Sikh Religion and Islam

A Comparative Study

G. S. Sidhu M.A.

Gurmukh Singh

Published by: -
© Copyright: G. S. Sidhu and Gurmukh Singh

No. of Copies: Year

Printer:

ii
 INDEX
ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS BOOK ........................................ 1
MAIN ABBREVIATIONS:........................................................................... 1
SOURCES AND QUOTATIONS .................................................................. 1
QUOTATIONS FROM THE HOLY SCRIPTURES ........................................... 2
SIKH SOURCES ..................................................................................... 2
ISLAMIC SOURCES................................................................................. 2
FOREWORD .................................................................................... 3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS................................................................. 5
CHAPTER 1 ..................................................................................... 6
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................. 6
1.1 THE NEED FOR RELIGION ........................................................ 6
1.2 THE NEED FOR THIS STUDY ..................................................... 7
1.3 SIKHISM AND ISLAM: INTRODUCTORY COMMENTS ................... 11
CHAPTER 2 ................................................................................... 14
APPROACHES .............................................................................. 14
2.1 SIKHISM............................................................................... 14
2.2 ISLAM .................................................................................. 16
CHAPTER 3 ................................................................................... 18
SIMILARITIES ................................................................................ 18
3.1 IMPEDIMENTS ....................................................................... 18
3.2 GOD IS NEAR ....................................................................... 18
3.3 GOD IS ONE ......................................................................... 19
3.4 GOD IS NOT BORN ................................................................ 19
3.5 GOD IS ALL KNOWING ........................................................... 19
3.6 AS YOU SOW, SO SHALL YOU REAP ........................................ 20
3.7 SUBMISSION TO GOD............................................................ 20
3.8 TEST OF FAITH ..................................................................... 21
3.9 REVERENTIAL STATUS: HOLY QURAN HOLY GRANTH SAHIB .. 21
3.10.1 Islam: Sura Al- Fatihah ............................................... 23
3.10.2 Sikhism: Mool Mantar ................................................. 23
3.11 PRAISE OF GOD ................................................................... 23
3.12 INTOXICANTS ....................................................................... 24
3.13 FAMILY LIFE; MONASTICISM .................................................. 24
3.14 NEED FOR A PRECEPTOR ...................................................... 24
3.15 SETTLING DISPUTES AND MAKING DECISIONS ......................... 25
3.16 CHARITY; DASWANDH/ZAKAT ................................................ 26
3.17 SLANDER ............................................................................. 27
3.18 CASTE SYSTEM .................................................................... 27
3.19 PRIESTHOOD ....................................................................... 28
3.20 BEST RELIGION .................................................................... 28
CHAPTER 4 ................................................................................... 29
SCRIPTURES ................................................................................ 29

i
4.1 GURU GRANTH SAHIB .......................................................... 29
4.1.1 Dasam Granth ............................................................ 33
4.2 THE HOLY QURAN ................................................................ 33
4.2.1 Hadis (Plural Ahadis).................................................. 37
4.3 PILLARS OF SIKHISM............................................................. 38
4.4 PILLARS OF ISLAM ................................................................ 38
CHAPTER 5 ................................................................................... 39
GOD, PRAYERS AND CREATION ................................................ 39
5.1 GOD IN SIKHISM ................................................................... 39
5.2 GOD IN ISLAM ...................................................................... 41
5.3 PRAYER IN SIKHISM .............................................................. 42
5.3.1 Prayer in Islam............................................................ 44
5.4 CREATION ACCORDING TO SIKHISM ....................................... 45
5.4.1 Creation according to Islam........................................ 46
CHAPTER 6 ................................................................................... 47
SACRED PLACES; PILGRIMAGE; RITUALS AND SACRIFICE ... 47
6.1 SACRED PLACES OF THE SIKHS ............................................. 47
6.2 SACRED PLACES OF ISLAM .................................................... 49
6.3 SIKH PLACES OF WORSHIP .................................................... 50
6.3.1 Muslim places of worship ........................................... 51
6.4 PILGRIMAGE IN SIKHISM ........................................................ 52
6.4.1 Pilgrimage in Islam ..................................................... 53
6.5 SACRIFICE: SIKHISM AND ISLAM ............................................ 54
CHAPTER 7 ................................................................................... 57
GOD’S MESSENGERS AND THEIR SECOND COMING ............. 57
7.1 GURU IN SIKHISM ................................................................. 57
7.2 NABI OR RASUL IN ISLAM ...................................................... 59
7.3 ANGELS IN SIKHISM .............................................................. 61
7.3.1 Angels in Islam ........................................................... 61
7.4 NO SECOND COMING OF THE GURU ...................................... 62
7.4.1 Second Coming of a Prophet ..................................... 62
CHAPTER 8 ................................................................................... 64
THE NATURE OF EVIL AND SIN .................................................. 64
8.1 EVIL IN SIKHISM ................................................................... 65
8.2 EVIL IN ISLAM ....................................................................... 67
8.3 SIN IN SIKHISM ..................................................................... 68
8.4 SIN IN ISLAM ........................................................................ 70
CHAPTER 9 ................................................................................... 72
GOD’S CHOSEN PEOPLE; PROPAGATION OF RELIGION AND
APOSTASY .................................................................................... 72
9.1 SIKH VIEW OF CHOSEN PEOPLE ............................................. 72
9.2 ISLAMIC VIEW OF CHOSEN PEOPLE ......................................... 74
9.3 CONCEPT OF A STATE IN SIKHISM .......................................... 74
9.3.1 Concept of a Muslim State ......................................... 75
9.4 OTHER RELIGIONS: SIKH VIEW .............................................. 76

ii
9.4.1 Other religions: Islamic view....................................... 76
9.5 RELIGIOUS WAR: SIKH VIEW .................................................. 77
9.5.1 Religious war: Islamic view ........................................ 80
9.6 APOSTASY: SIKH VIEW .......................................................... 81
9.6.1 Apostasy: Islamic view ............................................... 82
CHAPTER 10 ................................................................................. 84
DEATH. DOOMSDAY. HEAVEN AND HELL ................................. 84
10.1 BEYOND EMPIRICAL EXISTENCE ............................................. 84
10.2 DEATH: SIKH VIEW ............................................................... 85
10.2.1 Death: Islamic view .................................................... 86
10.3 DISPOSAL OF THE DEAD: SIKH VIEW ...................................... 87
10.3.1 Disposal of the dead: Islamic view ............................. 87
10.4 VISITING GRAVES OR TOMBS ETC.: SIKH VIEW ........................ 88
10.4.1 Visiting graves and tombs etc: Islamic view ............... 89
10.5 DOOMSDAY: SIKH VIEW ........................................................ 89
10.5.1 Doomsday: Islamic view ............................................. 91
10.6 HEAVEN AND HELL: SIKH VIEW .............................................. 92
10.6.1 Heaven and Hell: Islamic view .................................. 95
10.6.2 Hell (Dozakh) in Islam ................................................ 97
CHAPTER 11 ................................................................................. 98
ANGELS, JINNS, SPIRITS, MIRACLES, OMENS AND SPELLS .. 98
11.1 ANGELS, JINNS AND SPIRITS: SIKH VIEW ................................ 98
11.2 ANGELS, JINNS AND SPIRITS: ISLAMIC VIEW ........................... 99
11.3 MIRACLES AND SUPERNATURAL EVENTS: SIKH VIEW ............. 100
11.3.1 Miracles and supernatural events: Islamic view ....... 102
11.4 OMENS, SOOTHSAYERS AND SPELLS ETC: SIKH VIEW ........... 103
11.4.1 Omens, soothsayers and spells etc: Islamic view .... 104
INITIATION INTO RELIGION AND CODE OF CONDUCT .......... 105
12.1 INITIATION INTO SIKHISM AND CODE OF CONDUCT................ 105
12.2 INITIATION INTO ISLAM AND CODE OF CONDUCT ................... 108
12.3 FASTING: SIKH VIEW ........................................................... 110
12.3.1 Fasting: Islamic view ................................................ 111
CHAPTER 13 ............................................................................... 112
FAMILY LIFE, POSITION OF WOMEN AND RESPECT FOR
PARENTS .................................................................................... 112
13.1 FAMILY LIFE: SIKH VIEW ...................................................... 112
RESPECT FOR PARENTS AND ELDERS................................................. 115
13.2 FAMILY LIFE: ISLAMIC VIEW ................................................. 116
Islamic dress for women ................................................................ 118
Treatment of parents and elders: Islamic view .............................. 119
CHAPTER 14 ............................................................................... 121
SOME FURTHER EXAMPLES OF DISSIMILARITIES ................ 121
ANNEX 1 ...................................................................................... 133
HISTORY OF SIKHISM ................................................................ 133
1.1 BACKGROUND .................................................................... 133

iii
1.2 LIFE AND WORK OF GURU NANAK ........................................ 134
1.3 SIKH GURUS AFTER GURU NANAK ...................................... 138
1.4 THE SAME LIGHT IN ALL TEN GURU PERSONALITIES .............. 138
1.5 EMERGENCE OF THE KHALSA PANTH. .................................. 143
ANNEX 2 ...................................................................................... 147
HISTORY OF ISLAM .................................................................... 147
2.1 BACKGROUND .................................................................... 147
2.2 LIFE AND WORK OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD ........................... 148
2.3 ISLAM AFTER PROPHET MUHAMMAD .................................... 152

iv
 Abbreviations used in this book
Main abbreviations:
GGS=Guru Granth Sahib. HQ=Holy Quran. SM= Sahih Muslim SB= Sahih
Bukhari.
E=English P=Panjabi U=Urdu

Sources and quotations

The authors hold the view that the Holy Scriptures of the Sikh religion and Islam
are the only authentic sources for studying these world religions. For the Sikhs,
Guru Granth Sahib is the eternal Guru and for Islam the Holy Quran is the very
Word of God. Both have just claims to be the greatest literary masterpieces of
humankind. It is not possible for mere mortals, no matter how ambitious, “to
measure the ocean of prophetic eloquence with the thimble of pedestrian analysis”1.
It is not possible to translate the revealed Word of God; the best we can do is to use
the most acceptable mainstream interpretations available. This pioneering effort will
need to be much improved by scholars from both religions.

In Sikhism, the works of Bhai Gurdas2are the most authentic source for interpreting
the underlying message of the Guru’s Word (Gurbani) in Guru Granth Sahib.
Further interpretations are mostly based on Gurmukhi/Panjabi sources e.g. S.
Manmohan Singh’s interpretation of Guru Granth Sahib in Panjabi and English, and
the works of Professor Sahib Singh and Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha in Panjabi.
Quotations from the Tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh are only those which have
generally been accepted by the Khalsa Panth, the Order of Khalsa, as attributable to
the Guru.

For Islam, unless stated otherwise, the references to the Holy Quran are from ‘The
Glorious Quran’ Translated By Mohammad Marmaduke Pickthall and Published By
TA Ha Publishers 1 Wynne Road London SW9 0BB. References to the Ahadis, the
Islamic code, are from the Sahih Muslim in English, by Abdul Hamid Sadiqi,
Lahore; and Sahih Bukhari in Urdu by Sharif Ishait-al-Islam, Delhi, and another
translation in English by Dr.Muhammad Muhsin Khan Islamic University, Medina
(Saudi Arabia).

All other sources quoted are entirely for supporting the mainstream interpretations
mentioned above.

1
Professor Arthur J Arberry, “The Koran Interpreted”, Oxford University Press, 1982.
2
Bhai Gurdas (the first) scribed the first Granth (later given the Guruship by the Tenth Nanak,
Guru Gobind Singh) under the direction of Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V). His works include the
40 Vaars and 556 Kabits, which provide the most authentic guidance to the interpretation of
Gurbani and the Sikh way of life (rehat). (See Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha, “Mahan Kosh” (P),
National Book Shop, reprint 1996.)

1
Quotations from the Holy Scriptures

There is no difficulty about giving the relevant numbers of the ayats (verses) of the
Holy Quran as these are numbered. Quotations from Guru Granth Sahib are given
with the relevant page numbers. Also, a few opening words of the quotation are
given in romanised Panjabi, except for the Chapter on similarities (Chapter 3),
where Gurmukhi (Panjabi) font is also used.

Sikh sources

GGS Guru Granth Sahib

All other Sikh sources are given at the footnotes without using abbreviations P

Sikh Gurus: Each Sikh Guru is referred to by name and also by the number from I
to X in accordance with the Sikh tradition e.g. Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V).

God Words: Use of capital initials for certain words in Sikhism e.g. the Name, the
Truth, the Ultimate Reality etc. signify words or expressions which refer to the God
Being.

Islamic sources

1.KM Kashaf -al- Mahjub Data Ganj Bakhsh Trans. Jamil Ahmad & Tariq U
2.SM Sahih Muslim by Abdul Hamid Sadiqi Lahore E
3.SB Sahih Bukhari Sharif Ishait-al-Islam Delhi U
Dr.Muhammad Muhsin Khan Islamic University of Medina E
4.MM Mishkat-al-Masabih Dr.James Robson Lahore E
5.TD Trimidhi Sharif Lal Kuan Delhi U
6.TB Tarikh Tabari by Tabari Nafees Academy Karachi U
7.CIS Concept of an Islamic State by Ishtiaq Ahmed Stockholm E
8.H.Q The Holy Quran Tafsir Saghir by Bashir –ud- Din Mahmood U
---Do---- By A.Yusuf Ali Amana Corporation Brentwood USA E
Glorious Koran Mohammed Marmaduke Pickthall TA HA
Publishers Ltd. 1 Wynne Road London SW 9 0BB E
Al-Quran-al Karim Shabir Ahmed Pub: Dar-us-tasnif Karachi. U
Kunz-al-Iman-al-Quran-Al Karim Ahmed Raza Khan Brelvi
Pub: Taj Co. Lahore U
9.HB The Holy Bible Gideons International Lutterworth England. E

References from Sahih Bukhari to be read as Number.V=volume & B=Book.

For example 2325V4B34 means item No. 2325 from book 34 volume 4.

2
 Foreword

T oday different religions, which at one time could have looked at

other faiths with aloof superiority, have been thrown together in
a way that demands dialogue and peaceful co-existence.

Whatever our religion, we live in a world in which family

breakdown, escalating crime, stress and depression go hand in hand
with a naïve pursuit of happiness through material prosperity. Many
feel that it is a society powered by greed that has lost its sense of
direction.

It has always been the responsibility of our different religions to give

moral direction and remind us of ethical imperatives for sane,
balanced and responsible living. Never before has the need been
greater; nor the opportunities. Wider educational opportunities and
near instant communications can clearly help our individual faiths to
provide sound guidance for the young. More importantly, they can
enable different faiths that find themselves in close physical
proximity, as in Britain today, to work together for the common
good. Interfaith dialogue has never been more important. It is only
through understanding our neighbour’s faith that we can learn about
and rejoice in the values we hold in common, whilst at the same time
respecting sensitive differences.

There is however a real difficulty in dialogue. Some religions,

notably, Christianity and Islam, have missionary zeal, which some
see as a missionary imperative to convert others to their religion; to
the ‘one true faith’. This can make dialogue, at best difficult and at
worst impossible. In contradistinction, the Sikh Gurus taught that
God is not interested in religious labels and that no one religion has a
monopoly of truth.

We must all be true to our different religious beliefs. Sikhs do

however object, as they did in the Gurus’ times, to the use of force,
coercion or misrepresentation as a means of conversion. The origin
of this remarkable book by G.S.Sidhu and Gurmukh Singh lies in the
systematic misrepresentation of both Sikhism, and importantly, the
high ideals of Islam, by some zealous Muslims, particularly in
schools and university campuses. The aim of the authors is to clear

3
the fog of misrepresentation by presenting parallel teachings side by
side in an objective and respectful way.

The main teachings of Sikhism are described in an admirably

concise way, and the parallel teachings of Islam given with detailed
references. Meticulous research confirms that the two faiths have
much in common: belief in one God, the importance of charity and
compassion and the acceptance of God’s will. There are also
important differences, notably on the nature of God, the afterlife,
gender equality and current social customs.

Gurbachan Singh Sidhu and Gurmukh Singh deserve every praise

for this monumental work; but it is only a beginning. There is still
much to be done to ensure the work is fully acceptable to both
communities. A major area for further research is in the use of
metaphor and allegory in both religions, and the danger of taking the
illustration too literally. The authors have clearly done this in their
presentation of Sikh teachings and endeavoured to do the same for
the teachings of Islam. I suspect some Muslim scholars might feel
that figurative language is sometimes interpreted too literally. There
can clearly be a difference of perception between a believer and one
looking at a faith from outside. No one who knows the two respected
authors will doubt their sincerity. The hope is that a future edition
will also carry the name of a distinguished Muslim scholar to take
this important dialogue further to improve co-operation and
understanding between the two communities.

Indarjit Singh OBE, JP.

M.Comm,M.I.Min.E ;M.Comm,M.B.A.
Editor: Sikh Messenger
Director: Network of Sikh Organisation

4
 Acknowledgements

T he authors wish to record their indebtedness to S. Indarjit Singh for

reading the manuscript and adding a concise Foreword to it. S. Inderjit
Singh is a well- known supporter of religious harmony. We feel
honoured that he accepted our treatment of the subject and felt that we have
dealt with it fairly. His agreement with the subject matter is a seal of
approval.

Our thanks are also due to the following for scrutinizing the work and for
offering constructive comments. Ms Anne Lowthian, Executive Director
and Mr. A.S Sahota (Ottawa) Director of World Sikh Organisation (of
Canada), S. Karnail Singh, Institute of Sikh Studies Chandi Garh, S.
Meharbaan Singh Kurbaan (Advocate), Mr.Swaran Singh Talib,
Major.Jasbeer Singh (Canada), Mr. Hardev Singh Shergill (U.S.A) and
many other scholars who read the manuscript and made many helpful
suggestions for improving the draft.

We can not adequately thank the various Gursikhs and Gurdwaras who
contributed funds towards meeting the cost of printing this book. Their
names are too numerous to be mentioned. We would, however, be failing in
our duty if we did not thank Mr. Bakhtawar Singh Sehra (Nottingham) for
arranging the matter, typing it on his computer, and for offering financial
help for its publication.

We also thank Mr. Inder Bir Singh of Southall for preparing the cover
design. Grateful thanks are also due to Dr. Gurmel Singh of Guru Nanak
Charitable Trust Mandi Mullanpur (India) for arranging the printing and
transportation of the book.
Authors

5
 CHAPTER 1
Introduction

he Qazis3 and Mullahs assembled to question Nanak on the

“T subject of religion and God......”
“Who is superior - Hindu or Muslim?” Asked the Qazis”.
Replied Nanak: “without good deeds both Hindus and Muslims will
lament.... Both are equal before God.” (Varan Bhai Gurdas
1.33)

“The world is ablaze; O Lord save it through your benediction.

Through whichever door (religion) humankind seeks deliverance,
save it that way.” (Nanak III, Guru
Amar Das)

1.1 The need for religion

Etymologically, the word “religion” is derived from “lagore”

(possibly, from Latin religio, or from religare - re-back + ligare-
bind, Oxford English Dictionary) which means “to bind or bring
closer”. In a similar sense, the Sikh Gurus used the word Dharam or
Panth. The Guru says, “The true Guru is one who unites all”4.

From time immemorial, man has felt the need of some power or
deity to liberate him from his toils and to protect him from dangers.
He seeks peace and hope through contact with a superior power.
Thus for the Sikhs “Society and religion go together”5. The same is

3
Justice was delivered in Islam by the Caliphs themselves. As the Muslim Empire grew Qazis
were appointed to dispense justice. The Sikh Gurus found the Qazis arrogant, prejudiced and
bribe-takers. Sikhism defined the Qazi’s role as follows. “Such kamawe soi Qazi” (Only He is
a Qazi who practises truth)
4
nwnk siqguru AYsw jwxIAY jo sBsY ley imlwie jIau (pMnw 72). Nanak Satgur aisa jaaniay jo
sabhse lai milai jio p. 72.
5
G. S. Mansukhani “Introduction to Sikhism” p.11.

6
true for Islam.

The world needs religion. More so in the insatiable material

consumerism of today which is leading to yet more lust, greed,
discord, social problems, rich/poor divide and irresponsible attitudes
to world problems like pollution and nuclear proliferation. Worldly
pursuits for comfort, status and security need to be balanced by the
quest for spiritual harmony. Attachment and preoccupation with the
“here and now” need to be balanced by a detached worldview and
continual reflection on the purpose of life itself. Meditation on the
Reality behind the relativities and passing phases of this life should
promote a more thought provoking and responsible attitude and
response to life.

However, no single religion or path has a monopoly on harmonious

living in which worldly pursuits are subjected to spiritual goals. The
ideal modern plural society is striving towards universal
togetherness, mutual respect and co-existence, rather than the
achievement of outer uniformity. The common bond, which holds
the diverse human cultures together, is the omnipresent and
omniscient image of the Creator reflected in the rich diversity of His
creation. That is the essence of all world religions.

1.2 The need for this study

Some, who profess to follow the teachings of their own religions see
it fit to waste their energies in trying to discredit, demolish, or deny
the independence or authenticity of other religious systems. Such
attempts are futile because religious thought stands or falls on its
own merits. For example, no amount of persuasion can make
slavery, gender discrimination and the degrading caste system,
acceptable to civilised norms. Barbaric rituals like suttee (widows
burning themselves to death in the funeral pyres of their husbands),
is repugnant to the majority of humanity. Some religious practices
may be opposed by certain non-religious groups e.g. ritual slaughter
of animals, (as well as denounced by Sikh religion) would be
opposed by animal rights groups. On the other hand, in the modern
pluralistic societies, the humanitarian, liberating and love inspiring
aspects of world religions have become the most acceptable common
denominators. Not surprisingly, the tendency, even for the dogma-
based older religions, is to interpret their religious tenets in terms of

7
parenthood6 of God, kinship of humankind, love for all, justice,
equality, and freedom from fear and oppression.

Therefore, there is not much difference in the underlying aspirations

of religious systems today as these ultimately represent the
aspirations of the universal human society.7 However, different
world religious systems do follow different paths, and their
aspirations regarding spiritual goals may be different. For a Sikh, the
ultimate goal is a harmonious equipoise of body and mind, a state of
bliss (sahij anand) reached through the union of the lonely soul with
the Creator. Other religions may be seeking a heavenly abode after
this life. Nevertheless, most religions agree that only “good deeds”
help individuals to achieve their religious objectives. It bodes well
for the human society that the diverse definitions of “good deeds”
are becoming less diverse with the progress of the global human
society.

Most people prefer to select and follow a religious path as a life of

discipline. That is good for the human society provided the purpose
of religion is clearly understood. Religion gives guidance and,
together with social laws, provides the infrastructure for civilised
societies. Regrettably, however, like other social systems, religion
has been, and continues to be, exploited by the unscrupulous.

It is the intolerant and predatory behaviour of certain individuals and

groups regarding other religions and cultures, which provokes
conflict leading to counter offensives. Such individuals or groups
forget that the only challenge which they face and to which they
need to respond urgently, is that of the age of discovery, the age of
science and technology i.e. the new age and the challenges of the
millennium. Yet, out of fear of diversity and due to their ignorance,
they are more concerned with the destruction of healthy ideologies
and cultures which enrich and hold together each diverse human
society and social system. Destroy or supplant a religious ideology
and you destroy a unique culture and a social system. A more
sensible response to such fanaticism would be in the form of

6
The concept of God in Sikhism is above gender. God is both, mother and father.
7
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is useful for instruction in righteousness”
(St. Paul Timothy )

8
comparative studies of religions to promote better understanding of
the different paths leading to the Ultimate Reality.

This study by the authors is intended to fall into this category.

Enlightened leaders of all the world religions are responding well to

the challenges of the new age. Regrettably, some who continue to
live in the past, have difficulty in accepting that paths other than
their own can also lead to the Ultimate Reality. At first, due to the
perceived threat from the egalitarian Sikh Khalsa Panth to the
Brahmanic tradition of caste superiority and social privileges, some
Brahmanic scholars made (and are continuing to make) determined
efforts to suppress and undermine an idea the time for which had
come. They argue “Sikhism is a branch of Hinduism”. “Sikhism is a
revival of old Vedic kshatrya tradition (Sanatan Dharma)”.
“Sikhism was a Hindu response to the Islamic oppression” (therefore
by implication its time is now past). “The eldest sons of many
northern Indian Hindu families became Sikhs” (therefore that is
offered as a proof that Sikhism is very much a part of Hinduism).
“The terminology of Guru Granth Sahib is vedic” and so on.

Now we have some Islamic friends who claim as follows:

“But a careful study of Sikh traditions and relics of Sikhism leads to

an irrefutable conclusion that Guru Nanak discarded the Hindu
doctrines and assimilated the teachings of Islam to such an extent
that Sikhism, in its pristine form, can be looked upon as a sect of
Islam.” (“Birth of Sikhism” by “Professor” Abdul Jaleel claiming to
write for some group called the “Amhedya Movement in Islam” in
1993.)8

Abdul Jaleel’s paper and other publications written in a similar vein,

contain such glaring factual untruths that they do not merit serious
consideration. However, the mentality, which prompts such claims,
deserves some attention due to its potential for disturbing the
harmony, which clearly does exist between the great religions of the

8
A response to Abdul Jaleel’s arguments is available in “A Challenge to Sikhism” by
G.S.Sidhu obtainable from Gurmatt Bhawan, Mandi Mullan Pur, District Ludhiana (India).
Also read “The Mission of Guru Nanak - A Muslim appraisal” by Prof: Mushir ul Haq.

9
world. In our view, such people do a disservice to the religious
traditions to which they subscribe.

What should be the response to such false and provocative literature?

To go on the defensive would serve the purpose of the likes of

“Professor” Abdul Jaleel. On the other hand, to attack another great
religion would be irresponsible; and, even more importantly, against
the Sikh teaching: all doors to divine knowledge are acceptable to
Sikhism. Indeed, the Sikhs pray to the Lord to shower His
Benediction on all those who seek His Grace no matter through
which door (meaning religion) they come.

Our response therefore is a sincere attempt to understand the

teachings of other religions, in this particular case, Islam, and place
these side by side with the Sikh teachings. The intention is to
promote an understanding of the different paths to divinity.

However, even such an approach is fraught with risks. The authors

of such studies cannot pretend that they are not influenced by their
own religious upbringing or by their conscious or subconscious
impressions of other religions. They could also be accused of
selective reporting to suit their own bias. We accept these limitations
and subjectivity but assure the readers that we have made every
effort to quote authentic sources and prioritize topics in accordance
with general human needs for religious instruction and guidance.

In his “Foreword” Sardar Indarjit Singh has identified two main

limitations of this study. Firstly, the question of interpreting the
metaphor and allegory in both religions. Secondly, that a
distinguished Muslim scholar should be involved. We readily
accept these limitations, although, there is a real difficulty
regarding both. A Muslim scholar may be prepared to interpret
the deeper moral and general truths of his religion, but would
be in some difficulty when asked to make these available for a
publication of this type. Also, other scholars may not agree
with his or her interpretation. As Sardar Indarjit Singh
suggests, such interpretation will always remain an area of
continuing research. However, we would welcome
10
contributions from any distinguished Muslim scholar for
inclusion in a future edition of this book.

It may be said that the Islamic laws (Shariat and Ahadis

respectively), quoted in this book, are sufficiently detailed so
as not to leave much scope for further interpretation. On the
other hand, there is no parallel Sikh law code other than the
brief Rehat Maryada, thus allowing much more scope for
continual interpretation. Provided the limitations of this
pioneering effort are clearly understood, we believe the readers
will find this publication of some help to understand the main
differences between the two ideologies. If some prefer to
describe this study as a Sikh view of Sikhism and Islam, so be
it, provided it is clearly understood, that other than quoting
authentic sources, we have not attempted to interpret the
underlying metaphor or allegory. That is best left to the
followers of the two faiths. Any generalizations in the
introductory paragraphs of specific topics are based almost
entirely on the authentic interpretations, which follow.

1.3 Sikhism and Islam: introductory comments

As will be seen in this study, there are many similarities between

Sikhism and Islam and some of these are listed in chapter 3. Both are
whole-life socio-political religions. Both aim to uplift the personal
lives of individuals to higher social and spiritual levels. Both
religions believe in the Oneness of God and are against idol worship
in any form. Praying together in congregation, meditation on the
Name of God, belief in the Will of God (Razaa in Islam and Hukam
in Sikhism) are central to both religions. Both shun the caste system
and combine the goals of spiritual and temporal attainment. There
are other similarities like setting aside a portion of one’s income for
religious or charitable purposes (zakat in Islam and daswandh in
Sikhism), many names for remembering God, a prescribed daily
routine for prayers and stress on constant remembrance of God 9.
Both proscribe certain health damaging habits e.g. taking alcohol.

9
“Recite His Name with every breath” is frequently repeated in GGS e.g. pages 295, 456, 501,

11
Sikhism places great importance on the underlying spirit (dharma)
of religion, which is the recognition, and dedicated pursuance of
one’s duty in life. Islam also is close to this ideal, although, it is
much more prescriptive. Both religions stress the importance of
acquisition of knowledge through research and discussion. Thus:

“Sikhism is to research, discuss and understand the Guru’s

teaching.” (GGS p. 465) 10

“A researcher can realize (the truth) but one who argues (in
ignorance) moves away (from the truth.)” (GGS p.1255)11

“The Holy Quran has in clear terms, indicated how these thousands
of curtains can be removed, so as to get an immediate, if imperfect,
vision of Allah. The way indicated is through the acquisition of
knowledge.”12

However, despite these and many other similarities further discussed

at Chapter 3, there are some basic differences in the practice and in
the interpretation of the role of religion in human life. Sikhism
places great importance on freedom from fear as the first step
towards spiritual progress. This is achieved by removing all
animosity from the mind (i.e. by being nirvair), and, by achieving a
harmonious relationship between individual will and the Universal
Will (hukam razai). For mankind, this state of harmonious
relationship (attunement with the Supreme Truth) is the reward, and
separation from it is the punishment. Therefore, despite the use of
traditional idiom of heaven and hell and judgement by Dharamraj
(God’s judge) on the basis of good and bad deeds, Sikh ideology
does not make some heavenly reward hereafter as the goal of human
life.

533, 825 and 1085 etc. “Men of understanding such as remember Allah, standing, sitting,
and reclining....” (HQ3: 191).
10
isKI isiKAw gur vIcwir ( pMnw 465). Sikhi sikhia Gur vichaar (GGS p.465).
11
KojI aupjY bwdI ibnsY hau bil bil gur krqwrw (pMnw 1255). Khoji upjay baadi binsay.......
(GGS p.1255)
12
Article on Islamic culture by M T Akbar in the Cultural Heritage of India Vol. IV, p573, The
Ramakrishna Mission, Institute of Culture, Calcutta 1983.)

12
“Says Kabir, through enlightenment, have I freed myself from (the
reward of) heaven or the fear of hell; I remain forever immersed in
His Name.13 On the other hand, the “fear and reward” mechanism is
a consistent theme of the Islamic ideology. Thus: “Those who
purchase disbelief at the price of faith harm Allah not at all, but
theirs will be a painful doom (HQ 3:177)

There are similar warnings in Guru Granth Sahib based on the

universal law of “what you sow so shall you reap”, but, essentially,
freedom from fear remains the underlying theme of Sikhism.

Further differences appear in other areas where Sikhism steadfastly

supports human rights, equal rights for women, tolerance of other
ideologies etc. Sikhism promotes the “unity in diversity” concept of
pluralistic societies in the spirit of Fatherhood of God and
brotherhood of humankind14. Sikh Gurdwaras are open to everyone
without distinction. The Islamic concept of a non-believer (kafir),
and how such a person should be treated, is alien to Sikh thought.

The authors believe that truly enlightened beings (call them

prophets, God’s messengers, gurus or what you will) deliver divine
messages, but human interpretation, due to its own limitations, does
introduce apparent variations with the passage of time. This study
looks at the main tenets of Sikhism and Islam so that the reader can
get a better understanding of both. The headings are not exhaustive,
although, every effort has been made to include the traditional topics
which a religious ideology is expected to address. Serious readers
should make every effort to refer to the original sources, especially,
the Holy Quran, the Ahadis and The Holy Guru Granth Sahib and
seek consultation with devotees of each faith; for, only these sources
truly reflect spiritual instruction to their respective followers.

13
kbIr surg nrk qy mY rihE siqgur ky prswid (pMnw 1370). Kabir surag narak te mai
reheo....(GGS p. 1370)
14
Refer to note 6 above: God is gender neutral in Sikhism and “brotherhood” embraces all
humankind.

13
 CHAPTER 2
Approaches

D espite many similarities, Sikhism and Islam aspire towards very

different objectives in this life and hereafter. For example,
while many of the attributes of God described in each religion
appear to be similar, the underlying God/human relationship is very
different. All the similarities mentioned under the various headings
need to be considered in the light of what, in fact, is a radically
different approach to the attainment of quite different religious
objectives. Both, in Sikhism and in Islam, religion plays a major role
in directing human affairs. Righteous conduct and discipline of body
and mind are regarded as very important by both religions. However,
as will be seen in this study, there are some fundamental differences
in approach. One main reason for this is the degree to which each
religion relies on “reward and punishment”.

It would be useful to consider the extent to which the two systems

rely on reward on the one hand, and on fear and punishment on the
other. Rewards may be in the nature of incentives for accepting
ideologies and punishment would be in the nature of disincentives if
these ideologies are not accepted or adhered to.

2.1 Sikhism

Sikhism does not accept fear per se as the instrument for promoting
and defending religious ideology. It is true that the (self-inflicted)
punishment for those who turn away from truthful conduct, the
“manmukhs” can be terrible. Such souls do go through countless life
forms suffering the pain of births, life experiences and deaths until,
either through their own virtuous actions, or through God’s grace
(nadar or rehmat), they are saved. Fear may be an element in the
(self-imposed) discipline necessary to abide by the Lord’s Will
(hukam or razaa). The elements, earth, moon, the sun and the

14
universal systems are said to perform their “duties” in “fear” of the
Lord. Everything remains in His “awe”. And so should humankind
do its duty and understand and obey His hukam.
However, while in a Sikh’s relationship with God there is a
combination of great wonderment which (may be equated to a form
of “fear” referred to as bhae or bhao in Gurbani) and loving
devotion (bhaao), on the whole, Sikhism is opposed to any form of
fear. “The fear of God in Islam (and in Christianity) has been
converted into love15of God in Sikhism”.

“I am asked by my friends what is the Lord like, (all I can say is

that) I am filled with His love and cannot describe Him.”(GGS
p.459)16

God is Fearless (Nirbhao) and nearness to Him makes one fearless.

“All fear is destroyed when one worships the Fearless (God)” (GGS
p.293)17. “Where fearless God is, there is no fear. Where there is
fear, the Lord is not there.” (GGS p. 1374)18

Indeed, a fearless disposition is a pre-condition to the worship of the

fearless and loving God.
“Worship God without fear in your heart” (GGS pp. 201, 824 and
several other references).19.

Sikhism says “ Fear no one and give fright to none”.20 “Be kind
and forgiving”. 21

15
Introduction to Sikhism by G S Mansukhani page 15 Hemkunt Press 1997.
16
imil sKIAw puCih khu kMq nIswxI (pMnw 459). Mil saakhia puchheh kaho Kaant
nisani.....(GGS p. 459)
17
inrBau jpY sgl Bau imtY (pMnw 293). Nirbhao japay sagal bhao mitay....... (GGS p.293)
18
jh AnBau qih BY nhIN jh Bau qh hir nwih (pMnw 1374). Jeh anbhao the bhai nahi......(GGS
p. 1374)
19
inrBau hoie Bjhu Bgvwn (pMnw 201) inrBau hoie Bjhu jgdIsY (pMnw 824). Nirbhao hoi bhajoh
Bhagwaan ..(p.201); Nirbhao hoi bhajoh Jagdisai.... (GGS p. 824).
20
khu kbIr suK sihj smwvau Awp nw frau nw Avr frwvau (pMnw 326-27). Kaho Kabir sukh
sahij samavoh....(GGS p. 326-27).
21
It is a historical fact that not a single person was hanged during the regime of the Khalsa
under Maharaja Ranjit Singh in which the Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs were regarded as equal
partners. The progress and prosperity during this regime (Halemi raj) has remained
unparalleled in Indian history. The Khalsa nearly defeated the combined forces of the British
and the rest of India. A Muslim poet Shah Muhammad witnessed the excellence of Khalsa Raj

15
It is not so much fear as the inner awakening of soul, which brings
the follower to the Guru’s way.

The Sikh way of life (Sikhi) relies on truthful conduct and a short
formal code of discipline (Rehat Maryada) based on some basic
injunctions issued by Guru Gobind Singh, based on the teachings of
Guru Granth Sahib. Sikhism has no code like the detailed Islamic
codes of Sharia and Fiqah. The Guru says: “Purify what is impure
(purify your mind), and let the Lord’s presence be your religious
Hadis (tradition)” (GGS p.1084)22. The stress is on the study of the
Guru’s teachings in Guru Granth Sahib.

The above is the ideological position. However, due to ignorance,

like the practice of the caste system amongst the Sikhs, so
condemned by the Guru, bogus sant (saint) cults, thriving on fear
and superstition, abound amongst the Sikhs today. They have
revived heaven and hell and the traditional “reward and punishment
hereafter” machinery of religion through selective and out of context
quotes from Guru Granth Sahib.

2.2 Islam

In Islam God is Merciful and Compassionate and belief in One God

is paramount. God demands unquestioning devotion, which may be
interpreted as a form of love. Essentially, however, Islam is based on
fear of punishment and reward. For those who “fear” the Lord the
rewards are great (HQ 39:23). Through the operation of the Ahadis
Islam is much more prescriptive regarding human affairs than
Sikhism. God’s wrath can be terrible and is to be feared. The same
applies to some extent in human relationships e.g. between the rulers
and the subjects and between the believers and those who do not.

For the non-believers i.e. those who turn their face away from God,
there is only severe punishment. Fear acts as the main disciplining
agent for conducting human, spiritual and temporal affairs.

and the closely fought wars which he called “Jang Hind Punjab” meaning the war between the
invading British led Indian army and the defending independent Punjabi people’s army of the
Khalsa.
22
nwpwk pwku kr hdUUr hdIsw … (pMnw 1084). Napaak paak kar hadur hadisa.... (GGS p. 1084).

