The Religion of the Sikhs

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Religion of the Sikhs

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Dorothy Field offers a clear, historical overview of Sikh beliefs, sacred texts, Gurus, and spiritual traditions. This inviting entry point explores the faith's origins in Hindu monotheism and its connection with Islam, detailing the lives of the ten Gurus and the core doctrines that formed a distinct world religion.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1914, Dorothy Field's *The Religion of the Sikhs* offers a comprehensive introduction to Sikhism, tracing its evolution from the reformist teachings of Guru Nanak in the 15th century to the martial traditions established by the tenth Guru, Gobind Singh. Field details the lives of the ten Gurus, highlighting Nanak's radical rejection of caste and priesthood, Angad's invention of the Gurmukhi script to write sacred literature in the vernacular, and Arjan's compilation of the Granth Sahib. The text explains key doctrines such as the repetition of the sacred name (Waheguru), meditation, and the importance of good works alongside faith. It addresses significant social reforms, including the emancipation of women and the abolition of widow immurement. The book also covers the transition from a peaceful missionary movement to a martial order, explaining how the Sikhs defended their faith against persecution. Through hymns from the Granth Sahib and historical accounts, Field presents Sikhism as a pure, lofty monotheism that sought to unite humanity through truth, charity, and devotion, offering a bridge of understanding between Eastern thought and Western action. Field notes that while Sikhism emerged from an attempt to reform Hinduism and Islam, it ultimately succeeded in binding a whole race in a new bond of religious zeal, creating a distinct world-religion rather than a mere sect. The work emphasizes that salvation is found through humility, the repetition of God's name, and ethical living, while also acknowledging the necessity of will-power and defense of the faith. The book concludes with selections from the sacred hymns, illustrating the devotion and philosophical depth of the tradition.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/dorothy-field_religion-of-the-sikhs.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy