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Top Ten Sikh Beliefs

The Tenets of Sikhism

By , About.com Guide

What are the top ten beliefs of Sikhsm? Here is a basic overview of the primary tenets of the Sikh faith:

1. Worship One God

Acknowledge one creator. Do not worship demi-gods or idols.

Read more:

Ik Onkar - One God
What Do Sikhs Believe about God and Creation?

 

2. Treat Everyone Equally

Do not show distinction or rank because of race, class, or gender.

Read more:

Bhai Kanhaiya and His Example of Equality
Message of Equality in the Yuba City Annual Sikh Parade

 

3. Live By the Three Primary Principles

Be always absorbed in meditation and prayer.
Make an honest income by honorable methods.
Share earnings and selflessly serve others.

Read more:

The Three Principles of Sikhism

4. Avoid the Five Sins of Ego

Practice daily prayer and meditation to reduce the effects of ego and prevent indulgence in:
Pride
Lust
Greed
Anger
Attachment

Read more:

Homai - Ego
What Are the Five Evils?

Over Coming the Five Voices of Ego

5. Become Baptized

Be spiritually reborn by taking part in the baptism ceremony conducted by the "Five Beloved" Sikhs, who prepare and administer immortalizing nectar to initiates.

Read more:

Sikh Baptism, The Amrit Ceremony Initiation of Khalsa
The Sikh Initiation Ceremony of Amritsanchar Illustrated

 

6. Keep the Code of Honor

Live according to specific individual, and communal, ethical and spiritual commitments. Forsake worldly ties. Abide by the guru's teachings. Practice daily worship.

Read more:

Sikhism Code of Conduct
The Sikh Way of Life and the Gurus' Teachings

7. Wear the Five Articles of Faith

Wear the Sikh undergarment for modesty and health.
Wear a wooden comb in the turban to keep hair clean and untangled.
Wear a steel wristlet as a sign of faith.
Wear hair uncut, to honor the creator’s intention.
Wear a small sword symbolic of defending the religious rights of all faiths.

Read more:

What Are the Five Required Articles of Sikh Faith

 

8. Follow the Four Commandments

Do not dishonor the creator’s intention by cutting the hair.
Do not harm the body with tobacco or other intoxicants.
Do not eat sacrificial meat.
Do not commit adultery.

Read more:

What Are the Four Cardinal Commandments of Sikhism?
Panj Pyaras Instruct Initiates In the Code of Conduct.
Tankhah - Penance

9. Recite the Five Daily Prayers

Repeat the morning prayers.
Repeat the evening prayer.
Repeat the bedtime prayer.

Read more:

All About Sikh Daily Prayers

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