Defining a Sikh

[Singh, Mahan]

Source: http://www.merrittherald.com/opinion/191734571.html

Defining a Sikh

Published: February 18, 2013 2:00 PM
Updated: February 18, 2013 2:42 PM

Dear Editor:

What is a Sikh?

Is their mind-state a danger to civilized nations?

So, what is a Sikh (correctly pronounced as you would say the word “sick,” which means “to learn” in its native language) or an individual who has endeavoured to undertake the path of Sikhie?

Well, he accepts the universe, cause and effect, and all known and unknown as the “will” of The Great Architect. When awake, she attempts to keep the idea of The Eternal Commander and Chief within the time and space of consciousness. With the five weapons of virtue (compassion, truth, contentment, love and humility) he attempts to battle the five thieves (lust, anger, attachment, selfish ego and greed). And through meditation, logical contemplation, song, prayer or loving repetition of “The Naam,” she attempts to seek The Formless One (to develop a personal relationship), and the universal principles such as the law of karma and heaven.

That all said, with reason and knowledge he attempts to enslave passion and prejudice. Employing the tools of honesty, she attempts to make a living. In humility, he attempts to aid the unseen and the weak (in body, mind and soul). With understanding she attempts to treat all as a brother, sister, father or mother regardless of religion, colour, class, nation, age or creed. Detached from Maya (detached from the material world and the material senses as best as can be done) he attempts to be. And without compromising, she values and attempts to seek the company of the holy, the truth, knowledge, justice, equality, freedom and love for the family, the community and all of humanity.

To further build on the template given above, the Sikh state of mind is selfless, curious, critical, creative, artistic, active, logical, moral and intelligent. The Sikh state of mind harbours beliefs that encourage physical prowess. And against all odds, the Sikh state of mind strives to become “Miri-Piri:” a spiritual and earthly influence.

Of the mentioned attributes, the two most important dimensions of a Sikh would have to be the battle to enslave the mind’s five thieves so as to allow the better half of the mind’s duality to dominate thoughts and actions, and the struggle to detach from Maya. The battle to chain the five thieves and detachment from Maya are most important because they’re the agents and the influences that readily block the mind from appreciating the remaining attributes of a Sikh. In addition, they deny the ultimate goal of the secular, liberation, to be dead (liberated in consciousness) but yet alive; to be united with The Primal Energy and still have mortal life. An idea termed “Jivan Mukti.”

If you have any questions about Sikhie, please feel free to email me at: mikebhangu@gmail.com

Mike Bhangu,

Merritt