Prohibitions in Sikhism: Difference between revisions

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{{Multiple issues|{{tone|date=September 2015}}
{{Short description|List of banned practices in Sikhism}}
{{lead rewrite|date=September 2015}}
{{Sikh practices}}{{Sikhism sidebar}}
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Adherents of [[Sikhism]] follow a number of prohibitions. As with any followers of any faith or group, adherence varies by each individual.
{{expert needed|Sikhism|Article|talk=Article is Permastub and Sometimes Misleading|reason=Importance/Universal acceptance of listed prohibitions|date=September 2015}}}}
{{Sikh practices}}
There are a number of '''prohibitions in Sikhism''' that [[Sikhs]] follow—particularly [[Amritdhari]] (formally baptized) and [[Keshdhari]] (non-baptized but practicing).


== Prohibitions ==
== Prohibitions ==
* '''Haircuts''': Cutting or removing hair (''[[Kesh (Sikhism)|kesh]]'') from any body part is strictly forbidden including shaving or trimming facial and nostril hairs for both [[Amritdhari]] and [[Keshdhari]] Sikhs.
These prohibitions are strictly followed by initiated [[Khalsa]] Sikhs who have undergone initiation. While the Sikh gurus did not enforce religion and did not believe in forcing people to follow any particular religion in general, the Sikh community does encourage all people to become better individuals by following the Guru's Advice ([[Gurmata|Gurmatta]]), as opposed to living life without the Guru's code of disciple (Man-mat):
* '''Intoxication''': Consumption of drugs, [[alcohol]] is not allowed for Amritdhari and Keshdhari Sikhs. [[Sahajdhari]] Sikhs do not hold these precepts, but generally avoid alcohol. Marijuana and tobacco are not accepted within the Sikh community as a whole and are strictly prohibited for baptized Amritdhari Sikhs.
* '''Gambling''': Gambling (''jooa''), be it in any form—such as [[lottery]], [[roulette]], [[poker]], [[Bingo (American version)|american bingo]] or [[Bingo (British version)|british bingo]]—is prohibited in some 'codes of conduct', such as the [[Sikh Rehat Maryada]].
* '''Blind spirituality''': [[Idolatry in Sikhism|Idolatry]], superstitions, and rituals should not be observed or followed, including [[Pilgrimage|pilgrimages]], [[fasting]], and [[ritual purification]]; [[circumcision]]; idol or [[grave (burial)|grave]] worship; and compulsory wearing of the [[veil]] for women. Observation of the [[The Five Ks|five Ks]], however, is not considered blind superstition, as it help Sikhs in their everyday life.
* '''Material obsession''': Obsession with material wealth is not encouraged in Sikhism.
* '''Sacrifice of creatures''': Practices such as [[Sati (practice)|sati]] (widows throwing themselves on the [[funeral]] [[pyre]] of their husbands and wives) and ritual [[animal sacrifice]] to [[celebration (party)|celebrate]] holy occasions are forbidden.
* '''Non-family-oriented living''': Sikhs are discouraged to live as a [[recluse]], [[beggar]], [[yogi]], [[Monasticism|monastic]] ([[monk]]/[[nun]]), or [[Celibacy|celibate]].{{cn|date=April 2017}}
* '''Worthless talk''': [[Bragging]], [[gossip]], [[Lie|lying]], [[slander]], "backstabbing," et cetera, are not permitted. The [[Guru Granth Sahib]] tells the Sikh, "your mouth has not stopped slandering and gossiping about others. Your service is useless and fruitless."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.srigranth.org/servlet/gurbani.gurbani?Action=Page&Param=1253&english=t&id=53906|title=Sri Granth: Sri Guru Granth Sahib|work=srigranth.org}}</ref>
* '''Priestly class''': Sikhism does not have priests, as they were abolished by the 10th Guru of Sikhism, [[Guru Gobind Singh]].<ref name="autogenerated2">{{cite web|url=http://www.sikhs.org/summary.htm|title=Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People|work=sikhs.org}}</ref> The only position he left was a [[Granthi]] to look after the [[Guru Granth Sahib]]; any Sikh is free to become [[Granthi]] or read from the Guru Granth Sahib.<ref name="autogenerated2" />
* '''Eating meat killed in a ritualistic manner''': Sikhs are strictly prohibited from eating —meat killed in a ritualistic manner (such as [[halal]])<ref>Sikhs and Sikhism, Dr. I.J.Singh, Manohar Publishers.{{ISBN|978-8173040580}}</ref>—or any meat where it is served, except ''[[jhatka]]'' meat.<ref>"Sikhism, A Complete Introduction" by Dr. H.S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt, Hemkunt Press, New Delhi, 1994, {{ISBN|81-7010-245-6}}</ref> For many Sikhs (and in some small Sikh sects, e.g. [[Akhand Kirtani Jatha]]) eating any meat cooked by Jews (i.e., [[Kosher meat|kosher]]) and Muslims (i.e., halal) is believed to be forbidden, this is a universally held belief.<ref>"Sikh Identity: An Exploration of Groups Among Sikhs" by Opinderjit Kaur Takhar, pg. 51, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd, 2005, {{ISBN|0-7546-5202-5}}</ref>
* '''Extramarital sexual relations''': [[Adultery]] is prohibited; Sikhs are not allowed to cheat on their spouse.<ref name="autogenerated4">[http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Sikh Reht Maryada, The Definition of Sikh, Sikh Conduct & Conventions, Sikh Religion Living, India] §4</ref><ref name="autogenerated3">[http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Sikh Reht Maryada, The Definition of Sikh, Sikh Conduct & Conventions, Sikh Religion Living, India] §6</ref><ref>[http://www.allaboutsikhs.com/sikh-rehat-maryada/the-sikh-rehat-maryada-section-four.html#art16 The Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four | Gateway to Sikhism-Gateway to Sikhism<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>Jakobsh, Doris R. 2003. ''Relocating Gender In Sikh History: Transformation, Meaning and Identity''. New Delhi: Oxford University Press. pp. 39–40</ref>
* '''Cutting turbans whilst worn''': Cutting turbans too short when worn (excepting excessive material) will be damaged by scissors as it is strictly forbidden the same way as cutting hair.
* '''Swimming water through turbans''': [[Swim caps]] are a different head gear to wear as a substitute to turbans when all Sikhs go to swimming pools at leisure centres.


