Product Description
One of the world's major faiths with more than 20 million adherents, Sikhism is a religion which most people, including academics, seem to ignore. This introduction assumes no prior knowledge on the part of the reader. At the centre of the religion is the scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, it is the focus of Sikh theology and practice to the extent that no one is allowed to come between it and the believer. There is no priesthood. A particular aspect of Sikhism is its relationship with and attitude to other religions, something of particular significance in our multi religious society. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

BOOK DESCRIPTION:
One of the world's major faiths with more than 20 million adherents, Sikhism is a religion which most people, including academics, seem to ignore. This introduction assumes no prior knowledge on the reader's part. At the centre of the religion is the scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, it is the focus of Sikh theology and practice to the extent that no one is allowed to come between it and the believer. There is no priesthood. A particular aspect of Sikhism is its relationship with and attitude to other religions, something of particular significance in our multi religious society.

Owen Cole has taught at all stages of education from junior school to university, his two main interests have been multi-faith Religious Education and Indian religions. He is one of only four non-Sikhs to have a PhD in Sikh studies from a British university.
......................
Review:
"This is a rich read, a sharing of deep experience of the Sikh tradition... However widely readers have already read on Sikhism they will find illuninating detail and interpretation." -- Interreligious Insight ... Read more

Product Description
The Sikh religion has a following of over 20 million people worldwide and is ranked as the world's fifth largest religion. However, events such as the verbal and physical attacks on Sikhs just after September 11 indicated that they were being mistaken for Muslims, and suggests that the raising of sufficient and appropriate awareness about Sikhism still needs to be addressed. This book is one of the first to introduce newcomers to Sikhism's meanings, beliefs, practices, rituals, and festivals. Eleanor Nesbitt highlights the key threads in the fascinating history, from the Gurus and the development of the Sikh appearance, to martyrdom and militarization in the 17th and 18th centuries, and the diaspora. She also examines the recent proliferation of Sikh lifestyles in today's news and entertainment media. This book is an essential guide to increasing understanding of the Sikh religion and culture. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Not what I had expected
My interest in Religion stems primarily from the desire to learn about faith and beliefs, and their metaphysical underpinnings. So when I pick up a book in order to learn about a religion that is different from my own, I have an expectation that the major part of that book will deal with the subject matter of those beliefs. Regrettably, that is not the case with this very short introduction. The Sikh beliefs are dealt with briefly and in a very superficial way. Most of the book deals with Sikhism as a social and ethnic category. Of course, those considerations should not be neglected either, but this was not why I decided to pick up and read this book. If, on the other hand, you are interested in those "demographic" aspects of Sikhism, this very short introduction will provide you with plenty of information. This, however, makes for a very boring read. ... Read more

Product Description
Six studies of six faiths.

The World Religions series explores the major religions of our world today. Focusing on the six main religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism, each title looks first at one person's experience, and then examines the facts, arguments and opinions from around the globe. Special debate panels, supported by a wealth of resource material, invite the reader to discuss the issues that are currently shaping our world.

Young readers will learn about their own faiths and will receive answers to important questions such as: What is Jewish Law? What is enlightenment? Do Sikhs believe in an afterlife? Should we question the truth of religious books such as the Bible? What does the Hindu way of life aim for? These questions and many more are explored in detail, providing readers with a glossary and resource guide for further reading.

Written by educators, these books are well researched, carefully written, and are credible resources for young students. Parents will appreciate the open and sensitive treatment of each religion. The World Religions series is an important contribution to helping increase cultural awareness and promote tolerance. ... Read more

Product Description
Discusses the origin of Sikhism as an attempt to reconcile the beliefs of Muslims and Hindus, the conflicts it has faced over the centuries, and recent developments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Shame On Facts On File
There is not a thing wrong with the text of this book.It is well written and informative.The problem is that this book claims to be an updated edition.We've been able to find no changes from the prior edition.In my opinion, this is tantamount to defrauding schools and libraries with limited budgets, not to mention the folks who work hard to pay the taxes.Buy the version that's not updated.You'll get the same product probably for a better price and let Facts On File know that such conduct is not appreciated.

