Introductory - Global Sikh Studies

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CHAPTER IX
The Sikh Ideology
What the Radical Bhaktas could no do, the Sikh Gurus did. They
created an egalitarian society (Sikh Panth) outside the caste society
and made it the spring-board for giving shape to a revolutionary
movement. But, before we come to discuss these developments, it is
necessary to understand the Gurus’ view of life, because it is not
possible to appreciate the significance of the Sikh movement without
understanding the Sikh thesis is highly integrated in its conception. In
fact, it is so radical, new and creative in character that it has led to
many misunderstandings about its world-view. Another factor that has
caused a lot of misconception about it is the background in which
Sikhism appeared. Brahmanism being a medley variety of creeds and
cults, embracing even conflicting and contradictory system, there is a
lazy tendency to regard Sikhism as off-shoot of the orthodox cultural
complex. But, the growth of Sikhism in India is so exceptional that
there is hardly a common essential between Sikhism and the traditional
Indian religions. For this reason, it is necessary for us to give a brief
outline of the main traditional socio-religious trends and the
corresponding Sikh approach.
1. The Traditional Background and Approach
The course of all religious, social and political evolution, up to
the time of the Gurus, had been steered, or greatly influenced, by
three dominant factors. The first was the overriding social and political
consideration of preserving the Varna Ashrama Dharma; the second
was the individualistic and quietist approach of life; and the third was
the doctrine of Ahimsa. No social or political movement, which went