What Do Sikhs Believe?
Ik Onkar — There is One God
This symbol, ੴ, is the first thing in Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It means there is only one God, who made everything and lives in everyone. Sikhs often call God “Waheguru” — the Wonderful Lord.
The Three Golden Rules
1
Naam Japna
Remember God
Keep God in your mind all the time — by praying, singing, and thinking about God.
🌱 Saying “Waheguru” quietly when you wake up, or before bed.
2
Kirat Karni
Work honestly
Earn your living in an honest way, without cheating or stealing.
🌱 Doing your own homework and telling the truth, even when it’s hard.
3
Vand Chhakna
Share with others
Share what you have — your food, money, time and skills — with people in need.
🌱 Sharing your snack with a friend who forgot theirs.
Other big ideas
- Equality
- Everyone is equal — men and women, rich and poor, people of every religion, race and caste.
- Seva (selfless service)
- Helping others without wanting anything back, like cooking in the Langar or cleaning shoes at the Gurdwara.
- Sarbat da Bhala
- At the end of every prayer, Sikhs ask for blessings for the whole world — not just for themselves.
- Chardi Kala
- Staying positive and hopeful, even in difficult times.
- Standing up for what is right
- Protecting people who are weak or treated unfairly, whoever they are.
The Five Thieves
Sikhs believe five “thieves” can steal our goodness. We fight them with their opposite virtues:
- 🥷 Kaam — lust / wanting too much✅ Self-control
- 🥷 Krodh — anger✅ Forgiveness and patience
- 🥷 Lobh — greed✅ Contentment and sharing
- 🥷 Moh — too much attachment to things✅ Love for everyone
- 🥷 Ahankar — ego / pride✅ Humility