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Worshipping the Eternal
Lord (Puja Akal Ki): Sikhs are to worship only the one Almighty
God. They should not concern themselves with worshipping the forces of
the universe, mythical powers, the sun or moon, animals, or even other
human beings.
Understanding Gurbani
(Paricha Shabad Ka): A Sikh should regularly read and understand
Gurbani in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Daily recitation of hymns reminds
him or her to avoid the pitfalls of anger, greed, lust, attachment, and
ego.
Appreciating the Sikh
Rehat (Didar Khalsa Ka): A Sikh respects the decisions of the corporate
body of the Khalsa, since Guru Gobind Singh bestowed the authority of
the Guruship on this body.
Working and Wishing
Well for Humanity (Sarbat Ka Bhala): The importance that Sikhs
attach to working and wishing well for others can be seen in the fact
that Sikhs pray aloud at least twice a day:
O God, in Your Name shower Your blessings on everyone.
In other words, Sikhs pray not only for themselves,
but also for entire humankind, including those who may wish to be their
enemies. A Sikh has no ill will or hatred, even against enemies. There
are numerous examples of Sikhs helping enemies in need. Bhai Kanahya,
a water-carrier of the Guru at Anandpur Sahib, used to give water and
first aid equally to all persons wounded in battle, Sikh and non-Sikh
alike. Guru Gobind Singh also made arrangements to systematically care
for all those wounded in battle, whether his own men or those of his opponents.
Sikhs feel their care and love - including for those who oppose and even
attack Sikhs - is one of their greatest and most fundamental attributes.
Individuals may appear different because of their language, color, figure,
or social habits, but these variations are superficial and the result
of different cultures and climates in which one is born and reared. Sikhs
believe that internally, we all have the same spirit.
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