16
Islam divides the society into Momins (Muslims) and Kafirs (non-
Muslims). Kafirs are to be treated as Zimmies23

“And Fight them until persecution is no more and the religion is all
for Allah”(HQ 8:39)24

23
Kafir literally means ‘ a heretic’. OED translates it as ‘infidel’. Zimmies are second class
citizens.
24
Fighting against non-believers is a holy duty of Muslims (HQ 2:190, 4: 76, 9: 5,6,29 etc)

17
 CHAPTER 3
Similarities

T he similarities between Sikhism and Islam need to be considered

in the light of the main ideological differences discussed in
Chapter 2

3.1 Impediments

According to Islam there are two impediments in the way of the

seekers of God (a) Hijaab-e-Raini- as a black stone cannot be made
white and (b) Hijaab-e-Ghaini- as the dirt on a mirror is unsightly
but it can be wiped clean (KM).

(a) “For the many past births humans have collected sins. Their
minds have become so black that like the oil extractor’s cloth they
cannot be easily washed clean.”25 (GGS p. 651)

(b) “Clothes soiled with grime are washed white with soap. When
intellect is polluted, only remembrance of God’s name can purify
it.”26 (GGS p. 4)

3.2 God is near

Allah tells us that if a believer “draws near me by the span of a palm,

I draw near him by the cubit. If he walks towards me, I rush towards
him.”(SM 6476)

25
jnm jnm kI ies mn kau mlu lwgI kwlw hoAw isAwhu……(pMnw 651). Janam janam ki is mann
ko mal laagi...(GGS p.651).
26
mUq plIqI kpV hoie dy swbUx leIey auh Doie……(.pMnw 4). Moot palitee kapar hoi......(GGS
p.4)

18
“If a devotee advances one step towards the Guru, the Guru
advances millions of steps towards the devotee”27 (Bhai Gurdas)

3.3 God is one

God is one. La Ilaha, ill-Allah (There is no God but God) (H.Q 1:1)
My Lord is one unique and peerless”28 (GGS p. 350)

3.4 God is not born

God is not born. “ Lam yalid wa Lam yoolad, Kullu Shiyan halikum
illa wajh” (He is neither the begetter nor the begotten. All things are
mortal except Him” (Holy Quran)

“God is devoid of birth or death” 29. (GGS p.113)

“God is without parents. He is without gender and needs no

woman”.30 (GGS p. 597)“Thou art the unfathomable Lord of all and
do not have to enter the womb”.31 (GGS p. 1095)

3.5 God is all knowing

“Even if thou speakest aloud then lo! He knoweth the secret

(thought) and (that which is yet) more hidden” (H.Q 20: 7)

“He Himself knows, He Himself acts and sets things right. Before

27
crn srn gur eyk pYNfw jwey c`l siqgur kot pYNfw Awgy hoey lyq hY (BweI gurdws ). Charan saran
Gur ek painda jai chall..... (Bhai Gurdas).
28
swihb myrw eyko hY eyko hY BweI eyko hY (pMnw 350). Sahib mera eko hai....(GGS p. 350)
dr mzHib mw ZYr pRsqI n kund,sr qw bw kdm bhoS msqI nw kund (BweI nMd lwl). Dar majhab
ma gor prasti na kunad, sar ta ba kadam bahosh masti na kunad (Bhai Nand Lal). myry Drm
ivc iek pRBU BgqI qoN ibnW hor iksy dI pUjw nhIM ho skdI [ AsIN sdw isr qoN pYrW q`k hoS iv`c
rihMdy hW msqI ivc nhIMN n`cdy [ Meaning, “In my religion, no other but (the One) God may be
worshipped. We remain in control of our senses from head to feet and do not dance in
senseless
ecstasy.” (Bhai Nand Lal).
29
jnm mrx qy rihq nwrwiex (pMnw 113). Janam maran te rehat Narain (GGS p. 113).
30
nw iqs mwq ipqw suq bMDp nw iqs kwm nw nwrI (pMnw 597). Na tis maat pita sut bandhap.....(p.
597).
31
qUM pwrbRhm prmysr join nw AwveI (pMnw 1095). Tu Parbrahm Parmesar jon na awaee... (GGS
p. 1095)

19
Him shouldst thou stand and humble yourself in prayer 32” (GGS p.
1093)

3.6 As you sow, so shall you reap

The Holy Quran says, “Jaza -un be ma kanu ya’ malum”

“You will receive rewards in proportion to the deeds you do”33

“Whatever good or bad you do, so you reap the (self inflicted)
reward or punishment”34 (GGS p. 470)

However, it is important to note that this similarity is limited to the

operation of the universal law of cause and effect or action and
consequence only. When “reward and punishment” is used to accept
or reject an ideology, Sikhism and Islam part company.

3.7 Submission to God

Islam literally means submission, which means to accept God’s Will

in speech, mind and body. When a man submits to God his personal
desires and emotions are replaced with devotion and deep
spirituality. Islam calls it “Fi-Sabil-Allah” and the Quran says, “Say:
Lo! My worship and my sacrifice and my living and my dying are
for Allah, the Lord of the worlds.”(H.Q 6:163)

“Accept the will of God, consider Him the Creator and sublimate
your ego”35 (GGS p. 141)

“Ikhlas” in Islam is the same as “sihj” in Sikhism. Those who attain

a high spiritual stage of dedication (Fanah-fillah) are known as
“Salim” in Islam and “Braham gyani” in Sikhism. The Guru says,
“As water loses itself in water so does the soul mingle with the All-

32
Awpy jwxY kry Awip Awpy AwxY rwis (pMnw 1093). Aapay janay karay Aap........ (GGS p. 1093)
33
“Whoso bringeth a good deed will receive ten fold the like thereof,while who so bringeth an
ill
deed will be rewarded but the like thereof ” (HQ 6:161)
34
mMdw cMgw Awpxw Awpy hI kIqw pwvxw (pMnw 470). Manda changa aapna...... (GGS p. 470)
35
rb kI rjwie mMny isr aupir krqw mMny Awpu gvwvY (pMnw 141). Rabb ki rajai mannay siray
uppar...(GGS p. 141).

20
soul”36 (GGS p. 278)

“You are me and I am you where is the gap? Our relation is the same
as that of gold and a gold ornament or that of water and its ripples”37
(GGS p. 93)

3.8 Test of faith

Sunni Muslims believe in shahadat. When a situation arises in which

a Muslim is called to avow his faith to identify himself, he must do
so even at the cost of his life.38

The Sikh concept of “Sikhi kesan swasan naal nibhauni” (Sikh

Ardaas), that ‘a Sikh must remain true to the faith till his or her last
breath’, is similar. Guru Gobind Singh expresses deep trust in his
true Sikh:

“Even if a mountain sprouts wings and takes off, my Sikh will not
abjure his faith.”39

3.9 Reverential Status: Holy Quran Holy Granth Sahib

There is similarity in the way Islam and Sikhism regard their Holy
Books as the final word: “After the Holy Quran, which other book is
there in which people would place their faith?”(H.Q79: 50)

The Sikhs place their faith in Guru Granth Sahib as the

ultimate Instruction. By Guru Gobind Singh’s final injunction
the Sikhs were instructed to regard the holy Granth as the

36
ijau jl mih jlu Awie Ktwnw iqauN joqI sMig joiq smwnw (pMnw 278). Jion jal meh jal aa-ay
khatana...(GGS p. 278)
37
qohI mohI mohI qohI AMqru kYsw knk ktk jl qRMg jYsw (pMnw 93). Tohi mohi, mohi tohi......(GGS
p.93).
38
Some Muslims believe in Taqiyya, which means that in times of extreme danger it is
legitimate
to pretend about one’s true faith and to employ words of double meaning or mental
reservation
to wriggle out of the crisis. They quote Quran 3:29 and 16:106 (See Hugh’s dictionary of
Islam). Abraham called his wife ‘sister’ when he was in danger (SB 578)
39
prbq ky nK pMKn Dwr aufyN KVgyS nw pIT idKwvY (gurU goibMd isMG). Parbat ke nakh pankhan
dhar... (Guru Gobind Singh).

21
eternal Guru after Him.

22
3.10.1 Islam: Sura Al- Fatihah

“Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds, The Beneficent, the

Merciful. Owner of the Day of Judgment, Thee (alone) we worship;
Thee (alone) we ask for help. Show us the straight path, the path of
those whom Thou hast favoured; Not (the path) of those who earn
Thine anger nor of those who go astray”.40

3.10.2 Sikhism: Mool Mantar

God is Unique. His Name41 is Truth. He is the Creator. He is devoid

of fear and hatred. He is Everlasting. He is Unborn. He is Self-
existent. He can be realised through the Grace of the Guru (the
Enlightener).” 42

Islamic Al-Ikhlas (At-Tawhid) is very close to the Sikh Mool

Mantar. It is as follows:“ Say: He is Allah, the One! Allah, the
eternally besought of all! He begetteth not nor was begotten. And
there is none comparable unto Him.”(HQ112: 1-4)
Like Sikhism the Holy Quran also names God as “Truth” (Alleha-al
Haq)

3.11 Praise of God

“If all the trees in the earth become pens and the sea, with seven
more seas to help it (were ink), the words of Allah could not be
exhausted.” (HQ 31:27)

“Kabir, if I make the seven seas my ink, make the entire vegetation
my pen and the earth my paper, even then I cannot write God’s
praises.” (GGS p.1368)43

40
ibsimlw ihr rwhmwinr rwhIm Alhmdo illw ribl AwlmIn inr rwhImwn mwilk XwauimdIn eIXwkw
nwAbdo vw eIAwkw nYsqXIn iehidnw srwqulmusqkIm srwqul lzInw AYn Amqw AlYihm
gYrlmZdUbI AlYihm vw AzwlInw – AwmIn (Translatin:Glorious Quran page 31)
41
His Name: Many are His names, but His Name in Sikhism is The Name, which represents
His
Being, the focus for meditation (Naam simran).
42
1E siq nwmu krqw purKu inBau inrvYru Akwl mUriq AjUnI sYBM gur pRswid GGS p. 1)
43
kbIr swq smuMdih msu krau klm krau bn rwie bsuDw kwgd jau krau hir jsu ilKnu n jwie (pMnw
1368). Kabir sat samundeh mass karo kalam karo ban rai......(GGS p. 1368).

23
3.12 Intoxicants

The Holy Quran says: “They question thee about strong drink and
games of chance. Say in both is great sin and some utility for me; but
the sin of them is greater than their usefulness.”(HQ 2:219 and
5:91)44

“The misguided people who drink wine are the most foolish”45 (GGS
p. 399)

3.13 Family life; Monasticism

Both Sikhism and Islam recommend family life and deprecate

monasticism and mendicancy.46
“But monasticism they invented—we ordained it not for them—
only seeking Allah’s pleasure and they observed it not with right
reverence” (HQ57: 27)
Sikhism also rejects monasticism. “According to the Guru’s teaching
what can be achieved outside home can also be achieved at home. So
Nanak has become a renunciate” (GGS P.992)47
“Seek salvation while you are living a normal life.”48 (GGS p. 522)

3.14 Need for a preceptor

Both stress the need for a guide or preceptor for union with God.
Islam calls this medium murshid, rahbar, pir or awliya. “He who
wants the companionship of God must first seek the company of the

44
The word used in the Holy Quran is Khmer. Some Muslim Scholars translate it as ‘Wine’
and
exclude drugs and liquors made from honey or barley. They translate verse 43 of Sura 4 as
“O
believers, do not pray when you are drunken, until you know what you are saying” Most
Muslim scholars however interpret the Quran to say that all kinds of inebrients and
intoxicants
are strictly forbidden for the Muslims.
45
durmiq mdu jo pIvqy ibKlI piqkmlI (pMnw 399). Durmatt madd jo pivtay.....(GGS p. 399).
46
Like the Sikh Gurus, Prophet Muhammad was also married and had children.
47
gur bcnI bwhir Gr eyko nwnk BieAw audwsI (pMnw 992) .Gur bachni bahar ghar Eko...(GGS
p. 992)
48
hsMidAw KylMidAw pYnMidAw KwvMidAw ivcy hovY mukiq (pMnw 522). Hasandia, khelandia, painandia
.... .(GGS p.522).

24
friends of God (awliya)” (Maulana Rumi)49

Sikhism calls this source of inspiration the Guru or Satguru. “Even if

there be hundreds of moons and thousands of suns, there will still be
darkness without a Guru.” (GGS p.463)50

In Sikhism, the Guru and the Guru’s Word (i.e. Gurbani in Guru
Granth Sahib) are interchangeable. Human mediation was removed
by the final injunction of Guru Gobind Singh: “Accept the Word in
the Granth as your eternal Guru” He commanded

“Our mind is like a wild elephant roaming in a jungle (our body).

The Guru’s true instruction acts like a goad on the unruly elephant
(mind).” (GGS p. 221)51

However, Sikhism does not compel its followers to accept the

Guru’s word blindly but accept it only after conviction.
“First evaluate and only then accept the wares.”52(GGS p. 1410)

3.15 Settling disputes and making decisions

Islam and Sikhism both preach similar ways of settling differences.

Ijmah53 in Islam and gurmatta in Sikhism follow similar procedures,
although, the latter, requires unanimous agreement in the presence of
the Guru (Granth Sahib). Thus (unlike democratic processes)
minority interests are safeguarded in Sikhism, albeit, at the expense
of fewer decisions being made which qualify as gurmattas.
“O brothers, come sit together and sort out your differences” (GGS
P.1185)54

49
hr ik ^uAwhd hmnSInI bw ^udw ,aU nSInd dr hzUr-ey- AOlIAw (jy r`b dy dIdwr dI ie`Cw hY qW mhW
purKW dI sMgq kr)
50
jy sau cMdw augvih sUrj cVih hjwr eyqy cwnx hoidAW gur ibnu Gor AMDwr (pMnw 463). Je sao
chanda ugveh, suraj chaday hazaar.....(GGS p. 463)
51
mn kuMcr kwieAw auidAwnY gur AMkus sc sbd nIswnY (pMnw 221). Mann kunchar kaya
udianay..(GGS p. 221)
52
pihlw vsqu isM\wix kY qw kIcY vwpwru (pMnw 1410 ). Pehla vast sinjan kai ta keecha
y vapaar...(GGS p 1410).
53
“His rule is to discuss together” (H.Q 3:159,160)
54
hoie iekqr imlhu myry BweI duibDw dUr krhu ilv lweI ( pMnw 1185) . Hoi ekattar miloh meray
bhai..(GGS p.1185).

25
3.16 Charity; Daswandh/Zakat

Charity receives equal treatment in both religions. “Allah will shade

a person under His shade who practises charity in such a way that
nobody knows how much he has given in charity”(SB504 V2 V24).
Even half a date-fruit given in charity can save a person from hell-
fire (SB 448,449 V2 B24)

“ He who works hard honestly for what he eats, and shares it with
others has found the true path. (GGS P.1245)55

Daswandh in Sikhism and zakat (HQ 9:60) in Islam only differ in

their application and modus operandi. Zakat is collected by the state
but daswandh depends on a donor’s own discretion.
“The purpose of the zakat is no other than to provide the state with
means to fund its welfare projects” (CIS page 141)

“Zakat is paid by individuals to Islamic governments, who arrange

for its proper distribution to deserving people” (“Islam: faith &
practice By Manazar Ahsan Page 18)

Daswandh (allocating one tenth of one’s earnings for religious or

charitable purposes) is a Sikh tradition which receives mention in
many authentic Sikh works which interpret the Guru’s teachings
regarding the Sikh way of life.56

“Service in this world earns a place in God’s presence.” (GGS Page

26)57

55
Gwl Kwie ikCu hQhu dyih nwnk rwh pCwxih syie (pMnw 1245 ) . Ghaal khai kish hathoh
deh...(GGS p. 1245)
56
dsvMD gurU nw dyveI JUT bol jo Kwey, khy goibMd isMG lwl jI iqs kw ko ivswih (qnKwh nwmw nMd
lwl) . Daswandh Guru na dewaee jhootth bol jo khai....(Tankhanama Bhai Nand Lal)
iqs qy gur dsOND jo dyeI ,isMG so js vuh jg myN lyeI (rihqnwmw BweI dysw isMG) . Tis te Gur
dasondh jo dayee, Singh so jas voh jagg me layee (Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh).
jo ApnI ikC kry kmweI gur ihq dyhu dsvMD bnweI (rihqnwmw BweI cOpw isMG) . Jo apni kish karay
kamaee Gur hit deho.....(Rehatnama Bhai Chaupa Singh).
57
ivic dunIAw syv kmweIAY qw drgh bYsx pweIAY (pMnw 26) . Wich dunia sev kamaiyay....(GGS
p.
26)

26
 “The service rendered by the Guru's followers pleases the Guru.”58
(Bhai Gurdas)

No other religion has an institution like the Sikh Langar where all
are served food without discrimination or distinction. It is a training
ground for selfless service.59

3.17 Slander

Both religions condemn slanderers. The Holy Quran says “And do

not find fault with each other, nor call one another by nicknames”
(H.Q.49: 11-12)

There are many references to the sins of slanderers in Guru Granth

Sahib.

“The slanderers will be treated as liars in God’s court and punished

appropriately” (GGS p. 323)60

“Numerous slanderers carry heavy burdens on their heads (of the sin
of slander).” (GGS p. 4)61
“A slanderer wastes this valuable life” (GGS p. 380)62

3.18 Caste System

Islam and Sikhism are both against caste system. Since 80% of the
Indian Muslims were converted from Hinduism; and most Sikhs also
trace their background to Hindu families, both minority communities
have been unsuccessful in rooting out the curse of the caste system
completely.

58
gurmuK tihl kmwvxI siqgurU ipAwrI (BweI gurdws ) . Gurmukh tehal kamavni.....(Bhai
Gurdas).
59
There is a similar practice, to some extent, at the Dargahs of some Muslim Darveshes
( mystics)
60
: inMdk pkiV pCwiVAnu JUTy drbwry (pMnw 323) . Nindak pakar paccharian jhootthay,
Darbaaray (GGS p. 323)
61
“AsMK inMdk isr krih Bwr ”. ( pMnw 4) . Asankh nindak sir karay bhaar...(GGS p. 4)
62
“inMdk Aihlw jnm gvwieAw ”. (pMnw 380) . Nindak ahela janam gavaaya...(GGS p. 380)

27
3.19 Priesthood

There is no ordained priesthood in Islam and Sikhism. Anyone

can perform any religious service. However, the position of
women regarding performance of religious services seems to
be quite different. For example, Guru Amar Das (Third Nanak)
appointed 22 persons to act as preachers in 22 diocesan areas
of authority (22 Manjis). Of these 22 persons, 8 were women
appointees63 a most remarkable demonstration of equality
between the genders at the time in that socio-religious milieu.
In Islam, women are not allowed to perform azan (loud call to the
devotees to prayer.) Usually Muslim women do not visit the
mosque.64

3.20 Best religion

“Those who believe and do good deeds are the best of created beings
(HQ 98:7)
“Of all religions, the best religion is to chant the Name of the
Lord and to engage in pious deeds”65 (GGS P.266)

63
Sikhs and Sikhism: a view with a bias by Dr I J Singh 2nd edition p. 137 (Centennial
Foundation, Carden St., PO Box 96, Guelph, Ontario N1H 6L6, Canada.
64
Women are supposed to pray at home and seldom, if ever, go to the mosque (History of
religions E.O. James Page 196). They do not join in prayers publicly with men but perform
their devotions at home. They visit the mosque only when men are not present there. The
Prophet said, "Allow women to go to the mosque at night” (SB 22 V.2 B.13)
65
srb Drm mih sRyst Drmu hir ko nwmu jip inrml krmu (pMnw 266) .Sarab dharam meh sresat
dharam... (GGS p. 266).

28
 CHAPTER 4
Scriptures

4.1 Guru Granth66 Sahib

G uru Granth Sahib (GGS) is the Holy Book of the Sikhs and
much more. The Sikhs seek daily guidance from the Word
Guru67 contained therein. Guru Gobind Singh (Nanak X, the
final and 10th Guru personality68) by his injunction formally passed69
the Guruship to the Word Guru in GGS on 5 October 1708 (Kartik
Sudi 4, Samvat 1765). Three days later he died (from stab wounds
inflicted by an assassin) on the night of 7/8 October 1708. The
process of impersonalisation of the Guru had been gradual. As early
as the time of Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V), Bhai Gurdas, whose
interpretation of Gurbani had the Guru’s blessing, wrote that the
Guru’s personality was in the Guru’s Word (i.e. the Gurbani in
GGS)70. The Guru manifests in the presence of the holy

66
Granth means a significant and (usually) authoritative book.
67
Sikhs do not worship body or matter (including a book) in any shape. A traditional dohra
recited by the Sikhs with their Ardaas (supplication) directs the Sikhs to consider Guru Granth
as the visible body of the Guru. It is written by Prahlad Singh, a contemporary of Guru Gobind
Singh, and wrongly attributed to the Guru by some misinformed people. The oft- repeated
Dohra is a corrupt version of the original. Research students would wish to refer to the original
wording in “Rehatnamay” by Piara Singh Padam at p.67. The original dohra reads “Guru
Khalsa manyo, pragat Guru Ki deh. Jo Sikh Mo milbo chahe, khoj inoh meh leh.” And this is
exactly what the Guru had preached.
68
The term Guru is a singular concept in Sikhism and means much more than a teacher of the
Hindu tradition. Guru is synonymous with the Guru’s Word (Gurbani) which represents the
ultimate Truth and therefore represents the Creator. The tradition is that it was that same
Gurbani which guided through all Guru human forms. To confirm the single entity of the Guru,
all human Gurus described themselves as “Nanak”. There is no distinction between the Guru
and Gurbani (Bani Guru, Guru hai Bani - GGS p982).

69
“returned” would be more accurate as the Guru’s Word or Gurbani was always accepted as
the True Guru represented by each Guru personality from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh.
70
gur mUrq gur Sbd hY ,swD sMgq ivc prgitAwieAw (BweI gurdws) . Gur Moorat Gur Shabad
hai..(Bhai Gurdas)

29
congregation. Right from the time of Guru Nanak the personalized
Guru had been in the process of removing himself from between the
Word (Shabad) and the Sikh congregation (Sangat). Guru Nanak’s
vision of the new age society had no place for person Gurus,
ordained clergy or any institution that smacked of self-
aggrandisement. Guru Gobind Singh, therefore, by his unequivocal
injunction, transferred the Guruship in the union between the Shabad
and the Sikh Sangat, the collective body of the Khalsa Panth. His
final instruction was:
“The Guru’s spirit is in the Granth, body in the Panth (i.e. the Sikh
nation), message in the Shabad (Gurbani), image in the Khalsa71 and
protection of Akal (the timeless i.e. God)”72.

Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V) had the compilation of the Adi Granth
scribed by Bhai Gurdas under his own supervision. The Granth, as it
was popularly called, was completed by 15 August 1604. On 30
August in the same year, the Granth was formally installed in
Harmandar Sahib (Golden Temple) and it was called Granth Sahib
without the word Guru. However, from this date onwards the Guru
in person always sat at a lower level than the Granth Sahib. The Bani
of Guru Tegh Bahadur (Nanak IX) was included in GGS by Guru
Gobind Singh (Nanak X).

Guru Granth Sahib includes the hymns (shabads) of Nanak73 I to V

and IX, 15 Muslim and Hindu (lower and higher caste) saints
(bhagats) and 15 Sikhs including 11 poet singers called Bhatts. In all
there are 36 authors of GGS representing a geo-
religious/social/lingual74cross section of the Indian society from the
12th to the 17th Centuries CE. It can be said to be a truly non-
sectarian compilation of the highest human values and the

71
Amritdhari Sikhs, Sikhs who have undergone the initiation Ceremony of Amrit and observe
external and internal disciplines of Sikhism
72
Awqmw gurU gRMQ ivc,sRIr pMQ ivc,prcw Sbd dw,dIdwr Kwlsy dw,Et Akwl dI. “Atma Guru Granth
wich, sarir Panth wich, parcha Shabad da, didar Khalsay da, Ot Akal di” Nanak Chandra
Udasi Mahankawyan by Dev Raj Sharma quoted in Sau Sawal by Satbir Singh p 55).
73
Each of the ten Guru personalities referred to themselves as “Nanak” and the Guruship
succession number indicated their position in the Guru lineage. Thus Guru Arjan Dev, the
fifth
Guru is referred to as Nanak V.
74
The number of GGS languages/dialects is almost certainly over 50 (one scholar has
mentioned
58 languages.)

30
underlying truth behind apparently different religious ideologies.
Nowhere in the whole GGS the Guru belittles the message
underlying any religion. The strict instruction to the Sikhs is:

“Call not the vedas and the Quran false. Those who do not
contemplate them are false” (GGS Page 1350)75

The Sikh Gurus employed the vehicle of verse to preach their

religion which according to Macauliffe “is generally unalterable by
copyists and we have even become familiar with their different
styles. No spurious composition or extraneous dogmas can,
therefore, be represented as theirs……. It would be difficult to point
to a religion of greater originality or a more comprehensive ethical
system.”76

With few exceptions, (Guru Nanak’s Japuji is an exception),

shabads (hymns in GGS) are written in 31 classical raags (musical
octaves representing moods of times of the day or seasons.) selected
for their meditative, peaceful and harmonious qualities. The
selection is also representative of Islamic and Hindu bhagti
movements77. Raags arousing extreme moods or passions have not
been included. There is a great variety and richness in the poetry,
rhythm and beat in the Gurbani of GGS, which represent different
regions, literatures and popular folk music (dhunees). Nevertheless,
the criteria for selection are based on the tranquility, meditation-
inspiring qualities of these beats and rhythms.

GGS is written in the Gurmukhi script. It contains 5,763

hymns78(shabads, saloks and sawayyas) and has 1,430 numbered
pages. Continuous reading of GGS takes about 48 hours and this is
done during the ceremony of Akhand Paath (which means
“continuous reading”). The languages include Panjabi (main
language), Sindhi, Marathi, Brij, Hindi, Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apbhransh,
Arabic and Persian.

The significance of GGS is that it accepts the great contribution

75
Ved kiteb kaho matt jhuthe jhutha jo na vichare (GGS Page 1350)
76
Macauliffe “The Sikh Religion” Vol.1 Introduction P. iii-iv Low price Publications
77
Dr Taran Singh, “Sikh, Sikhi ate’ Sidhant”, p 193-4; Punjabi publication by SGPC 1991.
78
“Sao Sawal” by Satbir Singh, p 37.

31
made by earlier religious literature evolved in parallel with human
thought evolution and builds on that common heritage of
humankind79. GGS looks ahead at the future of mankind as a global
God-loving society, and not so much a God-fearing society.
“Worship the Lord fearlessly,” said the Guru80. Generally, the
comprehensive whole-life discussion and the guidance contained in
GGS is not based on fear, or, reward and punishment, albeit, there
are occasional reminders of these realities also. The Guru, by
accepting the human child as a responsible adult, concentrated more
on those universal responsibilities which the new age (the age of
discovery, science and technology and the age of material progress)
was about to heap on human shoulders. Such advancement in human
knowledge was to be complemented by a parallel advancement in
spiritual knowledge and self-regulation.

“Sikh Scriptures are the product of sustained thinking and mature

reflection, superb inspiration and profound realisation of saints and
prophets”81. That is the great significance of Guru Granth Sahib. Not
only is the Guru Granth Sahib the only original teaching which was
communicated directly from a guru (enlightened prophet or master)
to his followers but it is also a theology that is universal in nature
and content. It is intentionally a collation of the highest human
values. Thus, we can say that ultimately, for a Sikh God is the
profound realisation based on mature reflection of saints and
prophets regardless of their religion, caste, class or status in human
society.

Guru Granth Sahib is not structured as a logical development of a

thematic religious philosophy. In this respect there is similarity
between the Holy Quran and Guru Granth Sahib. It does not mean,
however, that the Sikh thought pattern could not be built
systematically from Guru Granth Sahib. Such interpretation can seek
further authentic guidance from the works of Bhai Gurdas, who
scribed the compilation of the Granth Sahib under the directions of
Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V). The general pattern of Guru Granth
Sahib is as follows:
79
Dr Taran Singh “Sikh Sikhi ate’ Sidhant”, p. 192; Punjabi publication by SGPC 1991.
80
Nirbhau hoi bhajo Bhagwan, GGS p 201. This theme is repeated e.g. at GGS pages 181,
684,
622.
81
A Critique of Sikhism, by S Gurmit Singh Sirsa, Advocate P.8

32
(a) Description of the Ultimate Reality or Truth called by many
names.
(b) Longing of the human soul for merging with Truth. This union is
the main purpose of human life;
(c) How this Ultimate Reality may be reached and experienced;
(d) The happy experience of those who obtain this Reality; and,
(e) The sad plight of those who do not, and, therefore, waste their
precious human lives.

GGS covers matters dealing with daily lives, and also spiritual way
of life.

4.1.1 Dasam Granth

Another religious book attributed to Guru Gobind Singh, called the

Dasam Granth, never acquired the same status as Guru Granth Sahib.
Doubt about the authenticity of many compositions in this Granth
remains. It was published a few years after the death of Guru Gobind
Singh and the hymns were collected from various sources. However,
there is agreement only on some compositions, which are clearly
those of the Tenth Master. They are often recited by the Sikhs and
two, (the Jaap Sahib and 10 Swayias starting “Sravag Sudh smooh
sidhan ke....”) are included in the daily recitations made obligatory
by the Sikh code of discipline, the Rehat Maryada82.

There is no detailed code like the Muslim Hadis except for the Sikh
code of Rehat Maryada. The instruction to the Sikhs is “Do what the
Guru has ordained. Why chase the Guru’s actions which you are
unable to comprehend?” (GGS p. 933)83

4.2 The Holy Quran

The Holy Quran is the Sacred Book of Islam and, for a Muslim, the
Word of God. It is the “final expression of God’s will and purpose

82
Sikh Rehat Maryada (P) published by the Dharam Parchaar Committee of the Shromani
Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee; 24th edition October, 1998.
83
guir kihAw sw kwr kmwvhu gur kI krxI kwhy Dwvhu (pMnw 933) . Gur kahia sa kar
kamavoh....(GGS p. 933)

33
for man.”84. It contains the revelations communicated by God to
Prophet Muhammad. The Quran had been sent down “confirming
that which (was revealed) before it,” a reference to the Torah (Jewish
scriptures) and the Gospel (Christian scriptures). (HQ 6:93)

Muslims believe that revelation is of two kinds: wahi jali (obvious

and clearly revealed to the senses) and wahi khafi (mystical -
comprehended by the receiver only). The Holy Quran is wahi jali
and the Hadis (ibid) is wahi khafi. The Quran85 is called “Al-Quran”.
Other names given to it are Quran Sharif, Quran Majeed and Quran-
e-Karim. In the Quran itself the name given to it is Furqan-Al-Kitab
(The criterion-Sura 25). The Muslims believe that Quran was
recorded on Loh-e-Mehfooz (preserved tablet) by God before the
creation of the world (HQ85: 21-22) and Jibrael uttered the Quran in
the Prophet’s ear by degrees. “We reveal the scripture unto thee as
an exposition of all things”(HQ 16:89)

The Holy Quran has 114 suras, 29 of which start with a letter or
letters the meaning of which is divinely confidential.86 The suras are
named after a person, object or an incident.87 Every sura bears the
words Mecci or Madni indicating whether the Prophet received it in
Mecca or Medina.88 Suras start with the words, “Bismillah hir
Rehman ir Rahim (In the name of Allah who is beneficent and

84
The Quran Interpreted by Arthur J Arberry, Oxford University Press, 1983.
85
Literally Quran means “Spoken word”. On page 14 of the book ‘Muhammad Arabi’ by
Barkatullah it is recorded with reference to Sahih Muslim that the Prophet said, “Do not record
what you hear from me .If you have recorded anything already then destroy it.” “And thou ( O
Muhammad) was not a reader of any scripture before it, nor didst thou write it with the right
hand, for then might those have doubted who follow falsehood”(HQ 19:48)
86
For example HQ2 Alif, Lam, Mim.HQ10 Alif, Lam, Ray. Seven Suras start with Ha, Mim.
Sura 50 starts with only one letter Kaf. Some people speculate that these letters represent the
names of the scribes.
87
Some Suras are based on a word that appears in the Sura (i.e. Sura Al-Anam),some are
named after
personalities (i.e. Sura 12 Yusuf, Sura 47 Muhammad, Sura 14 Abraham),some others are
named after stories of past prophets (i.e. Sura Hud tells stories of Hud, Aad, Salih, Samud &
Shoaib etc and Sura 18 Al-Kahf tells the story of young men who like seven sleepers of
Ephesus, slept for years in a cave),some Suras are based on incidents (i.e. Sura Al-Anfal is
about the battle of Badr and Sura 66 At-Tahrim is based on an incident of the Prophet with his
wives). Some other Suras are ‘The Cow,’ ‘The Bee’, ‘Smoke,’ ‘Iron’, and ‘The Elephant’
88
The Suras at the beginning of the Holy Quran (With the exception of Sura 1) are longer than
those coming at the end. For example Sura 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow) has 286 ayats whereas
Suras Al Nsr, Al-Kauthur & Al -Asr have only 3 ayats each. The first 19 Suras cover nearly the
whole of the Quran. Sura Baqarah can be called the gist of the whole Quran.

34
merciful) except Sura 9 (Al- Tauba- Repentance) where these words
do not appear. Suras are divided into ayats (verses) and a group of
ayats is called a spara. Sparas are further divided into rakuhaat. The
arrangement of the suras is not chronological89. The first one is Sura
Al-Fatihah, which has only seven ayats. In the first half of the Quran
many ayats refer to internecine struggles of the Quraish and many of
those in the second half concern troubles with Jews and Christians. It
took the whole Quran 23 years to be revealed to Prophet
Muhammad. In all it has 6666 ayats.

“ This is in truth the word of an honoured messenger”(HQ81: 19).

“It is not a poet’s speech- little is it that ye believe! No diviner’s
speech-little is that ye remember! It is revelation from the Lord of
the worlds.” (HQ 69: 40-43)

After the death of Prophet Muhammad many, who had learnt the
Quran by heart (Hafiz or Qari), were killed in the battle of
Yamama90. Caliphs Abu Bakar and Omar sent messages to the
followers to collect the verses of the Quran from people’s chests,91
stones, scraps of parchment, ones of camel’s shoulder blades and
hides where they had been recorded. Zaid Ibn Thabit and three other
people collated the hymns92and passed them on to the Prophet’s wife
Bibi Hafsa. When the work was finished (651CE) she passed it on to
Hazrat Usman, who prepared copies and ordered all original sources
to be destroyed.93

89
Suras that were received in Medina sometimes come before and sometimes after those
received in Mecca. Some Quranic stories for example those of Adam, Yusuf and Abraham are
also found in the Bible. Some passages are also similar for example Sura Maida 7:3 and
exodus 21:23-25 and Sura Iraf 5-1 and Mark 10-25.As for the arrangement, the Quran itself
says, "And we have arranged it in right order”(HQ25:32)
90
According to one estimate 700 Qaris who knew the Holy Quran by heart died in this battle.
91
Quite a number of suras were not written down at all, but were memorized by those standing
by ….. They were then transcribed, and had added to them what could be gathered from the
“hearts of men” (100 Great Books by John Canning page 82-83) . According to John Canning
about the year 650 AD copies of the collated Quran were deposited at Damascus, Basra and
Kufa the then capitals of Muslim empires . The original copy was kept at Medina.
92
Most manuscripts were available from (1) Hazrat Abdullah Bin-Masud (2) Hazrat Ali (3)
Waqa bin Naufil and (4) Prophet’s wife Bibi Hafsa and. Zaid. The other members of the
committee were (1) Saad bin Ass (2) Abdullah Bin-Zabera (3) Abdul-Rehman bin Haris bin
Hasham
93
Devout Muslims believe that every dot and dash in the Holy Quran had been faithfully
recorded and no verse was left out. However by the beginning of the tenth Century there were
seven recognised texts in the field. Prophet Muhammad said, “Gabriel read the Quran to me in
one way (i.e. dialect) and I continued asking Him in different ways till He read it in seven

35
Muslims believe that the present Quran contains all genuine verses
and that nothing has been left out. Some people, however, argue that
the Holy Quran itself contradicts some verses written in the Quran.
The number of such verses is reported to be 225. Muslim scholars
say that they had been cancelled (mansukh) by the Prophet after
having been received 94.

“If ye are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto our slave
(Muhammad), then produce a Sura of the like thereof, and call your
witness beside Allah if ye are truthful” (HQ 2:23, 10:39, 11:13 and
17: 88)

The Quran gives 99 names of God which are known as Isam-al-

hasna some of them are Allah, Rahim, Rehman, Ghafar, Razaq,
Latif, Jameel and Karim. About its authenticity and excellence the
Quran says, “This book is handed down from Allah95”(HQ: 40:1-3).

Muslims also believe that from time to time God sent instructions to
Adam (HQ 2:37), Abraham, Hazrat Musa, Hazrat Dawd, Jesus
Christ (HQ 5:46) which all got corrupted. Only the Holy Quran is
the uncorrupted revelation and is the last Book from God. No book
will come from God after the Holy Quran.

Words have a great significance in all religions and cultures and

Islam places great importance on the use of original Arabic words in
Muslim prayer. These words have compelling power for the devout
Muslims in inducing “mystic consciousness.”96For example the heart
beat says “Allah” and the hum or wind in the brain suggests the word

different ways”(SB 442). The present version was fixed in 933 CE.(Materials for the History
of the text of the Quran’ Jeffrey Page 1- 10)
94
“Such of our revelations as We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, we bring (in place) one
better or the like thereof. Knowest thou not that Allah is able to do all things”? (HQ 2:106).
Az Zubair said to Uthman bin Affan (While he was collecting the verses of the Holy Quran):
what is the point in recording the abrogated verses? Uthman said, "O son of my brother! I will
not shift anything of it from its place”(SB 53 &60 V.6 B.60)
95
The word ‘Allah’ was in use before the advent of Prophet Muhammad. Herodotus (chapter
3-8) wrote Allaat and Deodorus (60 BC) called Mecca Bait-Allah (God’s house). The name
Abdullah (abad+allah =The Sword of God) was very common. The custom of Hajj (Annual
pilgrimage), eating of Halal, belief in Jinns and cutting the hands of thieves were all prevalent
before Prophet Muhammad. Namaz (prayer) was also common and the followers of
Zarathustra (The Parsees) conducted five prayers.
96
MT Akbar’s Chapter on “Islamic Culture” in “The Cultural Heritage of India” p. 576

36
“hu” and the combination “Allah hu” induces a mystique
consciousness for the believer.

