Introductory - Global Sikh Studies

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CHAPTER XVIII
A Plebian Revolution
Reform and revolution are relative terms. Both imply
improvement and change for the better existing conditions. But,
whereas a revolutionary movement seeks to change the fundamental
basis of an existing order, a reformist movement tinkers with the
problem and is content with minor changes here and there. Secondly,
whether a movement is revolutionary or reformist has to be judged
keeping into view the background in which it arises and the situation
in which it operates. The possibilities of social, political or economic
developments that the Industrial Revolution and the Capitalist system
opened could not be envisaged in the feudal age. The Sikh movement,
therefore, has to be seen in the context of the times in which it worked
and not in the light of the later developments of the modern period. It
has to be assessed by the wide gap between what it stood for and what
it sought to change.
We shall compare the Sikh movement with some of the great
revolutionary movements of the feudal era. In making such
comparisons, we would in no way like to minimize the invaluable
contributions of Buddhism. Christianity and Islam in furthering human
values of freedom and equality. The French Revolution remains a
source of inspiration to this day. All the progressive movements,
including the Sikh movement, are the monopoly of no sect or nation.
They form the common cherished heritage of the whole humanity.
1. A Social Revolution
(a)
Social Involvement
Sikhism regards the world as real and not as a bondage or