Collection items
The Ravidasi Community
A study of the Ravidasi community is an important feature for students looking at the issue of caste within Sikhism. This presentation examines the teachings of the Sikh Gurus towards caste. It looks at the contradictions between religious teachings with actual praxis. A substantial proportion of the Ravidasi community claim that they have been discriminated against by higher caste Sikhs because of the stigma of untouchability associated with the traditional caste (zat) occupation of the chamars.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Predestination or karma in Sikh philosophy
This presentation is delivered to students who take the Sikhism Module. It looks at the apparent paradox in the teachings of Guru Nanak, especially, with regard to whether it is one's deeds or the Will of God that is a prerequisite to Mukti (the release from the cycle of reincarnation - samsara).
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Caste and Sikhism
This is material used within a second year module on Sikhism. it provides information on how caste is operative within Sikhism and has created distinct groups such as the Ravidasis and Valmikis. This material could also be used by historians and sociologists.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Sikh Dharma of the Western Hemisphere
This presentation is delivered to second year students of Sikhism. There is an increasing number of non-Punjabis following the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. Yogi Bhajan was instrumental in introducing Sikhism to his American yoga students. Initially this was delivered under the activities of the Sikh Dharma of the Western Hemisphere.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Understanding Sikhism through Informant Testimonies
This presentation looks at the importance of informant testimonies to enhance an understanding of Sikhism. It is an important tool for students looking at research methods within studying religion. The presentation highlights the importance of overcoming stereotypical representations of the Sikh community.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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The Namdharis
This presentation looks at a sect within Sikhism. The Namdharis are regarded as heretics by many Sikhs due to their tradition of continuing the line of human Gurus. In effect, they do not give Guru status to the Adi Granth. The presentation looks at their theories regarding the 'drama' enacted by Guru Gobind Singh in 1708 and examines their justification for declaring that the words "Guru Maniyo Granth" were not uttered.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Glossary of terms in Sikhism
This handout is used by students studying Sikhism at the University of Wolverhampton. They are encouraged to use the spellings in Punjabi for their assignments.
Shared with the World by Dr Opinderjit Takhar |
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Reading from Adi Granth
This is a short video of a reading from the Adi Granth in the Ramgharia Board gurdwara in Wolverhampton.
Shared with the World by Dr Deirdre Burke |