4.2.1 Hadis (Plural Ahadis)

The Ahadis exercise detailed control over the daily routines and lives
of the followers. They inform, teach, or prescribe reward or
punishment. These are Sahih-al-Bukhari (870 CE), Sahih-Muslim
(875 CE)97, Sunan-Ibn-Maaja (886 CE), Sunan-Abu-Daud (888 CE),
Jami-at-Trimidi (892 CE), and Sunan-an--Nisai (915 CE). Later
Mishkwat-al-Masabih (of Abu Muhammad al-Harain-bin-Masud),
Muwatta (of Imam Malik) and Asnad (of Ahmed-bin-Hanbal) were
produced and became very well known.98

According to Bukhari, out of a total of 600,000 Ahadis, which he

collected only 7275 could be true and out of them only 4,000 were
found to be authentic. Abu Dawd collected 500,000 Ahadis and later
accepted only 4,000 of them. Most of the Ahadis were collected
from Abu-Huraira who accepted Islam four years before the
Prophet’s death.

Some examples from the Ahadis are:

“Sang-e-Aswad (The black stone) came from Firdaus (Heaven) and

was whiter than milk. It became black because of the sins of Adam’s
progeny.” (Trimidhi through Ibn Abbas)

“He, who builds a mosque for Allah, is offered a house in Firdaus”

(SB & SM)”

“Cursed is the thief who steals an egg. His hand should be chopped
off. And anybody who steals a rope should also have his hand cut
off.” (SB and SM)

“Do not eat meat by using a knife. This is done by the

97
In 875 CE Aljama Al Shaibh of Nayasapur produced another Hadis which is authentic but
not as popular as Sahih Bukhari or Sahih Muslim.
98
The Shia Muslims do not accept these Ahadis. Their Ahadis are (1) Kafi by Abu Jafer
Muhammad Kalini (329H) (2) Min La Yathizra- al-Fiqah of Sheikh Ali Ibn Bawevia (3 and
4) Tehzib (466H) and Istabsar (406H) by Sheikh Abu Jafer Muhammad Toosi (5) Nahaj-al-
Balaghat by Sayyed Razi (406H). The later also includes Hazrat Ali’s sayings.

37
foreigners.”(Abu-Dawd)“Yunas said that the Prophet had
forbidden the drinking of water while standing.” (Sahih
Muslim)

“You should not eat or drink with your left hand because it is used
by the Shaitan (SM 5010, SB 288 V.7 B.65).

4.3 Pillars of Sikhism

“Sikh” means “seeker after the Truth”99. The three main pillars of the
Sikh way of life are:
- Meditation on the One Absolute Truth (Naam japna);
- Earning livelihood through honest work (kirat karni); and,
- Sharing one’s earnings with the needy (wand shakna).

The purpose of life is to serve the Lord’s creation with love100 (sewa)
in order to achieve salvation. This requires a fully participative
approach to life. Service rendered in this world is considered the
path to salvation. Sikh Scriptures promote a steady, middle-path
vision of life (the sahij approach).

4.4 Pillars of Islam

The five pillars of Islam are Confession of faith ( saying the

Tayyab kalima),prayer, Fasting, Zakat (charity) and Hajj
(pilgrimage), Every Muslim must visit Mecca at least once in
lifetime if not more often.

99
In Sikhism, as distinct from any other connotations of the literal meaning of the word, one
who is seeking the Truth, following the path shown by Guru Nanak, is a Sikh. (Mai badhi sach
dharamsal hai, GurSikhan lahda bhal kay GGS p.73). Also see Sau Sawal by Prof Satbir
Singh p.21. In the Hindu tradition, the word sikh means a shish i.e. a student or disciple of a
guru
100
Sewa means service with devotion and is a peculiarly Sikh concept. It must be selfless, non-
discriminatory and done in humility without expectation of any reward.

38
 CHAPTER 5
God, Prayers and Creation

T he concept of God in both religions is very similar but with

notable differences mentioned at Chapter 1.

5.1 God in Sikhism

The concept of One omnipotent, omniscient, timeless Creator has

similarity between Sikhism and Islam. Guru Nanak’s perception of
the Absolute Truth, the basic creed referred to as the Mool Mantar,
on which is then based the whole philosophy of Sikhism and Guru
Granth Sahib, is as follows:

“God is positive One, unique, all Truth, the Creator, devoid of fear,
devoid of animosity and hatred, Immortal, everlasting, Unborn, the
Self-Existent, the Benevolent Enlightener”101. Meditate on His Name
and recite: He was the Truth, is the Truth and forever shall be the
Truth.”

There are numerous other references to the Oneness of God in Guru

Granth Sahib, e.g. “My Lord is One, One and the only One O
brother.” (GGS p.350)
“This is His quality: that there has been no other, nor will there be
any other in future (but Him).” (GGS P.349)102

101
The words “Gur Prasad” have been translated in two ways: (1) like the preceding words of
the Mool Mantar as adjectives for God, “the Enlightener, the One who bestows favours on”
(Gur = the Enlightener, and Prasad = Karim, One who bestows favours or bounties on all. See
“prasad” with “sihari” in “Mahan Kosh” Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha); and (2) more commonly as
“through the grace of the Guru”. The usual rule for interpreting a string of items in the same
genre would suggest that “the Benevolent Enlightener” would be more correct and less vedic
in import i.e. misleading regarding the need for “a Guru”, readily misinterpreted by some as
“human guru”!
102
Sahib mera eko hai, eko hai bhai eko hai (GGS 350 ) Goon eho hor nahi koi, na ko hoa, na
ko hoi (GGS 349)

39
Sikhism accepts God as both within and without creation. God is
transcendent (Nirgun) and is also immanent (Sargun). He does not
take birth and He is everyone’s One and Only God.

God is in timeless meditation in His absolute state. He himself is the

Creator and himself the one who looks back on his creation (through
the created). (GGS P.290)103

God is an expression of profound wonderment: Waheguru! (Wah! an

expression of speechless amazement and “hey-Guru” means “O
Enlightener104”). He is called by many popular names describing His
qualities e.g. Ik Onkar (The One Creator), Akal Purakh (The
Timeless One) and Sat Kartar (the True Creator of everything). In
Guru Granth Sahib, God is called by many Islamic and Hindu names
also.

“Who can say all His Names; He is described only by those of His
qualities which are manifest through His creation.” (Guru Gobind
Singh)105

For a Sikh, it does not matter which one of the countless names of
God are used to remember Him provided He is the God described in
the Mool Mantar (see above). Thus, while a human being may
reflect certain godly qualities, no being can ever be regarded as an
incarnation of God, for God is outside the cycle of birth and death.

However, the Guru did not accept certain names for God, which
would imply negative human traits such as “Al-Muzil” (The giver of
disgrace) 106used in Islam

103
Sargun Nirgun Nirankar, sun samadhi Aap. Apan kia Nanaka, Aape hi fir jaap. (GGS 290)
104
Thus the word “Guru” used in Sikh Scriptures (Sri Guru Granth Sahib) refers to God as the
one who enlightens. In this sense the meaning of the word is different from the traditional
meaning which is “teacher”. See section 7.1 “Guru in Sikhism”.
105
Tav sarab naam kathe kavan, karam naam barnat sumat. (Jaap Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh)
106
“Whoever makes a prayer for protection after saying this name of Allah 75 times, Allah will
protect him from the harms of envious persons, oppressors and enemies”Al-hisnal Hasin
By
Muhammad Al-Jazri 1993

40
5.2 God in Islam

The Central belief of Islam is (a) Tawhid: God is unique and (b)
Risalah: Muhammad is his Messenger. La ilaha illallah
Muhammad-ar- rasul Allah is recited in the baby’s ear at birth and
every Muslim expects these words to be recited in his/her ear at
death. These two linked concepts, however, do not occur in the Holy
Quran together. They are from Sura Muhammad (47-19) and Sura-
Al-Fath (HQ 48:29)
The Holy Quran emphasizes the need for continuous remembrance
of God: “ naught is as His likeness; and He is the hearer, the seer”
(HQ 42:11). He cannot be understood by the vision, yet He
understands all vision. Believers must not allow themselves to forget
Allah by preoccupation with wealth or children; for they will be the
losers if they do. “Therefore remember me, I will remember you.
Give thanks to me, and reject not Me”(HQ2: 152) says the Holy
Quran.

The main objective of man in this life is to worship God. "Flee unto
Allah; Lo I am a plain Warner unto you for Him” (HQ 51:50).”He
who holdest fast to Allah, he indeed is guided unto a right path
“(HQ3: 101)

The Arabic word abadun used in the Holy Quran is a reminder that
man should regard himself as a slave of God. However, to reach this
state of humility, man has to first understand God, subject only to his
own human limitations. Man’s success in this life therefore depends
on how much “Godly knowledge” he has been able to acquire and
how much of that knowledge equates with the absolute truth about
God. Devout Muslim scholars therefore argue that (unlike earlier
religions) arrival of Islam heralded the era of the empirical method
of inductive logic leading on to a vast improvement in mathematics
and science.107

Development of an understanding of the great work of God and of

the boons that He has given for mankind’s benefit, is encouraged;
however, severe is the God’s punishment for those who set up rivals
to God as objects of worship. For such infidels and sinners Allah is

107
MT Akbar’s Chapter on “Islamic Culture” in “The Cultural Heritage of India” p. 571

41
severe in punishment. (HQ2: 160-61). “O Prophet! Strive against the
disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be stern with them. Hell will be
their home, hapless journey’s end” (HQ 66:9).

Allah rewards those who believe in Him and those who are given
knowledge and He is aware of all our deeds. Acquisition of
knowledge of the universe and nature is also necessary for feeling
the awe (or stupendous wonderment) at His creation and thus
realisation of His power and vastness. God is omnipotent and
omniscient (HQ6: 104). Everything that goes on anywhere and
everywhere is within His notice and is recorded. (HQ 6:59-60)

The word dhikr in the Holy Quran for remembrance is significant

and covers the full spectrum from a passing thought to actual vision
of God as in the case of one who is “God-intoxicated” and called a
majzoob. Rules laid down by the Holy Quran for attunement with
God must be strictly and unreservedly observed for success.
Methods for meditation (muraqaba) are meticulously prescribed.

Those who do not believe in the Quran are known as Kafir. This
word is derived from Kufr, which means “to conceal truth or to be
ungrateful”. The word Kafir is usually used for non-Muslims
“whoso disbelieveth in Allah and His angels and His scriptures and
his messengers and the Last day, he verily is a Kafir.” (HQ4: 136)108

5.3 Prayer in Sikhism

Early morning meditation on the Lord’s Name after bath has the
greatest spiritual merit in the Sikh tradition. The Sikhs are expected
to become and remain God conscious with every breath. Their
prayers exhort the Sikhs for self-exploration, self-knowledge and
spirituality. They are enjoined to recite and ponder the following five
compositions of the Guru, to aid God remembrance and the running
of their daily lives in accordance with the Guru’s Word (Gurmatt):

108
“Those who grow violent in disbelief, their repentance will not be accepted. The whole
earth
full of gold would not be accepted from such an one if it were offered as a ransom.” (HQ 3:90-
91)

42
Morning: Japuji Sahib, Jaap Sahib and Ten Swayyas.109
Evening: Rahiras in the evening
Bed time: - Sohila before going to bed
(From SGPC Rehat Maryada (P); 24th edition, 1998)

A bath before the morning prayers and general cleanliness is part of

the Sikh discipline code of Rehat Maryada. Yet, there may be
mitigating circumstances when the ablutions and the prayer routine
may not be possible or only partially possible. This is acceptable
provided there is a return to the prescribed (rehat) routine at the
earliest opportunity. However, it is also expected that the mind be
attuned to God. All rituals are meaningless:

“What good is your purification (wuzu)? Why do you wash your

face? Why do you bother to bow your head in the mosque? If your
heart is full of hypocrisy what good are your prayers or your
pilgrimage to Mecca?” (GGS p. 1350)110

The Sikhs may recite their prayers sitting on the floor (floor covering
e.g. a mat or a carpet, of any type may be used) when in
congregation; or in a chair or even while walking (or driving etc.)
when alone. They also do the standing prayer (supplication) to the
Lord for the well being of all human beings after the morning and
evening recitations and after every service in the Gurdwara.
Generally, unlike Islam, Sikhism is not prescriptive about adopting
any postures when praying. When saying prayers in the presence of
their Holy Scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhs face the Granth.

Hindu and Muslim names for God are used freely in Guru Granth
Sahib. However, the truly descriptive and most often repeated Sikh
names are “Waheguru” (The Wonderful Enlightener), and the “Ik
Onkar” (the One Positive Singularity which resides in creation and
which is the cause of all creation). The mainstream Sikh Khalsa
ideals flow from the latter description of the positive reality of the
Creator and the created.

109
In addition Gursikhs also recite ‘Anand sahib’ and ‘ Benti Chaupai’ with morning and
evening prayers
110
Kia uju paak kia munh dhoya, kia maseet sir niaya ………. (GGS P.1350)

43
5.3.1 Prayer in Islam

The Muslims worship Allah by taqwa: an awareness of God and

communication with God at all times. They have five prescribed
daily prayers111 as follows

1) Fajar (before sunrise) Adam was promised a “merit” (explained

below) of 20,000 Hajj for this prayer.
2) Zuhar (noon) Abraham was promised a merit of 40,000 Hajj for
this prayer.
3) Asar (afternoon) Noah was promised a merit of 60,000 Hajj for
this prayer.
4) Maghrib (at sunset) Jesus was promised a merit of 80,000 Hajj for
this prayer.
5) Isha (night prayer). Moses was promised a merit of 100,000 Hajj
for this prayer.112

On Fridays Zuhar prayer is omitted and instead Juma prayer is

performed. A merit of 1,000,000 Hajj was promised to Prophet
Muhammad for this prayer.113

The concept of Hajj “merit” needs to be understood in terms of deep

faith. Going to holy Mecca on pilgrimage (Hajj) is considered a
highly meritorious religious act, which adds to the spiritual credit of
a soul. It is in this sense that the great power of sincere prayer by a
true Muslim devotee needs to be understood.

Before each prayer, ritual washing (wuzu) is necessary (HQ5: 6). If

water is not available then tayamum (washing with dry sand or earth)
is done.114 Both palms are placed on the ground and then rubbed on
111
Before Prophet Muhammad, the Jews also had (and still have) five prayers. They call it
Ratav.
Parsees also say prayers five times a day.
112
The times of these prayers are not mentioned in the Holy Quran. They have been fixed on
the basis of Ahadis. In addition to these, some Muslims also observe Salat-al-Ishraq (after
sunrise), Salat-al Zuha (at 11 A.M.) and Salat-al-Tahajud (at midnight) prayers (HQ
50:40,52:49). It is said that the Prophet was given 50 prayers by God. On his return to the 6th
heaven he met Moses. Moses said that 50 were too many and the Prophet’s Umma would not
accept them. The Prophet went back to God and asked Him to reduce the number of
compulsory prayers to five.
113
This is because Adam was created on this day and it was on this day again that he entered
Paradise. See Sahih Muslim 1856.
114
“When you do not find water then perform Tayammum with clean earth (Sura Al-Maida

44
the face. The act of dry washing of arms up to the elbows is then
performed. The Muslims must face towards Mecca while performing
their prayers (HQ2: 149) “ We shall make thee turn (in prayer)
toward a Qibla which is dear to thee (HQ2: 144)

Muslims must “bow” seven joints/bone structures when praying.

These are “the hands, the knees, the extremities of the feet and
forehead” (SM 991) “People should avoid lifting their eyes skywards
while praying, If they do their eyes will be snatched away” (Sahih
Muslim 863).

While praying the Muslims must not raise their heads from the
ground before the Imam does. “Does the man who lifts his head
before the Imam not fear that Allah may change his face into that of
an ass”? (SM 860 SB660 V.1 B.11)115

“There are ninety-nine names of Allah. He who commits them to

memory would get into paradise” said the Prophet. (SM 6475) “Why
ninety nine?” somebody asked. “Because God is odd (witr) and
loves odd number” explained Prophet Muhammad. (SM 6476)

5.4 Creation according to Sikhism

Before creation there was nothing but God in His abstract (nirgun)
state.

“For countless ages there was utter darkness. There was no earth and
no sky but Infinite Lord’s will alone was pervasive.” (GGS p. 1035)
116
Creation took place by His will.

“With one Word He caused the expansion (of the universe) to take
place. From this flowed countless streams (of creative activity).”
(GGS p. 3)117 “Heavenly bodies like the sun and the moon are
moving countless miles in awe (in God’s will)”. (GGS p. 464)118

also see SB 343)

115
“Strengthen your rows or Allah will alter your faces” Said the Prophet. (SB 68 V.1 B.11)
116
Arbad narbad dhundookara. Dharan na gagna Hukam apara ……….. (GGS p.1035)
117
Kita pasao eko kawao. Tis te hoi lakh dariao. (GGS P.3)
118
Bhai wich sooraj bhai wich chand. Koh karori chalat na ant (GGS p. 484).

45
“The One God created the creation. The regions, the continents all
worlds and planes of existence, they all came into being from God’s
Word.” (GGS p. 1003)119 “The True Lord created air. Air gave rise
to water. Life sprouted forth from water and His Spirit governs
evolutionary process in the whole of His creation.”(GGS p.19)120

According to Sikhism there are countless earths, moons and suns and
other planets in existence. “There are numerous forms of life and
numerous are their modes of speech.”121

5.4.1 Creation according to Islam

According to Islam God said, “Kun Fayakoon” and everything came

into existence. “ When He saith ‘be’ it is.” (HQ 6:73,16:40)“Have
not those who disbelieve known that the heavens and the earth were
of one piece, then we parted them, and we made everything of
water”?” (HQ21: 30).
Islamic belief is that the universe was created in stages. According to
Islam, God “created the heavens and the earth in six days. (HQ10:
4,7: 55, 11:7, and 50: 38) “There are seven skies” (HQ2: 29,
65:12)122. Allah created the clay on Saturday, mountains on Sunday,
trees on Monday, things entailing labour on Tuesday, light on
Wednesday, animals on Thursday, Adam after Asr (afternoon
prayer) on Friday (SM 6707)123
Humans were created from wet black speaking clay (HQ15:
27, 23: 12-14) and Shaitan was created from fire and smoke.

119
Khand deep sabh loa, ek kawawe te sabh hoa (GGS p.1003 )
120
Sachay tay pavna bhia pavnay tay jal hoe………… (GGS p. 19)
121
Kete ind chand sur kete, kete mandal des……(Japuji, GGS p. 7))
122
Prophet Muhammad is said to have made a journey to the throne of God in the seventh
heaven from Kaaba (History of the Punjab, Punjabi University page 22) For a similar story in
Hinduism refer to Arjuna’s journey to heaven and hell in Indra Lok Gamanang.
123
“Say (O Muhammad unto the idolaters): disbelieve ye verily in Him who created the earth
in two days, and ascribe ye unto Him rivals? He (and none else) is the Lord of the worlds. He
placed therein firm hills rising above it, and blessed it and measured therein its substance in
four days, alike for (all) who ask. Then turned he to heaven when it was smoke, and said unto
it and unto the earth: come both of you, willingly or loth. They said: we come, obedient. Then
he ordained them seven heavens in two days”.(HQ 41:9-12).According to Sura 17 (Bani
Israel) the Prophet went through all seven heavens to see God (See The Glorious Quran page
204) Having completed the creation Allah wrote in his book “My Mercy overpowers My
Anger”(SB 416)

46
 CHAPTER 6
Sacred places; Pilgrimage; Rituals and sacrifice

6.1 Sacred places of the Sikhs

T here are many historical centres of great significance for the

Sikhs. However, they are not places of pilgrimage in the same
sense as the Islamic (and Hindu) traditions. The concept that
God “resides” in any one place of worship to the exclusion of any
other place is rejected in Sikhism. Likewise Sikhism does not accept
that bathing at a certain place of pilgrimage (e.g. in water tanks
adjoining temples) will wash sins. According to Gurbani, “The
perfect Lord fills all creation: in water and dry land the Lord is all
pervading.”124 (GGS p.617) “If salvation can be achieved by bathing
in water, then a frog is better off. He remains in water all the
time.”(GGS p. 484)125 “My sacred shrine of pilgrimage is the Name
of the Lord” (GGS p. 1142)126

The main historical and theo-political centre of the Sikhs is the

Darbar Sahib complex (popularly called the Golden Temple) at
Amritsar. The city of Amritsar, which acquires its name from the
lake in which stands the Harmandar the sanctum sanctorum of the
Sikhs, was founded by Guru Ram Das (Nanak IV 1534-1581CE).
The word Amritsar is the abbreviation for “amrit sarowar ” (the lake
of immortality). Work on the lake was started by Guru Ram Das
(Nanak IV) and the project was completed by Guru Arjan Dev
(NanakV). Guru Arjan Dev then installed the original Granth Sahib
(Adi Granth) at the Harmandar in the shrine at the centre of the lake,
on 30th August 1604. Although there is only one bridge-way leading

124
Puran poor rahio sarab meh. Jal thal ramya ahio (GGS p 617)
125
Jal ke majjan je gatt howay nit nit maindak naawai… (GGS P. 484)
126
Tirath hamra har ko naam (GGS Page 1142)

47
to Harmandar, the sanctum sanctorum, the latter has four doors and
this structure has great significance in terms of Sikh ideology127.

Harmandar is open to men, women and followers of all religions, all

castes, creeds and nationalities. People sit where they find a place
and listen to the hymns sung in classical raags (metres) and popular
rhythms and beats (dhunees) specified in GGS. Harmandar
symbolizes the arrival of the new age trans-caste and trans-religion
humankind.

Guru Hargobind (Nanak VI, 1595-1644 CE), built the political

Centre of the Sikhs called Akal Takhat, an edifice facing the
Harmandar in 1609. Thus Darbar Sahib became the theo-political
(miri-piri = temporal and spiritual) centre of the Sikhs. Ever since,
the complex has been attacked and destroyed by Delhi rulers or
invading tyrants on many occasions and rebuilt by the Sikhs128.

The Sikhs have four other similar historical centres called Takhats
(thrones) located at Patna in Bihar, Anandpur and Damdama in
Punjab and Hazur Sahib in Maharashtra. In addition to these main
Centres of Sikhism, there are hundreds of historical Gurdwaras all
over India, Bangla Desh and Pakistan. Also, there are some
Gurdwaras in the Middle East marking the places where Guru Nanak
travelled with his universal message for mankind.

Sikhism places no restrictions on the building of mosques, temples

or other places of worship by the people of different faiths. During
the Khalsa Raj (1799 to 1849CE), Maharajah Ranjit Singh129

127
Four doors of Harmandar signify that it is open to all, religions, castes and creeds from all
directions. John Archer in his book ‘The Sikhs’ (page 144 quotes var 14 Pauri 2 of Bhai
Gurdas and interprets Harmandar as ‘Everybody’s temple’. 'Har’ in Panjabi means ‘everybody’
(Harek) and ‘Mandar’ means ‘a place of worship. Harmandar= everybody’s place of worship
128
The most recent attack was by the Indian army in June 1984 on the occasion of the
Remembrance Day of Guru Arjan’s (Nanak V) martyrdom. Indian journalists and Western
media confirmed that hundreds of innocent Sikhs were killed during this invasion of the main
Gurdwaras in Punjab.
129
“One of his firmans (orders) issued to Faqir Noor-ud-Din in the true spirit of Sikhism reads,
“Protector of bravery Malwa Singh should be advised to dispense justice in accordance with
legitimate right and without the slightest oppression and, furthermore, he should be advised to
pass orders in consultation with panches and judges of the city in accordance with the
Shashtras and the Quran, as pertinent to the faith of the parties for Such is our pleasure.”
(Firman dated 31 Bhadon Sambat 1882. The original is now with Faqir’s family in Pakistan

48
frequently made donations to the religious centres of the three main
religions of the Raj. Despite his title, he never regarded this people’s
regime administered in accordance with Khalsa ideals, as his
“kingdom”.

6.2 Sacred places of Islam

Mecca130 and Medina are the sacred places of the Muslims. In Mecca
the foundation of the Holy Kaaba131 is believed to have been laid by
Adam. He brought the Black Stone (Hajar-al-Aswad) from heaven
and installed it in Mecca. This stone is 38cm x 28cm and is fixed in a
silver casing on the Southeast corner of the Kaaba at a height of 1.5
metres from the ground. Hajj pilgrimage and related rituals are
known to have been prescribed by angel Jibrael. These require a
pilgrim to go around the Holy Kaaba and to kiss the Holy stone.132
Noah’s flood is known to have caused damage to the Kaaba, which
was repaired by Abraham and his son Ishmael under orders from
God. (HQ2: 128).

Non-Muslims are not permitted to visit the Kaaba.133 A non-Muslim

needs to read the Islamic restrictions placed on non-believers visiting
their sacred places in the historical context and empathize with the
strong religious sentiments of the believers. The threats to a new
enlightened ideology from priestcraft, idol worship, and those with a
vested interest in spreading superstition, prejudice and ignorance
cannot be ignored. The Prophet’s life and mission was always in
danger from such people. The Holy Quran says, “O you who
believe, the idolaters are unclean, so let them not come near the
inviolable place of worship.” (HQ 9:28) Non-Muslims are not
allowed to construct any temples to God in Arabia. Non-believers
cannot expect favourable treatment in Ramzan because the Holy
Quran says, “Then when the sacred months have passed, slay the

130
Its previous name was Becca. It is 70 miles from the port of Jeddah and is locally known as
Umm-al-Qura (Mother of the towns).
131
According to Israr-e-Shayat the Holy Kaaba could fly in the air. Kaaba literally means “A
high place”. It is considered the right hand of Allah (Ahadis Ahmed, Trimidhi and Ibn Hibban)
132
Umar said, "No doubt I know that you are a stone and can neither benefit anyone nor harm
anyone. Had I not seen Allah’s Apostle kissing you, I would not have kissed
you”(SB667,675,676 ,680 V.2 B.26)
133
This restriction contrasts with “We have created Kaaba for the benefit of all people” ( See
selected verses of the Holy Quran in Gurmukhi page 37)

49
idolaters wherever ye find them, and take them (captive), and
besiege them, and prepare for them each ambush. But if they repent
and establish worship and pay the poor due, then leave their way
free.”(HQ 9:5).

Again these injunctions need to be noted in the historical

context and in the context of threats to an enlightened ideology
from diverse cult practices spreading superstition and idol
worship.

6.3 Sikh places of worship

A Gurdwara is the Sikh place of congregational worship. The word

Gurudwara or Gurdwara may be interpreted as “through the Guru”
or, “the door to the Guru”. A Gurdwara for the Sikhs is much more
than a place of worship. It is also a meeting place and an educational
centre for the Sikh community where the twin institutions of Sangat
(holy congregation) and Langar (the Guru’s kitchen) are located. A
Gurdwara is divided into two main areas or halls: a hall for
worshipping in which Guru Granth Sahib is placed in a central
position; the Langar area where vegetarian food is prepared and
served to people in rows (i.e. in pangat) as equals. In both places
people usually sit on the floor in the cross-leg (chaunkra) position.
There is always relaxation of this rule for those who are physically
unable to sit in the dining hall in that position.

There is no social, religious or gender discrimination of any sort in a

Sikh Gurdwara and the Sangat/pangat134 tradition continues to
ensure this. A person attending worship may sit on the floor
anywhere he or she likes, although, in most Gurdwaras, men and
women sit in separate groups. At Harmandar Sahib and at many
other larger historical Gurdwaras they sit wherever they can find a
place. In India and Pakistan, many Hindus and Muslims attend Sikh
Gurdwaras and there are, and have been, many famous Muslim and
Hindu raagis (classical singers of hymns from GGS). A Muslim,
Bhai Chaand, was a well-known ragi at Darbar Sahib (Golden
Temple). Bhai Lal is a Muslim raagi at Nankana Sahib and has

134
Sangat is the holy congregation (open to all) and pangat is the indiscriminate seating
arrangement in rows in the community dining area - the Langar.

50
visited UK on at least two occasions to perform Sikh devotional
music in the British Gurdwaras.

Sikh worship consists of kirtan (the singing of hymns from GGS),

paath (reading of GGS) and katha (interpretation of Gurbani and
associated literature with reference to historical anecdotes by learned
Sikhs called gianis). As Sikhism does not recognise ordained
priesthood, any educated Sikh, man or woman, can do kirtan, paath
or katha and perform the ceremonies relating to the rites of passage:
birth, death, marriage (anand karaj) or any other event and say the
Sikh ardaas (congregational prayer).

6.3.1 Muslim places of worship

Mosque (Masjid): - A Masjid must have two things (1) minarets for
doing the call for prayer (Azan) and (2) Qibla- a niche in the mosque
built in such a way that the devotee’s face remains towards the
Mecca at the time of the prayer.
Call to prayer (Azan): - five times a day, the Mullah (Muslim priest)
must go up into the Minaret and shout the Azan as loudly as he can
(Women are not allowed to perform Azan). It has five parts:
Allah hu Akbar (repeated four times): - God is great.
Shuhidan la illa ill Allah: (repeated twice): - I vouchsafe that there is
but one God and no other God.
Wa Shuhidan Muhammad Rasul Allah (repeated twice): - And I
witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of God.
Hayee Ali Al salwat (repeated twice): - Come for the prayer.
Hayee Ali Al Fallah (repeated twice): - Come for the meritorious act.
Allah Akbar. Allah Akbar. La illa ill Allah: - (God is great. God is
great. There is nothing but God)
Prayer on Lailat-al-Qadar (the Night of Power),“is better than a
thousand months.135 The angels and the spirit descend therein by the
permission of the Lord”(HQ 97:3-4). It occurs during the last 10
days of the month of Ramadan.

135
“Whosoever establishes the prayers on the night of Qadar out of sincere faith and hoping to
attain Allah’s rewards (not to show off) then all his past sins will be forgiven”(SB 34-36 Vol.1
Book 2)

51
At the time of prayer Muslims must face the Mecca. “ And
whencesoever thou cometh (for prayer O Muhammad) turn thy face
toward the inviolable place of worship.”(HQ2-150)
If a person hears the Azan and utters, “I am satisfied with Allah as
my Lord, with Muhammad as Messenger and with Islam as deen (the
faith), his sins would be forgiven” (SM 749). “O ye who believe!
When the call is heard for the prayer of the day of congregation,
haste unto remembrance of Allah and leave your trading” (HQ62: 9)
Women usually pray at home and do not lead the prayers.

Unlike the Langar in a Sikh Gurdwara, there is no community

kitchen adjoining mosques.

6.4 Pilgrimage in Sikhism

Pilgrimage, as a journey to a religious place is a common practice in

human societies. While Muslims and the Sikhs do visit their
religious and historical shrines, it is important to note the differences
in motivation and purpose by each faith group.

Pilgrimage, as a meritorious act has no place in Sikhism136.

However, the practice of visiting historical places of Sikhism has
grown for religious, cultural, tourism and educational reasons. Such
places remind Sikhs (especially children) of the tradition and values
for which great sacrifices have been made. These are also places
where one is likely to meet other Gursikhs well-versed in Gurbani
teachings. Although there is no religious requirement for the Sikhs to
go on a “pilgrimage” many Sikhs visit historical places as points of
interest and heritage. The Guru has emphasized that without divine
contemplation and purification of the mind pilgrimage is a useless
ritual.

“I do not go on Hajj to Kaaba (Mecca) nor worship at Hindu holy

places. I serve only One Omnipresent God and none other.” (GGS p.
1136)137

136
“Introduction to Sikhism” by Gobind Singh Mansukhani p 60. Hemkunt Press 1985.
137
Hajj Kabey jao na tirath pooja. Eko sewi avar na dooja. (GGS1136)

52
 “Why bathe at the place of pilgrimage when God’s Name is the real
place of pilgrimage. Pilgrimage is acquisition of inner (divine)
knowledge through contemplation of the Name” (GGS P.687) 138

The background of Guru Amar Das (before he became the Guru) is

enlightening in this respect. He went on many pilgrimages but saw
the True Light only when he met the True Guru, Guru Angad Dev.

“The Guru is the river (pilgrim spot) in whose water (divine

instruction), the filth of sin and evil thoughts is washed off”. (GGS
p. 1329)139

Guru Gobind Singh further stressed that without devotion and purity
of mind pilgrimages were meaningless.

6.4.1 Pilgrimage in Islam

Pilgrimage (Hajj): - According to Islam whosoever enters Mecca

(house of God) is safe and “Pilgrimage to the house is a duty unto
Allah for mankind”(HQ3: 97).140 Muslims must visit and pay
homage to Hajar-al-Aswad (also known as Sang-e-Aswad) at Mecca
once in life between 8th and 13th Dhu-al-Hajj, the twelfth month of
Islam. A slave has to perform pilgrimage twice. Once before he /she
is free and once after liberation. All Muslims repeat the following
words in unison at Mecca

“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” (Here I am at your service O Lord

God”)

Hajj involves - Putting on Ihram (Two sheets of unsewn white cloth)

at Miqat. 2. Circumambulating (Tawaf) the holy Kaaba141(Muslim
shrine at Mecca also known as Baitullah) seven times (SM 2982),
three times at fast pace and four times at slow pace. They kiss Hajar-

138
Tirath navan jao tirath nam hai Tirath sabad bichar antar gian hai (GGS 687)
139
Gur dariao sada jal nirmal milia durmat mael hare (GGS 1329)
140
“Perform the pilgrimage and visit (to Mecca) for Allah. And if ye are prevented, then send
such gifts as can be obtained with ease, and shave not your heads until the gifts have reached
the destination……………and whoever cannot find (such gifts),then a fast of three days while
on the pilgrimage, and of seven when ye have returned”(HQ 2:196)
141
Kaaba is a 33x39x49 feet cube-like one- storey building which is supposed to have been
originally built by Adam and later repaired and looked after by Abraham and his son Ismael.

53
al-Aswad142 (the black stone) at each round 3. A fast walk between
As-Safa and Al-Marvah.143 Allah does not acknowledge the Hajj if
the pilgrim does not observe Sa’i -running seven times between As-
Safa and al-Marwa (SM 2923). 4. Visiting and staying at Mina,
Arafah and Muzdalifah 5. Throwing seven stones each at three
concrete pillars (Ramyur-rijam) at Mina to drive away the Satan
(Jamrat-al-aqaba) 6. Shaving or trimming hair after performing
Hajj. 7. To slaughter an animal as sacrifice to God (usually a cow, a
goat, a sheep or a camel is sacrificed) on the 10th day (known as
Nahar) of the month144.

8. A visit to Prophet Mohammed’s tomb at Medina.

While doing a Hajj, Muslims are forbidden from wearing “a shirt, or

a turban, a trouser, or a cap” (SM 2647).”The socks should be cut
short to make the ankles bare”(SB 615 Vol.2). They do not shave or
pare their nails. The Hajj lasts for 4 days plus three days of rest at
Mecca. Then the pilgrims go to Medina and visit the Prophet’s
tomb.145

Those who have performed all these rituals call themselves Hajjis.
Most devout Hajjis bring home water from the well at ZamZam for
use at home. This water is considered sacred.146

6.5 Sacrifice: Sikhism and Islam

142
According to Abbas Muhammad the stone was white when it came from heaven. It turned
black as the humans kept touching it. When God sits in judgement on the dooms day, this
stone will develop two eyes and a tongue. The eyes will recognise those who performed Hajj
and the tongue will remonstrate on behalf of the devout Muslims.
143
Two hills near Mecca. They are known as symbols of Allah”(SB 706 V.2 B.26)
144
The origin of sacrifice is the story of Abraham who was told in a dream to sacrifice his son
for God (HQ37:102-106) “For every nation we appointed a ritual that they may mention the
name of Allah over the beast that He hath given them for food (HQ 22:34).The Prophet once
sacrificed a cow on behalf of his beloved wife Aisha (SM3030 SB 767 V2 B30).On his
farewell pilgrimage the Prophet sacrificed 100 camels, 63 of them with his own hands (SM
2803 SB 770). Sacrifice of animals was prevalent at that time even among the Jews although
Jehovah, the God of the Jews and Christians had declared that He “desired mercy and not
sacrifice” (Hosea 6:6)
145
Wahabi Muslims do not consider it Islamic to worship at a grave and therefore do not visit
Medina.
146
According to Tabaqat (Vol. 2 page 241-44) the water of this well is sacred because the
Prophet spat into it.

54
The significance of sacrifice as a religious concept, symbolic of
detachment from this life and its false materialist attractions on the
one hand and total devotion to the Deity on the other, needs to be
clearly understood. Great sacrifices have been made for the right
causes or for those near and dear: for children by parents; by lovers
for each other; for kings and countries, for upholding human rights,
for justice and so on. Animal sacrifice, as a substitute for self
sacrifice (i.e. accepting death or taking pain on self) or sacrifice of
something/someone near and dear to please a Deity, is a long
standing religious practice. Wasteful ascetic austerities to gain
spiritual powers may be looked at as an aspect of the same sacrificial
human trait. A devotee may be prepared to sacrifice anything in this
life to gain some spiritual benefit or to please the Deity.

Under the heading of “Pilgrimage” above sacrifice of animals is

mentioned as an Islamic practice. Such a practice may seem
abhorrent to the modern animal loving mind; yet, it needs to be seen
in the light of what has been said above. It is the purity of mind and
devotion to the One and only Allah, which the Islamic ritual of
animal sacrifice tries to induce in a true Muslim devotee. That may
also be the reason why an animal reared at home is regarded as even
a worthier candidate for ritual sacrifice. Animal sacrifice is
mentioned at many places in the Holy Quran. (HQ2: 173, 6: 119).

All adult Muslims are supposed to sacrifice an animal on Id-al-Adha

(SM 4818-4835) because “There is a reward annexed to every hair
of the animal sacrifice” (Trimidhi V.1-1392).147 “We have given thee
abundance, so pray unto the Lord and sacrifice” (HQ 108:42)

According to Sikhism animal sacrifice has no spiritual merit and is

strictly forbidden.

“The use of force is tyranny even if you call it halal. When your
account is called for in the court of the Lord, what will your
predicament be then?” (GGS Page 1374) 148

147
“On the day of judgement the horns, hair and hoofs of the sacrificed animal fall in the pan
of pious deeds and thus cancel out the misdeeds of the devotees”(Mishkwat –al- Masabih
Book 4 .Chapter 49-2)
148
Kabir jori keeyay jullam hai, kehta nau halal…………(GGS p.1374)
In Islam meat is prepared in a special way (zibah). The animal is killed by puncturing the
jagular vein of the throat while at the same time Sura-al-Fatihah is recited. The belief is that

55
Sikhism believes in sacrifice for a noble cause or for the good of
humanity when necessary. Guru Gobind Singh, at Chamkaur,
dressed and sent his own two sons to the battle in a spirit of sacrifice
for the right cause. Service with humility (sewa), sharing one’s
food and earnings with the needy, treading the righteous path
regardless of cost, and inner detachment while living a full life, is the
Guru’s way of sacrifice. Sikhism preaches that a real sacrifice is to
lay down one’s own life for a noble cause. 149

the slaughtered animal's “blood reaches the acceptance of God before it falls on the ground
(Trimidhi Vol.1 –1392)” This is called halal (rightful). Meat prepared in any other way is
known as haram (forbidden). The person who performs Zibah must be a Muslim. Pig-meat
(Khanzir) and a donkey’s meat are forbidden (SB 383). Sikhism forbids this type of killing and
Guru Gobind Singh issued special instructions not to eat meat prepared in the Muslim way.
“Jia badho so dharam kar thapo dharam kaho kat bhai….”Further interpretation of this
injunction would forbid a Sikh to support ritual killing of any type i.e. Hindu sacrifices.
149
Maran munsa surian haq hai je hoe marey parwanu (GGS p. 579).