== Violation of prohibitions ==
4 major transgressions:<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.]; [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 1.-4.]</ref>
{{importance section|date=September 2015}}
* Hair removal – [[Haircut|Hair cutting]], trimming, [[Hair removal|removing]], [[shaving]], [[Plucking (hair removal)|plucking]], [[Threading (epilation)|threading]], [[Dyeing hair|dyeing]], or any other alteration from any body part is strictly forbidden.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.]; [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 1. & q. 3.]</ref>
Not all Sikh-identified people subscribe to these prohibitions. The [[Sahajdhari Sikhs]] reject most of the prohibitions, including trimming of hair (''[[Kesh (Sikhism)|kesh]]''). Some young Sikhs are now cutting their hair to the dismay of spiritual leaders.<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/29/world/asia/29turban.html Young Sikh Men Get Haircuts, Annoying Their Elders]. ''[[New York Times]]''. March 29, 2007.</ref> According to the Sikh clergy, "the fad among youth to shed the [[dastar|pagri]]" is being observed more commonly among the Sikh youth in [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] than Sikhs in other Indian states.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Pagri_not_very_attractive_out_of_tune_with_times/articleshow/msid-223157,curpg-1.cms|title='Pagri not very attractive, out of tune with times'|work=The Times of India}}</ref>
* Eating [[Kutha meat]], the meat of an animal whose slaughter is accompanied by a religious ritual, such as the recitation of a prayer, as required by [[Halal|Muslim]] and [[Kosher|Jewish]] law.<ref>[https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 2.]</ref> This is the absolute minimum required by all [[Khalsa|initiated Sikhs]]. Although [[lacto vegetarianism]] is practiced and recommended by some Sikhs, many Sikhs refrain from eating [[non-vegetarian]] food, and believe all should follow this diet. This is due to various social, cultural, political, and familial aspects. As such, there has always been major disagreement among Sikhs over the issue of eating non-vegetarian food. Sikhs following the [[Rehat]] (Code of Conduct) of the [[Damdami Taksal]] & [[Akhand Kirtani Jatha]] also subscribe to this view. The [[Nihang|Akali Nihangs]] have traditionally eaten meat and are famous for performing [[Jhatka]].<ref>{{cite web |quote=A Nihang carries out 'Chatka' on a 'Chatanga' (a specially selected goat for sacrifice).|title=The Multifarious Faces of Sikhism throughout Sikh History |url=http://www.sarbloh.info/htmls/article_samparda_kartar17.html |website=sarbloh.info |access-date=2010-08-18 |archive-date=2011-07-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718132057/http://www.sarbloh.info/htmls/article_samparda_kartar17.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Mahaprashad">''"The most special occasion of the Chhauni is the festival of Diwali which is celebrated for ten days. This is the only Sikh shrine at Amritsar where Maha Prasad (meat) is served on special occasions in Langar"'', The Sikh review, Volume 35, Issue 409 – Volume 36, Issue 420, Sikh Cultural Centre., 1988</ref><ref name="Sikh Goat Sacrifice">''"The tradition traces back to the time of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji who started the tradition of hunting for Sikhs ... The tradition of ritually sacrificing goats and consuming Mahaparshad remains alive not only with the Nihang Singh Dals, but also at Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Sahib and Sachkhand Sri Patna Sahib (two of the Sikhs holiest shrines)."'' [http://www.nihangsingh.org/website/trad-jhatka.html Panth Akali Budha Dal] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100523054532/http://www.nihangsingh.org/website/trad-jhatka.html |date=2010-05-23 }}</ref><ref name="Sikh Goat Sacrifice2">''"Another noteworthy practice performed here is that a goat is sacrificed on Dussehra night every year. This ceremony was performed on Diwali day this year (Oct 28, 2008). The fresh blood of the sacrificed goat is used for tilak on the Guru’s weapons."'', SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS OF THE SIKH COMMUNITY, Dr Madanjit Kaur, Institute of Sikh Studies [http://sikhinstitute.org/apr_2009/10-madakaur.html Institute of Sikh Studies, Madan Kaur] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612142006/http://sikhinstitute.org/apr_2009/10-madakaur.html |date=2010-06-12 }}</ref> Thus, there is a wide range of views that exist on the issue of a proper "Sikh diet" in the [[Panth]]. Nonetheless, all Sikhs agree with the minimum consensus that meat slaughtered via the Muslim ([[Halal]]), Jewish ([[Shechita]]) methods or any other religiously slaughtered way, is strictly against Sikh principles.<ref>"Sikhism, A Complete Introduction" by Dr. H.S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt, Hemkunt Press, New Delhi, 1994, {{ISBN|81-7010-245-6}}</ref><ref>"Sikh Identity: An Exploration of Groups Among Sikhs" by Opinderjit Kaur Takhar, pg. 51, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd, 2005, {{ISBN|0-7546-5202-5}}</ref> The [[Akal Takht]] represents the final authority on controversial issues concerning the Sikh [[Panth]] (community or collective). The [[Hukamnama]] (edict or clarification), issued by Akal Takht [[Jathedar of the Akal Takht|Jathedar]] [[Jathedar Sadhu Singh Bhaura|Sadhu Singh Bhaura]] dated February 15, 1980, states that eating meat does not go against the code of conduct of the Sikhs. [[Khalsa|Amritdhari]] Sikhs can eat meat as long as it is Jhatka meat.<ref name="Singh 2001 89">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Dharam|title=Perspectives on Sikhism: Papers Presented at the International Seminar on Sikhism: a Religion for the Third Millennium Held at Punjabi University, Patiala on 27-29 March 2000|year=2001|publisher=Publication Bureau, Punjabi University|isbn=9788173807367|page=89}}</ref>
 
