Sikh Religion and Islam (161 pgs) - Global Sikh Studies

3.19 Priesthood
There is no ordained priesthood in Islam and Sikhism. Anyone
can perform any religious service. However, the position of
women regarding performance of religious services seems to
be quite different. For example, Guru Amar Das (Third Nanak)
appointed 22 persons to act as preachers in 22 diocesan areas
of authority (22 Manjis). Of these 22 persons, 8 were women
appointees 63 a most remarkable demonstration of equality
between the genders at the time in that socio-religious milieu.
In Islam, women are not allowed to perform azan (loud call to the
devotees to prayer.) Usually Muslim women do not visit the
mosque. 64
3.20 Best religion
“Those who believe and do good deeds are the best of created beings
(HQ 98:7)
“Of all religions, the best religion is to chant the Name of the
Lord and to engage in pious deeds” 65 (GGS P.266)
63 Sikhs and Sikhism: a view with a bias by Dr I J Singh 2nd edition p. 137 (Centennial
Foundation, Carden St., PO Box 96, Guelph, Ontario N1H 6L6, Canada.
64 Women are supposed to pray at home and seldom, if ever, go to the mosque (History of
religions E.O. James Page 196). They do not join in prayers publicly with men but perform
their devotions at home. They visit the mosque only when men are not present there. The
Prophet said, "Allow women to go to the mosque at night” (SB 22 V.2 B.13)
65 srb Drm mih sRyst Drmu hir ko nwmu jip inrml krmu (pMnw 266) .Sarab dharam meh sresat
dharam... (GGS p. 266).
28