What does pacifism mean in Sikhism?
Sikhism does not teach that war is always wrong but it does teach that it is only acceptable as a final resort.
Peaceful methods involve dialogue and non-violence as shown by Guru NanakGuru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Gurus, who lived from 1469 to 1539., Guru ArjanGuru Arjan was the fifth Sikh Guru. He was born in 1563 and was executed in 1606 on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, and was the first Guru to be martyred. and Guru Tegh BahadurGuru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth Sikh Guru and was born in 1621. In 1675 he was executed on the orders of the Mughal emperor. Guru Tegh Bahadur wrote a number of hymns which are included in the Guru Granth Sahib..
The Sikh community
The Sikh community's ideal is to be an egalitarianUpholding equality for all people. community in which men, women, and members of all social groups are equally respected. The Guru Granth SahibThe Guru Granth Sahib is the most important Sikh holy book. It is a collection of songs, prayers and hymns from the Sikh Gurus and other holy men, as well as teachings from other faiths. It is treated as a living Guru. teaches that all must work hard and with honesty.
The wealth of nature is there to be used. There is enough for all, but it is not shared justly in this world. One who works for what he eats, and gives some of what he has. Nanak says, he knows the Path.
Sikhs also teach that all are welcome to eat at the same level. When visiting the gurdwaraSikh place of worship. Literally, the 'doorway to the Guru'., everyone is invited to eat in 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).. This is thought to be a path to peace.
None is high or low.
Equality
Many Sikhs believe in equality for all. Equality, non-discrimination, true justice, and worship of only one God, are basic values of Sikhism. Sikh religious teaching emphasises the oneness of creation and this includes the unity of human beings.
The same Light is the light in all beings.
Sadly, discriminationTo treat someone differently or unfairly because they belong to a particular group. sometimes occurs, for example against women or those of another casteThe anglicised term for varna; originally a Hindu social order of higher and lower class. Also followed by some Sikhs., but this is contrary to 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. message.
After spending time in the company of the true I lost the sense of 鈥榰s鈥 and 鈥榯hem鈥. No one is my enemy, nor do I regard others as strangers. I am friendly towards everyone.