* [[Adultery]]: Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse (sexual relations with anyone who you are not married to- originally a prohibition on sexual intercourse with Muslim women, an injunction was made by Guru Gobind Singh not to seize them during warfare as sexual contact with them was seen as polluting. [[Kahn Singh Nabha]] of the [[Singh Sabha Movement]] had later inferred that the Guru's command was construed as a prohibition on intercourse with a woman other than one's wife.)<ref>{{Cite book |last=McLeod |first=W. H. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vgixwfeCyDAC&pg=PA119 |title=The A to Z of Sikhism |date=2009-07-24 |publisher=Scarecrow Press |isbn=978-0-8108-6344-6 |pages=119 |language=en |quote=The sexual intercourse item, however is evidently a modern development from the 18th century prohibition of intercourse with Muslim women. |author-link=W. H. McLeod}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Fenech |first1=Louis E. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xajcAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA214 |title=Historical Dictionary of Sikhism |last2=McLeod |first2=W. H. |date=2014-06-11 |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield |isbn=978-1-4422-3601-1 |pages=214 |language=en |quote=Sources from the 18th century indicate that sexual contact with Muslim women was polluting, and Guru Gobind Singh is said to have commanded that during warfare they should not be seized for this purpose.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Grewal |first=J. S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YDLNDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT95 |title=Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708): Master of the White Hawk |date=2019-07-25 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-099038-1 |pages=95 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Beckerlegge |first=Gwilym |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pgmNpPoYabwC&pg=PA456 |title=World Religions Reader |date=2001 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0-415-24748-1 |pages=456 |language=en}}</ref><ref>Jakobsh, Doris R. 2003. ''Relocating Gender In Sikh History: Transformation, Meaning and Identity''. New Delhi: Oxford University Press. pp. 39–40</ref><ref>[https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 3.]</ref>
[[Nihang|Nihang Sikhs]] of Punjab, who are defenders of historic Sikh shrines, are an exception and consume an intoxicant called ''[[bhang]]'' ([[cannabis (drug)|cannabis sativa]]), opium and other narcotics to help in [[meditation]],<ref>{{cite book
* [[Intoxicants]] – A Sikh must not take [[hemp]] ([[cannabis]]), [[opium]], [[liquor]], [[tobacco]], [[cocaine]], [[Narcotic|narcotics]], etc. In short, any [[intoxicant]] is not allowed.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, j.]</ref><ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 4. & q. 1., q. 5.]</ref>{{sfn|Macauliffe|1909|p=[[s:Page:The Sikh Religion, its gurus, sacred writings and authors Vol 1.djvu/27|xxi]]}} [[Cannabis and Sikhism|Cannabis is generally prohibited]], but ritually consumed in edible form by some Sikhs.<ref name="SinghFenech2014">{{cite book |first1=Pashaura |last1=Singh |first2=Louis E. |last2=Fenech |title=The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=8I0NAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA378 |date=March 2014 |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |isbn=978-0-19-969930-8|pages=378–}}</ref><ref name="SinghHawley2012">{{cite book |first1=Pashaura |last1=Singh |first2=Michael |last2=Hawley |title=Re-imagining South Asian Religions: Essays in Honour of Professors Harold G. Coward and Ronald W. Neufeldt |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=4SLhLakpsNsC&pg=PA34 |date=7 December 2012 |publisher=Brill Academic |isbn=978-90-04-24236-4|pages=34–}}</ref> Some Sikh groups, like the [[Damdami Taksal]], are even opposed to drinking [[caffeine]] in [[Tea|Indian tea]]. Indian tea is almost always served in Sikh [[Gurdwara|gurudwaras]] around the world. Some [[Nihang|Akali Nihang]] groups consume [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis-containing]] shaheedi degh ({{lang|pa|ਭੰਗ}}), purportedly to help in [[meditation]].<ref>{{cite book
