Sikhism began way back in the 16th century in India by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It was responsible for establishing the religion. Guru Nanak advanced the ideology of devotion, and put an emphasis on the importance of giving priority to God. In this respect, Sikh refers to a ‘disciple.’ Additionally, it also refers to people who subscribe to the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikh. Today, 2% of all the Indians in the world practice Sikhism.
Sikhs teachings about the four Gurus include the teachings about Guru Nanak. He is explained as the founder of the religion who lived in the period of 1469-1539. He had mastered Punjabi, Persian and Sanskrit. Additionally, he has revolted against caste, hypocrisy, ritualism and the practice of idolatry. He moved throughout India and spoke against the sacrifice of widows, empty rituals of religion, and the caste system.
The second teaching of Guru is about Guru Angad who lived in the period 1539-1552. He is said to have introduced the Gurumukhi, which is the written equivalent of Punjabi. He is taught as a model of self-less service to other Sikhs. They say, he had also emphasized on devoted prayers (Willard, Oxtoby & Amore 45).
The other teaching in Gurus is the teaching of Guru Amar Das. As it is known, he lived from 1479, and played a big role in fighting against the restrictions of the caste system. He developed a system where people of different economic levels could share meals together. He pushed for social equality amongst the people.
The forth teachings were those of Guru Ram Das. He is the founder of the city of Amritsar. He also initiated a myriad of activities that resulted in the construction of the famous Golden Temple at Amritsar. The Golden temple is famously referred to as Sikh’s holy city of the Sikhs (Owen & Sambhi 44).
All in all, the teachings of the four Gurus points out that the Sikhs faith was much against the caste system, and social inequality. The Gurus established their principles of an equal society. The religion is established on the need for equality in the society.
Works Cited
Owen, Sambhi. The Sikhs: their religious beliefs and practices, New York: Sussex Academic Press, 1995. Print.
Willard, Oxtoby. World Religions: Eastern Traditions. London: Oxford, 2010. Print.