Sikhism
1) Sikhism is a practical religion. It does not consist in a certain
set of beliefs or mere words. Religion does not imply wandering to
shrines and tombs, or following austerities of Yogis. Sikhism is a
way of life, something to be lived according to a pattern. Its main
virtue is simplicity. There is no supernaturalism or mythology on
which it rests. It does not believe in devils or angels or heavenly
spirits.
2) Sikhism is a universal religion.
3) Sikhism is opposed to all ritualism and formalism.
4) Sikhism does not enjoin blind faith. Blind obedience to an external
authority is dis-couraged. The death of the intellect can not be a
condition of the life of the spirit. Faith does not start with surmises
or absurdities.
5) Sikhism is a faith of hope and cheer. Though it affirms Karma,
it recognises the possibility of the modification of one's Karma with
the grace of the Guru or God. It does not lead to despair and defeatism.
6) Sikhism is a democratic religion. The decisions of the Sangat are
regarded as resolutions having the force of law (Gurmatta) Guru Gobind
Singh Sahib vested the authority of the organisation in the Panth.