   | last = Richard Beck
   | last = Richard Beck
   | first =  David Worden
   | first =  David Worden
   | title = Gcse Religious Studies for Aqa
   | title = Gcse Religious Studies for Aqa
   |pages= 64
   | year = 2002
   | isbn = 0-435-30692-8}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/40701351.cms|title=Hola Mohalla: United colours of celebrations|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1040103/asp/opinion/story_2735311.asp|title=The Telegraph – Calcutta : Opinion|work=telegraphindia.com}}</ref> saying that it is 'old tradition' ([[Punjabi language|Punjabi]]: ''puratan maryada''). Bhang is common in India. <ref>{{cite book
  |page= 64
  | last = Richard Beck
   | publisher = Heinemann
  | first = David Worden
| isbn = 0-435-30692-8}}</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110811031946/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2003-03-19/chandigarh/27281595_1_bhang-united-colours-procession Hola Mohalla: United colours of celebrations],</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1040103/asp/opinion/story_2735311.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040112104613/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1040103/asp/opinion/story_2735311.asp |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 12, 2004 |title=Mad About Words |publisher=Telegraphindia.com |date=2004-01-03 |access-date=2014-01-04}}</ref>''Sūkha parshaad'' ({{lang|pa|ਸੁੱਖਾ ਪ੍ਰਰਸਾਦ}}), "Dry-sweet", is the term Akali Nihangs use to refer to it. It was traditionally crushed and consumed as a liquid, especially during festivals like [[Hola Mohalla]]. It is never smoked, as this practice is forbidden in Sikhism.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/sikhism/akalis.html |title=UCSM.ac.uk |publisher=Philtar.ucsm.ac.uk |access-date=2014-01-04 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101016012718/http://philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/sikhism/akalis.html |archive-date=2010-10-16 }}</ref> In 2001, [[Jathedar Santa Singh]], the leader of [[Budha Dal]], along with 20 chiefs of [[Nihang]] sects, refused to accept the ban on consumption of '' shaheedi degh'' by the apex Sikh clergy of [[Akal Takht]] - in order to preserve their traditional practices.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2001/20010326/punjab1.htm#3 Nihangs ‘not to accept’ ban on shaheedi degh]. [[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]]. March 26, 2001.</ref> According to a recent [[BBC]] article, "Traditionally they also drank shaheedi degh, an infusion of cannabis, to become closer with God".<ref>{{cite web|last=Hegarty |first=Stephanie |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-15480741 |title=BBC News - The only living master of a dying martial art |publisher=Bbc.co.uk |date=2011-10-29 |access-date=2014-01-04}}</ref> Baba Santa Singh was [[Patit|excommunicated]] and replaced with Baba Balbir Singh, who agreed to shun the consumption of ''bhang''.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2001/20010310/main7.htm#2 No ‘bhang’ at Hola Mohalla]. [[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]]. March 10, 2001.</ref>
  | title = Gcse Religious Studies for Aqa
  |pages= 63
  | isbn = 0-435-30692-8}}</ref> In 2001, [[Baba Santa Singh]], the [[Jathedar]] of [[Budha Dal]], along with 20 Nihang chiefs, refused to accept the ban on the consumption of ''bhang'' by the highest Sikh clergy.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2001/20010326/punjab1.htm#3 Nihangs ‘not to accept’ ban on bhang]. [[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]]. March 26, 2001.</ref> Baba Santa Singh was excommunicated and replaced with Baba Balbir Singh, who agreed to shun the consumption of ''bhang''.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2001/20010310/main7.htm#2 No ‘bhang’ at Hola Mohalla]. [[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]]. March 10, 2001.</ref>


