What are the Eleven Sikhism Dos and Don'ts?

Answer 1

Eleven Sikhism Dos

The Sikh way of life is meant to facilitate conquering the self oriented ego as a means of achieving grace and enlightenment. These eleven Sikhism dos include basic principles or pillars of Sikh ideals, essentials of Sikh living and the foundation of Sikhism's code of conduct necessary to Sikh living according to the gurus' teachings.

Do:

1. Respect the equal rights of all regardless of rank, gender, caste, class, colour, or creed.

2. Share with others, especially those in need.

3. Perform altruistic service for humanity.

4. Earn income by honest employment.

5. Come to the aid of the defenceless.

6. Keep all hair intact and unaltered.

7. Meditate and read or recite daily prayers.

8. Worship and recognize one divine light manifest in all.

9. Regard any other than one's spouse as brothers or sisters.

10. Become initiated as Khalsa and wear the five articles of faith.

11. Follow ideals of the ten gurus, accepting the perpetual guidance of Sikhism's scripture the Guru Granth.

Eleven Sikhism Don'ts

The goal of Sikhism is to subdue and overcome the effects of ego which foster duality and work to keep one from realizing enlightenment and union with the divine. These eleven Sikhism don'ts outline means of avoiding falling into the trap of egocentric living.

Don't:

1. Worship idols.

2. Deify any human being.

3. Pray to demigods or deities.

4. Observe caste or gender inequality.

5. Give credence to auspicious dates, horoscopes, or Astrology.

6. Be involved with illegal activities or dishonourable associates.

7. Cut or otherwise alter the hair of the head, face, or body.

8. Engage in premarital or extramarital intimacies.

9. Eat the meat of sacrificial animals.

10. Practice superstitious rituals.

11. Smoke or use intoxicants.