Written by Sikh Awareness Society

The very corner stone of the Sikh Philosophy is human rights preservation, and living within the
Hukam, or natures Divine will.

The Sikh Gurus have left humanity on both an individual and society level with the perfect discipline
for life. The basic tenets for an individual being is to recognize the whole of creation as part of the
One, recognize humanity as one, beyond race, caste, creed, share both your time and wealth with
those that need it, work for your living, never forgetting the Creator.

These are not just words, but have been explicitly exemplified through the actions of the Sikh Gurus;-

Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh Philosophy, challenged Indian society 540 years ago,
While much of the world was still in gender ignorance, “why call her unclean, from whom great
mystics, kings and humanity takes birth”, challenging gender inequality over 500 years ago,
something, many parts of the world still need to wake up too.

He created the Langar, the free kitchen, which every Sikh Gurdwara practices, as well as many
familes. Free food is available to all those who need it. Just in Coventry, the Sikhs cook and feed over
10,000 mouths every week. The Langar is a great institution that is a practical application of sharing
that which you have. Pangat, sitting together and eating is again compelling people to recognize the
equality of humanity, gender, class and disability.

Guru Arjun Dev ji, was tortured, by being burned alive on a hot plate for upholding Humanity’s right to
freedom of Free Expression, Freedom from discrimination and Freedom of Belief. These beliefs are
now seen as the very framework of the Human Rights act 1998. In addition to this, Guru Arjun dev Ji,
demonstrated to the Sikhs to always uphold preservation of Human Rights, and accept the Divine
Will, no matter what the consequences. This is illustrated when he was being tortured he uttered,
“ Your Will is sweet to me”, demonstrating that no matter what the obstacles, a Sikh must always face
them head on, and that all that happens within the Creators Divine will is acceptable.

Guru Teg Bahadur was requested by the Hindu Brahmins to save them from forced conversion by the
fundamentalist Mogul ruler of the day, he choose to be beheaded rather than be forced to abandon
ones human rights of Freedom of belief and Freedom from Torture or Inhuman or degrading
treatment. Had it not been for Guru Teg Bahadur, India would not have a Hindu Religion today.

The 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, eradicated the belief in the caste system, inspired the Sikhs to
act decisively against oppression and tyranny, always to be mindful of their actions and see their
“Dharam” as being those who stand up oppression.

The Sikhs Guru, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, their holy scriptures are an oasis of compassion,
acceptance and contentment. All religions and paths to God are accepted as being “right” for those
who practice their religion, only Man’s ego is responsible for the damage, violence and destruction to
oneself, others and the environment.

The Sikhs that do not cut their hair demonstrate their acceptance of natures will, understand that if
one is not content with one-self, how can one be content with his/her environment, life etc?
The Sikh wear their Kara (Bangles) to remind him always to use his hands for good, not to harm
either himself or others
The Sikh wear the Kirpan, sword, to ensure that in the face of oppression, tyranny, never be afraid to
stand-up, in the words of Guru Nanak, frighten no one, fear no one.

The Sikh wear the Kashera, boxer short type underwear, to remember always to be faithfull

The Sikh carry the Kanga ( comb) to remain clean and hygienic at all times, but also, to ever be
optimistic, combing away negativity.