Do Sikhs Pay Tithe?

Like people of many other religions, Sikhs give 10 percent of their income as tithe. In Sikhism, tithe is called Das Vand, which means a tenth share of income and may include gifts of time and goods as well as money which benefit the Sikh community or others on behalf of the Guru. Sikhs may give Das Vand in a variety of ways according to their means and imagination:

• Pledging a monthly payment to their local gurdwara, or place of worship.
• Contributions of food to the langar free communal kitchen and dining hall.
• Selfless service on behalf of the sangat, or Sikh congregation.
• Furnish the Gurdwara or Guru Granth Sahib.
• Cleaning and maintenance of the gurdwara and grounds.
• Bestow or bequeath gifts of land or structures.
• Fund building and landscape projects.
• Help to prepare for worship programs.
• Provide shelter for the homeless.
• Scholarships for Sikh students.
• Sponsoring studies in Sikhism.
• Donate goods and resources.
• Present grants and awards.
• Aid disaster relief.
• Feed the hungry.
• Cash endowments.
• Offerings of any kind.