Sikhism expounds the ideals of a highly civilized person who lives holistically with inner awareness 0 the lord and with the purpose of serving the nation selflessly. A Sikh believes in one God-formless eternal infinite all-pervading absolute and beyond the comprehension of the human mind. In recent time it had been observed that because of the ignorance about the tenets and doctrines of Sikhism there is lot of misunderstanding about this great religion. A number of scholars during the Sikh reform movement tries to enlighten the adherents of the faith about the real path and discipline But various currents and cross currents have again caused the simple and faithful followers forget their real religion. Though a large number of Sikhs have settled in various parts of the world they and their children under the impact of new environment and culture have become oblivious of their language culture and heritage A few North American and European Sikh scholars and missions are creating great misunderstanding regarding their faith. It is for this reason and purpose the book under review have been published to present them a real understanding of Sikh religion and faith. The author Dr.Surinder Singh Kohli undoubtedly a scholar of repute and has been highly acclaimed globally through his several Outstanding research contributions Sikh ethics Outline of Sikh thought Sikh philosophy Sikhism and Guru Granth Sahib Yoga of the Sikhs The Sikhs and Sikhism etc. In his present attempt the author has tried to highlight every aspect of Sikh religion through exhaustive 16 chapters.
The first chapter deals with the birth of Sikhism while the second chapter defines a Sikh. Third chapter gives an account of the creation of the Khalsa and fourth one deal with the concept of Godhead as viewed in the context of world religions. The Guru in Sikhism Baptism and Meditation have been discussed in chapters fifth sixth and seventh respectively the eighth one narrates the Sikh as an individual and as a Constituent of society. A justification of Sikh ethics has been nicely presented in the ninth chapter. Chapters 10 and 11 discuss the concept of evil and concept of Miripiri in Sikhism The episode of Devi worship is given in 12th chapter while the attitude of Sikhism towards Caste ritualism miracles etc are dealt in the 13th chapter. The role of women in Sikhism has been presented in the 14th chapter and detailed accounts of Sikh scriptures have been given in the chapter 15. The last chapter discusses the value and importance of Janam sakhis.
Dr. Kohli has done a commendable task through this publication which presents several facts about Sikhism. He himself is a devout Sikh and has deep knowledge of Sikh philosophy The style and language used by him show his scholarly qualities. On the whole this wok will prove to be pro’ invaluable asset to the remain of Sikhism.
Reviewed by: Dr.Rajwant Singh Chilana Surrey B.C.
Article extracted from this publication >> February 4, 1994