The [[Udasi]]s, who consider themselves as a denomination of Sikhism, lay emphasis on being [[asceticism|ascetic]], thus violating the "Non-family-oriented living" principle. [[Sri Chand]], the ascetic son of [[Guru Nanak]], was the founder of the [[Udasi]].
Other mentioned practices to be avoided, as per the Sikh Rehat Maryada:
* Piercing of the nose or ears for wearing ornaments is forbidden for Sikh men and women.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, k.]</ref>
* Female infanticide: A Sikh should not kill his daughter; nor should he maintain any relationship with a killer of daughter.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, l.]</ref>
* A Sikh shall not [[Theft|steal]], form dubious associations or engage in [[gambling]].<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, o.]</ref>
* It is not proper for a [[Sikh woman]] to wear a [[veil]] that covers the face or have the face hidden.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, s.]</ref>
* Sikhs cannot wear any token of other faiths. Sikhs must not have their head bare or wear [[Cap|caps]]. They also cannot wear any [[jewellery|ornaments]] piercing through any part of the body.<ref>Sikh Rehat Maryada: [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_four.html Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.]; [https://old.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, d.]</ref>
* Hereditary priestly class – Sikhism does not have priests, as they were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh (the 10th Guru of Sikhism).<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web |url= http://www.sikhs.org/summary.htm |title=Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People |publisher=sikhs.org}}</ref> The only position he left was a [[Granthi]] to look after the Guru Granth Sahib; any Sikh is free to become Granthi or read from the Guru Granth Sahib.<ref name=autogenerated2 />
* Blind spirituality: [[Idolatry in Sikhism|Idolatry]], superstitions, and rituals should not be observed or followed, including [[Pilgrimage|pilgrimages]], [[Fasting in religion|fasting]], and [[ritual purification]]; [[circumcision]]; [[Veneration of the dead|ancestor worship; grave worship]]; and compulsory wearing of the [[veil]] for women. Observation of the [[The Five Ks|five Ks]], however, is not considered blind superstition, as they are intended to help Sikhs in their everyday life.
* Material obsession: Obsession with material wealth is not encouraged in Sikhism.
* Sacrifice of creatures: [[Animal sacrifice]] to [[celebration (party)|celebrate]] holy occasions are forbidden.
* Non-family-oriented living: Sikhs are discouraged from living as a [[recluse]], [[beggar]], [[yogi]]/[[yogini]], [[Monasticism|monastic]] ([[monk]]/[[nun]]), or [[Celibacy|celibate]].{{cn|date=April 2017}}
* Worthless talk: [[Bragging]], [[gossip]], [[Lie|lying]], [[slander]], "[[backbiting|backstabbing]]," et cetera, are not permitted. The [[Guru Granth Sahib]] tells the Sikh, "your mouth has not stopped slandering and gossiping about others. Your service is useless and fruitless."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.srigranth.org/servlet/gurbani.gurbani?Action=Page&Param=1253&english=t&id=53906|title=Sri Granth: Sri Guru Granth Sahib|work=srigranth.org}}</ref>


