Origin
Sikhism is one of the youngest world religions, founded by Guru Nanak in approximately 1471 A.D. following a revelation from God. Guru Nanak's mission was to establish and ensure equality and justice for all. A guru is one who continues to teach this mission, which was promulgated by nine Gurus over a period spanning more than 200 yrs. Today, there are an estimated 25 million Sikhs worldwide.
Scripture
On Oct.4th 1708 the tenth master Guru Gobind Singh, bestowed Guruship Guru Granth Sahib. The Sikh Holy Scriptures are comprised of hymns of six Sikh Gurus, 15 saints from different world religions, and four Sikh followers. Sikhs consider the scriptures as a living teacher so that, in essence they become like a present and eternal Guru.
Beliefs
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, distinct from other religions, by a belief in ONE GOD as the Supreme Eternal Entity, both Father and Mother. Sikhism preaches fraternal love for all human beings.
One of the fundamental facets of Sikhism is the value placed on the equality of women.
Sikhs recognize the entire human race as God's offspring. Sikhism prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, origin, caste, class, creed, color, or faith of any person. Sikhs have a responsibility to uphold human rights, strive for protection of the weak, and work for the social and cultural well being of mankind throughout the world.
Sikhs are a brave but peace-loving people. The Sikh religion aspires for the good of all humanity. Enmity is one of the five negative personal evils within a human being that a Sikh strives to conquer. To kill innocent people is a sin. Sikhs are willing to sacrifice their own lives to protect the downtrodden, which is why they maintain their five articles of faith. Sikhs condemn terrorism of any kind.
Practice
The word 'Sikh' means "disciple" or "learner" of the holy word of God. In accepting the will of God, Sikhs are required to keep unshorn both hair and beards. Sikh males and females, including children, cover their heads as a show of constant respect to God.
The Sikh code of conduct requires one to be initiated into the Khalsa. This disciplined way of life prohibits smoking, drugs and alcohol. The Sikh recite daily prayers by dawn, in the evening, and before sleeping. Sikhs practice monogamy and strive to overcome feelings of lust, anger, greed, material attachments, and pride.
Sikhism espouses a life of daily prayer, truthful living, earning an honest livelihood, sharing with those less fortunate, and courage to oppose oppression and tyranny. Evangelism is forbidden in the Sikh faith.