sikhism today: Akal Takhat...seat of temporal authority opposite the Harmandir Sahib, the SGPC...the elected body who manage Gurwaras (very powerful...run by committee of elected members elected by Sikhs every 5 years), The Sant Samaj....religious powerful leaders (Sants)

difficult to separate politics and religion in Sikhism

many Sikhs set up websites and take part in online discussions....possibly the religions new authorities!...SPGC have responded with own website.

codes of discipline contain some detailed regulations.....general codes of conduct deal with correct performance of life cycle rites and specify what is acceptable ritual practice...but DOES NOT cover all aspects of Sikh life or issues of current concern.

THUS...Sikhs have no where to go for authorative and authentic Sikh advice on theological and ethical questions.....left to make up own minds!....based on teachings in Sikh scripture and by example from Gurus lives.

Religious group or nation??...some Sikhs argue panth is not a nation.....some say it is...ie: own religion, history, institutions, territory and martial traditions....British viewed them as a distinct group

religion and nationality two different things.

very much a distinct community....inspirational founders, beliefs, scriptures, life cycle rites, festivals, separate calendar, places of worship, pilgrimage, institutions, authorities.

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