56
 CHAPTER 7
God’s Messengers and their Second Coming

7.1 Guru in Sikhism

T he reverential status and concept of the “Guru” in Sikhism is

unique amongst world religions. The Sikh Gurus did not ask
their followers to remember them with the name of God.

The Sikh Gurus did not claim that after them no one would be
qualified to preach religion. They simply said that they were like
other human beings and were slaves of God.

In Sikhism, the “Guru”, a comprehensive Sikh concept, may be

regarded as the messenger of Truth. First and foremost, like Islam,
the Sikhs believe in One and only One God and none other. They
follow the ten human Gurus and their instructions as enshrined in the
Holy Guru Granth Sahib (the book representing the Word or
Gurbani of the Gurus). The human Guru is the Enlightener who
shows the path to union with the Ultimate Truth (God). He is not
identified with any one person but rather with the light of the Word
Guru i.e. Gurbani:

“There is only One Gurbani, One Guru, and one contemplation of

the Word.” (GGS P.646)150

The path, the light that shows it and the Ultimate Truth at the end of
that path, represent a single integrated idea in Sikhism. The concept
of a messenger from God (human or supernatural) as distinct from
the message is not relevant in Sikhism.

150
ika Bani ik Gur Iko shabad vichaar. (GGS p. 646)

57
The Sikh Gurus repeatedly made it clear throughout the Sikh
scriptures that they were no more than humble servants of God.
“Nanak daas” (Nanak, the servant) is one of the most repeated
expressions in the GGS.

The Sikh Guru went further and gave his true disciple the same
status as himself: “He who lives according to the spiritual and
physical Sikh discipline of rehat is my true disciple. Nay he is my
master and I his servant.” (Guru Gobind Singh)151

There is a unique relationship between a religious teacher and his

follower. A Sikh has a direct link with God through continuous
research of Shabad or Gurbani (Guru’s Word). The Sikhs consider
the Guru, as an intermediary between humankind and the Creator.
He is not looked upon as a representative of God who promises
automatic salvation to his followers. The Guru is the Light, which
shows the path to enlightenment. One who keeps his eyes closed and
makes no effort to see or follow the path shown by Gurbani cannot
depend on anyone for union with God.

“According to Sikh faith, everyone possesses the potentiality of

perfection and is capable of attaining union with God directly, and
when the disciple reaches that stage, the Guru hails him as his
master.” (A Critique of Sikhism p.7, S. Gurmit Singh, advocate.).

This concept contrasts with the Islamic position (ibid) and with the
position of Jesus Christ in Christianity and that of Lord Krishna in
Hinduism respectively as follows:

“I am the way; I am the truth and I am life; no one comes to the

Father except by me.” (Jesus - John 14, 6)

“Those who take refuge in Me alone will cross the sea of life”, Says
Lord Krishna in the Holy Gita (VII - XIV)

The Sikh Gurus made no such claims. Since every soul has the
potential for making a direct connection with the ultimate Reality,
the need for a belief in any special beings such as a prophet or an
angel as a pre-requisite for seeking deliverance and union with God
151
Rehni rahe soi sikh mera oh Sahib main uska chera (Guru Gobind Singh)

58
becomes irrelevant. They may act as guides but can do no more. The
concept of Khalsa152 as “Waheguru’s Khalsa” also derives from this
direct link between a Sikh and God.

In Sikhism, names of Hindu mythical gods and Muslim angels are

mentioned in the context of the relevant popular stories only to draw
moral lessons. For example, talking about the grace of God Kabir
says:

“When He bestowed His grace on the venerable Adam, only then

was the later entitled to live in paradise for a long time”153 (GGS p.
1161)

About those who meditate on God and live a moral life Guru Arjan
Dev writes:

“The accounts kept by Chitr and Gupt, the recording scribes, are torn
up and the angels of death feel helpless” (GSS Page 79)154

Otherwise, in the context of Sikh teachings, the Sikhs are strongly

warned against putting their faith in any thing or being other than
God and Gurbani.

7.2 Nabi or Rasul in Islam

A Nabi’s revelation is called Wahi. A Rasul not only brings Wahi

but also brings a message from God. Muslims believe that Adam155
was the first Nabi and according to the Ahadis, God has sent 224,000
Nabis156 and 315 Rasuls to the earth so far. The Holy Quran names
25 of them (HQ 6: 84-86). Six of them are:

152
Literally means, “sovereign’s own land”. In Sikhism it means both, the “pure” from its
Arabic derivation, and Sikhs linked directly with the One God, the Enlightener. In the orders
(Hukamnamas) issued by the Gurus e.g. the Sixth Guru, Guru Har Gobind, the word Khalsa
for the Sikhs was used in the latter proprietary sense.
153
Baba Adam ko kichh nadar dikhaee,Un bhi bhist Ghaneri paaee (GGS Page 1161).
154
Chitr Gupt ka kagad Pharia jamdootan kachhu na chali (GSS p. 79)
155
In Christianity and Islam Adam is believed to be the first person created by God. Adam and
his wife Eve (Created from Adam’s ribs) lived in the Garden of Eden. They ate a forbidden
fruit. As punishment God expelled them from the garden.
156
(He is) the knower of the unseen, and He revealeth unto none His secret save unto the
Messenger who He hath chosen and then maketh a guard to go before him and a guard behind
him” (HQ 72:26-27)

59
Adam (Safi-Allah = favourite of God)
Noah (Nabi-Allah = Prophet of God)
Moses (Kalim-Allah = Spokesman of God)
Abraham (Khalil-Allah = Friend of Allah)
Jesus (Kalmat-Allah = voice of God)
Mohammed (Sali-Allah-alia-wassalum = Prophet and Messenger of
God)

They were supreme in their times. Mohammed was the last Nabi and
Messenger157 (Khatum-un-Nabiyeen - Sura-al-Ahazab 4).

“I have been given superiority over the other Prophets in six

respects. I have been given words, which are concise and
comprehensive in meaning. I have been helped by divine terror that
has been struck in the hearts of my enemies; spoils have been made
lawful to me........ I have been sent to all mankind and the line of
Prophets is closed with me” Said the Prophet. (SM 1062)

In Islam, it is not sufficient to believe in God. Love and prayer for

the Prophet are a pre-condition.

“None of you is a believer till I am dearer to you than your child,

your father, and the whole mankind”(SM 33). “He who blesses me
once, Allah would bless him ten times.”(SM 808). “He who obeys
me, obeys Allah, and he who disobeys me, disobeys Allah” (SB 204
V.4 B.52)

“You must say Drood for the Prophet”(HQ 48:9).158 “Lo! Allah and
His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! Ask

155
According to the Holy Quran every nation has a messenger (see HQ 16:36, 14:5 and 37:
64 We have sent a messenger to every nation). Ahmedias do not recognise Prophet
Muhammad as the last Prophet and quote this verse. They believe that messengers will come
after Muhammad but they will be born only in Muslim families and will only preach Islam.
Ahmedias owe their origin to Mirza Ghulam Ahmed (1803-1908CE) of Qadian. After his
death, the second Caliph Hakim Nur-Ud--Din developed differences with Ghulam Ahmed’s
son Bashir Ahmed. This caused schism in Ahmedia ranks and split it into two sects, One at
Qadian (Known as Mirzai) and the other at Lahore (known as Ahmedia Anjuman). In Pakistan
all Ahmedias are declared Kafir (Non-believer) because they do not believe in the finality of
Prophethood after Muhammad.
158
Prayers said for the Prophet are called Drood and feast and prayer performed for the
Prophet’s daughter Bibi Fatima is called Qaduri. The people asked, "O Allah’s Apostle! How
shall we (ask Allah to) send blessings on you?” Allah’s Apostle replied, "Say: O Allah send
your Mercy on Muhammad and his wives and on his offspring”(SB 588- 589)

60
blessings on Him and salute him with a worthy salutation.”(HQ
33:56). “Who so obeyeth Allah and His Messenger, He will make
him enter gardens underneath which rivers flow, where each will
dwell forever”(HQ4: 13) “ There in rivers of water unpolluted, and
rivers of milk whereof the flavour changeth not, and rivers of wine
delicious to the drinkers and rivers of clear-run honey” (HQ47: 15).

7.3 Angels in Sikhism

The Sikhs do not believe in the existence of angels. According to

Sikhism “Those who live a virtuous life are angels but those who
commit sins are devils”159

7.3.1 Angels in Islam

Malaika: Muslims believe that there are angels (Malaika) who work
for God (HQ 69:17).160 They are neither male nor female and they do
not eat or drink. Some of them live in the sky others live on earth.
Four of them are archangels. Angel Jibrael brought messages from
God to the Holy Prophet. Angel Michael provides sustenance. Angel
Izrael is the angel of death. Angel Asrafil will appear on the dooms-
day. Angel Malik is the gatekeeper of hell. Angels do not commit
sins but Iblees (Satan)161 refused to bow to Adam (HQ20: 116) and
was expelled out of Heaven (HQ15: 30-32). Munker and Nakir162 are
frightening black angels who question the dead in their graves.

God communicates either direct with His Rasuls as he did with

Hazrat Musa or through his angel as he did with Muhammad 163.

159
“Sadh karam jo purkh kamaway naam devta jagat kahaway………” (Guru Gobind Singh )
160
Some Muslims believe that there are 125,000 angels but others put the number at 80,000.
Munker and
Nakir are called Karamin Katbeen. 8 Angels carry God’s throne, 19 under Malik look after
Hell. Heaven is under Rizwan. Angels guarded Prophet Muhammad. "For him are angels
ranged before him and behind him by Allah’s command” (HQ 13:11)
161
According to the Holy Quran Satan was created from fire but Adam was made from earth.
When God told Satan to bow to Adam he refused saying that he was superior to Adam. God
expelled him from heaven. Satan took a vow to misinform Adam’s progeny (HQ 7:11-25)
162
Like the Hindu gods ‘Chitra’ and ‘Gupt’ (See Skandh Puran and Garur Puran) Munker and
Nakir record people’s good or bad deeds. In some Hindu religious books ‘Chitergupt’ is
mentioned as one person.
163
In the case of Prophet Muhammad he spoke through Jibrael.

61
7.4 No Second Coming of the Guru

Guru Granth Sahib is the aad/jugaad (eternal) Guru of the Sikhs.

Aad means “at the beginning” and jugaad means “over the ages”.
Representation of Guruship in human form was finally and firmly
terminated by Guru Gobind Singh who carried the torch of Guru
Nanak in the tenth human form. Therefore, the Sikhs do not believe
in the return of a human Guru personality. On the other hand,
through the linked concept of Guru Granth Sahib and Guru Khalsa
Panth (“aape gur chella” i.e. Himself the Guru and the disciple), the
Sikh Guru lives on through Guru Granth Sahib. However, no one
person amongst the Sikhs can ever claim sole Guruship. That is the
traditional and central Sikh Panthic belief. There are always fringe
sects who prefer their own interpretations of the scriptures. In this
category, “Sikh” gurudoms flourish feeding on the prosperity of the
more gullible followers.

Some ill informed Sikhs are sometimes heard saying that the Guru
would be reborn as Nihklank Avtar. They sing ‘Bhal Bhag Bhia
Ghar Sambhal ke Har joo Harmandar Awenge’ (The family of
Sambhal will be blessed when the Guru is born in their family and
pays a visit to Harmandar). These lines are nowhere to be found in
Sikh scriptures. The story appears to have been borrowed from
Hinduism where according to Vishnu Puran Nihklank or Kalki will
appear in village Sambhal (District Muradabad) in the family of
Vishnuyash Brahman. He will ride a white horse and destroy the
evildoers. To counteract this misbelief the Bhats wrote about Guru
Ram Das (fourth Guru):

“ The True Guru, The True Guru is our only Lord. He disarms the
powerful, smothers the mighty, fulfills the devotees and is Krishna
and Kalki in one” (GGS Page 1403)164

7.4.1 Second Coming of a Prophet

The Muslims believe that according to an indication given in Ahadis,

Mehdi will come into this world and rule until the false Messiah (Al

164
Satguru Satguru Satguru Gobind jeo (GGS p. 1403)

62
Masikh al Dajjal)165 appears who will spread oppression and
corruption. Muslims will flee to Jabal Al Dukhan in Syria and Dajjal
will besiege them. Then Jesus will descend on a minaret in the East
of Damascus wearing two white garments dyed in saffron166. He will
bring justice from heaven and kill Dajjal at the gate of Ludd167. Then
will appear Yajuj and Majuj (Gog and Magog) who will hasten out
from every mound (HQ21: 96). They will spread corruption and
oppose Jesus.168 There will be 10 signs. Some of which will be: the
rising of the sun from the west, the emergence of a beast from the
earth, wind taking away the souls of the believers, Quran will be
taken up to heaven. A fire will spread everywhere, and there will be
three landslides in the East, one in the west and one in Arabia. A
slave girl will give birth to her own master. According to Ibn Maajah
(Kitab-al-Fitan Hadis 3088) a clan of people will rise in the East who
will pave the way for the coming of Mehdi.

Prophet Muhammad was not sure when Dajjal was to appear. He is

reported to have said, “If he appears while I am still among you, I
will contend with him on behalf of every Muslim. But if he appears
after I am gone, then every person must contend with him on his
own behalf ” (The signs before the day of Judgement by Ibn Kathir
p. 18)

“The Mehdi will be one of my descendants, with my name and

parentage. He will have a high forehead and a hooked nose and
will rule for seven years.” Said Prophet Muhammad. (Abu
Dawd Kitab-al-Mehdi and Al- Trimidhi.)

165
Some Scholars (i.e. Ahmad Musnad 2-457) believe that thirty Dajjals will appear each
claiming to be a
Messenger of Allah. Some Muslims believe that Ibn Sayyad was Dajjal. Dajjal will have the
words “Kafir” written between his eyes (SB626 V.2 B.26), will be blind of right eye (SB 554)
and his other eye will be like a floating grape. He will not enter Mecca and Medina ( See
Kitab-al-Fitan by Muslim 8/194-95 Bukhari’s Kitab-al-Ambia 4/163) because Medina will be
guarded by angels. Ahmed Trimidhi in Abwab-al-Fitan Hadis 2350 and 6/522-23 writes that
Dajjal’s parents will remain childless for thirty years before Dajjal is born.
166
Jesus would be a Muslim and will fight for Islam. He will judge Christians, break crosses,
kill swine and abolish Jazia. (SB 656 page 287)
167
Scholars believe that this place is in Israel where the present Airport now exists.
168
‘The signs before the day of Judgement’ by Ibn Kathir p. 18.

63
 CHAPTER 8
The Nature of Evil and Sin

A ll religious ideologies attempt to define what is good and what

is evil. In most religions God represents all that is good and an
anti-God entity called devil, Satan, shaitan or Iblis etc.
represents the evil influence on men and women. Satan’s main
weapon is temptation to lure human beings away from the righteous
path. As God’s work is done by angels, so Satan’s work is also done
by evil spirits or otherworldly beings called Jinns. As discussed
below, the Sikh religious thought based on One Indivisible God and
His creation, does not subscribe to the concept of His rival i.e. an
anti-God entity. “No one is His rival.” (GGS p. 592)169

Similarly, the nature of sin needs to be understood. Simply not

adhering to a religious code of conduct may result in a religious
“sin”. For example, to live with a woman without marrying her in
accordance with religious rites, would be regarded as “living in sin”.
Generally, to sin is either not to conform to, or to break a religious or
a moral law. It may be in the nature of an act or omission regarded as
socially shameful or grievous. As religion mainly concerns inner
(mental and spiritual) discipline and progress, therefore, even some
thoughts may be regarded as sinful. Many religious sins may or may
not also be crimes punishable by secular law.

It is clear that there are shades of “sin”: from breach of some

religious code to the most heinous crimes. Therefore, although we all
think we know what “sin” means, it will always remain rather a
subjective concept.

The dictionary definition of sin from a theological aspect is “A

condition of estrangement from God resulting from a transgression

169
Tis ka sarik ko nahi (GGS 592)

64
of His known will”170. This would be a good starting point for both,
Sikhism and Islam. In a very broad religious sense, “evil”, discussed
earlier would give rise to “wrong doing” or “sin”.

There are many similarities between Islam and Sikhism regarding

many “social” sins. For example repentance and forgiveness are
regarded as inseparable in Sikhism. Islam also says, “But who
repenteth after his wrong doing and amendeth, lo! Allah will relent
toward him. (HQ 5:39 and7: 153)
There are also some fundamental differences as to what sin is.

8.1 Evil in Sikhism

This is an important area in which Sikh religious thought Parts

Company with many traditional religious views, regarding the nature
of evil. Sikhism does not accept the existence of any anti-God entity.
The concept of the singularity and unity of God and two essential
characteristics of God - “devoid of enmity and devoid of fear”171 -
confirm that everything is within His will. Traditional religion often
defines human conduct e.g. equality, tolerance, human rights, charity
and welfare, as human values opposite to what it defines or sees as
evil. God created everything and everything created is within His
will. No being or thing or influence operates outside God’s will. Yet,
like other religions, Sikhism continually warns against the negative
influence of certain human weaknesses if they are not controlled.
These influences affect human behaviour, and, if allowed to prevail,
may be equated to evil or sinful behaviour. That is the closest
Sikhism goes to the concept of evil per se as an anti-God influence.
It may be said that Sikhism does not see “evil” or “sin” in the same
light as seen by most other religions.

In Sikhism, “evil” results from the imbalance between worldly and

spiritual pursuits. Worldly ambition, pleasures and desires are not
necessarily “evils” in themselves provided they are moderated by the
need to pursue the spiritual goal of union with the Divine. A state of
equipoise cannot be achieved unless there is moderation in worldly
attachment and desires and these are balanced by love, contentment,

170
Parmesar te bhulian viapan sabhe rog (GGS 135)
171
Mool Mantar, the basic precept of Guru Nanak (GGS p 1)

65
truth, humility and a virtuous life of truthful conduct which brings
the human soul closer to God (GGS p. 955).

Gurmatt (Guru’s teaching) warns the individual against certain

negative influences. Examples often quoted are the influences of
uncontrolled sexual desire, anger, greed, attachment and ego or
vanity. However, it is also accepted that all these emotions or life
forces, when controlled, do have a constructive need in life. The
only way to harness them is to meditate on, research (khoj) and
praise the Supreme Presence in all creation. This is meditation on
His Name or Naam simran. The “web” of maya (illusion) is the
distracting influence of the changing world (sansaar) perceived by
the senses. Such influence is false (mithia) if it distracts from the real
purpose of life, which is to seek harmony with the Absolute, the
Unchanging, and the Timeless. Materialism alone (material
ambition, pursuits, attachment and over indulgence) manifesting
itself in self-centered activities and pride (arrogance or haumai) and
prejudice, becomes the force working against God’s will (Hukam)
in the human mind.

In Sikhism therefore, anti-God behaviour is all behaviour that breaks

the link between man and God, for the sole purpose of human life is
to establish that link (mostly through congregational worship or
Sangat). Over indulgence of any sort is “evil” in the Sikh sense and
moderate indulgence to sustain a healthy life (so that the main
purpose of life may be pursued) is Godliness. Such behaviour, which
makes one forget God must be shunned together with the company
of those who indulge in such behaviour.

No person is evil forever. “Evil” relates only to certain types of

behaviour, which can be sublimated through the Guru’s instruction.
That is the Sikh way. A Sikh will confront evil doers as a last resort,
but the Sikh attitude towards evil needs to be understood. A fallen
person in battle, for example is not an enemy. Only conduct can be
good or evil i.e. the behaviour and not the person is judged. It is only
with the right attitude (free from enmity or prejudice and free from
fear) that the framework for the human society for an evolutionary
progress towards the realm of God, the Ultimate Plane of Truth
(Sach Khand) can be provided.

66
The Sikh concept of a Khalsa society - a social order of those
directly linked with God and who fear none, see no evil and have ill
will towards none - is the Sikh ideal of a Godly society.

For the reasons discussed above, superstition and fear have no place
in Sikhism. As nothing is outside God’s creation and His will, so the
only “reverential fear” (bhao) is the awe-inspiring love (bhaao) for
the Lord, which a Sikh carries in his heart.

8.2 Evil in Islam

Evil is personified in Islam as Satan or Shaitan. According to Islam

“No child is born unless touched by the Shaitan at birth. That is why
the child cries.”(SB 71 V.6 B.60, SM 15-page 120). “If a whisper
from the Devil reach thee (O Muhammad) then seek refuge in Allah”
(HQ 41:36).
There is a shaitan attached to every non-believer (Qarin). The Holy
Quran says: -“We assign unto him a devil who would be his mate”
(HQ 43: 36 and 41:25)

A man said to Prophet Muhammad, “Shaitan comes between me and

my prayer and my recitation and makes it confused for me”. The
Prophet said, “This Shaitan is called Khinziv. When you see him,
then seek refuge in Allah and spit to your left three times.” (Sahih
Muslim)

Once in his prayers the Prophet stood up and repeated three times “I
take refuge in Allah, I curse thee with Allah’s curse”. Then he
stretched out his hand as if he caught hold of something. When his
companions asked him to explain this strange behaviour the Prophet
said, “Allah’s enemy Iblis (Satan) came with a flame of fire to burn
my face, therefore I tried to seize him. I swear by Allah that had it
not been for the mediation of my brother Suleman, Iblis would have
been bound and made object of sport for the children of Medina.”
(SM 1106, SB 332 V.6 B.60)

“When you hear the cock crowing then ask Allah for his bounty for
it has seen an angel. When you hear the braying of a donkey, then
seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan for it has seen Shaitan”. (SB 522
V.4B.54)

67
“When the Satan hears the call to prayer (Azan) he runs away to a
distance equal to that of Rauha from Medina ”172(SM751). “Shaitan
goes to the sky and eavesdrops on God”. (Sura Hujar rakuh 2) The
Prophet ordered the killing of dogs (SM 310-11). “It is your duty to
kill the jet-black dog having two spots on the eyes, for it is the
devil”. (SM 3813)

When Ramadan comes, the gates of the Garden (of heaven) are
opened and the gates of the fire of hell are closed and the Shaitan is
fettered. (SB122, 123,V.3 B.31). Jinns and the shaitan obey charms
and talismans.

8.3 Sin in Sikhism

Sin is called paap in Panjabi. Sikh teachings are more cautious about
branding an action or breach of a code as a “sin”. For example,
betrayal of trust is a sin (paap) but not removal of hair, which,
otherwise, is the most serious breach of Sikh discipline, called rehat.

The starting position of Sikh teachings regarding sin is that only the
Lord is perfect. “All are apt to make mistakes, only God (the
Creator), is infallible.” (GGS p. 61)173

“All things created are susceptible to error, only the Creator errs
not.” (GGS p. 1344)174 “O brother, no one errs knowingly. God
alone is behind all human errors and enlightenment.” (GGS p. 1344)
175

This is not to say that there is no human will, but that the human will
also is his gift and ultimately within His Will. A Sikh cannot take
any comfort from the above Gurbani quotation, which is addressed
to those who judge others. A “sinner” is like a sick person who can
make the effort to get better by taking the right medicine, but,
nevertheless, deserves some understanding while suffering from
illness.

172
Rauha is 36 miles away from Medina.
173
Bhulan undar sabh ko abhul Guru Kartar. (GGS 61)
174
Bhulan wich kia sabh koi, Karta aap na bhule. (GGS 1344)
175
Koi jaan na bhule bhai. So bhule jis aap bhulai bujhe jisai bhujaee. (GGS 1344)

68
There is no sin or crime, no matter how heinous, which is not
forgivable following repentance. This Sikh religious sentiment is
expressed in many ways throughout Sikh teachings, and the Sikh
history is full of moving acts of forgiveness by the Gurus and the
Khalsa Panth. Even the worst enemies of the Sikhs grudgingly
accepted that the Guru (and the Guru’s living image Khalsa Panth)
does forgive any sin or crime following sincere repentance: In this
respect two sayings have been given to the Panjabi language by the
Sikhs:

Bandaa bhulanhar hai “To err is human.” Guru/Khalsa Panth

bakhshanhar hai. “The Guru and the Khalsa Panth will forgive
sins.”
On such occasions the Sikhs pray to God and say, “O Lord forgive
our past sins and show us the righteous path in future” (GGS p.
624)176

Subject to what has been said above, “sin” in the sense of breach of a
religious code (kurehat) would be the breach of Sikh rehat or inner
and outer177 discipline prescribed in the “Rehat Maryada”
(disciplinary code) initiated by the Gurus. The Rehat Maryada, as
prescribed by Guru Gobind Singh, continues to be researched and
collated by Khalsa Panth (the collective body of the Sikhs) in
accordance with the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib. The current
authentic version is that of 1945 approved by the Shiromani
Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (the Supreme Religious
Parliament of Sikhs).

Wrong doings resulting from the transgression of inner rehat would

apply to Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike and are identified with anti-
Godly behaviour prompted by any of the five evil influences: lust,
anger, greed, material attachment and pride. “Cruelty, material
attachment, greed and anger are the four rivers of fire. Falling into
them one is burned O Nanak! One is saved only by holding tight to
good deeds” (GGS p. 147)178

176
Pichhle augan bakhsh leh prabh aage marg paawai (GGS Page 624)
177
It is necessary to stress that Sikh rehat concerns spiritual as well as worldly conduct.
178
Hans het lobh kop chare nadian agg pawe dajhe Nanaka tareey charni lagg (page 147)

69
Sinful behaviour results when the universal Divine Consciousness is
blurred or blocked out by self-centered ego, and one or more of the
lower passions of lust, anger, greed, attachment and false pride take
over human thought and conduct.

Breach of the Sikh code is taken very seriously, but in no way can it
be interpreted as sin (paap) in the traditional sense.

8.4 Sin in Islam

Nature of sins:179 The greatest sin is not to believe in the

Prophethood of Muhammad and to worship anything other than
God. Denial of Muhammad’s Prophethood or defiling his name in
any way (Irtidad) is punishable with death. If a Muslim discards the
religion, he can be killed. (SB 20 V.4 B.52)

It is a sin to worship any entity or object other than God.180 “ Lo!

Allah forgiveth not that a partner should be ascribed unto Him”(H.Q
4:48)

Major sins in Islam (Gunah-e-kabira) are murder, rape, disobeying

parents, illegitimate sex, running away from jihad, drinking181, usury
(ribah HQ 2:275), lapses from prayer and fasting and learning Quran
by heart and then forgetting it. "And who doth greater wrong than he
who is reminded of the revelations of his Lord, then turneth from
them?”(HQ32: 22)

Lesser Muslim sins (Gunah-e-Saghira) are lying, deceiving, anger,

gambling, dancing, and trimming a beard.182 Not to observe the
Muslim fast is a sin but there are ways to cancel out this sin. Reading

179
Two angels Munkar and Nakir keep accounts of people’s good and bad deeds. They visit
the graves and ask, “Who is your God? What is your religion? and who is your Saviour?” Even
the Prophets are prone to sinning. ( Al-Anam 76-78,Abraham 42)
180
In Sura Al-Anam (76-77) we find that Prophet Abraham worshipped stone images and sold
them to others when he was following his father’s trade. Later he discarded this practice.
181
Al-Marghinani and some other Muslim scholars believe that liquor made from honey or
grains is not prohibited in Islam. Others however interpret the word ‘Khamer’ used in the Holy
Quran as applicable to all inebriants.
182
Shaving a beard is prohibited “Clip the moustache short and let your beard grow long”
(SB781,SM500 and Abu-Awaana). Historians tell us that Prophet Muhammad never shaved
his beard. Although a staunch Muslim himself, Aurangzeb, the Emperor of India forbade
beards exceeding the length of four fingers.

70
of Sura-Al-Ikhlas 200 times daily can wash away all sins committed
in 50 years (SM. Chapter 1). Other lesser sins would be related to
non-conformance with the religious laws. For example, although a
male can marry a non-believer, under no circumstances is a female
permitted to marry a non-believer.

71
 CHAPTER 9
God’s Chosen People; Propagation of Religion and
Apostasy

F aith requires certainty. If you follow a path then absolute faith is

necessary to follow it wholeheartedly, with body and soul: total
faith that the chosen path will lead to the destination promised
by the messiah. No sacrifice is too big. Such an absolute faith
unfortunately has its reverse side as well. It can give rise to
intolerance and prejudice if a magnanimous view is not taken of
those who do not follow the path shown by the messiah.

Under this general heading of “God’s chosen people” we tackle

some of the more sensitive issues. In understanding the Islamic
viewpoint especially, it is important to bear in mind the time and
the place of the origin of the faith and the great threat posed to
an enlightened ideology fighting idol worship and ignorance. No
religious head accomplished so much, as did Prophet
Muhammad in his own lifetime to propagate his faith. The task of
Guru Nanak’s mission nearly eight centuries later, on the eve of the
age of discovery, was certainly easier in this respect. The
presentation method preferred is to give relevant authentic
quotations on various topics for the readers’ knowledge as pointers
to further research. The limitations of this method of presentation
have already been noted in Chapter 1.

9.1 Sikh view of chosen people

Much of the history of Guru Nanak’s mission is about religious

tolerance. Quotations from Guru Granth Sahib will be too numerous
to be given here but the most relevant have been given under various
headings in this study. Suffice to say that the ten Guru personalities
had Muslim and Hindu companions. The Ninth Guru gave his life
for other’s right to practise their own religion and the Guru Granth

72
Sahib includes the teachings of 36 Hindu and Muslim saints in
addition to those of the six Gurus.

“ My instruction is for both the Hindus and the Muslims”(GGS p.

479)183

“Hindus and Muslims have the same one Lord Master”(GGS p.

1158)184
“Some call Him Ram others call Him ‘Khuda’. Some serve Him as
Gosaeen, others prefer to address Him as ‘Allah’. He is the cause of
causes, the Generous Lord. He showers His grace equally on
all”(GGS p. 885)185

So, are the Sikhs God’s chosen people to the exclusion of others?

No, they are not and do not claim to be so. Yet the faith of the Sikhs
in their ideology and in Guru Nanak’s mission is no less. The
sacrifices made by the young Sikh religion are great indeed and have
few parallels in the history of world religions.

As has been mentioned under other headings, the central Sikh belief
is in the righteous path leading to union with the Absolute Reality;
and the target is to achieve it here and now during this life and not in
the hereafter. Human race is one and the Ultimate Reality is one.
This eliminates the need for exclusivity.

“The Hindu Dehura and the Muslim Mosque, The Hindu Puja and
the Muslim Namaz are equally respectable. Consider the whole
human race as one ” (Guru Gobind Singh)186

However, while there is acceptance that different paths can lead to

the same door of the One Enlightener187, the path of the Sikhs is well
defined. It requires great discipline, voluntary sacrifice and devotion.
That is the Guru’s challenge to his Sikh.

183
Hindu turk dou samjhavau (GGS page 479)
184
Hindu Turk ka Sahib ek (GGS Page 1158)
185
Koi bole Ram Ram koi khudae…. (GGS Page 885)
186
Dehura maseet soi, puja o namaz ohi manas ki zat sabhe ekay pehchanvo (Guru Gobind
Singh)
187
Baba jai ghar Karte keerat hoi. So ghar raakh vadai toi (GGS12)

73
9.2 Islamic view of chosen people

The general view in Islam is that Muslims are chosen people of God.
“You are the best community that hath been raised for mankind. You
enjoin right conduct and forbid indecency; and ye believe in Allah”
(HQ 3:110) “Lo! Allah preferred Adam and Noah and the family of
Abraham and the family of Imran above (all His) creatures.”(HQ
3:33) God Himself praised Prophet Muhammad, “And Lo! Thine
verily will be a reward unfailing. And Lo! Thou art of a tremendous
nature”(HQ 68:4). Islam offers absolute certainty regarding the
highest position of the faith and the Prophet.

According to Islam there are Momins and there are Kafirs. Momins
are instructed to treat the Kafirs as second class citizens. “None will
enter paradise but a Muslim and Allah may support this religion (i.e.
Islam) even with a disobedient man.”(SB 297 v.4 b52) Only Prophet
Muhammad has been equipped with the correct message by God and
will intercede for Muslims. The religious books other than the Holy
Quran are corrupted and hence not trustworthy. As for other
religions, Prophet Muhammad said, “The religion of other Prophets
is like a building imposing and beautiful but for one brick. I am that
brick.”(SM5673-76) “If you meet a Muslim on the road stop and
give him priority of passage” (SM 537) but “If you meet a Christian
or a Jew push him to one side” (SM 5389)

9.3 Concept of a state in Sikhism

“The Khalsa shall rule”, is a Sikh belief. It has been interpreted on

the one hand as Sikh rule (i.e. rule of the Sikh ideal society) in their
own homeland (Panjab), and on the other, to a regime of a world
community of righteous people of truthful conduct, the pure, totally
devoted to God realisation. It seems to satisfy both: the Sikh
nationalist sentiment as well as the Sikh world-view of an ideal
human society united in its God-centredness and in its rich diversity.

The ideal Sikh State would be governed by egalitarian truly God-

fearing thinkers committed to the uplift of the whole humanity
irrespective of their beliefs or creeds.

“The city without sorrow’, is the name of the town where there is no

74
suffering or anxiety. There are no troubles or taxes on commodities.
There is no fear, blemish or downfall. I have found this most
excellent city. There is lasting peace and safety. O Siblings of
Destiny, God’s Kingdom is steady, stable and eternal. There is no
second or third status; all are equal there. That city is populous and
eternally famous. Its inhabitants are wealthy and contented. They go
about freely. They see the Lord everywhere and no one blocks their
way. Says Ravi Das, whoever is a citizen there, is a friend of mine.”
188
(GGS p. 345)

“All are my equal partners, no one is persona non-grata” (GGS

p.97)189

Such is the Khalsa ideal state, the ultimate goal of the human
society.

9.3.1 Concept of a Muslim State

“God wants submission for man, for which He has laid down as a
clear path in the message of Islam (sic). Secular politics remove the
affairs of the world from the sovereignty of God and place them
under the human control. Such an approach clashes with the very
basics of an Islamic state. The Islamic state backed by its moral and
military power is constantly engaged in spreading Islam, in winning
adherents and weakening the enemies. It is therefore an active state
whose authority extends into the very private lives of individuals.
Whatever has been decreed by Sharia is to be enforced
compulsorily.” (CIS page 114-115)

“To the Muslim jurist the world was therefore sharply divided into
two zones: Pax Islamica (dar-al-Islam) comprising the lands under
direct or indirect Islamic rule, and the rest of the world (dar-al-harb,
or enemy territory). The first was at war with the other, a state of war
which was to continue until the latter would be absorbed by the
former” (CIS page 54)

“In the rule of an Islamic state, there is no place for any other

188
Begampura sehar ko nao……… (GGS p.345)
189
Sabhe sanjhiwal sadaen koi na disay bahra jeo (GGS p. 97)

75
religion than Islam” 190In a Muslim state the non-believers (Zimmis)
are forbidden from the following:

1. Carrying weapons 2.riding a horse 3.building a temple/ church etc

4.engaging in public worship 5.ringing bells/ conch shells or beating
drums that annoy the Muslims and 6.wearing a coloured cloth
(Ghiyar). 7. They must wear a special girdle called Zunnar.191

Muslims have to fight against the Kafirs until the later submit.
(HQ9: 29) A Kafir’s repentance is not acceptable (HQ3: 90).

9.4 Other religions: Sikh view

Although Sikhism differs from other religions in many ways, it

accords full respect to all religions. It defends the right of free belief,
pursuit of knowledge and free enquiry.

“The world is ablaze; O Lord save it through your benediction.

Through whichever door (religion) humankind seeks deliverance,
save it that way.” (Guru Amar Das)

However, the intrinsic human values of Sikhism are such that these
will constantly put Sikhism on a path of confrontation with theo-
political systems, which are less tolerant of fundamental human
rights. The Sikh history so far has been a continual struggle for
self-determination, human equality and freedom. The Sikh
institutions and Rehat Maryada (code of conduct) defy
discrimination and oppression in any form. To that extent
therefore, harmonious co-existence of Sikhism with other
religious and political systems is conditional and will remain so.

9.4.1 Other religions: Islamic view

There are differences of interpretation of the Holy Quran among

Muslims themselves on this point. The Islamic stance needs to be
understood from the Islamic world-view. The staunch Islamic belief
is that Islam is the one and only correct path to the ultimate goal of

190
“History of the Punjab” Punjabi University Patiala. Page 231
191
Muslim Governments today do not apply some of these restrictions strictly.

76
this life. Followers of other religious ideologies (including the
Sikhs) would hold similar subjective views about their own chosen
paths. The difficulty arises when religious codes legislate for open
discrimination against other systems. Since the Prophet imposed
Jazia (a special tax) only on non-Muslims in the last two years of
his rule (HQ 9:29), this is seen as a form of discrimination against
other religions.192

Jews have not been addressed favourably in the Holy Quran. The
Prophet said to the Jews, “If you embrace Islam, you will be safe.
You should know that the earth belongs to Allah and His Apostle,
and I want to expel you from this land”(SB 392 V.4 B.53). They
were banished “because they were opposed to Allah and His
Messenger”(HQ59: 4) “Allah gives His Messenger Lordship over
whom He will.”(HQ59: 6) Muslims are instructed to do the opposite
of what the Jews do (SB 786 V.7.B72)

It is, however, also a fact that a learned Jewish priest named

Mukhayriq recognised Muhammad as a Prophet, bestowed seven
gardens on Him, fought shoulder to shoulder with Him in the battle
of Uhud, although, it was Sabbath when fighting is forbidden for the
Jews.

About the Khawarij, a sect of Muslims who deserted Prophet

Muhammad and apostatized, the Prophet said, “When you meet
them, kill them for in their killing you would get a reward with Allah
on the day of Judgement.”
(SM2328) Following a religion other than Islam is not acceptable to
God. (HQ3: 85). “We Muslims are the last people to come into the
world but (will be) the foremost (on the day of resurrection)”. (SB
239)

There is also repeated stress that the religion of Abraham, to which

Judaism and Christianity (which springs from Judaism) trace their
origin, is the only true religion (The Glorious Quran page 33)

9.5 Religious war: Sikh view

192
Such areas of possible conflict would continue to be addressed by scholars of all religions in
a spirit of interfaith tolerance and understanding.

