Sikhs and Sikhism-A view with a Bias is a authored by Dr. I. J. Singh who is well known for his analytical and critical book reviews and creative essays. This newly published book is a neat Collection of about 25 short crisp and critical essays which run the gamut from Parshad the mystical communion to Drug abuse from roots of Sikhism to Khalistan and a lot more in between. The author confesses in the preface that these are meanderings within self in the realm of his religion and he has attempted to define an ordinary Sikhs journey into the mystery and reality of Sikhism in a predominantly non Sikh milieu. Nonetheless these are the very questions that stir the thought process of every thinking Sikh who is compelled to know of his identity as a Sikh his traditions institutions and spiritual heritage. The role of Gurdwaras and Granthi has dynamically changed for the Sikhs in diaspora and it needs to be redefined. The readers may beg to differ in some opinions and it is undoubtedly their prerogative but none can undermine the validity of these concerns that surface time and again.
I.J. Singh with his analytical approach has tried to spark off a debate (which he does even in his reviews) and has provoked us to delve deep into Gurbani search and research history and traditions for answers to satiate the inquisitive mind. His strength lies in the novelty of his approach and his passionate logic. In an essay A Man for All Seasons the author has superbly and artistically blended (Not superimposed) the multi-dimensional personality of the Guna the Divine with the Guru the man Thus establishing a bond (a kinship unheard off hither to between the Guru and the Sikh who thinks of the Guru first and God later In another essay Turn
on Tune in Turn out I J Singh has almost poetically reinterpreted the hippie drug culture of the 60s when rock & roll reigned supreme in the hears of impressionable youths and has transformed it into A Soul soothing message of Guru Nanak to get in obviated with the intoxicant of Goals love In addiction I. J. Singh has shed light on Sikh ceremonies traditions and has expressed an urgent need to revitalize our gurdwaras.
The role of Granthi has added responsibility of being a counselor and a minister as well. Some of his Suggestions may appear to be more idealistic than pragmatic but they are worth a try if somehow the consuming fire of gurdwaras Squabbles can be extinguished Style of his exposition is reminiscent of Dale Carnegie and Norman Vincent Peele; personal anecdotal rich in imagery. Some limes he uses uncommon words but the flow continues to remain Spontaneous. His prose is concise terse and crisp at times he Indulges in lyrical monologue. Some of his sayings and brimming with wit yet profound in meaning For example Sikhism is a religion of joy and not of sin.
The electoral process (in gurdwaras) would necessarily even taint a saint. His knowledge of other major religions of the world and his study of renowned philosophers is also Evident. Analogies are frequently drawn from Vedantic and Semitic religions but clear distinction has been marked to endow Sikhism with its unique identity majesty and aura of grandeur. The images evoked fire powerful and vivid A Sikh appears before his Guru as if in the court of the mightiest monarch the creator of us all
I J. Singh is somehow harsh in his treatment of S.GP.C. This particular segment has a touch of sarcasm and seems which stems from his belief that the inability and inefficiency of S.G.P.C. to do good for the community at large is due to the fact that it is a by-product to the British manipulation of the Sikhs and is sustained by subsequent conniving Indian governments. Like a true American he upholds the right of Free Speech as espoused in the First Amendment and simultaneously like a true Sikh he is full of reverence for Sikhism as a revealed religion. Unquestionably Sikhism has attained a distinguished place for itself in the realm of major religions of the world in a short time.
The strength of Sikhism he opines is intrinsic: its mystery is wrapped in logic its grandeur and beauty undiminished its philosophy profound and pragmatic its potential inexcusable for it is rooted in the blood of the believers.
I wish the author had added meanings of Jewish and Christian terms in the glossary for better comprehension. An essay or two on contemporary social issues dating divorce abortion Euthanasia would have been an enlightening exercise.
To sum up this book Sikhs and Sikhism A perspective with a Bias not only provides an immensely panoramic overview of Sikhism in an unconventional way in also encourages self-introspection reaffirmation and commitment For a young Sikh born and brought up in this non Sikh lieu who wants to have his/her faith backed by logic it will make educative informative and interesting reading. It will certainly help in redefining his identity and strengthen the roots. Ms. Kaur and Dr. LJ. Singh are frequent contributors to World Sikh News We congratulate Dr Singh on the recent publication of his book.
Article extracted from this publication >> June 24, 1994
