APPRECIATING SIKHISM BY DR. PARAMJIT SINGH SACHDEVA [PAPERBACK]

For  understanding Sikhism, one needs to know not only what Sikhs believe in and practice, but also what they do not believe in or practice. Siikhism is a distinct religion with a unique set of beliefs which are very progressive in outlook--for example, the emphasis on One God, keeping Him in mind at all times, and living a life based on such values as personal responsibility, morality, equality, humility, charity, compassion, tolerance, service, justice, and human rights for all. These values are essential to Sikh philosophy---and are worth following and respecting, not only by Sikhs but by all others as well.

Sikhs believe in One God and one mankind. Sikhism is based on the belief that the One Transcendent God loves all mankind as one, making no distinction between one human being and another---irrespective of gender, race, caste, creed, nationality, or religion. This foundational belief and other aspects of Sikhism covered in this brief essay make the religion unique.

To help improve the lay person's understanding of religion, this four-part essay is a believer's appreciation of Sikhism. It covers key Sikh beliefs, practices, philosophy, and history, drawing on some of the latest published material. The spotlight is on Sikhism, from a comparative perspective---in relation to Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Judaism.

Such a perspective is adopted solely to highlight Sikhism's key features and not to show any religion better or worse than the other, in any way whatsoever. The beliefs of every religion are accepted fully---as completely valid from its own point of view. The hope is that this broader perspective will provide a deeper appreciation of Sikhism than would otherwise be possible. Throughout, even when other religions are discussed, the focus remains on Sikhism.