77
Sikhism is opposed to spreading religion through war. The nearest
concept to Jihad (see under Islam below) is dharam yudh (fight for
justice or the righteous cause). Nevertheless, this is another area of
theological difference between Islam and Sikhism.

Use of force for propagating religion or for changing another’s

ideology or point of view runs contrary to Sikh belief and practice.
The divinely inspired compositions of Muslim and Hindu saints have
been included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib and given the same status as
the hymns of the Sikh Gurus. Sikhism, therefore, demonstrably
preaches that no single ideology has the monopoly of access to God
or the Ultimate Truth. The Sikh Guru went further when Guru Tegh
Bahadhur (Nanak IX) gave his life to uphold another’s right of
worship in his own way.

However, Sikhism is not opposed to the use of force per se (albeit

strictly as a last resort) for defending own or another’s religion or
civil rights against an aggressor. A reminder about the background to
Sikhism would be relevant. In Guru Nanak’s time, religious
ideologies born out of Hindu/Muslim entrenched and inflexible
attitudes stifled research, acquisition of knowledge and the freedom
of the spirit. People had moved away from the true spirit of religion.
Guru Nanak challenged the fanaticism and the rigidities of the then
current religious thought and promoted an atmosphere of research
and reason. His teachings were the very antithesis of extremism.
Sikhism opposed aggressive approach to religious conversions.

“His was the first and the last successful attempt to bring together
the Hindus and the Muslims in a common fold of spiritual and social
brotherhood”193

Sikh Gurus were fully aware of the need for the use of arms for
defending freedom of religious ideology and the geo-political
implications which were bound to flow from it. The concept of
Khalsa Raj and the just theo-political aspirations of the Sikhs have
brought (and continue to bring) the Sikh nation into armed conflict
with authoritarian regimes. In certain circumstances, when all other

193
The Delhi Sultanet Page 569 quoted in The History of the Punjab Vol. 3 page 313 Punjabi
University
Patiala

78
means have failed, resort to arms is considered legitimate. Guru
Tegh Bahadur’s injunction is:

“Frighten none and accept fear from no-one.” (GGS p. 1427)194

Due to the extent of religious, social and administrative oppression

in the Indian society based on caste and creed, Guru Nanak had
already foreseen that situations arise where armed resistance would
be unavoidable. He, therefore, told those who wanted to follow in
his footsteps:

“If you wish to play the game of love (with the Lord), then place
your head on the palm of your hand and come my way.” (GGS p.
1412)195

Guru Nanak’s followers could not shirk their responsibility towards

other fellow beings nor could they accept fear from anyone. Guru
Nanak spoke out against social, political and administrative injustice
and he expected his followers to do the same. The Sikh Gurus and
the bhagats (saints), whose compositions are recorded in the Holy
Granth, were well aware of the need for resorting to arms for
defending human rights and the freedom of religious ideologies.

“The true warrior is one who fights in defence of the downtrodden.”

(GGS p. 1105)196

“When all attempts to obtain justice fail, it is legitimate to move the

hand to the hilt of the sword.” (Guru Gobind Singh’s Zafarnama to
Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb).197

The 19th Century German writer Schulse supports the basic premise
that, the state being absolutely supreme and incapable of doing
wrong, is misconceived and dangerous (Deutsches Staatsrecht Vol. I
Sec 16) The whole Sikh history is a struggle against this dangerous
misconception.198The Sikh ideology preaching human equality and

194
Bhae kahu kau det neh, neh bhay manat aan (GGS 1427)
195
Jao tao prem khelan ka chao, sir dhar tali gali mori aao (GGS 1412)
196
Sura so pehchaniya jo lare deen ke het. (Bhagat Kabir. GGS p.1105)
197
Choon kar az hameh hilte’darguzasht.Halal ast burdan b-shamshir dast (Guru Gobind
Singh’s Zafarnama to Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb)
198
Sirdar Kapur Singh in The Sikh Review of August 1974 p 7.

79
freedom was also bound to lead to geo-political aspirations. Armed
clash with oppressive regimes was inevitable.

A Sikh is to fight for justice and when engaged in the battlefield has
to respect human values. The sword is not to be used in hatred or for
taking revenge. Guru Gobind Singh’s follower Bhai Kanhaya
offered water in the battlefield even to the enemies and the Guru
approved this as a meritorious act. Indeed, he supplied Bhai
Ghanhaya with balm for applying this to the wounded without
distinction between friend and foe. No one is to be attacked simply
because that person does not believe in the Sikh religion or worships
differently.

9.5.1 Religious war: Islamic view

The word jihad literally means ‘to try one’s utmost’. Jihad is
defined199by H.G.Koenigsberger as “Spreading Islam by war.” It
appears to have been derived from the word ‘Qatilo’ (HQ 9: 29).

“The various means employed by an Islamic state to spread Islam are

called jihad, if they involve strife and struggle. The more popular
form of jihad is holy war”(CIS p.54)

“Fight against such of those who have been given the Scripture as
believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, and forbid not that which
Allah hath forbidden by His Messenger, and follow not the religion
of truth, until they pay the tribute readily, being brought low.” (HQ
9:29)200

Some Muslims do not accept these definitions and quote La Iqra fi

al-din. (No compulsion in religion HQ2: 256) They interpret jihad as
‘spiritual war’. Others quote, “ Now when ye meet them in battle
those who disbelieve, then it is smiting of the necks until, when ye
have routed them, then making fast of bonds; and afterward either
grace or ransom till the war lay down its burdens. That (is the
ordinance). And if Allah willed He could have punished them
(without you) but (thus it is ordained) that He may try some of you

199
Page 185 of ‘ Medieval Europe.’ Others define it as “ establishing Islamic system of life” (
Sura Al-Nisa 4: 76, 91, Sura Al-Anfal 8:39-, sura Al-Fateh 48:16 and Sura Al-Tehrim 9)
200
“No Muslim should be killed for killing an infidel”(SB 283 V.4 B.52)

80
by means of others. And those who are slain in the way of Allah, He
rendereth not their actions vain.”(HQ 47:4)

There are 92 ahadis (traditions) on jihad and Mujahedin (crusaders)

in Sahih Muslim. Jihad is a religious duty of every Muslim. The
Holy Quran says:

“Count not those who were slain in God’s way as dead, but rather
living with their Lord, by Him provided, rejoicing in the bounty that
God has given them”201

“Allah has undertaken to look after the affairs of one who goes out
for jihad believing in Him and affirming the truth of His apostle. He
is committed to His care and He will either admit him to paradise or
bring him back to his home with a reward of booty” (SM 4626)

“The wounds of those who die in jihad will smell of musk on the
day of Judgement” (SM 4630, SB 238, 59 V.4 B.52). “Leaving for
jihad in the way of Allah in the morning or in the evening will merit
a reward better than the world and all that is in it.” (SM 4639).
“Jihad merits the highest position in paradise” (SM 4645) “Paradise
is under the shadow of the swords”(SM 4314 SB 73 V.4 B.52)

Regarding the spoils of war the Holy Quran says, “Now enjoy ye
what you have won, as lawful and good” (HQ 8:69,48:15). “If a
town disobeys Allah and the Messenger one fifth of the booty seized
therefrom is for Allah and His Apostle and the rest is for you” said
Muhammad (SM 4346)202

9.6 Apostasy: Sikh view

The Sikh position has been discussed to some extent under “Sin”. To
give up one’s religion and to join another is a matter of human
choice and not a sin or a crime per se. However, the motivation, the
intent, the actions or (more often) non-actions, which may have
given rise to apostasy, may fall into one of the categories of “sin,”

201
The Koran, Interpreted by Arthur J Arberry, p66 Oxford University Press 1983.
202
The Muslims fought 82 battles in all in the time of Prophet’s life. Muhammad fought
personally in 26 (they are called ghazwat). 56 called Sariya were fought by his commanders
under His orders.

81
immoral behaviour or negligence. If an act or omission soils the
human soul, places a burden on the spirit preventing it from rising to
meet the Lord, then it is a “sin” and waste of this opportunity of
human life.

According to Sikhism the soul keeps a record of its own (good or

bad) deeds. “The oft repeated actions are engraved on the heart, the
person reaps what has been sown (in this life), and says Nanak,
through the Lord’s Will, the soul comes and goes (in cycles of birth
and death).” (GGS p. 4)203

Anyone who breaches the Sikh Rehat Maryada must be re-baptised

if the breaches concern the four main taboos (see Chapter 12). Lesser
breaches are punishable through the “tankhah” process, which
usually entails some community service. While it is true that the
Sikh ruler, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, accepted to be whipped by the
Jathedar (head) of Akal Takhat (“Immortal Throne”, the seat of
temporal/spiritual authority of the Khalsa) for breaches of Sikh
moral code, physical punishment is non-existent these days.
Nevertheless, apostasy is taken by the Sikh community as a sign of
ineffectiveness on the part of the Sikh preachers.

9.6.1 Apostasy: Islamic view

In his book Murtad Ki Saza (punishment for an apostate),

Maulana Moududi quotes Quranic verses Ahadis, the Fiqah
and the rulings of the Caliphs and concludes that apostasy is
punishable with death in Islam. According to him “belief in
Islam is not a personal faith. It is co-equal with membership in
a social order that seeks fulfillment through the state. A change
of faith, therefore, is tantamount to treachery, making such a
traitor a potential ally of the enemy” (pages 9-51). No one is
excluded from this punishment. “Muhammad is the Messenger
of Allah. And those with him are hard against the disbelievers
and merciful among themselves.” (HQ 48: 29). “Whoso
judgeth not by that which Allah hath revealed are Kafirs”(HQ
5:45)

203
Kar kar karna likh leh jaho.........(GGS 4)

82
“Kill an apostate but do not burn him for fire is Allah’s agency for
punishing the sinners” (Trimidhi Vol.1 1357,SB 1219)204According
to An-Nawari’s Hadis No. 14 (iii) A Muslim is not to be killed
unless he/she “forsakes his /her religion and abandons the
community”.

“An Islamic state based on doctrinal values conceives its task

primarily as a medium for spreading, establishing and preserving
divine truth. This duty has both internal and external ramifications.
Internally, the doctrine of apostasy keeps Muslims as Muslims. They
have no right to change faith, and since no political parties are
permitted in an Islamic milieu, the right to follow a movement or
political outlook other than Islamic is irrelevant. For apostasy at least
the punishment is death. Thus, a fundamental principle of a doctrinal
Islamic state is to invest actively its resources in combating un-
Islamic ideas and movements.” (CIS Page 185)

“The doctrine of apostasy, virtually makes submission of the

believers total and irreversible” (CIS page 200)

204
According to Sharia the penalty for denying the Prophethood of Muhammad is death. Some
Ulemahs even interpret the giving up of Islam or writing against Islam (as Sulman Rushdie
did in Satanic verses) as heresy punishable by death. A man named Sadek Abdel Karim
Malallah was executed in 1992 in Saudi Arabia for casting aspersions on the authority of the
Prophet .

83
 CHAPTER 10
Death. Doomsday. Heaven and Hell

10.1 Beyond empirical existence

M ost religions, including Islam, believe in other transcendental

planes of existence and mystical beings including messengers
of evil and good. Heaven and hell are facets of this belief. The
religious pre-occupation with other worldliness supersedes the focus
on the empirical world and its social and economic priorities. This is
more so in the case of the “opt-out” monastic, ascetic sects and cults
of the Indian variety than Islam and Sikhism.

There is mention in Sikhism of other beings and planes of existence

in God’s infinite creation; however, generally, Sikhism based on a
loving and ever present (haazar naazar) God-experience in the here
and now, is much less concerned with “other worldliness” than other
religious ideologies. The stress is on this life, this existence and
achievement of a state of physical/spiritual equipoise through
constant immersion in the Divine Being (Naam). Guru Nanak Dev
Ji’s founding composition Japuji, the basis for all Sikh thought
regarding God, His creation and the futility of metaphysical
speculations, is ineffable. Speculation and pretence of knowledge of
the Unknowable is foolish, says Guru Nanak. Only one who is as
great as the Lord can know His limit, and there is none, for all and
everything is within Him.

The pain of death is mentioned in both religions but is dealt with

differently. The kafir (non-believer) in Islam, and manmukh (one
who is a slave of his own ego in this life) in Sikhism, face terrible
penalties. The wording of some of the penalties and frightful post-
death related experiences of the soul is very similar but entirely for
different underlying reasons. Certainly, in the case of Sikhism, this
pain is self-inflicted because it arises from the spiritual/mental make

84
up which results from own actions in life. According to the nature of
ones thoughts and actions, the spirit can be darkened, confused and
burdened or, conversely, it can be alleviated to higher planes
(purified) through truthful conduct, service and humility. It can be
detached from self-centredness (haumai) and merged harmoniously
with the Universal Spirit.

10.2 Death: Sikh view

Death need not be a painful experience according to Sikh teachings.

“ Says Kabir, death, which frightens the world, is (the harbinger of)
bliss for me” (GGS p.1365) 205

Pain of birth and death arises from a sense of deception (ignorance).

Departure is much more painful for one who is attached to this
material existence and is not prepared to depart, nor has made
preparations for departure. “ Mortal beings are bound by the bonds
of doubt and attachment. When life becomes a dream, the blind man
babbles and grieves in vain” (GGS p. 885)206

The physical pain is magnified many times through mental and

spiritual agony. “This changing empirical existence is deceptive,
and there is much pain in birth and death. But the Guru (by teaching
me how to meditate on the True Name) got rid of the pain of birth
and death and also removed the fear (arising from deceptive
perception of existence) of death and departure.” (Bhai Gurdas
Vaar1.1)207

After death, the soul undergoes torment and re-enters cycles of birth
and death in different life forms if it is unable to achieve equipoise in
this life. But for one, who has established a harmonized relationship
in this life with the Creator, death is a call to eternal bliss.
“Meditating on the Lord’s Name, you shall live, and the all powerful

205
Kabir jis marne te jagg dare mere man anand …..(GGS 1365)
206
“Bharam Moh ke bandhe bandh supan bhia bhakhlae andh” (GGS Page 885)
207
Sansa eh sansar hai janam maran wich dukh sabaya Janam maran bhao katya, sansa rog
vyog mitaya
(Bhai Gurdas Vaar1.1)

85
Time shall not consume you (i.e. you will be freed from the
birth/death cycle)” (GGS p. 885)208

10.2.1 Death: Islamic view

In Islam the pain of death and what happens afterwards is mentioned

in vivid detail and is awe inspiring. Some examples are given below.

Prophet Muhammad considered death to be a very painful

experience209. Al-Ghazali (page 42-43) writes: God asked Abraham,
“How did you find death?” Abraham replied “Like a skewer passed
into damp wood and then tugged”. When Moses died God asked
him, “How did you find death?” He replied, “I found myself to be
like a sparrow being roasted alive unable either to live or fly away.”
In reply to a similar question Umar replied, “Death is a thorny twig
made to enter the stomach of a man so that its thorns become
attached to the arteries. Then it is pulled with a force.”

According to Durra, the souls of the dead believers remain in their

graves until the Day of Judgement while those of the unbelievers
congregate near a well known as Barhut on the seventh earth.
(According to the Quran there are seven earths just as there are seven
heavens HQ65: 12)

When an unbeliever travels into the after-life “angels strong and

severe” (HQ 66:6) bearing “garments of fire”(HQ: 22-19) and “mail
coats of tar”(HQ: 14:49-50) beset him on all sides and curse him. He
is then beaten between the eyes and dispatched to hell.

The deeds of the righteous believer are recorded in a book called

Illiyin (HQ83: 18), which is draped in silken cloth (HQ 83:20). They
go to heaven where “They are given to drink pure wine sealed,
whose seal is musk”(HQ83: 25-26) The deeds of an unbeliever are
recorded in a black book known as Sijjin (HQ83: 8) draped in black
cloth and glowing charcoal is lying on it. "They verily will burn in
hell”(HQ83: 16). Ninety-nine dragons (One dragon has ninety-nine
208
Jap Gobind Gopal Lal,ram nam simar too jivehen phir na khaaeyee maha kal (GGS p. 885)
209
On his death bed Muhammad had a vessel of water near him. He dipped his hand in it time
and again and wiped his face uttering, “O Lord God mitigate for me the agonies of death “(SB.
Riqaq 42). According to Sahih Muslim (See Salat 13) angel Azrael took Muhammad to Al-
daraja Wal-wasila (an exalted position in heaven which may be occupied by one man only).

86
serpents each having seven heads) maul and savage the unbeliever
till the day of resurrection (Al-Hakim & Trimidhi 159)

10.3 Disposal of the dead: Sikh view

In Sikhism death is union of the human soul with the Universal Soul.
Life is God’s gift. When He withdraws His power, the light is
extinguished and the soul is drawn to Him.

“He stages the play of breath everywhere. Withdrawing His power,

He lets the beings crumble” (GGS p. 1033)210

The last rites in Sikhism may be compared to a type of bridal

party send-off for the soul to meet the Lord. Sikh teachings
attach no significance to the disposal of a dead body. They
consider the soul to be imperishable and all-important. Once
the soul is gone, the body has no significance. Traditionally,
the Sikhs cremate their dead or submerge the body in a flowing
river or the sea. It would not be inconceivable, if a dead Sikh is
buried in the middle of a desert country like Arabia where no
alternative is available

“Some are cremated, some are buried, some are eaten by dogs,
some are washed away by water, others are thrown into the
wells,211 O Nanak, it is not known, where they go and into
what they merge” (GGS p. 648)212

10.3.1 Disposal of the dead: Islamic view

The Muslims bury their dead.213 They do not cremate their dead and
consider cremating of dead bodies to be a sacrilege. At the time of
burial in a grave the face of the dead person must be kept towards

210
Pavne Khel kia sabh thaayeen kala khinch rahaeynda…. (GGS Page 1033)
211
The Parsi people daub a dead body with yogurt and leave it on top of a grilled well
(Hassan). The vultures and crows eat it up.
212
ik dajhe ik dabeeye ikna kute khaey ik pani wich usateye …… (GGS Page 648)
213
The dead person is tortured in his grave for the wailing of his relatives done over him (SB
379. V.2 B.23). Everything of the human body will decay except the coccyx bone(of the tail)
and from that bone Allah will re-construct the whole body (SB 338 V.6 B.60)

87
Mecca. Giving the reason for this the Holy Quran says, “And
because the hour will come, there is no doubt thereof, and because
Allah will raise those who are in the graves” (HQ22: 7)214

10.4 Visiting graves or tombs etc.: Sikh view

Sikhs do not worship anything or anyone other than One God.

Therefore, worshipping of graves or monuments erected to honour
the dead is forbidden. They cremate their dead and hence do not
erect any graves or mausoleums.

“Do not suffer from duality, worship none other than One God, and
do not visit tombs or crematoriums.” (GGS p. 634)215

“O foolish one, union with God is not achieved in graveyards or

crematoriums”. (GGS p. 1190)216

“Develop trusting love (in the Lord) and never worship graves,
tombs and Hindu convents (dev-mandars) or places where yogis
reside (Maths).” (Guru Gobind Singh)217

It needs to be understood, however, that the Sikhs, as part of the

Sikh heritage, do not forget the great deeds of those who lived
before. Therefore, the Islamic sentiment about remembering parents
or dear ones would be shared by the Sikhs, albeit, not by
worshipping at monuments but by remembering their positive
achievements and good deeds. Such remembrance may be in the
context of the daily supplication (Ardaas) before the Lord. Indeed
great martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for upholding the freedom to
practise religion or who fought for the downtrodden, are
remembered daily in the Sikh Ardaas. But there is a strict Sikh
injunction about not erecting or worshipping shrines for the dead
because it leads to superstition and to diversion from the Lord’s
Name. Such monuments may even be regarded as a form of idol
worship.

214
“The hour will not be established until you fight with the Jews, and the stone behind which
a Jew will be hiding will say, O Muslim! There is a Jew hiding behind me, so kill him” (SB177
V.4 B.52).
215
Dubidha na parao, Har bin hor na poojo Mari masan na jai (GGS 634)
216
Mari masani moorai jog nahi (GGS 1190)
217
Puran prem prateet sajay barat gor marhi matt bhool na mane (Guru Gobind Singh).

88
10.4.1 Visiting graves and tombs etc: Islamic view

Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said, “I once forbade you to

visit the graves but you should now visit them for they remind you
of the after life” (Muslim-Janaiz 100, Hakim 1-376). “ My
intercession becomes mandatory for all who visit my grave” said
Muhammad (Al-Hakim and Al-Trimidhi 148) “Whoever visits my
grave at Medina, for him shall I intercede and bear witness on the
day of arising” (Zabidi 10-364). The prophet Himself used to pray
at graves (SB339, 405 V.2 B.23). Praying at the graves of deserters
is forbidden. “And never (O Muhammad) pray for one of them who
dieth, nor stand by his grave. Lo! They disbelieved in Allah and His
Messenger, and they died while they were evil doers.” (HQ 9:84)
It is a Muslim doctrine that the torment of the sinners abates every
Friday when the wandering souls of the dead return to their graves.
Muslims therefore visit the graves of their dear ones on Fridays and
recite verses on the graves from the second chapter of the Quran
(The Cow). Some also recite suras 112,113 and 114. “Whoever visits
his parents’ graves every Friday shall be forgiven his sins” (Tabarani
Saghir ii-69)

10.5 Doomsday: Sikh view

The question of a doomsday or an apocalyptic end to the world does

not arise in Sikhism. Birth and death are like a change of clothes by
the soul and the final destination (objective of life) is to break away
from ego and merge with the Universal Being. There is no dooms-
day for the soul. Expansion and contraction of creation, including all
life, is within God’s Will and it would be futile for human beings to
speculate about such events in the cosmos.

The concept of a dooms-day becomes irrelevant in Sikhism because

of the basic Sikh tenet of the main purpose of this life. The final
destination of the soul is re-union with the Creator when doubt
(sansa), regarding the Oneness of the Creator and the created, is
removed. The Sikh belief is that the soul has been separated from the
Absolute due to the perception of dualism (dwait) in creation: the
trick played by relativity on the senses so that the Creator (the
Absolute) is no longer seen in the created (the transient). The soul

89
becomes more attached with the ever changing material world
(sansar) than with the never changing Timeless One. The span of
human life is the opportunity to achieve equipoise (Sahij anand)
through removal of duality and realisation of the one (i.e. re-union
with the Lord). The transmigrations of the soul through births and
deaths and life forms continue until this union is achieved. The soul
is divine and never dies but can become one with the Supreme Soul
of God (Parmatma) in this life. What is important for a Sikh, is the
opportunity offered in the human form here and now and not
speculations about what lies beyond death.

God is the “Guru”, the Enlightener, the Giver of knowledge; but the
individual must progress through own actions. Thus a Sikh is in no
privileged position regarding salvation than a non-Sikh. Just being
born a Sikh or becoming a Sikh is not enough because “Only deeds
done in this life are judged after death.” (GGS p. 464)218

Sikhism lays stress on rehat, the inner and outer discipline that leads
to truthful and fearless conduct in the service of the Lord and fellow
humanity with humility (sewa). Such conduct is the path to union
with God. A Sikh following the Guru’s way is not concerned with a
dooms-day but only with that single project of this life - getting
merged into the Supreme Spirit.

218
Aage karni keerat vachiay (GGS 464)

90
10.5.1 Doomsday: Islamic view

The imminence of the apocalypse219 is a recurrent theme in the Holy

Quran
(e.g. HQ 16:27, HQ 54: 46).220 Muslims believe that there is eternal
life or eternal damnation after death (HQ4: 56-57). On the day of the
Last Judgement angel Israel221will bring everybody to life (HQ 22:
7). On that day Prophet Muhammad will intercede on behalf of the
Muslims. The time of the dooms-day is not mentioned222. When
some people asked, “When will it come to pass?”(HQ79: 42), the
Prophet said, “The knowledge of it is with Allah only…… It may be
that the hour is nigh”(HQ33: 63,7:187). There is a difference of
opinion about where the souls live between death and dooms-day.

What happens on dooms-day is awe-inspiring. When the trumpet is

blown by the angel for the first time (Al Nafkha Al- Ula) everybody
will fall down in a swoon (HQ 39:68). Then the trumpet will sound
again (Al Nafkha Al Thanya) and people will stand up (HQ13: 16).
After coming to life people will wander for 40 years (Barzakh). Then
they will assemble and mingle together like thickly scattered moths.
They will perspire so copiously that some will disappear in the sweat
and others will stand in sweat up to their ears (SB Riqaq 47, Muslim
Jana 6) and then the record of their deeds (Emal Nama)223 will be
shown to them (HQ17: 13,14,71). Good and bad actions will be
judged and punishments will be meted out (HQ23: 102-104,HQ 7: 8-
9). Whose misdeeds outweigh their good deeds will be dragged by a
black creature and cast into the hellfire of Dozakh (HQ 69: 30-33).

219
According to the Quran on the dooms’ day “Heaven will be cleft asunder (82:1), Heavenly
bodies will fall (81:2), Mountains will fly like carded wool (81:3), Oceans will pour forth
(81:6), infernal fires will be stroked (81:11) and heaven will move downwards (81:12)
220
The word Qyamat (Dooms day) is mentioned in the Holy Quran 70 times. It has 75 other
synonyms mentioned in the Holy Quran. “We send Prophets and messengers to people to
inform and put fear in them”. (Sura Al-Inam 6: 49)
221
Al Ghazali names the angel ‘ Seraphiel’
222
Imam Ghazali author of Kitab-ul dhikar-al mawt wa ma badahu (death and after-life) is of
the opinion that the age of the world is 7,000 years. This is also the common view of the
Ulema (Muslim scholars). Suyuti says that the judgement will occur before the end of the 15th
Islamic Century (See Al-Kashaf-an Mujawazat-II-86)
223
Allah’s Prophet was asked, "What is the best deed?”. He replied, "To believe in Allah and
His Apostle (Muhammad).” “What is the next goodness? "He relied, “To participate in Jihad
(religious fighting) in Allah’s cause.”(SB 25 V.1 B.2) Abusing a Muslim is Fusuq (an evil
deed) and killing a Muslim is Kufr. (SB46) No good deeds done on other days are superior to
those done on the first 10 days of Dhul Hijja.(SB 86. V.2 B.65)

91
The last trumpet will sound ushering in the day of judgement.
Children’s hair will turn gray, hills will become running sand, and
Heavens will rent asunder. (HQ 73:17-18) Every nursing mother will
forget her nursling and every pregnant one will deliver her burden.
(HQ22: 2) Mankind will be shown their deeds. (HQ 99:6) Their
actions will be weighed in scales (HQ 21:47) and a final judgement
sending souls to heaven or hell shall be decreed. (HQ 82:13-14)

It is also mentioned that Jesus will come on the Doom’s Day. (HQ 4:
160) He will preach Islam and people will put their faith in him.
(SB656) He will abolish Jazia. (SB425 V3 B.34).

10.6 Heaven and Hell: Sikh view

Sikh thought, despite use of the traditional Hindu/Islamic

terminology sometimes, centres very much around the principle of
“What you sow, so shall you reap”. Heaven and hell are the self-
inflicted bliss or the torment respectively, which reflect the nature of
the deeds done in this life. Deeds done in self-centered pride and
arrogance (haumai) certainly do weigh heavily on the human soul
and torment it, pushing it further away from the state of equipoise
(the main objective of human life) towards lower life forms.

Sikh belief in the transmigration of the soul rules out the traditional
concepts of heaven and hell after death as some interim or final
destination for the soul. Rather, Sikhism has redefined heaven and
hell as extremes of experience of the human soul in this life due to
egocentric thoughts and conduct motivated by those thoughts (i.e.
deeds done in haumai). Egocentricity (haumai) binds the soul to
individual existence; it darkens the soul, burdens it and weighs it
down. “This is the nature of ego (haumai) that man goes about his
business in egocentric pride. And thus human ego shackles the
human soul to remain in the cycle of birth and death.” (GGS p.
466)224

224
Haumai eha jaat hai haumai karam kamae Haumai ehi bandhana phir phir joni pai (GGS
466)

92
The main objective of religion (dharam) is to remove this duality225
(dwait), this wall between “I” and the universal Truth. If individual
existence (predominance of “I and me”) is reconciled with or lost in
God awareness (Naam), then heaven and hell become irrelevant.
This concept may be approached in Sikhism from different angles.

“How can the human soul reach the ultimate Truth and how can this
wall (of duality) be brought down. Follow the Divine Will, O Nanak,
for that is ordained.” (GSS p. 1)226

To understand Sikh thought on what happens after death we need to

understand the Guru’s reference to dharam Raj (the divine law).
Some academics have too often made an analogy for Dharam Raj to
the Hindu belief in a personified otherworldly entity mentioned in
Vedic literature. This is a mistaken approach to Sikh theology.

Let us refer back to the Sikh concepts of Hukam (God’s will) and
dharam. All that is created, seen and unseen, is part of the Absolute
Truth, the Singularity of God’s Being. All creation follows pre-
determined and pre-defined laws. We see these laws at work in all
spheres of life. These laws are at work within the concept of the
Divine Will (Hukam Razai). “All (things created) are subject to His
Will and nothing is outside His Will.” (GGS p. 1)227

It is in this sense that this existence, this creation, is regarded as real

- ever changing but real. What is false is also clearly stated in
Gurbani. In this sense, if what is “natural” is equated to what is
within Hukam (Divine Will), and therefore subject to the laws of
dharam, then nothing is in the realm of “supernatural”. Once that
knowledge, the Guru’s knowledge or Gurmatt, is fully accepted and
adopted then it automatically frees one from the fear of the
“unknown”. Of course there is a great deal in the seen and the
unseen creation, which the human senses do not pick up. If there is
full acceptance that all beings and things, seen and unseen through
human experience, nevertheless, are within His domain and Will,

225
Due to egocentricity, the human mind suffers from ”duality” (referred to as dwait in GGS).
Dwait separates the Creator from the created. Dwait is the main cause of mental and
behavioural conflict. Only when “I” is replaced by “Him” within and without, is this duality
removed.
226
Kiv sachiara hoiay kiv koore tute pal Hukam razai chalana Nanak likhia naal (GGS 1)
227
Hukmai andar sabh ko bahar Hukam na koi (GGS 1)

93
then proximity to the Creator (i.e. becoming Khalsa228 of the Guru)
will free the human soul from fear of any sort.

Reward and punishment which appears to be the idea behind heaven

and hell, in Sikhism is only that which relates to the universal maxim
of “what you sow, so shall you reap”.

“What one sows, so one reaps, for this (life) is a field of deeds”.
(GGS p. 134)229

According to Gurbani, the transmigration of the soul is also subject

to the rule of dharam, which may be observed in this life. References
to heaven and hell using the traditional idiom are only metaphorical
in Gurbani to illustrate the joy or suffering of the soul in this life or
as it goes through other life forms. There are no heaven and hell
abodes for the soul in the strict sense as are mentioned in Islam or
Christianity. Contentment or suffering is self-inflicted through
birth/death cycles. Separation from the Universal Being (Naam) is
hell and immersion in that Being is heaven and it is achievable in
this life. Some quotations from Guru Granth Sahib follow to
illustrate the Sikh concepts of heaven and hell.

“Why dwell on (the topics of) hell and heaven, for the saintly people
shun both. Through the Grace of the Guru they care not for anything
else.”
(GGS p. 963)230
“Says Kabir, through the Guru’s Grace, I have opted out from
heaven and hell...” (GGS p. 1370)231

“Heaven is where (O Lord) Your praise is sung”. (GGS p. 749)232

Numerous similar quotations may be cited from Guru Granth Sahib

to show the manner in which heaven and hell are interpreted in

228
“Says Kabir, the persons who imbibe God’s love and devotion become His beings
(“khalsay” may be interpreted both, as the “pure” and in a proprietary sense as “directly
attached to or belonging to” as often used by the Sikh Guru personalities.) “ Kaho Kabir jan
bhae khalsay, prem bhagat jeh jani (GGS 654).
229
Jeha bejai so lune, karama sandra khet: (GGS 134)
230
Kavan narak kia surag bichara, santan do-oo raade.Ham kahoo ki kan na kadhte apne Gur
parsade (GGS 963)
231
Kabir surag narak te mai rahio, Satgur kai parsad.......(GGS 1370)
232
Tahan baikunth jeh kirtan tera (GGS 749)

94
Gurbani - the Guru’s Word. The self-inflicted torment a soul can
undergo as a result of a wasted life is great. Indeed, some passages
from Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Assa di Vaar sung in Gurdwaras in the
morning, come close to the descriptions of hell given in Islamic
teachings (e.g. GGS p. 464)233 but are interpreted differently as the
suffering a life form undergoes in this life or the next.

“So long as the mind craves for heaven, there is no chance of

meeting the Lord”(GGS p.325)234

10.6.1 Heaven and Hell: Islamic view

Islam and many other religions believe in otherworldly abodes for

the human soul after death. Such transcendental existence is
basically divided into heaven and hell called (in that order), jannat
and dozakh respectively in Islam, and swarag and narak respectively
in the Hindu tradition235.

According to Islam heaven is a place of great comfort, pleasure and

(even sensual) joy. Hell (Dozakh) is a frightening place where the
soul goes through all sorts of tortures and torments. A wall known as
Eraf stands between hell and heaven (HQ7: 46) Even if the Muslims
do not repent after committing sins, they will not be kept in the
Dozakh forever (HQ 99-7)236

“Not even a single Muslim will remain in the Dozakh forever”

(Ahya-al-Alum by Imam Ghazali vol. 2 chapter 1). They will remain
in hell for no more than 7000 years (Ihya 4-768). Prophet
Muhammad will plead for them and deliver those that were God-
fearing and leave the wrongdoers therein.“ But as for those who
disbelieve, garments of fire will be cut out for them, boiling fluid
will be poured on their heads whereby that which is in their bellies,
and the skins too, will be melted, and for them are hooked rods of
iron.”(HQ 22:19-21) Time and again they will be beaten back into

233
Vadha hoa dunidaar gal sangal ghat chalaya.....(GGS 464)
234
Jab lag man baikunth ki aas, tab lag hoi nahin charan niwas (GGS p. 325)
235
The Hindu position is not consistent, as they also believe in the transmigration of the soul.
236
Jews also believe this .See Madrash chapter 7 verse 14.According to Sahih Muslim (page
6665-6669) the Prophet said, “There would be people among Muslims with as heavy sins as a
mountain, but Allah would forgive them and He would place in their stead the Jews and the
Christians ”

95
the inferno. “They will wear sandals of fire which will make their
brains boil.” (SB. Riqaq 51)

According to Ahadis the faithful Muslims will assemble around

Muhammad near a pool (Hawz) and then traverse a bridge (Seraat-
al-Mustaqeem) which is suspended over the gulf of hell. This bridge
is sharper than a sword and finer than a hair237. Those who enter
heaven (Jannat)238 will live in beautiful gardens surrounded by
rivers of milk and honey (HQ77: 41-44). They will have
companionship with large-eyed women of exquisite beauty who are
like pearls and sapphires untouched by man or jinn (HQ
78:33)239and a sealed (HQ 83: 25) cup of wine overflowing (HQ78:
34). Whosoever drinks it will never thirst again. They will have
gardens and springs to enjoy where plants are showered with rose-
water rain and the mountains are made of camphor. Men of God
(Prophets) will have two gardens each with silken carpets spread in
them. There will be 72 varieties of food, no two of which, will be the
same (Hakim ii-476)

There is a fruit in the garden of heaven, which if eaten, makes an

individual immortal240. Even those living in the lowest part of
heaven will have 80,000 servants and 72 wives. (Imam Ghazali)

“The Jews split into 71 sects: 0nly one will enter paradise (Firdaus)
and 70 will enter hell. The Christians split into 72 sects, 71 will enter
hell and one will enter paradise. My umma will split into 73 sects,
one will enter paradise and 72 (700,000 Muslims only SB470) will
enter hell.” Said the Prophet (Abu Dawd Kitab-Al-Sunnah Hadis
4572-73)241

237
Before Prophet Muhammad the Parsees called the bridge Chanyud.
238
According to Sahih Muslim (418) “only 70,000 persons of my Umma would enter paradise
without rendering an account,” said the Prophet.
239
This is also found in the religious book Zind Avesta of the Parsis. Their religious preceptor
was Zartushat (Known as Zarathustra) who had lived and died before Prophet Muhammad.
240
Hindus call this fruit Pakshjati, Parsees call it Humpa and the Muslims call it Tuba.
241
“If two or three or four Muslims testify to somebody’s good character that somebody is
admitted by Allah into paradise”(SB811 V.3 B.48) “No one will enter paradise but a Muslim
and Allah may support this religion (i.e. Islam) even with a disobedient man( SB 297 V.4
B.52)

96
10.6.2 Hell (Dozakh) in Islam

Hell is divided into seven parts as follows242:

1. Jahannam: - for sinning Muslims.

2.Nati: - for Christians
3.Azma: - for Jews.
4.Maeer sabi: - for star-worshippers of Arabia
5.Saqar: - for majusis (fire worshippers)
6.Hajeem: - For idol-worshippers.
7.Haavia: - For Munafqeen (Whose fidelity towards Prophet
Muhammad was doubtful).

In the darkness of Haavia the Munafqeen “will say unto those who
believe: look on us that we may borrow from your light! It will be
said, go back and seek for light! Then there will separate them a wall
wherein is a gate, the inner side whereof containeth mercy, while the
outer side thereof is toward the doom”(HQ 57:13)

Hell is a place for the profligate where they will abide for ages.
There they will taste neither coolness nor drink except for boiling
water full of pus (HQ 14:16-17) and suffer bitter cold. They will
walk between two infernos on the thorns of sadan bush (SB. Adhan
129). They will go from Prophet to Prophet seeking help but no
Prophet except Muhammad will help them. They shall eat from the
tree of Zaqqum (a tree that grows from the base of hell and bears
fruit like the head of a devil. The fruit is thorny and bitter and is
without nourishment) (HQ 17:60,37:62,44:43 and 56:52).243

242
For a fuller description of hell read Eschatologia.(135-63)
243
“ There is a tree in paradise (Which is so big and huge that) if a rider travels in its shade for
one hundred years, he will not be able to cross it.”(SB474,403 V.6 B.60)

97
 CHAPTER 11
244
Angels, Jinns , Spirits, Miracles, Omens and Spells

11.1 Angels, Jinns and spirits: Sikh view

I n God’s infinite creation there are different planes of existence

and a vast number (not capable of being counted but referred to in
Gurbani as kete) of species and beings on this and other planes245.
It would be futile and unwise to name or describe some to the
exclusion of others.