A good primer for understanding
For an American trying to understand an Eastern religion, it is difficult to overcome new concepts and vocabulary.While trying to do this, I found myself missing the key points.Since this book was written for a younger audience, the language helps you gain a good, basic understanding of Sikhism.After, adults, or young adults, can progress to denser texts.

This is a fairly short book.Let this be an indication that it will not get caught up in philosophical discussion.It merely gives you the facts about this religion.It explains the history, some of the characteristics (like the 5 k's), and the special occasions (all of which seem to deal with the reading of the "Guru Granth").

In the back of the book is a glossary to help you remember and work with the text.I found the book written in such a way that I did not need to refer back to it.

I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to know about Sikhism. ... Read more

Product Description
With roots in the Punjab region, Sikhism is based on the teachings of the ten Gurus who encouraged devotion to God and service to people of all faiths while developing traditions which helped the faith survive persecution. Today Sikhs live and worship worldwide. (20020801) ... Read more

Product Description
An introduction to the Sikh religion. It examines Sikh history, sacred texts, worship in the home, places of worship, pilgrimage, festivals, rites of passage and family life. It includes points of view of people of Sikh faith; extracts from sacred texts and quotes from key religious figures; and boxes highlighting particular symbols and customs. It is part of a series exploring the religions of the world. These volumes aim to offer an accessible approach and contain discussions of contemporary religious issues. ... Read more

Product Description
A guide to the founding and teachings of Sikhism, showing how Sikhs in India and Western countries base their lives on the teachings of ten Gurus. Illustrated in colour, a new title in the WORLD RELIGIONS series, suitable for National Curriculum Key Stages 2/3. ... Read more

Product Description

Sikhism is a Universal Religion, a Religion for whole Mankind. It does not mean that it disregards other religions. Sikhism has had its roots in almost every prevailing religion of the time of its origin. This very characteristic makes Sikhism a Universal Religion.

Product Description
This book takes an exciting look at the religion of Sikhism and answers questions about what Sikhism followers believe, where and when Sikhism began, where the followers pray, and what the major holidays of Sikhism are. Using color photographs and detailed illustrations, this book helps young people form a better understanding of Sikhism and its believers. ... Read more

Product Description
In Part 1 of this book, Swami Rama explains in detail the role of meditation as "an essential method for attaining peace and harmony both within and without." He also offers insight into meditative aspects of the Sikh tradition.

In Part 2 of the book, Swami Rama offers an English translation of Japji, a sacred prayer chant of the Sikhs. His translation clearly and eloquently conveys the steps of spiritual advancement in the Sikh tradition as expounded by Guru Nanak Dev. ... Read more

Product Description
Part of a series that focuses on the major world religions and their relevance to contemporary life. Each title offers a balance of information about the religion and an exploration of how we can learn from it, looking at: founders and significant individuals; key beliefs, signs and symbols; worship; festivals, celebrations and rites of passage; pilgrimage and sacred places; and moral issues and ultimate questions. ... Read more

Product Description
Many think of Christianity & Sikhism as totally different irreconcilable faiths. The author wrote The Spiritual Power: A Gift of Christianity & Sikhism so that people could inform themselves-first-hand about the two faiths, and thereby enlighten their understanding of one by learning more about the other. The pages on the left side of the book are devoted to Christianity, those on the right to Sikhism. Thus the two religions are laid out side by side as they consider such crucial topics as the nature of God, the purpose of life, and the enrichment provided by a happy and purposeful marriage, among many other important topics. ... Read more

Product Description
A treasury of inspiration from a tradition that combines sensible advice on practical issues, like the importance of family life, while offering enlightenment on such themes as spiritual liberation and nearness to God.Drawing on the words of the Gurus and the sacred Sikh writings, this delightful anthology offers wisdom to treasure for readers of all cultures. ... Read more

Product Description
The essays collected here cover a wide range of topics: Guru Nanak, the nature of the Sikh Panth (the Sikh Community), the Khalsa Rahit (the code of belief and behavior all initiated Sikhs must promise to obey), Namdhari or Kuka Sikhs, caste as observed by Sikhs, and the Sikh diaspora to other countries. ... Read more

