Sikh life in North Alabama
Sikhism is a monotheistic faith founded in the fifteenth century in Punjab by Guru Nanak and carried forward by nine more Gurus. Sikhs in North Alabama belong to a worldwide community of tens of millions, and they practice a faith built on devotion to One God, honest work, sharing with others and service to all.
Teachings and identity
Sikhs follow the teachings of the ten Gurus, preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, which is honored as the eternal Guru. Core ideals include remembering God, earning an honest living and sharing with the needy, and the equality of all people regardless of caste, gender or creed. Many Sikhs keep the Five Ks, including uncut hair covered by a turban and a steel bracelet, as signs of commitment.
The gurdwara and langar
The gurdwara, meaning door to the Guru, welcomes everyone. Worship centers on kirtan, devotional singing, readings from the Guru Granth Sahib and ardas, the congregational prayer, and ends with karah prasad. Every gurdwara serves langar, a free vegetarian meal in which all sit together as equals.
Celebrations
Vaisakhi marks the founding of the Khalsa. Gurpurabs honor the Gurus, notably Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh, and Bandi Chhor Divas and Hola Mohalla are also widely observed.
Visiting a gurdwara
All are welcome. Cover your head with a scarf, remove your shoes, avoid tobacco and alcohol, sit on the floor if you are able, and accept prasad with both hands. Joining langar is an honor, not an obligation.