In Sikhism, angels and jinns are seen in the different good or bad
qualities which human beings show.

“Love of wealth, lust, wrath and self-conceit are the evils. These are
the tools of the devil. On souls infatuated with these descends the
club of the Death’s Myrmidon.” (GGS p. 513)246

244
Jinns are mentioned in the Holy Quran at many places (HQ 72:1). The Quran reads, “ We
created the jinn from smokeless fire”(HQ55: 15). Accepting the existence of Jinns is, therefore,
an integral part of Islam. Those who deny the jinn deny the Quran. According to Abu ad-Darda
one jinn also visited the Prophet one morning in his prayers. According to Ahadis jinns are of
three types (1) those who fly (ii) those who are like snakes and dogs and (iii) those based at
one place but empowered to move about and travel. They visit at night but do not open a
closed door (SB). All jinns can have children. They eat bone and dung with their left hand
(SB). They cause illness among humans. A group of jinns in Medina became Muslims.
Although they are not supposed to die, Khalid Ibn Wallid is said to have killed a jinn named
Sheytan-al-Uzza.

245
Reference: various stanzas in, and the underlying theme of Japu Ji. While giving clear
indication regarding the revolving and moving “khand, mandal, brahmand” nature of the
universe and regarding other planes of existence, the Guru also says that such planes,
environments and life forms are beyond human vocabulary and numeracy. The number of
“forms” waiting to do His bidding is numerous. It would be foolish and impossible indeed to
try and describe all that is in God’s creation.
246
Maya Moh paret hai kaam krodh ahankar..... (GGS 513)

98
“If one is without the Lord’s loving worship and forgets the Master,
then one is like an evil spirit.” (GGS p. 706)247

“Kabir, the houses in which saints are not served, nor is God
contemplated are like cremation grounds and those who dwell
therein are like evil spirits”. (GGS p. 1374)248

The above is the Sikh theological position. However, as in some

other areas e.g. the caste system, treatment of women, and
superstitious rituals and cult practices, the Sikhs lag behind the
Guru’s teaching. The growing priesthood amongst the Sikhs -
despite the fact that there is no ordained priestly class in Sikhism -
and sant (saint) cults, continue to spread superstition and belief in
jinns and spirits in order to exploit the more gullible Sikhs.

11.2 Angels, Jinns and spirits: Islamic view

Satan or Shaitan in Islam has been mentioned under “The Nature of

Evil” as an anti-God entity. Some Islamic references are given below
to show the nature of Islamic belief in angels and Jinns. (See the
variant jinni in OED as “a spirit which can assume human or animal
form and exercise supernatural influence over human beings.”)

Muslims believe that God created angels and Jinns before creating
Adam whom he created from clay. He ordered Jinns to prostrate
before Adam (HQ 38: 74-75) Iblis declined to do so and said, “You
created me from fire but him you created from clay. I am better than
he is ”(HQ 7: 12 and 15:32-33). “Get out from here”, said God, “My
curse is on you till the day of Judgement” (HQ15: 34-35). Iblis
requested God for reprieve, which was granted (HQ 7:15-15).
“Because thou hath sent me astray, verily I shall lurk in ambush for
them on thy right path. Then I shall come upon them from before
and from behind and from their right hands and from their left hands
and thou wilt not find most of them beholden (unto thee)”said Iblis.
(HQ 7:16-17)

247
Har bhagat bhav hinang Nanak Prabh bisrat te pret-teh (GGS 706)
248
Kabir, jeh ghar sadh na sevya Har ki seva nahe, te ghar marhat sarkhe bhoot vase tin mahe.
(GGS 1374)

99
Thenceforth, Iblis started misguiding Adam and his children. Adam
lived in Al-Jannah (paradise). He was alone so God created Hawaa
and said, “ Do not go to that tree”. Iblis tempted Adam and Hawaa
and as soon as they went to the forbidden tree they became naked
and were turned out of Al-Jannah to live on earth. Despite this
transgression Adam is known to be the first Prophet of Islam.

“There is never a day wherein servants of God get up in the morning

but are not visited by two angels” (SM 2205). Angels enter into the
mother’s womb and write the destiny of the unborn child (SB 550)

“The Prophet had hardly laid down His arms after the battle of
Khandaq when Jibrael appeared and told him to destroy the tribe of
Quraiza”. (SM 4370)

11.3 Miracles and supernatural events: Sikh view

Miracles and supernatural events are germane to most religious

beliefs. Human belief is that Prophets and saints perform miracles.
The word miracle here is taken in its broadest sense as also including
the granting of a wish e.g. giving sight to a blind person, a child to a
childless couple, causing an earthquake or some other “natural”
disaster, and so on. It is called Karamat in this broad sense and
would include magical powers. The underlying teachings of Guru
Granth Sahib, however, do not divide God’s Will (Hukam) into the
natural and the supernatural Will. Furthermore no lesser being than
God Himself, can alter the operation of that Will. A miracle is only a
miracle so long as God’s Will is not understood by the human mind.
What is a “miracle” today may be a normal event tomorrow when it
is “understood”! The main concern of Sikh religion and the main
purpose of Sikh life are to understand and abide by God’s Will. As
Guru Nanak Dev points out, God’s miracles are happening all
around us. The working of the earth system is a miracle of God.

Belief in miracles is not central to Sikhism. Indeed, it has been

sidelined to such an extent that most Sikh scholars do not care to
dwell at length on the subject. It is very clear that the Guru
condemned the performance of miracles thereby accepting their

100
existence i.e. the possibility of mind’s superiority over matter.249
Saintly people in tune with and within God’s Will, may appear to
“perform” miracles to the ordinary person, yet, they do not and
cannot interfere with God’s Will.

“Except for God’s True Name I have no miraculous powers”.

(Varan Bhai Gurdas 1.43, quoting Guru Nanak’s response to the
Sidhas living in the Himalayas)250

“Says Nanak, what the Lord gives through His benevolence is a

miracle.” (GGS p. 474)251

The True Guru is capable of changing the nature of a human being

by putting him on the right path; that is a miracle.

“Without the True Guru, none attains the Name. It is only through
the Guru that Name is received (i.e. oneness with the God Being
achieved). Without the Name, in vain are all robes and dishes and
contemptible are the austerities and contemptible are the miracles
(i.e. the performance of miracles)......Nanak, through the Guru, the
Lord’s Name abides in the mind. This alone is the miraculous might
and this the miracle.” (GGS p. 650)252

Thus, performance of miracles is strongly condemned by the Guru.

Bhai Nand Lal (poet laureate of Guru Gobind Singh) in his work
“Tausif-o-sana” says that Guru Nanak’s mission was to bring those
who had lost their true path by indulging in miracles and
superstitious cult practices, to the right path.

When looking at the Islamic view regarding miracles, let the reader
bear in mind, that, like Islam, Sikh religious stories are also full of
“miracles”. Some accounts of historical events too rely on
“miracles” to explain the amazing feats of the Khalsa, thereby
belittling the true achievements and the great sacrifices made.

249
Pehra agan hivay ghar baadha, bhojan saar kraaee..... (GGS p.147); further clarified by
Bhai Gurdas:Bastar pehro agan ke, baraf Himaalay mandar shaaee.... (Bhai Gurdas Kabit 43).
250
Bajhoh Saache Naam de hor kramaat asathai naahi (Varan Bhai Gurdas 1.43)
251
Nanak sa kramaat Sahib tuthe jo milai (GGS 474)
252
Bin Satgur kinay na paayo, gurmukh milay milai.....(GGS p 650)

101
Regrettably, some “priests” amongst the Sikhs are using these and
many fictitious stories about the Gurus to spread ignorance and
superstition, and to fleece the more gullible Sikhs. True Sikhism lies
in the Guru’s word (Guru Granth Sahib) and not in stories concocted
by vested interests.

11.3.1 Miracles and supernatural events: Islamic view

Muslims believe in the occurrence and performance of miracles. Fire

did not burn Abraham and instead turned into flowers (HQ 21:69).
Miracle saved Abraham’s son from being sacrificed (HQ 37: 101-
107). Some other examples of miracles mentioned in the Quran and
Ahadis are as follows. River Nile divided itself (HQ 26:63).
Pharaoh’s armies drowned (HQ 26: 66). Jesus was born of a virgin
(HQ 19:17-21) and could talk at birth (HQ 19:29-34, 3:46). Jesus
made living birds out of clay, healed lepers, cured the blind and
made the dead alive. Prophet Muhammad, through Istisqa prayer
brought and then stopped rain in the valley of Qanat (SB55 V.2
B.13). The moon split into two parts (HQ 54: 1).253 A wolf spoke to
the Prophet’s companions near Medina (SB 517 V.3 B.39) and the
sun stopped in its course until Prophet Muhammad won a war (SB
353). Jona survived in the stomach of a fish (HQ 37:142). Moses’
staff turned into a snake and his hand became white (HQ 20:20-22)

Jibrael told Prophet Muhammad to throw a handful of dust at the

invading army. He did so and the faces of the invaders became ugly.
They ran helter skelter. (HQ 8: 17). The people known as Samud
killed Salih’s camel. The latter brought an earthquake to punish them
(HQ 7: 77-79) and stones fell on Prophet Lot. (HQ 11:81-82) Jibrael
took out Prophet Muhammad’s heart, washed it and then replaced it.
“Didn’t we open your heart?”(HQ 941,SB 429)254

Some books (See Mishkwat al-Masabih, Hayat-al-Yaqin, Ain-al-

Hayat and Ahadis) also mention miracles. For example Sahih

253
The people of Mecca asked the prophet to show them a sign (miracle) so he showed them
(the miracle) of the cleaving of the moon. The moon was split into two parts, one part
remained over the mountain, and the other part went beyond the mountain. On that Allah’s
Apostle said: Witness this miracle “(SB 38,89,388,390). This is mentioned as Shat-al-Qamar
in the holy Quran.
254
Allah’s Apostle said, “While I was in Mecca ,the roof of my house was opened and Gabriel
descended, opened my chest and washed it with Zam zam water (SB 345)

102
Muslim and Mishkwat-al-Masabih (page 525) mention that trees and
stones saluted the Prophet and followed his orders. Two trees
provided shade to Prophet Muhammad wherever he went and “for
him are angels ranged before and behind him”(HQ 13-11). In the
battle of Hudaibiya 1400 Muslim soldiers were dying of thirst. The
Prophet spat into a disused well and the water welled up to the brink.
The combatants and the animals all quenched their thirst. (SM 4450)
The Prophet said, “Mecca used to salute me before I became a
Prophet and I recognise that even now” (SM 5654). Kaaba moved
60 miles to meet Rabia Basri.

During the battle of Khandaq Jabir b. Abdullah prepared food for the
Prophet and invited Him as a guest. To his consternation the Prophet
turned up with 1000 men. Prophet Muhammad threw some saliva
into the pot. One person’s food became sufficient for the whole
assembly (Rauzat-u-Safa page 467 also see SB 293,294 V.7 B.65).
On another occasion when it was discovered that people were not
readily accepting Islam an angel appeared and promised to bring
together the two mountains of Mecca to chastise the people by
crushing them between these mountains (SM 4425). “A small
quantity of water was brought to Prophet Muhammad,” tells Anas,
“sufficient for him alone to wash hands but when He placed his
hands in it, water came spouting from his fingers.”(SM 5657 SB170)

11.4 Omens, soothsayers and spells etc: Sikh view

Total belief in One God, Who is without any rival entity and Whose
Will (hukam or razaa) is paramount, rules out any possibility for
superstition of any sort (bharam) in Sikhism. Fear of the unknown
gives rise to superstition. Firm belief in God alone gives rise to the
conviction that: “One whose Lord is all-powerful cannot be
destroyed (harmed)” (GGS P.842)255“No evil wind (force) can touch
one who has sought the protection of the Supreme Lord” (GGS
P.819).256

255
“Jis da Sahib dadha hoi tis no maar na sakai koi” (GGS 842)
256
Tati vaao na lagaee, Parbraham sarnai (GGS 819)

103
“Good or bad omens trouble the person who remembers Him not.
Death’s courier (fear of death) draws not near a person who is
pleasing to the Lord.” (GGS P.401)257

Guru Gobind Singh’s injunction to the Sikhs (Khalsa) is to remain

continuously immersed in the Lord’s Name, shun all rituals and
never to put faith in omens, incantations and amulets. The Sikhs are
strictly forbidden from visiting graves or soothsayers.

“Never even by mistake put faith in fasting, graves, mausoleums and

Hindu Maths” (Guru Gobind Singh)258

11.4.1 Omens, soothsayers and spells etc: Islamic view

Prophet Muhammad disapproved Kahins (soothsayers) and fortune-

tellers but he accepted the influence of an evil eye, which he said, is
a fact (SB 827 V.7 B.72). He suggested a bath if affected by an evil
eye (SM 5427). Once the angels told him that a spell cast by Labid
bin A’sam, who had stolen the Prophet’s hair, had affected him,
because Labid had knotted the Prophet’s hair and thrown them into a
well. The Prophet had the hair brought back from the well and felt
better. He said, “I seek refuge in the Lord of day break. From the
evil of that which He created; from the evil of the darkness when it is
intense, and from the evil of malignant witchcraft.”(SM 5442-5457
SB 490 and HQ 113:1-4).259

The Prophet believed in good omens. “Good omens please me” he

said. (SM 5519).” “If bad luck is a fact, then it is in a horse, a
woman or a house”(SM 5526 SB 110) The Prophet believed that
when the jinns eavesdrop on God and snatch heavenly news, the
angels send meteors after them (HQ72: 8-9).“Yawning is from the
devil” (SM 7129,SB 509) and hence disapproved.
“He who eats seven Ajwa dates every morning will not
beaffected by poison or magic” (SB 356 V.7 B.65).

257
Sagan apsagan tis ko lage.jis cheet na away..........(GGS 401)
258
Gor Marhi Math bhool na maney (Guru Gobind Singh)
259
Explaining witchcraft Muhammad Marmaduke writes in the footnote on page 455 of
Glorious Quran as follows: “From the evil of blowers (feminine) upon knots, it having been a
common form of witchcraft in Arabia for women to tie knots in a cord and blow upon them
with an imprecation”

104
 CHAPTER 12
Initiation into Religion and Code of Conduct

R eligious systems have prescribed rules about initiation into a

religion and about what is permissible and what is not.
Although, they usually start as general principles, the tendency
for such rules is to increase in number and detail and to become
more set and formalised. Religious institutions, divisions and
controversies grow as a result of their interpretation. This is true in
the case of both, Islam and Sikhism. Only a very general idea of the
nature of these rules and regulations is given below. The reader
would wish to refer to the sources quoted for further study.

12.1 Initiation into Sikhism and Code of Conduct

“Sikh”260 means a person who professes the Sikh religion (Sikh

Gurdwara Act, 1925). The main-stream Sikh view is that a person
who has total belief in One God (as defined in the basic precept, the
Mool Mantar at the beginning of GGS) and none other, and follows
the Guru, i.e. Shabad Guru (Gurbani, the teachings in Sri Guru
Granth Sahib), and the Ten Sikh Guru personalities only, is a
Sikh261.

Men and women enjoy equal status in all aspects of Sikh life
including full participation in religious rites. A Sikh is either born in
a Sikh family or becomes a Sikh through the sehajdhari process
(steady progress towards becoming a Sikh). The stress in Sikhism is
on the mental and physical disciplines (rehat) and not on mere
rituals or external appearance alone. Unshorn hair (kesh) and dastar
(Sikh turban) have become representative of the Sikh identity in the

260
The word is derived from ancient Pali language where it means “God’s own people”
261
Some Sikh sects, like the Namdharis, believe in a line of gurus after the Tenth Master, Guru
Gobind Singh.

105
world community. Sikhs kept unshorn hair from the days of Guru
Nanak and there are references in GGS to the connotation of slavery
behind shaving off hair and beards, which used to be a form of
degrading punishment at one time.

At a certain point in his or her life, usually in the teens, a Sikh goes
through the ceremony of taking Amrit262 or Khande di Pahul. It is an
initiation of the double-edged sword, at which he or she formally
takes vows to follow the internal and external disciplines laid down
by the Guru. The keeping of the five articles of faith becomes
mandatory. These are the five K’s or kakars as they start with the “k”
sound i.e. kesh (unshorn hair), kangha (wooden comb to keep the
hair tidy), kirpan (Sikh sword), kashehra (Sikh shorts), and kara
(steel bangle).

Space would not allow a fuller discussion of the Sikh articles of

faith. The faith is in the Guru’s eternal wisdom. For a believing Sikh
that is sufficient reason for keeping these articles of faith erroneously
called “symbols.” However, some reasons put forward by Sikh
scholars follow: Kesh promote saintly qualities: there is also a
traditional association of hair with a saintly, nature-loving
disposition. Kangha symbolises cleanliness, keeps the hair tidy
(unlike the matted hair of an ascetic who is a dropout from society
and family life). Kirpan is the benevolent defender of the weak and
destroyer of evil. Kashehra is agile cover for nakedness and also
represents chastity, and kara around the wrist is a restraint and
reminds the Sikh’s bond with the Guru. It has been argued that only
a Sikh can stand up unabashed in a civilised society in readiness to
serve and to defend.

The Sikh code of conduct, by the Guru’s injunction, is based on the

teachings of Guru Granth Sahib. The reader is referred to the Sikh
Rehat Maryada263 for further information about the Sikh way of life
and the Sikh ceremonies.

262
“Water of immortality” symbolic of rekindling the human spirit with the divine light.
263
Rehat Maryada - A guide to the Sikh way of life” published by the Dharam Prachar
Committee of the Shromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC), Amritsar (November,
1978) is the English translation of the Sikh code approved by the SGPC, the Supreme
Religious Parliament of Sikhs in August, 1936.

106
Sikh rehat (way of life) discussed under various headings (e.g. see
under “Sin”) is based on truthful conduct which is the highest virtue
in this life and the only means of striking a harmonious relationship
with the Lord. From the Sikh identity, determined by the Sikh
articles of faith prescribed in the Rehat Maryada, to every
instruction about social and spiritual life of a Sikh, truthful conduct
is the underlying theme.

The Guru’s challenge to a Sikh is “If you wish to play the game of
(Divine) love, then place your head on the palm of your hand and
come my way. In following my way be prepared to give your head
(i.e. life) without hesitation. (GGS 1312)264

On the other hand, it would be fair to say that Sikhism is very much
less prescriptive than Islam or indeed any other religion. Yet, in
another sense, by the Guru’s injunction (very clearly given by Guru
Gobind Singh), the whole Guru Granth Sahib is regarded as giving
guidance on human conduct.

Sikhism certainly is not complacent regarding conduct and the

warning is clear: that “this precious opportunity provided by human
life will be wasted if it is squandered away in false egocentric
attachment with materialism.” (GGS p. 12)265 The consequences of
failing to achieve the main purpose of this life will be terrible. It will
mean a return to the painful cycle of birth and death. Thus a Sikh is
made personally responsible for his or her own conduct

Finally, the Guru says, “The physical and spiritual discipline (in
accordance with the Sikh rehat) is dear to me and not the Sikh.”
(Guru Gobind Singh)266

There are four major kurehats - major breaches of Sikh discipline -

formally identified by Guru Gobind Singh when he established the
Khalsa way of life. They are (1) removal of hair (2) eating meat
prepared (i.e. ritually slaughtered animal) in the Muhammedan

264
Je tao prem khelan ka chao, sir dhar tali gali mori aao (Guru Nanak, GGS 1312)
265
Bhai prapat manukh dehuria, Gobind milan ki eh teri baria (GGS 12 )
266
Rehat piari mujh ko, Sikh piara nahe (Guru Gobind Singh).

107
fashion (Halal)267 (3) adultery and (4) using tobacco and other
intoxicants

If a Sikh commits any of these breaches of discipline, he becomes a

patit (apostate) and has to repent and undergo Amrit initiation once
again. (SGPC Rehat Maryada). Removal of any of the articles of
faith (the 5 kakars) is a breach of the rehat. Lesser acts of omission
and commission are punished through tankhah (community service).

12.2 Initiation into Islam and Code of Conduct

To accept Islam one has to pare nails, have a bath, remove hair from
head, armpits and pubic region and then to make the following
statement (known as Shahadah) orally
“ Ash hadu An la ilaha illal-Lahu wahdahu la shareekalahu wa Ash
hadu Anna Muhammadan abduhu wa Rasuluhu” 268
“I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah,
who has no partner and I bear witness that Muhammad is the
Messenger of God”

After this the initiate is given an Islamic name which usually

includes names or parts of names from Islamic and prophetic
personalities. The Prophet said, "Name yourselves with my name
(use my name) but do not name yourselves with my Kunya i.e. Abu-
ul-Qasim.(SB 345)

According to the Hadis (SB 7 V.1 B.2) the novitiate has to abide by
the following:
1. Repeat Shadah (as above) 2. Offer mandatory (congregational)
prayers dutifully 3. Pay Zakat (Obligatory charity) 4. Perform Hajj
(pilgrimage to Mecca and 5. observe fast during the month of
Ramadan.

No formal initiation is considered necessary in Islam. The convert

has to put full faith in the Holy Quran and the sayings (Ahadis) of
267
“The Sikhs eat Jhatka meat, i.e. the flesh of a bird or animal that has been killed with one
stroke of the blade and not the slow process favoured by the Muhammedans.” (SGPC Rehat
Maryada reprinted 1978). Many Sikhs do not eat meat.
268
This is known as ‘Kalima-e-Shahadat’. There are six Kalimas. The others are ‘Kalima –e-
Tayyab’, Kalima-e-Tumjeed’,’ Kalima-e-Tawhid, ‘Kalima-e-Istaghfar’ and ‘Kalima Radd-e-
Kufr’

108
Prophet Muhammad. “None of you believes until his inclination is in
accordance with what I have brought,” said the Prophet (An
Nawawi’s 40 Hadis). A Muslim must obey the Prophet and follow
his example every moment of his life (HQ 5:93,7:159, 33:21
etc).”And it becometh not a believing man or a believing woman ,
when Allah and His Messenger have decided an affair (for them) that
they should (after that) claim any say in the affair”(HQ 33-36)

Seeking blessings for Prophet Muhammad is a duty. “The people

asked: O Allah’s Apostle! How shall we (ask Allah to) send
blessings on you? Allah’s Apostle replied: Say, O Allah, send your
mercy on Muhammad and on his wives and on his offspring.” (SB
588,589)

Fitra: (1) Muslims believe in circumcision. The practice was

prevalent among the Jews before the advent of Islam.269It is a
process in which the foreskin of the sex organ is removed. In some
parts of Africa even women are circumcised270. Fitra also involves
(2) Shaving pubes (3) Plucking the hair under the armpits (3)
clipping the moustache. 271

Islamic code -Sharia and Fiqah

Sharia (literally it means ‘the straight path’) is Muslim law based on
the Holy Quran, the Sunnah (examples from the life of the Prophet
recorded in the Ahadis), the Ijmah (consensus), and Qyaas (analogy
or reasoning on the basis of similar circumstances). “Whoever turns
away from my Sunnah, has no relationship with me” (SM 3236)

Fiqah272 is the science of Islamic law (jurisprudence). It consists of

laws derived directly from the Holy Quran. Fiqah is divided into

269
God struck a covenant with Moses and told him to get all male descendants circumcised “ to
show there is a covenant between you and me” ( The Holy Bible Genesis 17:12).A Muslim
child is usually circumcised between the ages of 3 and 7.Circumcision is not mentioned in the
Holy Quran but is considered obligatory before adulthood.
270
The women activists and the Ministry of Health in Egypt challenged female circumcision in
the court as anti-Islam in early 1997 and called for a ban on it. The famous religious scholar
Sheikh Yousef el-Badry opposed it and justified that Khitan (purification by circumcision) was
an Islamic requirement and was absolutely necessary to guard against sexual diseases. He won
the case .(Daily Telegraph 5.11.97)
271
“Cut the moustaches short and leave the beard as it is”(SB 781 V.7 B,72)
272
Compiled by Abu Hanifa, Muhammad Ibn Idris (popularly known as Imam Shafi) and
Malik ibn Anas. “To be a lawyer in Islam one must also be a great theologian and vice versa,

109
Fard or Wajib (duty), Mandub (recommended), Mubah (actions
permitted by silence), Makruh (actions disapproved) and Haram
(Actions punishable by law). An example is:

“ As for the thief, both male and female, cut off their hands. It is the
reward of their own deeds and exemplary punishment from Allah”.
(HQ 5: 38)

12.3 Fasting: Sikh view

Apart from guidance regarding moderation in eating and drinking,

Sikhism does not believe in any special spiritual benefit arising from
fasts. The general instruction issued by Guru Gobind Singh to the
Sikhs is “Eat less and sleep less”273

“Through fasting and penance the soul is not softened” (GGS p.

905)274

“One takes not food and tortures the body (However) without the
Guru’s wisdom contentment is not achieved”. (GGS p. 905)275

“ I practise not fasting nor do I observe the month of Ramzan. I

serve Him alone, who will save me in the end.” (GGS p. 1136) 276

“Observing fasts, reciting prayers and reading the Kalma shall not
take you to the paradise. The Temple of Mecca is hidden within your
mind, if only you knew it”(GGS p. 480)277

“You keep fasts to please Allah (the Compassionate) and yet

slaughter animals to satisfy your palate. This is self-aggrandisement.
What good is your word (compassion)?”278

for in the Islamic system religion and law are bound up with each other (The family: its
function and destiny Harper Bros. Page204)
273
Alap ahaar sulp si nindra (Guru Gobind Singh )
274
Varat tapan kar man nahi bheeje (GGS 905)
275
Ann na khahe, dehi dukh deejai.Bin Gur gian tript nahi thijai (SGGS p 905)
276
Varat na raho, na mah Ramdana.Tis sewi jo rakhay nidhana (SGGS p 1136)
277
Roza dhare nwaz guzare kalma bhist nw hoee (GGS Page 480)
Az hzwrW kwbHw Xk idl ibhqr Asq, idl bdsq Awvr ik h`j-ey-Akbr Asq (iek idl hzwrW
kwibHAW nwloN cMgw hY, idl kwbU Aw igAw qW v`fw h`j ho igAw smJo)
278
Roza dhare manawe Allah suadat jeea sanghare….(GGS Page 483)

110
12.3.1 Fasting: Islamic view

Fasting (Saum): -There are many kinds of fasts but the one in the
month of Ramzan (HQ 2:186) is mandatory because, “When there
comes the month of Ramzan, the gates of heaven are opened and the
gates of hell are locked and the devils are chained” (SM 2361).279
Muslims take a meal (sehri) “a little before dawn for there is a
blessing in taking meal at that time” (SM 2412) and then eat only
after sunset. At sunset the fast must be broken immediately on seeing
the moon because, “The people will prosper only as long as they
hasten to break the fast” (SM 2417,SB 178). They have to avoid
eating, drinking, using fragrance and involvement in sex during
daytime. There are other fasts known as nafal. Although nafals earn
merit they are not compulsory. Saum is a fast from dawn to dusk. “
Fasting is prescribed for you even as it was prescribed for those
before you that ye may ward off evil” (HQ 2:183-185).280

Fasting is not mandatory for those involved in jihad (SM 2486). “On
the day of resurrection there will be a gate called Ar-Raiyan in
paradise, through which only those who have fasted will be allowed
to enter and when the last of them has entered it would be closed and
no one would enter it afterwards.” (MM 2569 SB 120 V.3 B.31)

The Prophet forbade Al-Wisal (fasting continuously without

breaking ones fast in the evening or eating before the following
dawn). When somebody asked the Prophet, “But why do you
practise it yourself?” he replied, “I am not like you, for I am given
food and drink (by Allah) during the night” (SB 182-183 V.3 B.31)
As for women, the instruction is to watch their husbands. “None of
you should fast on Friday unless he fasts a day before or after it"(SB
206 V.3 B.31)

279
“Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to
attain Allah’s
rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven” (SB 38 V.1 B.2)
280
At the time of his residence in Mecca the Prophet used to observe fasts on Ashura 13,14 and
15. (See Fatuh-al-Ghaib) After separating from the Jews of Medina, the whole months of
Ramzan and Shaban were prescribed for fasts. Six days fast after Eid-al-fiter is considered very
auspicious. Some Muslims believe that when Adam fell on the ground from heaven his skin
was blackened. Fasts were observed to restore colour to his skin. At first the Jews observed a
fast only on the day Moses was released by Pharaoh. Later many other fasts came into practice.

111
 CHAPTER 13
Family life, position of women and respect for parents

M arried life is important in both religions and to some extent

both religions mention complementary roles of men and
women. However, there is no similarity regarding the status
and treatment of women.

13.1 Family life: Sikh view

Sikhism strongly recommends the life of a householder. Married life

is given the highest status as compared to any other way of life281.
There are numerous references in Guru Granth Sahib showing the
importance of married life, e.g.:

“Such is the glory of the True Guru, that in the midst of children and
wife, man obtains emancipation.” (GGS p. 661)282

“They call themselves continent, leave their home and hearth and
know not the way of life.” (GGS p. 469)283

So far as Sikh teachings are concerned (despite the fact that practice
is trailing far behind Sikh ideology), the status of women is equal to
men in every respect. Some Gurbani quotations follow:

“A woman conceives (children) and a woman gives birth (to

children), and it is with a woman that man is betrothed and married.
With a woman, man contracts friendship and with a woman the
system of propagation continues. When one’s wife dies, another is
sought, for it is through a woman that a man can restrain his

281
Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha: Gurmatt Martand (P), Shromani Gurdwara Prabandhak
Committee, Amritsar.
282
Satgur ki aisee wadyaee. Puttar kalattar wichay gatt paee (GGS p. 661)
283
Jatti sadawai jugat na jaanay.....(GGS p. 469).

112
passions. Why (then) call her inferior who gives birth to kings (great
men). From a woman, a woman is born, without a woman there can
be none. O Nanak, only the One True Lord is without a woman (i.e.
does not depend on a woman to be brought into this world.)” (GGS
p. 473)284

It needs to be remembered that the above quotation is from Guru

Nanak Dev Ji’s hymns. Thus equal status for women is laid down in
the founding principles of Sikh teachings.

There is an instruction that even within the family a woman must

have equal rights because according to Sikhism “She is the most
noble of all the family. She counsels and advises young and old.
How blessed is that household, in which she has appeared. O servant
Nanak, she should pass her time in perfect peace and comfort.”(GGS
p.371)285 Outside the family the Sikhs are forbidden from having
extra-marital or pre-marital sexual relationship. The standing
instruction is “When you come across women not belonging to you
or your relatives, treat them like your mothers, sisters or daughters”
(Bhai Gurdas) Sikhism dis-approves keeping of londis (concubines).
There are numerous examples where the Sikhs treated the women
captured in war as their sisters and mothers.286

Bhai Gurdas, the Sikh scholar of repute, goes a step farther. He

writes, “In social knowledge and pious qualities the better-half is the
gateway to salvation” (Bhai Gurdas)287.

284
Bhand jammian bhand nimmian.... (GGS 473)
285
Sabh parware mahen sresht Mati Devi dever Jesht………(GGS p 371)
286
About Jassa Singh Ahluwalia we read, “ once when Ahmed shah was returning to Kabul, he
took with him a booty of two thousand women from the Punjab to serve as slave girls for his
countrymen. He (Jassa Singh) fell on the Shah's troops one night and rescued the innocent
creatures from the clutches of the hardy Afghans. He then liberally provided them with money
and sent them all under proper escort to their respective homes” (Muhammad Latif ‘History of
the Punjab’ page 316-17) Qazi Noor Muhammad who accompanied Ahmed Shah in 1764
offers a glowing tribute to the Sikhs in his Jangnama (page 172-75). Some of his lines read
“They do not rob a woman of her gold and ornaments, May she be a queen or a slave girl.
Adultery also does not exist in these ‘dogs’. None of them is a thief (Quoted in advanced
History of the Punjab University of Jammu page 462) In Fatuhatnama-e-Samdhi Ghulam
Mohyudin writes that Banda Singh issued very strict code of conduct for his army. He laid
down very severe punishments to discourage adultery.
287
Lok ved Gun Gian wich ardh sariri mokh duari……….. (Bhai Gurdas)

113
Guru Ram Das Ji (the fourth Guru) in particular further developed
the institution of marriage. He wrote four hymns for the Sikh
marriage ceremony of Anand Karaj (these spiritual hymns include
guidance for attaining bliss in married life).

During a Sikh marriage ceremony, the respective duties of a couple

towards each other, towards their families, their society and their
religion are clearly explained288. The ideal placed before a married
couple is that they should become one in spirit:

“They are not wife and husband who only sit together; Rather are
they wife and husband who have one spirit in two bodies” (GGS
788)289

Sikhism preaches complementary roles of men and women in all

social spheres. However, women are not debarred from any activities
carried out by men; nor are they restricted to any special dress.
Indeed, although there is a traditional Panjabi dress for women
(salwar, kameez and a light material head cloth), they may dress
exactly like men and go to battle if need be. Some famous Sikh
women have in fact led armies to battle. However the Sikh Gurus do
preach moderation and avoidance of gaudy or sexy dress.

Except for the equal status and rights of men and women, Sikhism is
less prescriptive about matters such as divorce and remarriage. The
Sikh ideal is family life and a permanent and faithful relationship of
mutual love and respect for life. Marriage is a physical as well as
(even more so), a spiritual relationship for achieving bliss and
equipoise in this life. Monogamy is the Sikh ideal. The marriage
ceremony of Anand Karaj is considered a sacrament and not a civil
contract, which can be torn up by mutual consent.

Following on from principles of complete gender equality in

Sikhism, it is not surprising that Sikh thinking about matrimonial
and family matters would be in line with responsible and humane
modern thinking about marriage, divorce, arrangements following
divorce, widow/widower marriage, second marriage following
divorce and matters relating to custody of children. Remarriage of a

288
Sikh Rehat Maryada, SGPC, 1978 edition.
289
Dhan pir eh na aakhian...... (GGS p. 788)

114
widow or widower is permissible. Sikhs have no personal law; a
husband or a wife can show reasons for divorce in civil courts and
obtain it as the last resort. Sikh communities and families all
participate in the preservation of the marriage, which is a bond
between the families concerned as well as the couple.

Respect for parents and elders

Sikhism preaches respect for parents and elders.

“It is a sin to quarrel with them (your parents) who begot you and
brought you up” (GGS p. 1200)290
“It is a sin to forget the goodness of parents and all the religious
rituals done and charity given by those who abandon their parents
are wasted.” (Varan Bhai Gurdas 37.12 &13) 291

As in Islam (see below), however, respect for parents and duty

towards parents would not stretch to deviation from the path of Sikhi
or truthful conduct. Fearing for Bhagat Nama’s life due to religious
persecution,292 Nama’s mother cried and said, “Forget Ram, why not
utter Khuda?” Nama refused to be persuaded to waver from the
righteous path under threat (not that the different Names of the same
One God made much difference for him) and replied, “I am not your
son, nor are you my mother; even if my body suffers I shall continue
to sing the Lord’s praises.” (GGS p. 1165).293 There are instances in
Sikh tradition when Sikh children have defied their parents’ beliefs
to embrace and stay with Sikhi294. They have gone so far as to dis-
own their parents295

290
Jin ke jane badiray tum ho.,tin sion jhagreat paap.......(GGS 1200)
291
Ma pio parhar parhe ved ,bhed na jane katha kahani (Bhai Gurdas 37.12)
292
It needs to be remembered that many Islamic saints (e.g. Pir Budhu Shah and Hazrat Mian
Mir opposed any form of religious oppression.
293
Rudan karay Naamay ki Ma-aay...... (GGS p. 1165)
294
For example see Bhai Sukha Singh’s early life in Sri Guru Panth Prakash by Bhai Rattan
Singh Bhangu.
295
The case often quoted in Sikh history of a young Sikh captured with Banda Singh Bahadur,
who dis-owned his mother when she pleaded that he had been led astray and that he was not a
Sikh.

115
13.2 Family life: Islamic view

Islam supports married life. Prophet Muhammad296 was himself

married and had children. He said, “Those among you who can
support a wife should marry, for it restrains eyes from casting evil
glances” (SM 3231).

Islam defines different rights and responsibilities of men and

women. “Men are in charge of women because Allah hath made the
one to excel the other and because they spend their property (for the
support of women)”(HQ4: 34). Polygamy is permissible and allows
up to four women (HQ 4:3)297. The Quran instructs “you will not be
able to deal equally between (your) wives however much ye wish to
do so but turn not altogether away (from one) leaving her as in
suspense.” (HQ 4: 129). A woman is entitled to a dowry (mehar)
and a lawful maintenance (nafqah) but the domination of a husband
is paramount, “Your women are like a tilth for you (to cultivate), go
unto your tilth as ye will”(HQ 2:223 SM 3363). “Had it not been for
Eve, women would never have acted unfaithfully towards their
husbands.”(SM 3471)298 However, “Thy women have rights similar
to those (of men) over them in kindness, and men are a degree above
them”(HQ 2: 228). “As for those from whom ye fear rebellion,
admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them.
Then if they obey you, seek not a way against them.”(HQ 4:34-35).
“Serving a husband is obligatory since her husband is named her
master in Allah’s Book and she is a captive with him as is shown in
the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger”(Adaab-uz-Zufaaf by Muhammad
Nasir-ud-din page 47).