Product Description
THIS BOOK WILL HELP YOU

• to appreciate one of the historic religions of the Indian subcontinent

• to understand what it means to be a Sikh, especially the guru—disciple relationship

• to recognize the key festivals of the Sikh year and the different aspects of Sikh worship and practice

• to avoid faux pas in conversation, in travelling and in personal relationships


ACCESS THE WORLD’S RELIGIONS

Simple Guides: Religions is a series of concise, accessible introductions to the world’s major religions. Written by experts in the field, they offer an engaging and sympathetic description of the key concepts, beliefs and practices of different faiths.

Ideal for spiritual seekers and travellers alike, Simple Guides aims to open the doors of perception. Together the books provide a reliable compass to the world’s great spiritual traditions, and a point of reference for further exploration and discovery. By offering essential insights into the core values, customs and beliefs of different
societies, they also enable visitors to be aware of the cultural sensibilities of their hosts, and to behave in a way that fosters mutual respect and understanding. ... Read more

Product Description
Each book in the enlightening This Is My Faith series features true-life photographs and interviews with a child who talks about his or her faith and discusses its role in the life of the family. Boys and girls speak of the rituals, obligations, and joys that are basic to their religions. The children in these books come from many different cultures and countries around the world, thus reflecting the global nature of humanity's religious impulse. Photos show children in their daily activities, and with families and friends at religious services and festivals. Books are available in both paperback and hardcover editions.

A child tells how Sikhism originated among some gurus of India roughly 500 years ago, emphasizing belief in one God rather than many gods, and rejecting India's ancient caste system. Sikh communities are now found in many parts of the world, including the United States. ... Read more

Product Description
This unique and insightful book skillfully combines recent research in the area of Sikh studies to provide an accurate and comprehensive overview of Sikh history and religiosity against the backdrop of other major religious traditions of the world.Considers the Sikhs today, with focused discussion on the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Guru Panth, the Darbar Sahib, and Amritsar. Examines the founding of the Sikh community, the Guru Nanak, the Sikh doctrine, and the guiding ethics of the religion, and delves into the development of the community, including the influences of the Guru Gobind Singh, the establishment of Sikh Kingdom in the Punjab, and Sikhs move into the modern world. Explores Sikh beliefs, practices, family life and festivals, and concludes a thought-provoking chapter on the future of the Sikh religion—meeting spiritual needs away from the Punjab; replanting the Sikh institution in an alien soil, and moving toward a membership of the global community.For readers interested in World Religions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Sikhism ....so so
I thought the book was ok.. very indepth on the history and formation of the Sikh religion.. less about social customs and modern sikhism.Small print and few in text definitions...had to thumb back to the glossery in the back of the book made this a time consuming and heavy read.Not for the armchair religious scholar.I thought the weird placing of the section on Sikh Art was a wrench in the works.. it also didn't direct you to the continuing page for the section I was in the middle of reading.Plus side good photos and the book was printed on nice glossy paper.

A very solid short introduction
Sikhism is a tradition that often gets forgotten, and it's a great shame. Luckily this is changing and, thanks in large part to scholars such as Gurinder Singh Mann, Sikhism is now getting the attention it deserves. Professor Mann's new book is a very approachable yet academically accurate and informative introduction to Sikhism. Packing the complex religious history of the Sikhs into just over 100 pages isn't an easy task but Professor Mann is exceptionally well qualified and does the job well. In the end, the reader comes away with a very solid foundation of knowledge. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
This volume collects four core works by one of the world's leading authorities. Put together in a representative volume, they provide an understanding of the Sikh individual, historical community, and religion. ... Read more

Product Description
Sikhism is the younger of the world's major religions, and is the most egalitarian and modern in practice. The scriptural authority for its followers is the "Sari Guru Granth Sahib". The founder of the Sikh faith is Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The "Japji Sahib" spells out the basic principles prescribed for a Sikh. ... Read more