One of the most recent and concise books written on Sikhism has been produced by the Sikh Missionary Center of Detroit, Michigan. It has been written with the intent of touching an audience that might know absolutely nothing about Sikhs or Sikhism. Even its cover was researched for colour and attract ability to attract the eye of the beholder. The book was also published with a most unique audience and purpose in mind, to satisfy the basic learning needs of non-Sikhs. The objective is to put the book in all universities and colleges in the entire USA for free.
The cost of publishing and postage is to be met through a minimal donation of $25.00 by all Sikhs obtaining a copy. By the end of August 1990, about 10 states have been completed.
The simplistic approach makes the comprehension of the material invaluable. Most people in this modern society have such a distorted idea of what the word Guru Means, that to begin with just a brief explanation clears the air so that a non-Sikh can proceed on a clear path to appreciate the Sikh Gurus in a light of wonder.
The treatment of the Gurus is the idea of Nanak jot is a masterpiece. The Divine Light from Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Granth Sahib ji clearly explains that we are not to worship the physical but the Nanak jot therein. Even the worship of images of the Gurusisa Hindu thought that has crept into Sikhism. The manner of which each Guru is explained has the effect of their examples being both practicable and applicable. So many non-Sikh views have crept into Sikhism that this volume is also great for Sikhs that might have problems making it clear to their children or even to themselves just what their Gurus taught by their living examples. The outline of Sikh fundamentals is helpful to define the purpose of life, understanding of God, the concept of Nam, baptism in Sikhism, the path toward God and salvation, social equality and the status of women even in today’s society answers many questions; making Sikhism the most up to date and modern religion and philosophical path ever tread by mankind. For all the sins and woes of man, this could be the right unguent.
- Bhupinder Singh
10950 Big Pool Road
Big Pool, Maryland 21711
Article extracted from this publication >> September 7, 1990