== See also ==
== See also ==


* [[Sikh Rehat Maryada|Rehat maryada]]
* [[Sikh Rehat Maryada|Rehat]]
* [[Diet in Sikhism]]
* [[Cannabis and Sikhism]]


== References ==
== References ==
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* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8G8gUr9fIKc Video Showing Jhatka at Hazoor Sahib]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8G8gUr9fIKc Video Showing Jhatka at Hazoor Sahib]
* [http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-news/24666-sacrifice-at-hazur-sahib-myth-truth.html The Myth of Goat Sacrifice and Hazoor Sahib]
* [http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-news/24666-sacrifice-at-hazur-sahib-myth-truth.html The Myth of Goat Sacrifice and Hazoor Sahib]
* [http://sikhspectrum.com/112006/doris/ch8.htm Tenets of Guru Gobind Singh by Baldev Singh]
* {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20071017222844/http://sikhspectrum.com/112006/doris/ch8.htm Tenets of Guru Gobind Singh by Baldev Singh]}}
* [http://sikhs.tulwar.com/meat.htm Sikh History on Diet]
* [http://sikhs.tulwar.com/meat.htm Sikh History on Diet]
* [http://www.sikhs.org/meat_au.htm Sikh Scholar Views on Diet]
* [http://www.sikhs.org/meat_au.htm Sikh Scholar Views on Diet]
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[[Category:Sikh beliefs]]
[[Category:Sikh beliefs]]
[[Category:Sikh terminology]]
[[Category:Sikh practices]]
[[Category:Sikh practices]]
{{Sikhism-stub}}

Latest revision as of 03:05, 19 June 2025


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Adherents of Sikhism follow a number of prohibitions. As with any followers of any faith or group, adherence varies by each individual.

Prohibitions[edit | edit source]

These prohibitions are strictly followed by initiated Khalsa Sikhs who have undergone initiation. While the Sikh gurus did not enforce religion and did not believe in forcing people to follow any particular religion in general, the Sikh community does encourage all people to become better individuals by following the Guru's Advice (Gurmatta), as opposed to living life without the Guru's code of disciple (Man-mat):

4 major transgressions:[1]

  • Hair removal – Hair cutting, trimming, removing, shaving, plucking, threading, dyeing, or any other alteration from any body part is strictly forbidden.[2]
  • Eating Kutha meat, the meat of an animal whose slaughter is accompanied by a religious ritual, such as the recitation of a prayer, as required by Muslim and Jewish law.[3] This is the absolute minimum required by all initiated Sikhs. Although lacto vegetarianism is practiced and recommended by some Sikhs, many Sikhs refrain from eating non-vegetarian food, and believe all should follow this diet. This is due to various social, cultural, political, and familial aspects. As such, there has always been major disagreement among Sikhs over the issue of eating non-vegetarian food. Sikhs following the Rehat (Code of Conduct) of the Damdami Taksal & Akhand Kirtani Jatha also subscribe to this view. The Akali Nihangs have traditionally eaten meat and are famous for performing Jhatka.[4][5][6][7] Thus, there is a wide range of views that exist on the issue of a proper "Sikh diet" in the Panth. Nonetheless, all Sikhs agree with the minimum consensus that meat slaughtered via the Muslim (Halal), Jewish (Shechita) methods or any other religiously slaughtered way, is strictly against Sikh principles.[8][9] The Akal Takht represents the final authority on controversial issues concerning the Sikh Panth (community or collective). The Hukamnama (edict or clarification), issued by Akal Takht Jathedar Sadhu Singh Bhaura dated February 15, 1980, states that eating meat does not go against the code of conduct of the Sikhs. Amritdhari Sikhs can eat meat as long as it is Jhatka meat.[10]
  • Adultery: Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse (sexual relations with anyone who you are not married to- originally a prohibition on sexual intercourse with Muslim women, an injunction was made by Guru Gobind Singh not to seize them during warfare as sexual contact with them was seen as polluting. Kahn Singh Nabha of the Singh Sabha Movement had later inferred that the Guru's command was construed as a prohibition on intercourse with a woman other than one's wife.)[11][12][13][14][15][16]
  • Intoxicants – A Sikh must not take hemp (cannabis), opium, liquor, tobacco, cocaine, narcotics, etc. In short, any intoxicant is not allowed.[17][18][19] Cannabis is generally prohibited, but ritually consumed in edible form by some Sikhs.[20][21] Some Sikh groups, like the Damdami Taksal, are even opposed to drinking caffeine in Indian tea. Indian tea is almost always served in Sikh gurudwaras around the world. Some Akali Nihang groups consume cannabis-containing shaheedi degh (ਭੰਗ), purportedly to help in meditation.[22][23][24]Sūkha parshaad (ਸੁੱਖਾ ਪ੍ਰਰਸਾਦ), "Dry-sweet", is the term Akali Nihangs use to refer to it. It was traditionally crushed and consumed as a liquid, especially during festivals like Hola Mohalla. It is never smoked, as this practice is forbidden in Sikhism.[25] In 2001, Jathedar Santa Singh, the leader of Budha Dal, along with 20 chiefs of Nihang sects, refused to accept the ban on consumption of shaheedi degh by the apex Sikh clergy of Akal Takht - in order to preserve their traditional practices.[26] According to a recent BBC article, "Traditionally they also drank shaheedi degh, an infusion of cannabis, to become closer with God".[27] Baba Santa Singh was excommunicated and replaced with Baba Balbir Singh, who agreed to shun the consumption of bhang.[28]

Other mentioned practices to be avoided, as per the Sikh Rehat Maryada:

