The relatively short history of the Sikhs
has been a dynamic one,
from 1499 when Guru Nanak’s revolutionary teachings were revealed
to the world, though to the compilation of the writings of the Gurus
in the Adi Granth. And to the Vaisakhi of 1699 - the culmination of
200 years of teachings of the Gurus. 1799 saw the rise of the Sikh
Empire and in 1899 a re-awakening of the spirit. Finally to the present
day as Sikhs have spread to all the continents of the world, we look
out towards the beginning of a new Millennium. From the outset,
when Guru Nanak began spreading his message the Spirit embodied
within the Sikhs has been a strength of the faith. The concept of
“Chardi Kala” - always in high spirits and ever progressive - is central
to the Sikh philosophy. This notion not only emanates from the Punjabi
people, but gains strength from the simplicity and universality of the
message of the Gurus.
This spirit is embedded within the hearts of Sikhs all over the world.
A hard working, God loving people who have made an impact in every
community in which they have settled. This spirit is evidenced in
many ways to different people. To people who have served alongside
Sikhs in the World Wars they are brave soldiers, to some they are hard
working farmers or shop-keepers or possibly professionals such as
doctors and accountants. The Sikhs have become prominent members
of the world religious landscape not merely because of their unique
identity, but also because they carry this spirit given to them by the
ten Sikh Gurus, whose divinely revealed teachings are kept alive today
within the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. |
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