Sikh Philosophy
Explore the profound philosophical teachings of Sikhism, from the concept of One God to the path of righteous living and spiritual realization.
Ik Onkar is the fundamental concept of Sikhism - "One God." It represents the belief in a single, formless, eternal, and all-pervading divine reality.
The Oneness of God
There is only one God, who is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of all existence. This God is beyond all forms, names, and attributes, yet is present in everything.
Beyond Religious Boundaries
This one God is not limited to any particular religion, culture, or tradition. All paths that lead to truth ultimately point to the same divine reality.
Unity in Diversity
While God is one, this oneness manifests in infinite diversity. All creation is a reflection of the divine, and all beings are interconnected.
Practical Implications
Understanding Ik Onkar leads to seeing the divine in all beings, promoting equality, compassion, and service to humanity.
The Three Pillars
Naam Japna
Remembering and meditating on God's name. This purifies the mind, removes ego, and connects the soul with the divine.
Kirat Karni
Earning an honest living through hard work and ethical means. This includes being truthful, fair, and avoiding exploitation.
Vand Chakna
Sharing with others and serving humanity. This includes giving to charity, helping those in need, and contributing to community welfare.
Five Virtues
Sat (Truth)
Living truthfully in thought, word, and deed. Being honest with oneself and others, and seeking truth in all aspects of life.
Santokh (Contentment)
Being satisfied with what one has and accepting God's will. This leads to inner peace and freedom from greed and envy.
Daya (Compassion)
Showing kindness and empathy toward all beings. Understanding that all creation is divine and deserving of love and respect.
Nimrata (Humility)
Being humble and modest, recognizing that all good comes from God. Avoiding pride and ego, and treating all as equals.
Pyar (Love)
Loving God and all creation unconditionally. This love manifests as service, compassion, and the desire to help others.
Five Evils
Kaam (Lust)
Excessive desire for sensual pleasures that clouds judgment and leads to attachment and suffering.
Krodh (Anger)
Uncontrolled anger that destroys peace of mind and harms relationships. It leads to violence and negative karma.
Lobh (Greed)
Excessive desire for wealth and possessions that creates attachment and prevents spiritual growth.
Moh (Attachment)
Emotional attachment to people, things, or outcomes that causes suffering when they change or are lost.
Ahankar (Ego)
Pride and self-centeredness that creates separation from God and others. It is the root cause of all other evils.
Maya and Reality
Maya (Illusion)
The world of material existence that appears real but is temporary and changing. It creates attachment and prevents realization of the divine.
True Reality
The eternal, unchanging reality of God. Beyond the world of maya lies the true nature of existence - pure consciousness and bliss.
Transcending Maya
Through devotion, meditation, and righteous living, one can see through maya and realize the divine reality that underlies all existence.
Soul and Liberation
Atma (Soul)
The eternal soul that is a part of God. It is pure consciousness and is trapped in the cycle of birth and death due to karma and maya.
Mukti (Liberation)
Freedom from the cycle of birth and death, achieved through union with God. The soul realizes its true nature and merges with the divine.
Jivan Mukta
One who is liberated while still living in the body. Such a person lives in the world but is not affected by its attachments and sufferings.
Sach Khand
The realm of truth, the highest spiritual state where the soul experiences complete union with God and eternal bliss.
One God, the ultimate reality
Wonderful Lord, divine wisdom
Divine teacher and guide
Divine will and order
Continue Your Philosophical Journey
Deepen your understanding of Sikh philosophy through practice, study of sacred texts, and exploration of the wisdom that has guided Sikhs for generations.