  • Piercing of the nose or ears for wearing ornaments is forbidden for Sikh men and women.[29]
  • Female infanticide: A Sikh should not kill his daughter; nor should he maintain any relationship with a killer of daughter.[30]
  • A Sikh shall not steal, form dubious associations or engage in gambling.[31]
  • It is not proper for a Sikh woman to wear a veil that covers the face or have the face hidden.[32]
  • Sikhs cannot wear any token of other faiths. Sikhs must not have their head bare or wear caps. They also cannot wear any ornaments piercing through any part of the body.[33]
  • Hereditary priestly class – Sikhism does not have priests, as they were abolished by Guru Gobind Singh (the 10th Guru of Sikhism).[34] The only position he left was a Granthi to look after the Guru Granth Sahib; any Sikh is free to become Granthi or read from the Guru Granth Sahib.[34]
  • Blind spirituality: Idolatry, superstitions, and rituals should not be observed or followed, including pilgrimages, fasting, and ritual purification; circumcision; ancestor worship; grave worship; and compulsory wearing of the veil for women. Observation of the five Ks, however, is not considered blind superstition, as they are intended to help Sikhs in their everyday life.
  • Material obsession: Obsession with material wealth is not encouraged in Sikhism.
  • Sacrifice of creatures: Animal sacrifice to celebrate holy occasions are forbidden.
  • Non-family-oriented living: Sikhs are discouraged from living as a recluse, beggar, yogi/yogini, monastic (monk/nun), or celibate.[citation needed]
  • Worthless talk: Bragging, gossip, lying, slander, "backstabbing," et cetera, are not permitted. The Guru Granth Sahib tells the Sikh, "your mouth has not stopped slandering and gossiping about others. Your service is useless and fruitless."[35]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.; Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 1.-4.
  2. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.; Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 1. & q. 3.
  3. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 2.
  4. ↑ "The Multifarious Faces of Sikhism throughout Sikh History". sarbloh.info. Archived from the original on 2011-07-18. Retrieved 2010-08-18. A Nihang carries out 'Chatka' on a 'Chatanga' (a specially selected goat for sacrifice).
  5. ↑ "The most special occasion of the Chhauni is the festival of Diwali which is celebrated for ten days. This is the only Sikh shrine at Amritsar where Maha Prasad (meat) is served on special occasions in Langar", The Sikh review, Volume 35, Issue 409 – Volume 36, Issue 420, Sikh Cultural Centre., 1988
  6. ↑ "The tradition traces back to the time of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji who started the tradition of hunting for Sikhs ... The tradition of ritually sacrificing goats and consuming Mahaparshad remains alive not only with the Nihang Singh Dals, but also at Sachkhand Sri Hazoor Sahib and Sachkhand Sri Patna Sahib (two of the Sikhs holiest shrines)." Panth Akali Budha Dal Archived 2010-05-23 at the Wayback Machine
  7. ↑ "Another noteworthy practice performed here is that a goat is sacrificed on Dussehra night every year. This ceremony was performed on Diwali day this year (Oct 28, 2008). The fresh blood of the sacrificed goat is used for tilak on the Guru’s weapons.", SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS OF THE SIKH COMMUNITY, Dr Madanjit Kaur, Institute of Sikh Studies Institute of Sikh Studies, Madan Kaur Archived 2010-06-12 at the Wayback Machine
  8. ↑ "Sikhism, A Complete Introduction" by Dr. H.S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt, Hemkunt Press, New Delhi, 1994, ISBN 81-7010-245-6
  9. ↑ "Sikh Identity: An Exploration of Groups Among Sikhs" by Opinderjit Kaur Takhar, pg. 51, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd, 2005, ISBN 0-7546-5202-5
  10. ↑ Singh, Dharam (2001). Perspectives on Sikhism: Papers Presented at the International Seminar on Sikhism: a Religion for the Third Millennium Held at Punjabi University, Patiala on 27-29 March 2000. Publication Bureau, Punjabi University. p. 89. ISBN 9788173807367.
  11. ↑ McLeod, W. H. (2009-07-24). The A to Z of Sikhism. Scarecrow Press. p. 119. ISBN 978-0-8108-6344-6. The sexual intercourse item, however is evidently a modern development from the 18th century prohibition of intercourse with Muslim women.
  12. ↑ Fenech, Louis E.; McLeod, W. H. (2014-06-11). Historical Dictionary of Sikhism. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 214. ISBN 978-1-4422-3601-1. Sources from the 18th century indicate that sexual contact with Muslim women was polluting, and Guru Gobind Singh is said to have commanded that during warfare they should not be seized for this purpose.
  13. ↑ Grewal, J. S. (2019-07-25). Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708): Master of the White Hawk. Oxford University Press. p. 95. ISBN 978-0-19-099038-1.
  14. ↑ Beckerlegge, Gwilym (2001). World Religions Reader. Routledge. p. 456. ISBN 978-0-415-24748-1.
  15. ↑ Jakobsh, Doris R. 2003. Relocating Gender In Sikh History: Transformation, Meaning and Identity. New Delhi: Oxford University Press. pp. 39–40
  16. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 3.
  17. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, j.
  18. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, p. 4. & q. 1., q. 5.
  19. ↑ Macauliffe 1909, p. xxi.
  20. ↑ Singh, Pashaura; Fenech, Louis E. (March 2014). The Oxford Handbook of Sikh Studies. Oxford University Press. pp. 378–. ISBN 978-0-19-969930-8.
  21. ↑ Singh, Pashaura; Hawley, Michael (7 December 2012). Re-imagining South Asian Religions: Essays in Honour of Professors Harold G. Coward and Ronald W. Neufeldt. Brill Academic. pp. 34–. ISBN 978-90-04-24236-4.
  22. ↑ Richard Beck, David Worden (2002). Gcse Religious Studies for Aqa. Heinemann. p. 64. ISBN 0-435-30692-8.
  23. ↑ Hola Mohalla: United colours of celebrations,
  24. ↑ "Mad About Words". Telegraphindia.com. 2004-01-03. Archived from the original on January 12, 2004. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  25. ↑ "UCSM.ac.uk". Philtar.ucsm.ac.uk. Archived from the original on 2010-10-16. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  26. ↑ Nihangs ‘not to accept’ ban on shaheedi degh. The Tribune. March 26, 2001.
  27. ↑ Hegarty, Stephanie (2011-10-29). "BBC News - The only living master of a dying martial art". Bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  28. ↑ No ‘bhang’ at Hola Mohalla. The Tribune. March 10, 2001.
  29. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, k.
  30. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, l.
  31. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, o.
  32. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, s.
  33. ↑ Sikh Rehat Maryada: Section Four, Chapter X, Article XVI, i.; Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV, d.
  34. ↑ 34.0 34.1 "Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People". sikhs.org.
  35. ↑ "Sri Granth: Sri Guru Granth Sahib". srigranth.org.

External links[edit | edit source]

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