296
The Prophet is reported to have said, “There is no rahibanya (asceticism) in Islam.
Marriage is my way and anyone who dislikes marriage does not belong to me.” In Islam
marriage is therefore considered a divinely sanctioned institution. God said to Prophet
Muhammad, “Do not have many wives” (HQ33: 52). Muslims are forbidden from having more
than four wives (HQ4: 3). Sayyed Amir Ali, the great Muslim scholar, however, considered
more than one marriage a violation of Islamic principles.
297
Four wives out of orphans and concubines. (Sura Al-Nisa 3-5).
298
Abu Said Al Khudri reports that he heard the prophet say, “The first rebellion of the
children of Israel was brought about by women. “I was shown the hell fire and that the
majority of its dwellers were women who were ungrateful” ( SB 28 V.1 B.2).If a woman loses
two or three sons while she is still alive, she is protected by her sons from hell-fire (SB 101
V.1 B.3) and goes to paradise (SB340-42 V.2 )

116
“ The adulterer shall not marry save an adulteress or an
idolatress, and the adulteress none shall marry save an
adulterer or an idolater……….. And those who accuse
honourable women but bring not four witnesses, scourge them
(with) eighty stripes and never (afterward) accept their
testimony.” (HQ24: 3-4)

“ As for those of your women who are guilty of lewdness, call to

witness four of you against them. And if they testify (to the truth of
the allegation), then confine them to the houses until death take them
or (until) Allah appoint for them a way (through the new
legislation)”(HQ 4:15)

A father can marry his adopted son’s wife. Prophet Muhammad

married his adopted son Zaid’s wife Zainab. “Allah has established
this with the Prophet and there is no objection in this.”299 “We
joined her in marriage to thee, in order that in future there may be no
difficulty to the believers in the matter of marriage with the wives of
their adopted sons” (SM 3330-3332). “Marry the loving and the
fertile women, for I will compete with other Prophets with the
number of my followers on the day of Qiyamat” (Abu Dawd, An-
Nassai and other ahadis). Shia Muslims believe that the Prophet
permitted Nikah–Al-mutah (a marriage where a wife is hired for a
certain number of days with money, gifts or ujrat and then the
couple separate).300They quote Sahih Muslim 3234 in support of
their claim. Jabir reports in Sahih Muslim, “We contracted mutah
giving a handful of dates and flowers as dowry” (SM 3249)301.
Abdullah reports that Prophet Muhammad “allowed us to marry a
woman temporarily by giving her even a garment.” (SB 51,130 and
139 V.6 B.60)

“No woman should observe fast when her spouse is present in the
house but with his permission”. (SM 2238) A woman’s testimony

299
“The Prophet was commanded to marry her in order, by his example, to disown the
superstitious custom of the pagan Arabs, in such matters of treating their adopted sons as their
real sons, which was against the laws of God” ( The Glorious Quran Page 300)
300
“And there is no sin for you in what you do by mutual agreement after the duty (hath been
done)” HQ 4:24
301
Mutah is still practised in Persia and is legal. The period of Mutah lasts for three years,
three months, three weeks or three days. Caliph Umar had abolished mutah for Sunnis by law.

117
(Shahadah) has half the weight of a man’s (HQ 2: 282, 4:177).302
When inheritance is to be shared “A male is equal to the portion of
two females.”(SM 3933 HQ4: 177) A man can divorce his wife by
simply saying “Talaaq, talaaq, talaaq” three times (HQ 2:229-
230,SM 3491-93).303 Talaaq literally means, “undoing the knot”. A
man cannot marry the same woman twice until she has married
another man and divorced him (Ihya 2:230). “The proportion of
rights and powers between male and female, as laid down by Islam,
naturally demands that out of the two parties only the former should
be entitled to pronounce divorce” (Maulana Moududi quoted in CIS
page 110)

“Islam allows the conversion of female slaves into concubines

with whom sexual relations are legitimate without the
necessity of marriage. Once they have been allotted to their
masters they become their property” (Maulana Moududi
quoted in CIS page 112 Also see HQ 4-3) (SM 3432-34)”304
“And all married women (are forbidden unto you) save those
(captives) whom your right hand possesses. It is a decree of
Allah for you” (HQ 4:24)
“Force not your slave girls to whoredom that ye may seek
enjoyment of the life of the world, if they would preserve their
chastity. And if one forces them, then Allah, after their
compulsion, is All-forgiving, All-compassionate ” HQ 24:33305

Islamic dress for women

There is no mention of any restriction on what men wear. Burqa or

302
Because of the deficiency of a woman’s mind (SB 826 V.3 B.48) and habit of betrayal (SB
547 and 611) her witness is half that of a man.
303
One of the Khalifas is said to have divorced 100 wives even though he died young. He is
known as ‘the
great divorcer’ (History of the Punjab. Punjabi University Page 34) According to W. Muir,
wives could also be gifted away (See Life of Muhammad Vol. II page 272-73).A wife can be
transferred to another person (SB 264) For divorce read HQ 2-229, 33:49
304
The Prophet’s wife Safia (wife of Kinana) was a captive at the battle of Khaibar. So were
Rihana and Juwariya (SM 4292 Also see Sirat Rasul Allah pages 493 and 517)
305
“ O Allah’s Apostle! We get female captives as our share of the booty, what is your
opinion about coitus interruptus? Asked Said Al Khudri. The Prophet said, “ Do you really do
that? It is better for you not to do it. No soul that which Allah has destined to exist but will
surely come into existence” (SB32,135,718 V.3 B46)

118
Hijab is a contraption used by the Muslim women to keep their
bodies covered except for the eyes (HQ 33:59, 24:31). This was
prescribed by the Prophet. These restrictions, however, do not apply
to old women (HQ 24: 60-61).306 Sharia requires women to dress up
with clothes meeting the following criteria (Adaab-uz-Zufaaf
page30).

1. The whole body must be covered except for the oval of the
face and the two hands.
2. The material of the cloth must not be decorative.
3. The material must be thick enough to be opaque.
4. The dress must be loose enough as not to make clear the
shape of the body.
5. A woman must never wear perfume in public.
6. The dress must not resemble the dress worn by men.
7. The dress must not resemble that worn by disbelieving
women.
8. The dress must not be ostentatious.

Treatment of parents and elders: Islamic view

About the respect of parents the Prophet asked ‘ who among

the people is most deserving of good treatment?’ and then
answered, “Your mother, again your mother, again your
mother. Then your father, then your nearest relatives according
to the order of nearness”. (SM 6181)“O ye who believe!
Choose not your fathers nor your brethren for friends if they
take pleasure in disbelief rather than faith. Whoso of you
taketh them for friends, such are wrong doers.” (HQ 9:23)

Where Muslim theology and social morality conflict, the

former must prevail. For example Allah ordered Sa’d b. Abi
Waqqas not to obey his parents if they believed in polytheism.
“We have enjoined on man kindness to parents, but if they
strive to make thee join with Me that of which thou has no

306
Turkey has abolished Burqa altogether but Arabia, Persia and Afghanistan enforce it
strictly.

119
knowledge, then obey them not.” (HQ 29:8)

120
 CHAPTER 14
Some further Examples of Dissimilarities

T his publication does not cover many modern topics, which both
religions are addressing by interpreting their respective
ideologies. Some topics mentioned below give an indication of
this process and the extent to which there is any scope for adaptation
of respective ideologies to modern issues. Some repetition in this
Chapter cannot be avoided in order to bring out the basic differences
in the two ideologies.

1. The law of blasphemy and the law of apostasy are not stated as
such in the holy Quran or the Ahadis. They were the responses of the
Muslim rulers to the challenges of their times based on their
interpretations. Later they became a tradition that is being followed
and approved even now.
“Lo! He who hath given thee The Quran for a law….” (HQ29: 58)

There is no such law in Sikhism.

2. Slavery is permitted in Islam (HQ 4:3). Bilal was Prophet

Muhammad’s slave307 and the Prophet’s cousin Zubair (son of Abu
Bakar) had 1000 slaves.” A Muslim, who emancipates a Muslim
slave, Allah saves every limb of his from fire for every limb of the
slave, even his private parts for him” (SM 3604 SB 693V.3 B.46)).
Islam does not condemn slavery as undesirable but the manumission
of slaves is considered a pious act and is counted among good

307
He was an Abyssinian slave of Umayya b. Khalaf of Mecca. He was purchased from him by
Abu Bakar and transferred to the Prophet. According to Muhammad’s biographer Mirkhond,
the Prophet had 59 slaves and 38 servants (Rauzat-us-Safaa). Slaves could be gifted away,
sold, hired, mortgaged or loaned. Female slaves could be made into concubines (HQ 4:24,
23:6)

121
deeds.308 Manumission of slaves at the time of an eclipse is all the
more meritorious. (SB 163 V.2B.17)

Slavery is not condoned in Sikhism in any form.

3. Islam does not approve music and dancing. Painting of animate

objects and pictorial reproduction of human beings are prohibited.309
“Whoever makes a picture will be punished by Allah till he puts life
in it”(SB428 V.3 B.34)

Music is haram (forbidden) in Islam.310 “As for poets, the

erring follow them. Hast thou not seen how they stray in every
valley.”(HQ 26:224-225)311

“The question of arts belongs to the realm of social morality.

Anything forbidden by Sharia is not proper for an Islamic Society.
Among banned items are photography, music, sculpture and dancing
etc. cinematography is permissible, since it does not produce the
human picture, which is banned in Islam, but only an image” (CIS
Page 113)

308
If a slave girl commits adultery she should be lashed. If she does it thrice then she should
be sold even for a hair rope.(SB 362,435,731 V.3 B.46)
309
When the Prophet’s wife Aisha used curtains with pictures, the Prophet said, “Change
them. The most
grievous torment from Allah on the day of resurrection would be for those who imitate Allah
through His Creation. On that day Allah would ask them to breathe soul into what they
created” (SM 5261-68).Some
Muslims believe that even photography and sculpture are banned. (CIS Page 113) Some
sections of Muslims also believe that lottery and insurance are forbidden.
310
Aurangzeb, the Muslim Emperor of Delhi banned music in 1670.The musicians of Delhi
made an effigy of music and demonstrated. Aurangzeb is reported to have said, “Bury it deep
somewhere so that it does not rise again.” He also had many paintings defaced or whitewashed
.His great great grandfather Humayun had studied music and poetry in Persia and had brought
with him most famous painters Mir Sayya Ali and Abdu Samad who had founded Mughal
Painting in India. Akbar also patronised painting and poetry. He said, “It appears to me as if a
painter had quite peculiar means of recognising God.” Many Muslims have been great
musicians. Amir Khusro is reputed to have invented the Sitar.Again it was he who improved
upon the ‘Dholki’ converting it into two small drums played by placing them vertically up
(known as Joree joVI ) Muslim Derveshes, particularly followers of Maulana Rumi, love music
and dancing.
311
The denunciation of poets in Sura Ash-Shuara is explained by Muhammad Marmaduke as
follows:-“The difference between poets and Prophet is tersely pointed out; poets being those
who say what they do not mean while a Prophet always practises what he preaches.”(The
Glorious Quran page 264)

122
Sikh scripture (Gurbani) is written in poetry and is based on
traditional and popular music. Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V) and Guru
Nanak Dev were great musicians of their times. Therefore, there is
no restriction on religious singing provided it enhances meditation.
Culturally, there are no restrictions on singing dancing and painting
provided these improve the quality of life. Sikhism preaches
moderation and control of mind over emotions. Dancing in prayer or
as a form of prayer (as among some Hindu sects or Muslim Sufi
dervishes) is forbidden.

Guru Nanak’s Bara Maha Tukhari and Kirtan Sohila paint excellent
word pictures of beauty in nature. Floral and bird motifs are painted
on the walls in Harmandar (Amritsar).

4. Islam dis-approves going near a leper (SM 5541).

Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V) had started a leper colony in Taran

Taaran and personally used to clean their wounds.

5. Interest from the Bank (ribah) or from colleagues is banned in

Islam. "Allah hath blighted usury and made almsgiving fruitful”(HQ
2:276)

There is no such restriction in Sikhism.

6. “Four are the vicious beasts: kite, cow, rat and a dog.312 They
should be killed”. (SM2717) Killing of a cat is forbidden (SM 5570-
5576 SB 535) but salamanders must be killed (SB 525-526). Snakes
(Abtar) must be killed because they destroy eyesight and bring about
abortion but Al-Awamir (snakes living in houses) should not be
killed. (SB 518, 527) There is a blessing in the foreheads of horses
(SB 102 V4 B52).

Wanton killing of any creature is not approved in Sikhism. All life is

sacred but no one animal is considered more “sacred” than another.
However, Sikhism accepts the evolution of life and that humankind
is at the top of the evolution. The duty of humankind towards other
life forms arises from this position of responsibility. (The study of

312
“Whoever keeps a dog, one qirat of the reward of his good deeds is deducted daily, unless
the dog is used for guarding a farm”(SB 541,542, 510,515 V3 B39)

123
Gurbani guidance regarding the Eco-system and other pressing
modern issues is continuing.)

7. Good dreams (Al ruya) come from Allah but bad dreams (Hulm)
come from Satan (SM 5613). If one had a bad dream one should spit
thrice on the left side and not disclose the dream to anyone. (SM
5615,SB 513 V.4 B.54)

Sikhism puts no faith in dreams good or bad. According to Sikhism

good or bad thoughts (sankalp or vikalp) or the sub-conscious
dreams are the result of a wandering mind. The aim of Gurmatt (The
Guru’s path) is to achieve a state of tranquility through meditation
on the Guru’s word.

8. The Prophet instructed Abdullah b. Amar b. As not to wear

saffron clothes. (SM Vol. 3 SB 737-38 V.7 B.72) “Do not wear silk,
for one who wears it in this world will not wear it in the next” (SM
5150 SB 11, 317 and 778).

No colour or texture is considered bad or evil in Sikhism. In general

Sikhism dis-approves gaudy clothes that whip up carnal desires but
puts no restrictions on the quality or colour of the fabric

9. In the Holy Quran humans are shown communicating with birds

and insects. A crow communicates with Tabil (HQ5: 31), birds take
revenge on humans (HQ105: 1-4) and Prophet Abraham conversed
with Azrael, (the angel of death) and Solomon (965 B.C) spoke to
birds, ants and Jinns (HQ 27:15-19). The bird hoopoe brought news
from the Queen of Sheba (HQ 27:22). In Sura Al-fil we read that
when Abraha, the ruler of Yemen invaded Mecca, "flying creatures
pelted him with stones of baked clay” (HQ105: 3,4)

The Sikhs have no such beliefs.

124
10. Adultery313 and fornication are punishable in Islam but not if
committed with women captured in war (SM 3234). A Muslim can
also beat his wife (SM, Trimidhi and HQ 4:34).

Sikhism forbids adultery or beating of women in any situation. “Like

the companionship of a poisonous snake is the desire of another’s
woman”(GGS P.403)314. Ill treatment of women captured in war is
strictly forbidden. This is what we read about Sardar Sham Singh
Attariwala, “It was disorder, anarchy and confusion in Punjab, they
moved from Malwa to Majha. Just before settling at Attari and the
process of establishing their control they came across a helpless
Muhammadan bride of the nearby Amir of Sarai Salamat Khan. The
manner in which they returned her to the Amir became a legend and
people still give example of their noble and moral character”315

11. “One who chooses to follow the code revealed by God becomes
a Muslim and one who refuses to follow it becomes a Kafir.”(The
Religion of Islam by Khurshid Ahmed page 4). “Believers are God’s
party but un-believers are Devil’s party”(HQ4: 76). “Allah (Himself)
is an enemy to the disbelievers” (HQ 2:15, 90,98). “Accursed, they
will be seized wherever found and slain with a (fierce) slaughter
(HQ 33:61).

The nearest word to kafir in Sikhism is sakat. It is borrowed from

Hindu terminology where it is used for the worshipper of gods and
goddesses. Sakats involve in open unrestricted sex and intoxicants.
In Gurbani it is also used for those who do not believe in the

313
Both religions disapprove adultery. Islam stipulates death by stoning for Ar-Rajam (SB 79)
but Sikhism does not permit killing for any offence. It aims at changing the person’s mind and
thinking.
314
“Jaisa sang bisiar ka hai ray taiso hi ih pargrah…..” (GGS P. 403)
315
‘ Ranjit Singh’s Khalsa Raj and Attariwala Sardars,’ National Book Depot Delhi 1944
Edition page 14.
“In November 1763 the Sikhs fell upon Jahan Khan, the commander of Ahmed Shah Abdali
and defeated him. He fled to Sialkot and later to Peshawar. His whole family fell into the hands
of the Sikhs but they were conducted to Jammu without molestation and were well looked
after.” (Advanced History of the Punjab. G.S.Chhabra. University of Jammu page 244) “The
same year Usman Khan, the chief of Kasur abducted a beautiful Brahman woman. The Sikhs
fell upon him and the woman was rescued and restored to her husband by Tarna Dal of the
Sikhs.” (Ibid p. 447) “They seldom resorted to cold-blooded murders even of their enemies and
respected the chastity of women as their faith and honour” ( A History of the Sikhs Gupta p.
286)

125
existence of God. Unlike Islam, Sikhism does not order killing of
such persons but does advise to avoid their company.316 “Shun the
company of sakat, keep him at an arm’s length”(GGS p. 1371).317

12. According to Islam association of Muslims with non-Muslims

is not desirable. “Let not the believers take disbelievers for their
friends in preference to believers” (HQ 3:28,118.60:13,4:140)

The Sikhs are advised to avoid the company (sangat) of evil people
who intentionally set out to mislead and take one away from the path
of righteous living. Otherwise they are expected to mix with
everybody irrespective of caste, creed, country or way of life and to
respect all religions.

13. The tribes of Uraina and Ukl had their hands and legs cut off,
their eyes gouged out and no water was given to them. They died a
slow and painful death. (SB 577)

Whatever the extent of enmity, Sikhism does not sanction such

treatment. Guru Gobind Singh blessed Bhai Kanhaya when the latter
offered water and assistance to the fallen enemy in the battlefield.
The Guru also instructed him to treat the wounds of the enemies
from then onwards.

“The True Guru has no anger or vengeance and preaches the same.
He looks upon son and enemy alike. He helps in removing faults and
mistakes and thus purifies the human body”(GGS 960)318

14. “One should not pray (a) When the sun is rising (b) When the
sun is setting, (c) When the sun is at its Zenith, (d) After Asr prayer
till the sun sets (e) After Fajr prayer till the sun rises” (The Muslim
Prayer Book by B.A. Rafiq page 28). The reason is that the sun rises
between the two sides of the head of the Devil (or Satan) (SB 494
V.4 B.54)

316
Killing of Kafirs is mentioned many times in the Holy Quran (see sura Tauba 1:5, Sura
Tehrim and Sura Anfal) “Slay them wherever you find them”(HQ2: 191). In his book
‘Understanding Islam Maulana Moududi writes ‘where there’s no Imam, there is no Islam.
Where there’s no Islam, there is Kufr” (Page 20). Kafirs will burn in fire for ever (HQ3:117)
317
Kabir sakat sang na keechaee doorah jaeeay bhag” (GGS Page 1371)
318
“Satgur nirvair puttar sattar samanay augan kaat karay sudh deha.”(GGS P.960)

126
There is no such restriction in Sikhism.

15. “O Prophet tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of
the believers to draw their cloaks close round them (HQ 34:59) “ and
stay in houses. Bedizen not yourselves with the bedizement of the
time of ignorance”(HQ 33:33)”

Sikhism expects modesty in wearing clothes but prohibits a veil.

“Stay, stay O daughter–in–law do not cover your face with a veil. In
the end a veil shall not bring you even half a cowry-shell (of credit)”
(GGS P.484)319

16. According to the law of Qisas Islam sanctions blood money (Ad-
Diyat) for murders and a ransom for persons captured in war. (SB
25-27 V.6 B.60)“And there is life for you in retaliation.” (HQ2: 179)

There are no such instructions for the Sikhs. It is ordained by Guru

Gobind Singh that the Sikhs should take up arms only when all other
means have been exhausted.

17. “The power of Abu Lahab will perish, and he will perish. His
wealth and gains will not exempt him. He will be plunged in flaming
fire, and his wife, the wood-carrier, will have upon her neck a halter
of palm-fibre”(HQ 111:1-5)320 “O Allah! Curse Lihyan, Ril Zakwan,
Usaya, for they disobeyed God and the Prophet”(SM 1428). “O
Allah be hard on the tribe of Mudhar and send (famine) years on
them”(SB 120,121 V.2 B.17)

The Sikh Gurus suffered tortures and executions but did not utter
any curse. Cursing is forbidden in Sikhism “Do not curse anyone.
This is what your studies teach you” (GGS p. 473)321

18. Islam recognises Adam, Noah, Abraham, Dawd, Moses, Jesus,

Suleman, Yousouf, Luqman and some other preceptors as Prophets.
It also gives credence to most of the Christian and Jewish stories.

319
“Raho raho re bavaria Ghungat jin kadhay…………” (GGS p. 484)
320
Lahab’s real name was Abd-ul-Uzza. He was denounced as Abd-ul-Lahab (father of flame).
Prophet’s
daughters Umm Kalsum and Ruqiya were married to Abu Lahab’s sons who divorced them at
their father’s instruction.
321
Manda kisay na akheay parh akhar eho buhjeay (GGS p. 473)

127
The Sikhs are instructed to put faith in no one except their Holy
Book Guru Granth Sahib.

19. Islam considers outward rituals like Wuzu, Ghusal, Tayamum,

Fitra, tathir, Miswak, Istinsha and, Istinja etc spiritually very
meritorious and expects the devotees to perform them in specially
recommended ways. (HQ5: 6) For example in Wuzu hands have to
be washed from up downwards (right arm first) thrice, mouth to be
rinsed thrice, nose to be cleared thrice, then head to be washed, then
feet (right first) to be washed up to ankles thrice strictly in that
order.322 He who follows this procedure in Wuzu all his past sins
would be expiated. (SM436)323Shaving and wearing of shoes must
start from the right.

Sikhism considers cleanliness next to Godliness but attaches no

spiritual merit to cleanliness of the body alone. Without inner
purification higher ethical life is not possible “ Cleanliness is not
attained simply by washing the body it comes only when the Lord is
enshrined in the mind.”324Morning bath for the Sikhs is compulsory.
They wash themselves clean before all prayers. However sins are not
expected to be forgiven with cleanliness alone. Right and left have
no merit for the Sikhs.

20. “No one would attain salvation purely because of his deeds”
(SM6760) “None would be able to go into paradise because of his
deeds alone” (SM 6770). For salvation intercession of Prophet
Muhammad is absolutely necessary.

Sikhism lays emphasis on deeds. It is only through pious deeds

and prayers that God’s Grace can be expected. The Guru is a
guide and will not intercede for anybody.

“The Central idea of Gursikhi is that the Guru instructs and the

322
“The Prophet used to like to start from the right side wearing shoes, combing his hair and
cleaning or washing himself and on doing anything else”(SB 155,169,418 V.1 B.4)
323
If a utensil is licked by a dog, it should be washed seven times and rubbed with earth the
eighth time. (SM 551) “If a housefly falls in the drink of anyone of you, he should dip it (in the
drink) for one of its wings has a disease and the other has a cure for the disease” (SB 537 V.4
B.54)
324
Suche eh na akheay behan je pinda dhoey….. (Asa di var GGS p. 472)

128
Gursikh follows” (by studying and understanding the Guru’s word).
(GGS p. 28 and 465)325

On the seventh day after birth a Muslim child is shaved and

given a name. This Ceremony is called aqiqa. On this occasion
usually one sheep or goat is sacrificed if the child is a girl and two
animals are killed if the child is a boy (SB 380 V.7B.66). Other birth
ceremonies vary from one Muslim country to another.

A Sikh child is given a name when it is convenient for the family to

visit a local Gurdwara. The Holy Guru Granth Sahib is opened at
random and a hymn is read out aloud. The first letter of the hymn is
used by the family to name the child. Male and female names differ
only in that the male name ends with ‘Singh’ and the female name
ends with ‘Kaur’. On this occasion usually hymns are sung and
prayers are offered for the grant of knowledge, meditation on the
God’s Name and a desire to serve others, to the child.

22. In Islam, a mother must suckle her child for two years (HQ 31-
14)326

There is no such requirement in Sikhism.

23. In Islam a bridegroom is supposed to offer gifts in cash or kind

(Mehar) to his bride (HQ4: 5). These gifts are supposed to be
returned after Talaq.

There is no such requirement in Sikhism.

It is not considered proper to give Zakat in the form of clothes or

any other article other than food. It is also not permissible to delay
the giving of Zakat later than the Eid prayers except for some valid
reasons. (See leaflet No.11 ‘A brief note on fasting & Zakat al Fitr’
published by IPCI 481 Coventry Road Birmingham B10 OJS )

Sikhism expects its followers to offer anything on the spot (food,

325
Gursikhi da karam eh gur farmaey Gursikh karna (GGS p.28) “Sikhi sikhia Gur vichar
(GGS P.465)
326
Problem arises when a woman is divorced before two years. Muslim scholars quote Sura
65-13 to decide that a Muslim woman must suckle her child even if divorced.

129
clothes, money, shoes, medicines or toys etc) that is needed and not
to wait for any auspicious day or time. In offering help a Sikh is not
permitted to consider the recipient’s caste, creed, colour or country
of origin.

25. The Muslim Imam has the authority to issue a Fatwa of death
against any one as was done by Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran against
Salman Rushdie.

In Sikhism, the maximum punishment, the Jathedar of Akal Takhat

in consultation with other four Jathedars can inflict, is
excommunication.

26. A Muslim cannot marry two sisters. “And (it is forbidden unto
you) that ye should have two sisters together, except what hath
already happened (of that nature) in the past.” (HQ 4:230)

There is no such restriction in Sikhism, although, polygamy is

discouraged by the Sikh Rehat Maryada (SGPC, reprint 1978).

27. Prophet Muhammad preferred always to travel only on a

Thursday, which is considered auspicious. (SB 199 V.4.B.52) “ The
year is of twelve months out of which four months (Dhul Qa’da,
Dhul Hijja, Muharrum and Rajab) are sacred.”(SB 419 V4 B54)

In Sikhism no day or month is considered more auspicious than the

others are. “The same moon rises, the same stars, the same sun
shines in the sky, the earth remains the same and the same wind
blows. How can it be then that some times are sacred and the others
not?” 327 (GGS P.902)

28. According to the Ahadis Prophet Muhammad said, Only the

shepherds can become Prophets. “Allah did not send any Prophet but
shepherded sheep”(SB 463 V.3 B.36 and SB 364 V.7 B.65)

The Sikhs have no such belief.

29. According to Ahadis “Five are martyrs: one who dies of plague,

327
Soi Chand charay say taray soi diniar chamak rahay…………..” (GGS p.902)

130
one who dies of an abdominal disease, one who dies of drowning,
one who is buried alive (and) dies and one who is killed in Allah’s
cause.”(SB82, 624)

“ Whoever is killed while protecting his property is a martyr” (SB

660 V3)

According to Sikhism a martyr is somebody who dies for a noble

cause.
“It is the privilege of the brave men to die for an approved
cause”(GGS p.579) “He alone is the hero who dies for the cause of
the downtrodden. He will accept being cut to pieces but will not
abandon his ideal”328 (GGS P.1105)

30. Accoring to Islam “ Never will succeed such a nation as makes a

woman their ruler” (SB 219 V.9 B.88). “No lady should travel on a
journey of two days except with her husband or a Dhi-Mahram”(SB
215 V3 B31)

Sikhism does not put any restriction on women leading men or

travelling alone.

31. Walima (wedding feast) is compulsory even if one sheep is

sacrificed (SB264 V.3.B.34). The Prophet told Abd-ur-Rehman that
he must offer a Walima. He who refuses invitation (to a banquet)
disobeys Allah and His Apostle (SB 106,108 V.7 B.62)

Sikhism does not consider any banquet or attendance at a banquet

compulsory.

32. “He who buys foodstuff should not sell it till he has received
it”(SB 343 V.3 B.34). As for exchange of money, “If it is from hand
to hand there is no harm in it, otherwise it is not permissible.” (SB
276 V3 B34)

There is no such restriction in Sikhism.

33. “The Hell-fire complained to its Lord saying O my Lord my

different parts eat up each other. So He allowed it to take two
328
Sura so pechaneye jo laray deen kay het…….. (GGS P.1105)

131
breaths, one in the winter and the other in summer, and this is the
reason for the severe heat and the bitter cold you find (in weather).”
(SB 482)

The Sikh view is “The seconds, minutes, hours, days, weekdays,

months and seasons all originate from one and the same sun. O
Nanak the Creator manifests Himself in various guises”(GGS
P.357)329

“The twelve months, the seasons, the weeks, the hours, the minutes
and seconds are all sublime when the True lord is enshrined in the
heart with ease”(GGS1109)330

34. At the time of Muslim prayer many Muslims consider a

Mussalah (prayer mat) absolutely necessary.

The Sikhs do not have requirement like this. Any clean place can be
used for a prayer.
“Let Truth be your prayer, and faith your prayer mat (Mussallah).
Subdue your desires and overcome your hopes.” (GGS p.1083)331

329
Wisuay chasian Gharian pehra thiti vari mah hoa….(GGS P.357)
330
“Be das mah ruti Thiti var bhalay ghari murat pal sachay sehjay aaye milay” ( GGS
p.1109)
331
“Sach niwaj yakeen mussalah…..”( GGS p. 1083)

132
 ANNEX 1
History of Sikhism

1.1 Background

I n the late 15th and early 16th Centuries CE, when Guru Nanak
introduced a revolutionary new ideology for the new age, the
ordinary people of India were labouring under the yoke of two
types of oppression. On the one hand there was the religious and
social oppression by the Brahmanic and Islamic priestly classes and
on the other was the oppression of the contemporary rulers. The
Lodhi332 Emperor’s Central control from Delhi was weak and people
regarded their local rulers as supreme. Punjab, the land of five rivers
in northern India, was divided into many semi-independent
municipalities under Muslim nawabs and Hindu rajahs who
preoccupied themselves with hostilities and self-indulgence.

The Hindu rajahs were divided, and allowed marauders from the
North-West to take away thousands of women and young girls to be
sold as slaves in the Middle-East. Generally socio-political
lawlessness was the order of the day.333 Social justice was left almost
entirely to the corrupt priestly classes of the two main religions
Islam and Hinduism.

“Rajahs were (ruthless) like tigers and the priestly judges were like
dogs, (and their officials) swooped down on people regardless of

332
Behlol Lodhi was reigning at Delhi at the time. He succeeded to the throne in
1451.Sikander Lodhi became king in 1488. He was succeeded by Abraham Lodhi in 1517 who
died in 1526.Thus Guru Nanak (1469-1539) had seen three Lodhi rulers of Delhi in his life
span. Babur attacked India in 1519,1520,1521,1524,1525 and became the Emperor on 22 April
1526. He imprisoned Guru Nanak at Aimanabad.
333
“Freedom was given to soldiers on march to loot barns and hamlets. Under most of the
Sultans, this loot was legalised and a tax called Khums corresponding to one fifth of it was
levied on the looters” ….
Forbidding the Hindus to ride on horseback, carry arms and dress elegantly. (“History of
Punjab”, Punjabi University Patiala Vol3 page 210)

133
whether they were sitting or sleeping (i.e. at any time of the day)
(GGS p.1288).”334

Superstition was rife and the priestly class thrived on fear. The plight
of women and the lower classes (under the degrading Manuvadic
caste system) was horrendous. These were the circumstances in
which:

“At last, a call proclaiming monotheism arose from the Punjab, and
India was awakened by a perfect (great) man of vision.” (Dr Iqbal)335

The new whole-life philosophy336 introduced by Guru Nanak was

expounded and implemented systematically over a period of two
hundred years by Guru Nanak and nine successor Gurus from the
late fifteenth to the beginning of the eighteenth Century.

1.2 Life and work of Guru Nanak

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, which after Budhism is the

only other truly indigenous religion of India, was born on 14th April
1469337 at Talwandi (now called Nankana Sahib) in Punjab. This part
of Punjab is now in Pakistan. His mother’s name was Mata Tripta
and his father Kalyan Rai Bedi, popularly known as Mehta Kalu,
was a local land officer. The family belonged to the high caste of
Kshatryas called Bedi. Guru Nanak was thoughtful from very early
childhood. He had only one sister Bebe Nanaki, who was five years
older. He had no brothers. Naturally, father Kalu had high hopes for
334
“Rajay sinh mokadam kutay, jai jagayan baithay sutay.” (GGS p1288)
335
“Phir uthi Aakhir sadaa tawheed ki Punjab se. Hind ko ek mard e kamil ne jagaya khwaab
se.”
(Kulyyat e Iqbal, Educational Book Book House, Ali Garh, India (pp 239-240)
336
For further reading see Daljit Singh’s booklet “The Sikh Worldview” published by the
Institute of Sikh
Studies, Chandigarh 1993.
337
The old writings “Puratan Janam Sakhi”, “Meharban’s Sakhi”, “Bhai Mani Singh’s Sakhi”
and “Mehma Prakash” give this date. And even those who give the traditional Katak di
Puranmashi (a lunar date in November) as the Guru’s date of birth, then state that he lived 70
years, 5 months and 7 days and passed away in September (in the lunar month of Assu) 1539.
Working backwards, even in the latter case, the Guru’s date of birth falls in April 1469. The
Sharomani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) has now formally given 14 April (1st
Vaisakh) as Guru Nanak’s date of birth but retained the traditional Katak di Puranmarshi for
Panthic celebrations marking this occasion. The new solar Nanakshahi Calendar shows
Nanakshahi year Samat 531 from 14 March 1999 to 13 March 2000. However, the adoption of
this calendar is still under discussion.

134
young Nanak.

Guru Nanak’s divine intellect, piety and caring personality became

noticeable from an early age. At the age of seven he was sent to the
local Hindu teacher (pandha) Brij Nath, to study Sanskrit. He
surprised the pandha with his knowledge of letters and questioning
approach. The same happened when he was sent to a Muslim
teacher, Qutab-ud-Deen, to study Persian and Arabic. Both became
devoted to him. He soon gained knowledge of ancient Indian lore,
the Hindu Shastras, the Quran and the Islamic religion. A neighbour
called Sayyed Hussain338 was most impressed by young Nanak’s
divine personality and used to tell him Islamic lore. Nanak spent a
great deal of his time in discussion with sadhus and faqirs passing
through. There is one historical incident when he got into trouble
with his father for spending money given to him for doing some
“profitable” business, on buying food for some hungry sadhus.

Another highly significant event which took place when Nanak was
nine was when he refused to wear the Hindu sacred cotton thread,
the jeneu, saying that he did not believe in rituals and symbols which
had no meaning. He is reputed to have preached to his teachers from
an early age, what he said to the Pundit (or Pandha) about the jeneu
and its inner meaning could be regarded as Guru Nanak’s first
sermon to humanity.

He said: “From the cotton of compassion, spin the thread of

contentment. Tie the knot of continence; give it the twist of virtues.
Wear it, if you have such a sacred thread for the inner self, O
Pundit.... (GGS p 471) 339

Bearing in mind that without a jeneu one was liable to be treated as

an untouchable (shudra) by the Hindu religion, Guru Nanak in effect
dissociated himself from the high caste to join the lowliest of the
low. “Nanak dwells with the lowliest of the low caste; why (for I

338
According to Siaral Mutakhreen, Sayyed Hussain was the Maulvi who also taught Persian to
Guru Nanak.
(Sada Ithaas (P) by Satbir Singh p58 and Sikh Review of October 1969 p. 37 )
339
“Dya kapah, santokh soot jat gandhi saat watt. Eh janeu ji ka haee ta Pande
ghatt......”(GGS p 471)

135
have no desire to) be like the high caste” He said. (GGS p. 15)340

Many local scholars and civic leaders were very much impressed by
young Nanak’s thoughtful personality and ideas. He always spoke
words of divine wisdom. Rai Bular, the village head, became
particularly attached to Nanak and so did Pundit Har Dyal, the
family priest, and his teachers Brij Nath and Qutab-ud-Deen. It is
interesting to note that the Guru’s early devotees included followers
of both main religions at the time. However, father Kalu was not
impressed. He wanted Nanak to be more successful in business and
regarded Nanak’s interests as a waste of time.

Nanak became even more pensive, so much so that the local doctor
was called to see if he had any illness. The doctor too received words
of wisdom from Nanak. The message to father Kalu from all those
who understood Nanak was “Kalu, your son has a higher mission in
life. Do not be annoyed with him.”

He was married in 1485 and for his livelihood he combined work at

the family farm with some business. He was always keen to meet
travellers and was well aware of the socio-political situation in the
country. He had two sons, Sri Chand born in 1497 and Lakhmi
Chand born in 1499. The person closest to Nanak, who fully
understood his mission, was his sister (Bebe) Nanaki. She was
married to Jai Ram, who held a prominent position with the local
ruler Daulat Khan Lodhi, at Sultanpur. In October 1504, at the age of
35, Guru Nanak moved over to Sultanpur where Jai Ram secured a
good position for him as the keeper of accounts and stores for the
Nawab. He made a name for his honesty and charitable work. He
distributed income above his family expenditure to the needy and his
fame spread. Many like Bhai Bhagirath and Bhai Mansukh became
his followers when he was at Sultanpur.

In 1507, after a bath in river Veyeen followed by meditation in

solitude on the Lord’s Name for two days, the Guru returned to
announce, “ There is but One Creator whose name is Truth, Who is
self-born, and who is ever-lasting”. He further admonished the
whole society “No one is Hindu nor Mussalman.” Guru Nanak had

340
Neechan andar neech zaat, nichi hoo att neech. Nanak tin ke sang saath wadian sion kia
rees (GGS p15 )

136
meditated on the decay in religious, social and political spheres of
human life and was ready to take his bold message to the world.

“A rigorous analysis of the compositions of Guru Nanak reveals that

there is hardly anything in contemporary politics, society or religion
that he finds commendable. It may be argued that the entire social
order had lost its legitimacy in the eyes of Guru Nanak because it
had lost its support from the prevalent religious ideologies: it was
neither “Hindu nor Muslim.” “A new religious ideology was needed
to become the basis of a new social order.” (The New Cambridge
History of India, The Sikhs of Punjab by Dr J S Grewal. Page 28)

After making due arrangements for his family, in October 1507, at

the age of thirty-eight, Guru Nanak embarked on a succession of
long itineraries to deliver his message of “Fatherhood” of One God
and “Brotherhood” of mankind341. He addressed religious, social and
political issues boldly and at considerable risk to his life. The
wording of his teachings (Gurbani) is often strong, impartial and
uncompromising. Clearly Guru Nanak was not in the mould of the
more docile saints of the Indian bhagti movement. He was a
revolutionary and had a revolutionary new ideology to offer to
mankind. “He cut himself adrift from all associations with prevailing
sectarian religions, and, although, his approach to God was through
love and devotion, he did not adopt the imagery and symbolism of
vaishnavism or any other creed. His was the first and last successful
attempt to bring together the Hindus and the Muslims in a common
fold of spiritual and social brotherhood.”(The Delhi Sultanate
Page569)

His Japuji (Sikh Morning Prayer) reveals that he was well aware of
the coming of the age of discovery, technology and science. He
presented a whole-life ideology based on the twin track philosophy
of worldly and spiritual (miri-piri) progress. He challenged Babur342
the Moghul invader and strongly rebuked him for the cruelty he had
inflicted on “Hindostan.” Babur imprisoned him but released him
from prison when briefed about the revered position, which the Guru

341
Limitation of language: God has no gender in Sikh ideology and “brotherhood” is meant to convey
sisterhood and complete equality between sexes. Indeed, “brotherhood” embraces all creation co-existing
(i.e. with the God given right to co-exist) in accordance with the Will (Hukam) of the Creator.
342
Babur wrote that Hindus were fit only for work as employees, artisans and contractors. (Tuzak-e-Babri.
Mirza Amir-ud-din Haider page342)

137
held in the eyes of the Muslims and Hindus alike.

