What does this mean in practice?
In Sikhism the guiding principles are the beliefs in equality and selfless service to others. These principles are understood and applied to the question of wealth and poverty in a variety of ways.
Sikhism teaches that:
- Sikhs should aim for their lives to be gurmukhGod-centred, living by the Gurus' teachings. rather than manmukhSelf-centred.
- Kirat Karna (work) is important and that Sikhs should use wealth to help their family and the rest of humanity
- everyone is equal - the langarThe kitchen and place where food is eaten in a Sikh Gurdwara. Often volunteers provide and cook food that is served to all as an act of sewa (charity). in the gurdwaraSikh place of worship. Literally, the 'doorway to the Guru'. where people eat together is a constant reminder of the equality of humanity
- it is vital to serve others
- serving others is a way of serving God - the GuruCan mean God, teacher or guide. Usually means a teacher of religion. In Sikhism, it also refers to the ten human messengers of God. teaching is often summarised in the principles of Naam JapnaRepeating and remembering God's name., Kirat KarnaTo work in an honest way. and Vand Chhako (Vand Chakna)The sharing of what somebody earns or the fruits of their labour, generosity; the giving of charity. It is one of the three main pillars of the teachings of Guru Nanak.
Charity
Khalsa Aid is a charity founded on the Sikh beliefs of sewaSelfless service to the community. and compassionUnderstanding and appreciation of the pain and suffering of others. for the whole of humanity.
It raises awareness of development workProjects and work which aim to help improve the lives of people in poverty around the world. needed to improve the lives of people globally. The charity appoints local groups who assess where and how money raised will get to the people who need it.
Sikh Aid International is another Sikh charity based on the principle of sewa. It has been involved in humanitarian aid projects in the remotest parts of India and Africa as well as holding seminars on health. The charity helps with emergency aid as well as engaging in more sustainable projects.
Fair trade
Sikhs believe in the importance of equality and earning money in an honest way. Because of this, many Sikhs support the fair tradeTrade in which fair prices are paid to the farmers of products. movement.
Some Sikhs support fair trade by selling ethical products at stalls inside their local gurdwara.
Volunteering
Sikhs also engage in sewa through volunteering to help those in need.
United Sikhs encourages Sikh volunteers to help people who are suffering due to natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. The desire to help others comes from the belief that the human race is one.
By volunteering, Sikhs believe they can follow the principles of vand chhakna and sewa.