Guru Nanak made long journeys with his Muslim musician

companion Mardana, to east and south India (1507 CE to 1515 CE),
to the north (1517CE to 1518CE), and to the northwest and the
Middle East including Mecca and Baghdad (1518 CE to 1521CE).
He settled at Kartarpur (Now in Pakistan), completed the collation of
his teachings and after passing on the Guruship to his worthy
successor Guru Angad, he passed away on 5 September 1539 CE.
Guru Nanak was a revolutionary: his questioning (Socratic)
approach was revolutionary in the context of the traditional Indian
guru/sikh (teacher/student) relationship and learning method; his
religious ideology was revolutionary; his freedom inspiring Words
(Bani), sung to popular beat and rhythm (e.g. Asa di Vaar sung to
Tunday Asrajay ki Dhunee) challenged the rulers of the day and the
language was revolutionary; and, not surprisingly, he laid the
foundation of a progressive and prosperous new age social order
which continues to challenge and question the oppressive religio-
social order of the Indian sub-continent.

1.3 Sikh Gurus after Guru Nanak

Joti jote milaike Satgur Nanak roop wataya (Bhai Gurdas, Vaar 1.
Pauri 45.)
“The Light merged with another and True Guru Nanak changed the
form into another (Guru) personality.”

There were nine other Gurus after Guru Nanak who carried on
preaching his revolutionary ideology. Guru Nanak’s teachings
provided the foundation on which his nine successors continued to
develop the Sikh worldly and spiritual (miri-piri) institutions to
completion by 1699 CE.
1.4 The same Light in all ten Guru personalities343

Nanak II, Guru Angad (Guruship 1539-1552CE), collated the

hymns of Guru Nanak in the popular Panjabi (Gurmukhi) script,
added his own hymns and strengthened the institution of the holy
congregation (Sangat) established by Guru Nanak. He promoted the

343
See Chapter 7 (7.1) for the term Guru as a singular concept in Sikhism.

138
education of children and encouraged sports and games. Based on
the teachings of Guru Nanak, the institution of community kitchen
and pangat (sharing and eating together without distinction of caste,
creed or status) was firmly established and expanded.

Nanak III, Guru Amar Das (Guruship 1552-1574) built an

important Sikh centre at Goindwal. The number of visitors to the
centre increased rapidly. The caste conscious neighbourhood steeped
in Brahmanic tradition, refused water supply to the trans-caste Sikhs
of Guru Nanak. Therefore the Guru’s followers excavated a large
Baoli (A well with steps to go down) for water supply. The twin
institutions of sangat-pangat (Holy congregation and communal
kitchen) were now well established and Sikhism flourished under the
guidance of Guru Amar Das. He wrote hymns for the benefit of the
householder and preached a life of equipoise (sahij). He
strengthened the Sikh organisation through establishment of local
congregations of Sikhs (sangats) and through appointment of Guru’s
representatives not only in the Punjab but also throughout India.
Amongst these representatives were a number of women. This was a
most progressive and revolutionary step in view of the position of
the women at the time. Every Sikh was asked to donate one tenth of
his income (daswandh) for religious and charitable purposes. The
Mughal Emperor Akbar visited the Guru in 1565 CE. In accordance
with the Guru’s instructions he too sat in a pangat (on the floor with
the common people) and enjoyed the food before he saw the Guru.
Akbar was pleased with what he saw and some historians mention
that he allotted a piece of land to the Guru’s daughter Bibi Bhani344.
The town of Amritsar and the Harmandar (Golden Temple) now
stand on this land. Thus Guru Amar Das gave a very significant
practical direction to the teachings of Guru Nanak.

Nanak IV, Guru Ram Das (Guruship 1574-1581 CE) started the
excavation of the pool at Amritsar destined to become the nucleus of
the Sikh Panth (Order). He developed the town of Amritsar for trade
and business. Many centres of Sikhism were built under the
Guruship of Ramdas. The Sikhs were now a sizeable, well-organised
and flourishing community. So much so that they started attracting
the attention of less tolerant Mughal Emperors who followed Akbar,

344
Most historians however mention that the land was purchased by Guru Ram Das from the
Zamindars of Village Tung.

139
and the Brahmanic divisive and socially oppressive Manuvadic
tradition to which Guru Nanak’s egalitarian teachings were not
acceptable. The distinctness of the Sikh community became more
pronounced due to own centres and meaningful ceremonies e.g. that
of the Sikh marriage ceremony or Anand Karaj at which the Guru’s
teachings were read and sung. Sikh sangats flourished in Punjab and
outside.

Nanak V, Guru Arjan Dev’s Guruship (1581-1606 CE) was one of

the most notables. He completed the excavation of the lake
(sarowar) at Amritsar. In 1589, a Muslim divine Mir Mohammed
Muayyinul Islam, popularly known as Mian Mir, was requested to
lay the foundation stone of Harmandar (now known as the Golden
Temple) which was built in the centre of the lake. Before this, no
leader of a world religion had shown such goodwill towards another
religion. Harmandar had four doors on all four sides; this signified
that they were open to all castes, races and religions of the world.
Guru Arjan Dev got the Aadi Granth (The First Book) compiled
which included hymns of the first five Gurus (including his own).
The hymns of 15 other Muslim and Hindu saints (sants), which
accorded with the teachings of Guru Nanak, were also included
selectively in the Adi Granth. The Granth was then installed in the
Harmandar, the sanctum sanctorum of Sikhism, in 1604 CE.
Jehangir, the Mughal Emperor after Akbar, was a fanatical and
intolerant ruler. He was looking for some excuse to put a stop to the
spread of Sikhism. The Guru was arrested under a political pretext
and tortured to death by his orders in 1606 CE. 345

Nanak VI, Guru Har Gobind (1606 CE-1645 CE) was enjoined by
Guru Arjan Dev before the latter’s martyrdom, to prepare the Sikhs
for armed defence of Guru Nanak’s faith as a last resort. Jehangir
imprisoned Guru Har Gobind for a few years in a fortress but
released him following representations by prominent Muslims like
Mian Mir and Hindu leaders. In the time of Emperor Shah Jahan, the
Guru trained his followers in the use of arms. He successfully
repulsed four attacks prompted by those who were envious of the
345
In his autobiography ‘Tuzak-e-Jehangiri’ the Emperor wrote, "I was aware of the Guru’s
false cult. I therefore ordered him to be arrested and made over his household and family to
Murtza Khan. Having confiscated his property I issued orders that he should be imprisoned
and tortured to death under some political pretext” (Tuzak-e-Jehangiri published by Naval
Kishore press Lucknow page 35 )

140
ascendancy of the Guru and the growing strength of the Sikh
organisation. The saint-warrior image of the Sikhs began to take
shape under the Guruship of Guru Har Gobind. He established the
theo-political centre of Sikhism called the Akal Takhat (The
Immortal Throne) opposite the Harmandar at Amritsar. This became
the seat of the temporal aspirations of the Sikhs as a distinct nation.
Thus the theo-political developments arising from Guru Nanak’s
teachings became institutionalised in the Harmandar and the Akal
Takhat in close proximity. The scene was set for a clash between the
oppressive Mughal regime egged on by the orthodox Islamic
fanatics, the Qazis and the Mullahs, and the caste conscious
Brahmans and Kshatryas on the one hand, and the Sikhs of the Guru
committed to an egalitarian tolerant society on the other. A large
number of prominent Hindus and Muslims (e.g. saintly people like
the Muslim divine Mian Mir mentioned above) sided with the
reformation movement spearheaded by the Gurus, which was
beginning to emerge in its final form as a distinct “third path” (Tisra
Panth-khalsa) after Hinduism and Islam. Guru Har Gobind
addressed the Sikhs as Khalsa. One of his Orders (Hukamnamah)
reads, “The Sangat of the East is the Guru’s Khalsa”.

Nanak VII, Guru Har Rai (1644-1661 CE) further consolidated the
saint-soldier image of the Sikhs. Services for the treatment and care
of the sick set up by earlier Gurus were expanded and there is
anecdotal evidence that a well-stocked free dispensary was run by
the Guru. The Sikhs were taught by the Guru to become responsible
householders. The Guru was notable for his gentle nature and taught
the Sikhs to put the peaceful message of Gurbani into practice. The
Sikhs prospered a lot under the Guruship of Guru Har Rai. Yet, he
accomplished all this from a position of strength as he also
maintained a trained cavalry of 2,200. He was provoked on one or
two occasions, although, unlike Guru Har Gobind, he was not
directly attacked. He taught the Sikhs to show humility and
forgiveness from a position of strength (i.e. the Sikh maxim of Taan
honday hoay nitana). Sikhism flourished under Guru Har Rai and
many influential people in the Malwa area (south of river Sutlej)
became the Guru’s Sikhs. These Sikh families (ghranas) were later
to help Guru Gobind Singh to regroup his forces at Sabo Ki
Talwandi (Damdama Sahib) after his departure from the fort of

141
Anandpur in December 1704 CE. Some of these families became the
rulers of the Malwa in later years.

Nanak VIII, Guru Har Krishan (1661-1664 CE) took over Guruship
when he was only five and died at the age of nine but his name is
remembered with great affection and reverence by the Sikhs. The
Child-Guru showed great wisdom and maturity even at that tender
age. He carried Guru Nanak’s missionary torch unwaveringly thus
confirming that Guru Nanak’s Light was the same in all the Guru
personalities regardless of age. His visit to Delhi reconfirmed the
direction of the mainstream Sikhism of Guru Nanak. Hundreds of
Sikhs came to see him there. He passed on the Guruship to Guru
Tegh Bahadur, the Ninth Guru Nanak before his death.

However, the fanaticism and relentless oppression of the Mughal

Emperor Aurangzeb was bound to clash with the robustly egalitarian
Sikh Panth of Guru Nanak. The latter had himself not hesitated to
confront Aurangzeb’s ancestor, the invader Moghul Babur who had
inflicted cruelties on the Hindu/Muslim public in 1521 CE. This
clash between Babur’s descendants (Babur ke) and Guru Nanak’s
descendants (Babay ke) became a bitter reality in the lives of the
next two Gurus.

Nanak IX, Guru Tegh Bahadur (1664 CE-1675 CE) responded

to the prayer of the public to save them from the bigotry and
persecution of Emperor Aurangzeb. The latter got him
executed in 1675 CE. Before his death the Guru had instructed
his son Gobind Rai, to be frightened by no one as the obverse
of frightening none (Bhai kahun ko det neh, neh bhai manat
aan). The fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev had set a unique trans-
religion goodwill example when he bestowed the honour of
laying the foundation stone of Harmandar (Golden Temple),
the sanctum-sanctorum of the Sikh faith, by the Muslim savant
Mian Mir (1530-1635 CE).346 The martyrdom of Guru Tegh
Bahadur in defence of a fundamental human right, that every
person should be free to practise own religion, was the second

346
Madanjit Kaur in her book “The Golden Temple-Past and present” maintains that the
foundation of the Golden temple was laid by Guru Arjan Dev himself.

142
universal message of Guru Nanak’s Sikhism. It is important to
understand that the Guru’s sacrifice was not to save the Hindu
religion per se, but to defend a fundamental human right.
(Equally misleading it would be for the Hindu brothers to use
this argument to ungratefully deny that the main beneficiary of
the Guru’s great sacrifice at that time was indeed the Hindu
religion.)

1.5 Emergence of the Khalsa Panth.

Nanak X, Guru Gobind Rai, who after Vaisakhi 1699, became Guru
Gobind Singh (1675CE-1708CE), made final preparations for the
formal introduction of the Sikh assertive identity and brotherhood
for organisational strength, common direction and purpose. He
invited all followers of Guru Nanak to Anandpur and standing on a
hillock with an unsheathed sword in his hand demanded a head. In
succession five volunteers were taken inside a tent. Blood flowed
and later, much to the amazement of the awe-stricken congregation,
the five reappeared dressed in blue uniforms, armed with swords,
and with a fearless spiritual glow on their faces.

These Five Beloved Ones (Panj Piaray) then took the Amrit
(baptismal water) prepared by the Guru. This Ceremony removed
caste distinctions and gave a common name, Singh (lion signifying a
fearless spirit) to all men and Kaur (princess) to all women. They
drank Amrit from the same iron bowl (bata) to show that any caste
or other distinctions between them had been obliterated.

Standing on the hillock, on which was later built Takhat Keshgarh

Sahib, one of the five main seats of Sikh authority, the Guru
delivered his first sermon outlining aims and objectives of the
Khalsa. From that day, thousands from all castes and religions came
forward to take Amrit and join the new egalitarian brotherhood of the
Khalsa. The Khalsa brotherhood was to rise above all sorts of castes,
creeds, discriminations and inequalities. This was an extension and
further confirmation of the Sikh sangat-pangat congregational
tradition. Internal as well as external discipline was stressed. He
reminded the Sikhs of the spiritual life of a true Gursikh (Guru’s
Sikh) as described in the teachings of the Gurus in Guru Granth

143
Sahib. Sikhs aspiring to become Khalsa were enjoined to rise early
in the morning, take a bath and say prayers at sunrise and at sunset;
nay they were to remember God’s Name with every breath. Their
conduct was to be exemplary and they were to resist oppression
fearlessly and defend the weak. The discipline thus promulgated laid
stress on righteous conduct and meditation on the Name of One God
and no other. Freedom from fear and superstition was important for
spiritual freedom and ultimate union with the Fearless. “Fear not,
frighten none” teaching of the ninth Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was
to be the guiding principle of the Khalsa.

On that Vaisakhi day in 1699, the Guru yet again did something
unique in the history of world religions. With folded hands, he asked
the Panj Piaray (the first five baptized ones) representing the
Khalsa, to baptise him i.e. the Guru himself! That day, he too
became Khalsa Gobind Singh from Gobind Rai.

The Tenth Master, Guru Gobind Singh delivered the new order of
the Khalsa Panth in its final shape. Thus the Sikh institutions were
developed and consolidated systematically over a period of two
hundred years. Unlike any other major world religion, Sikhism as a
whole-life ideology was introduced in a society that had been
steeped in dichotomous ideologies of asceticism and monasticism for
over three thousand years. Guru Nanak’s Sikhism is not just about
individual salvation but it is about the establishment of a progressive
and tolerant human society, which evolves towards higher ideals.
The older society debilitated by negative ascetic and escapist
ideologies and fragmented by embedded caste, cult and religious
divisions was bound to show rejection symptoms when a new and
vibrant ideology was introduced. The older society had become
impervious to the punishment inflicted on it by religio-political
corruption and flagrant abuse of basic human rights. It not only took
the new ideology over 200 hundred years but also hundreds of
martyrdoms to awaken the spirit of independence in the former.

Guru Arjan got compiled the Sikh Holy Scripture, Guru Granth
Sahib (popularly known as Aadi Granth). He included the teachings
(Gurbani) of the first five Gurus and many Hindu and Muslim saints
(bhagats). Guru Gobind Singh revised the Granth and included in it
the Gurbani of the Ninth Master, Guru Tegh Bahadhur. The spiritual

144
Guruship was thus “returned” to Gurbani in the form of Guru Granth
Sahib. Guru Gobind Singh bestowed the physical eternal Guruship
on the collective body of the Sikh nation, the Guru Khalsa Panth.
Thus started the tradition of the Guru Granth/Guru Panth. This is
not to be regarded as some form of joint Guruship but One Guruship
of the Guru’s Word (Shabad) as interpreted by the collective body of
the Khalsa Panth. As Guru Granth Sahib is the eternal Guru of the
Sikhs (subject to the clear understanding that the philosophy and not
the Book is the Guru), therefore, the question of a “Second Coming”
of the Guru does not arise.

“The word of the Guru is the Guru’s image that manifests itself in
the holy congregation.”347 Contrary to the views of some outside
observers of the history of the ten Sikh Gurus, there was no change
in the underlying revolutionary ideology of Guru Nanak covering
religious, social and political reforms. For example, at political level,
unflinchingly and with forthright courage Guru Nanak wrote about
and publicly condemned Babur’s invasion of India and the cruelty
perpetrated by him on the Indian people. Guru Arjan Dev (Nanak V)
faced Emperor Jehangir’s injustice and sacrificed his life. Guru
Hargobind (Nanak VI) faced and defeated the aggression of local
nawabs. Guru Tegh Bahadur (Nanak IX) said “live and let live”. He
faced Emperor Aurangzeb’s bigotry and was beheaded at Delhi for
his courageous stand. Guru Gobind Singh (Nanak X) led the revolt
against the cowardly Hindu rajahs who were content to indulge in
petty rivalries and own pleasures at the expense of the suffering
ordinary people. And finally, proclaimed the Guru, “I bestow full
political power on these poor down trodden Sikhs (i.e. ordinary
people, poets and scholars who had flocked to him for protection.)”.
Thus was power returned to the people. That is Guru Nanak’s legacy
through ten human forms.

On the basis of this ideology, the Sikhs (or more accurately Khalsa
Panth) established a sovereign Khalsa state under Ranjit Singh in
northern India as a tolerant multicultural society in which Hindus,
Muslims and Sikhs were equal citizens. Guru Nanak’s dream of a
just society in the spirit of unity in diversity (anekta meh ekta) had
come to fruition nearly two hundred years before global acceptance
of this ideology through the United Nations charter on Human
347
“Gur Murat Gur Shabad hai sadh sangat wich pragti aya. (Varan Bhai Gurdas 24.25)

145
Rights.

The Sikhs are a widespread and enterprising global community

numbering over 25 million. Punjab, which is now divided between
India and Pakistan, is their homeland. As in the case of other
religions, many offshoots of Sikhism have come into existence. The
most prominent of these are the Nam Dhari, the Radha Swami and
the Nirankari sects. Other minor groups have formed around the so-
called sant sampardais (schools headed by Sikh religious men).
However, the main stream Khalsa Panth with its head quarters at
Darbar Sahib (the complex including the twin institutions of
Harmandar and Akal Takhat) at Amritsar, indisputably represents
main stream Sikhism of Guru Nanak/Guru Gobind Singh’s mission.

146
 ANNEX 2
History of Islam348
2.1 Background

W hen Prophet Muhammad introduced Islam as a new faith in

Arabia at the beginning of the 7th century CE, the Arabian
people were divided into hundreds of tribes. Other than
marauding excursions into each other’s territory, the social and civic
activities of each tribe were restricted to its own internal affairs
under the chieftainship of the tribal head. There was no national
consciousness or organisation in Arabia.

The inhabitants worshipped hundreds of gods and goddesses and

Mecca was the Centre of idol worship. In the Kaaba at Mecca were
kept 360 statues of gods and goddesses349. There were numerous cult
practices; people were superstitious and believed in idol worship,
power of stars, magic, necromancy, astrology and incantations.
Stones, demons and ghosts were worshipped. Gambling and drinking
were very common. Money was lent at exorbitant rates of interest.
Taking revenge was considered a religious duty. Women were
treated as chattels and daughters were killed at birth or buried alive.
Slavery was common. Every year, a fair was held in Mecca, which
often resulted in religious and sectarian warfare. However, in the
main cities and towns there were a few God-fearing people who did
believe in One God and were known as Hanif. In Mecca, one such
believer was Wargah-bin-Nufal, who had studied and translated
Jewish and Christian scriptures. There were many followers of
Judaism in Medina.

348
Islam in Arabic means “ in God’s Will (razaa)”. Mr. Margoliouth in his book ‘ Muhammad
and the rise of Islam’ writes that Islam started as a “secret society’. Perhaps from its
etymological derivation, Muhammad used the word to mean ‘one who surrendered his person
to Allah’.
349
“Gurmatt te Islam” (P), Sikh Missionary College, Ludhiana.

147
2.2 Life and work of Prophet Muhammad

The founder of Islam, Prophet Muhammad350, was born in Mecca on

20th April 571 CE351 in the tribe of Quraish who managed the affairs
of Kaaba (later to become the holiest shrine of the Muslims). His
father Abdullah had died before his birth and his mother Amina
expired when he was only six years old. He was looked after and
brought up by his grand father Abdul Matlib; but, as ill luck would
have it, even his grand father died two years later and Muhammad
was left in the care of his uncle Abu Talib352, who was a leader of the
Quraish tribe. Abu Talib was a merchant and often took his nephew
Muhammad with him when he went on long trading journeys to the
adjoining countries. Thus young Muhammad acquired considerable
knowledge of Judaism and Christianity. Very little is known about
Prophet Muhammad’s early life except that once he was lost and his
uncle found him in the Holy Kaaba. This shows that right from the
start he was inclined towards religion. At the age of ten he started
grazing goats and at 12 visited Basra where he met a holy man. Soon
after, war (Known as Harb-e-Fajar) broke out between the tribes of
Qais, Hawarzin and Quraish in the Hajj period in which wars were
forbidden. This war lasted for four years and Muhammad (at the age
of 14) also took part in this war.

Muhammad was only 25 when a rich 40 years old woman named

Khadija (also known as Tahira), daughter of Khawaleed, employed
him as her assistant in trade. Muhammad went to Syria for trade with
Khadija’s slave Mesra. He earned a name in hard work and honesty,

350
‘Muhammad’ literally means “ praiseworthy”. He descended from Kusa bin Kalab who was
once the manager (mutwal) of Mecca and used to distribute food free of charge to the pilgrims
of Mecca. He also caused tanks of water to be made for pilgrims. Kusa’s son was Abdu Munaf.
Abdu Manaf’s son Hasham was very famous. He was instrumental in reducing the taxes on
caravans and stopping the plunder of caravans. Hasham’s son was brought up by Hasham’s
brother Matlib and came to be known as Abdul Matlib. Abdul Matlib discovered the well of
Abe zam zam . On his death the management of Mecca passed on from the tribe of Quraish to
the tribe of Bani Ummia. Abdul Matlib’s son Abdullah married Amina. Abdullah went to Syria
with his caravan and on return died at Medina. Muhammad was born of this wedlock after
Abdullah’s death.
351
Historians differ on the date of birth. Some writers give the year of birth as 570 CE. Allama
Shibli’s Sirat- al-Nabi gives 22 April 571
352
He was Hazrat Ali’s father who later became the fourth Caliph of Islam and is known as a
doughty warrior. Prophet Muhammad gratefully acknowledges God’s benedictions and writes;
“ Didn’t God find you an orphan? Didn’t He find you helpless and friendless and provided
you with a roof on your head and issued forth instruction” ( HQ93:6 )

148
doubled the profit in one year and came to be known as Al-amin
(honest and trustworthy). Soon after he got married to Bibi
Khadija.353 After some time Muhammad began to devote most of his
time in thoughtful moods and prayed to God in the cave of Hira
(three miles outside Mecca). He was 40 years old when in the month
of Ramzan354 in 610 CE Angel Jibrael appeared before Muhammad
in that cave and said, “Read”355. He also told him that the latter had
been appointed a Rasul (Messenger) by God. Three years after this356
he began receiving revelations from God357 and soon proclaimed his
Prophethood with the basic concept La Ilaha illallah Muhammad-ar-
Rasul Allah (There is only one God and Muhammad is His
Messenger). Like Christ’s Sermon on the Mount Prophet
Muhammad delivered his first Khutba (sermon) on a mountain
known as Koh-e-safa. At this time his Uncle Abu Lahab threw a
stone at him and condemned him as a heretic.358 Most people became

353
Muhammad married Khadija by offering her 20 camels as mehar. According to Seerat Ibn-
Hasham (page57) She was 15 years older than him and had been married twice before. This
wedlock produced seven children, three sons and four daughters. Only Bibi Fatima remained
alive until the Prophet’s last days. She was married to Hazrat Ali.

354
Muslims observe 30 days of fasts in this month and consider it the most auspicious time of
the year.
355
Some people write that Muhammad was unlettered (Al-nabi Al-Ummi HQ 7:158). Others
say that although not highly educated, he did have a smattering knowledge of the language and
literature. At the time of the treaty with Meccans (agreement of Habibia) Ali is reported to
have signed the agreement writing Muhammad Rasul Allah. The Prophet snatched the paper
from him, struck off his writing and wrote Muhammad Ibn Abdullah. ( Sahih Muslim and SB
114,185and 196) Before his death he is also reported to have asked for a pen and inkpot to sign
(Tarikh Mutarjam Vol 2 page 362) his Will but died before he could sign it. We also read that
the Prophet had a literary bent of mind and was very fond of listening to the poetry of Qiss Bin
Saad Ayavi which he appreciated very much (See Muslim-Kitab-al-Shayer). Shia Muslims do
not accept that the Prophet was illiterate. They quote Ibn Maajha who on the authority of Abu
Huraira writes that the Prophet had very good proficiency in Persian as well. Prophet’s wife
Aisha reported, “Allah’s messenger in His last illness asked me to call Abu Bakar so that he
might write a document, for he feared that someone else might be desirous of succeeding him.”
( SM 5879)
356
This period is known as Fitra.
357
The Prophet’s wife Aisha tells us that 'The commencement of the divine inspiration of
Allah’s Apostle was in the form of good dreams, which came true like the bright daylight.'(SB
3 V.1 B.1)
358
Abu Lahab was Muhammad’s uncle. He and his wife were bitter enemies of Muhammad.
Lahab’s wife used to throw rubbish on the Prophet’s head and sprinkled thorns in his way.
Muhammad cursed Lahab and his wife in Sura Al-Lahab 11:1-3 and wrote, “May the hands of
Abu Lahab perish. Doomed he is. His wealth and his gains shall not avail him. He shall enter a
blazing fire and his wife, the carrier of firewood, shall have a rope of palm fibre round her
neck”.

149
his enemies and greeted him with Alsam-u-laikum (May you die)359
instead of Asslam-u-alaikum. Abu Sufian of Banu Ummya even
contrived to kill him360. One day when Muhammad went to the Holy
Kaaba, people tried to lynch him but Haras-bin-Hala saved him
although he himself was killed in the affray. On another occasion
Akba bin Mueet put a rope round Muhammad’s neck when the latter
was praying and tried to strangle him. Abu Jahal always shouted
abuse at the Prophet and Waleed labelled him a wizard and called for
his death361. Islam was first accepted by Zaid Ibn Haras, one of the
slaves of Bibi Khadija. Later Ali and Abu Bakar also became
Muslims. Soon however, Prophet Muhammad was ostracized by the
Meccans. In these difficult times his wife Khadija (65 years) and his
Uncle Abu Talib died adding to his trials and tribulations. Prophet
Muhammad married a widow named Sauda and later also married
Abu Bakar’s daughter Aisha.

Prophet Muhammad moved to Taif, (about 70 miles from Mecca) to

live with his uncle Abbas but the latter declined to support him and
joined the people who were throwing stones at him.362 On 16 July,
622 CE, Prophet Muhammad left his hearth and home in Mecca and
settled down 400 kilometers in the north at Yathrab (Yathrab was re-
named Medina-tul-Nabi i.e. the Prophet’s city)363. Even here his
Meccan enemies did not let him live in peace and He had to fight
many battles with the help of Ansars 364. Later He had to fight even
against Ansars and the Jews. In 628CE He visited Mecca again and a
peace treaty with the Meccans was signed which did not last long.
On 1st January 630 CE He invaded Mecca with a sizeable force of

359
See Dr. Nazir Ahmed’s translation of Quran page 153 “You are following a man
bewitched”(HQ25:8)
360
“ They were contriving to commit your murder”(Sura Al Anfal verse 30 )
361
see translation of Quran Dr. Nazir Ahmed page 481”
362
“ They crowded on him, almost stifling (HQ 72: 19)
363
The Muslim Hijra (Emigration) calendar starts from the date of this exodus. Muhammad
caused the mosque of Qaba to be built in Medina. It was here that he started the Azan (call to
prayer) and appointed his slave Bilal as the first Muezzin. He also instituted the custom of Roza
(fasting) and concluded a treaty with the Jews. Ansars (Muslims of Medina) fell out with
Muhammad after the battle of Hunain on the division of spoils of war (Sura Tauba 58-60). In
verse 29 of Sura Tauba Christians and Jews were declared as disbelievers and ostracized. A
special tax called Jazia was imposed on them
364
More famous of these battles are (a) Battle of Badar- This battle was fought in a month in
which fighting was considered illegal and impious. To justify it Muhammad wrote verse HQ2:
214) (b) Battle of Ohd 25.3. 625 CE (HQ3: 119) (c) Battle of trenches 5 Hijra. and (d) Battle
of Ahzab

150
10,000 men and captured it. His staunch enemies Abu-Sufyan and
his wife Handa along with their daughter Umm Habiba accepted
Islam. When most of the Meccans accepted Islam the idols in the
Kaaba were destroyed except the Black stone (Hajar-al-Aswad)
which Prophet Muhammad himself placed in the Kaaba.365 He
smashed the statue of Al-Hobl (a god) with his own hands.366 On this
day He recited “Truth hath come and falsehood hath vanished away.
Lo! Falsehood is ever bound to vanish”(HQ17: 81 SB244, 658
V3B43).

A Jewish woman named Zainab-bin-Haras mixed poison in

Muhammad’s food. He survived but the poison made him suffer till
his death367. After 13 days of serious illness (at the age of 63) He
delivered his last Khutba at Arfah sitting on his camel declaring that
no Prophet or Messenger368 would come after him (Khatum -un-
Nabiyeen) and that no new faith will emerge. “Muhammad is not the
father of anyone among you, but he is the Messenger of Allah and
the seal of the prophets”(HQ33: 40)

“Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour

upon you and have chosen for you Islam as the way of your life.”
(HQ5: 3)369

He died on 8 June 632 CE370 but by then almost the whole of Arabia
and many adjoining countries had accepted Islam. No other world

365
The Muslims consider this stone sacred and kiss it. It is their belief that Adam brought it
from heaven and Abraham placed it in the Kaaba. At that time it was white. In 683 CE it
cracked into three pieces when a flaming arrow hit it. In 980 CE Al Qaramitah Muslims took it
away from Mecca and returned it only after 20 years in CE 1000. Today it is in seven pieces
(Encyclopaedia of Islam page 77, Short encyclopaedia Leiden 1953 page219)
366
(Talkhis Vol.5 page 9 Bukhari Vol. 1 page 339 Hasham page 406). There were 360 idols in
Kaaba. The most worshipped idols were Al-Hobl, Al-Uzza, Al-Lat, Al-Wud, Al-Suah, Al-
Yagus, Al-Aza, Al-Manat, Al-Nyali, and Al-Yakuk.
367
Muhammad’s food was tested by one of his companions who died but Muhammad had only
eaten one morsel and survived.
368
Muslims believe in Basharat, which means that every Prophet tells about the one that will
follow him. For example Abraham predicted Moses, Moses predicted Dawd, Dawd predicted
Christ and Christ predicted the coming of Muhammad after him. Muhammad in his turn did
not predict the coming of any Prophet or messenger.
369
The Muslims believe that Quranic revelation was the last one and that the Christian and
Judaic revelations stood abrogated.
370
Some historians give the date of death as 7th June 632 CE. Still others give 8th July 632CE.
The discrepancy appeared because of the conversion of Hijra calendar into Gregory calendar
and because of the disagreement of the scholars and historians on the date of the beginning of

151
religion spread so quickly in the lifetime of a preceptor, as did Islam
during the life of the Prophet.

2.3 Islam after Prophet Muhammad

Abu Bakar (real name Abdullah) who was the Prophet’s friend and
deputy, became the next Caliph371 (632 CE-634 CE) with the title of
As-Sadiq (Testifier to the truth). Tolaiha Musailimah and Nuwairah
Aswad are also known to have claimed the right to Prophethood but
they were killed. Hazrat Umar (634 CE-544 CE), who conquered
Jerusalem and large parts of Iran, Syria and Egypt, followed Abu
Bakar. A Persian named Abu Luka stabbed him372. After these two
outstanding and gifted leaders came Hazrat Usman (644-656CE),
who conquered large areas of North Africa and Cyprus but fell
victim to internal strife and dissension.373Troubles started when
Hazrat Usman (Banu Ummya tribe) was murdered in Medina. Some
people accused the Prophet’s son-in-law Hazrat Ali (656-661CE-
son of Prophet’s uncle from Banu Hasham)374 of masterminding this
murder and the rock-solid unity of the Muslims began to develop
cracks. Hazrat Ali was elected the next Caliph in Medina. He is said
to have dismissed all governors of the Ummya tribe and in their
places appointed Quraish of Hashamite tribe (which was his own
tribe).

Muavia375 (of Banu Ummya), governor of Syria, declined to resign

Hijra year. The Prophet is believed to have risen to heaven riding on Buraq (an animal which
looks like a pony).
371
Or Khalifa- the word means to leave behind i.e. a representative in the absence of the person
in authority. According to Islamic Shria, a Khalifa was considered next to God. “In all the
territory lying between the East and the West, no Muslim king could assume the title of a
Sultan, unless some sort of an understanding was arrived at between him and the
Khalifa”(Arnold; The Caliphate page 101-2)
372
Abu Luka was a Christian. His resentment stemmed from taxes on Christians which he
thought, were too exorbitant. He stabbed 13 people at the time of prayer (Umar among them).
Nine of them later died.
373
These four Caliph’s are known as Khulfa-e-Rashdin. Usman was assassinated ostensibly on
accusations of nepotism. Some say that his death was due to the fact that he authorized only
one version of the Quran and destroyed the others .He was besieged (battle of Tabuk) and
killed.
374
Hazrat Ali was not only a very brave man (named Assad-Allah =Lion of Allah by the
Prophet) but also a great scholar. The Prophet called him “The gate of learning”.
375
Muavia was the son of Abu Sufyan, a staunch enemy of the Prophet.

152
and tow the line. He collected a large army. Ali clashed with the
armies of the Prophet’s wife Aisha at Jammal and after defeating her
declared Kufa (in Iraq) as his capital. Later after a skirmish with
Muavia, Ali signed a truce accepting Muavia as the legitimate ruler
of Syria. According to this truce Ali was to keep only Iran, Arabia
and Egypt. This was not acceptable to some of Ali’s companions.
They left Ali (they are known as Kharjis).

Soon after this Muavia attacked and conquered Egypt. This incensed
the Kharjis so much that they killed Ali376 and wounded Muavia.
Tempers cooled down for some time but then Muavia’s son Yazid
and Ali’s son Hussain clashed in Karbla (680CE). Hussain and his
18 close relatives were all killed377. His followers came to be known
as Shia378. The three factions Kharji, Shia and Sunni (followers of
Muavia) became enemies of each other and internecine wars broke
out resulting in the decline of Islamic rule. Ummayads of Baghdad
were overthrown by Abbasides (they traced their origin from an
uncle of Prophet Muhammad). The Shia Fatimides (deriving their
name from Bibi Fatima, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad)
conquered Egypt. They founded Cairo as their new capital, and set
up a rival Shia caliphate to that of the Abbasid Sunni Caliphate of
Baghdad which was later overthrown by Salah-ud-din Yusuf ibn
Ayub (commonly known as Saladin) in 1171 CE. In 1258 CE
Mongols killed the last Abbasid Caliph of Baghdad. One after the
other Spain, Africa, and Iran rebelled and established independent
kingdoms. Caliphate nearly ended at this period in Islamic history.

376
At the morning prayer Ibn Muljan (belonging to Kharjiite rebels) killed Ali because Ali was
suspected of killing a lot of kharjiites in a battle at Nahrawan.
377
Hassan and Hussain were Prophet Muhammad’s grandsons. The Shias believe that Prophet
Muhammad had predicted and told Bibi Fatima at the birth of Hussain that Hussain would die
as a martyr. Hussain’s severed head was displayed in a procession (10 Muharram) and
presented by Umar ibn Saad in a platter to the Governor of Iraq.
378
The word Shia literally means ‘supporter’. Shias supported Hazrat Ali. They do not
recognise the first three Caliphs of the Sunni faith. They call Ali as the first Caliph and call
Yazid ‘a usurper’ and nick name him ‘Paisa’ (money-minded). Ali’s grave in Najaf and
Hussain’s in Karbla are their sacred places of pilgrimage. Their twelfth Imam Abu-al-Qasam-
al-Mahdi disappeared in a cave at Samurrah in 940 CE and is still thought to be alive. Shias
believe that Imam Mehdi will appear on the doom’s day and propagate Islam. They do not
recognise the Saha Sattah (The six Ahadis of the Sunnis). They have instead their own five
ahadis, which they call Akhbar. They perform Mutah (A marriage for a limited period by
paying some money to a woman and finishing it off after the agreed time) which is looked
down upon by the Sunnis. Shias further broke into many factions. Some of them are Ismaelias,
Vohras, Jafrias, Khojas, and Bahais.

153
The Caliph’s name was only mentioned in the Friday prayers. Shias
ended the Caliphate and began calling their religious leaders Imams
(there were 12 of them). They came to be known as Imamia. Again
Shias subdivided and another sect known as Ismaelia came into
existence (They recognise Ismael as being the seventh Imam).

There are 1,126,325,000 Muslims in the world.379

379
Source: Britania year book 1997. According to Islamic council of Europe the world
population of Muslims was 907,197.000 in 1976

154
 Opinions

I have read Sardar G.S.Sidhu and Sardar Gurmukh Singh’s manuscript with great
interest and enthusiasm. It is a very scholarly work and is a unique, commendable
contribution to the treasury of literature on Sikhism. It provides very valuable
stimulating material for both researcher and intense devotee of Sikh studies. It is a
book that should be on the shelf of every Sikh, Sikh missionary in particular and a
student of Sikh history and Sikhism. I pray to Akaalpurkh to grant the authors
healthy mind, sound body, happy life and pen-power to serve the Sikh nation and
its religion.

Meharbaan Singh Kurbaan

M.A; LLB; PGCE. London

Sardar G.S. Sidhu and Principal Gurmukh Singh have worked very hard to put at
one place the salient features of both Sikhism and Islam. That is a rare
phenomenon. There are few Hindus or Sikhs who have gone through works on
Islam, much less Al-Qoran, and still fewer who have gained mastery over the
subject matter. Both of them deserve high appreciation.

This book is a must for Sikh children, having interaction with their classmates in
their schools and colleges. It shall be a gain for the elders to be apprised of the
salient features of Sikhism and Islam, given so cogently, side by side. People can
expect something new, something original in this comparative study.

Dr.Sangat Singh

Delhi

There have been efforts by certain groups to criticise and malign other religions
and to eulogize their on beyond truth. A sensible approach to such criticism is in
the form of comparative studies of religions. This study is a pioneer effort in this
direction for promoting peace, good will and a spirit of understanding and co-
existence among people of different faiths.

Karnail Singh

Institute of Sikh Studies Chandi Garh (India)

155