Bitesize and Sounds revision podcasts | Overview
Revise GCSE Religious Studies by listening to these podcasts from Bitesize and BBC Sounds.
BBC Sounds is where you can catch the latest music tracks, discover binge-worthy podcasts or listen to live radio, all in one place.
Episodes are roughly ten minutes long and there are five episodes in the series. You can listen on the go on the BBC Sounds app or listen at home as part of your GCSE revision.
Join hosts Lauren Layfield and Jaz Singh as they guide you through the essential knowledge you need for your GCSE Religious Studies exam.
This podcast series will explore Sikh teachings about God, how Sikhs live out their faith in daily life, and the importance of values such as justice and equality in Sikhism. It will also examine how festivals such as Vaisakhi shape Sikh identity and worship, while helping you develop the knowledge and exam techniques needed to explain, analyse, and evaluate Sikh beliefs and practices with confidence.
What does Sikhism teach about God?
In this episode, Lauren and Jaz break down key Sikh beliefs about the nature of God, including oneness, immanence, and transcendence, recognising how these are expressed across Sikh teachings and traditions.
You’ll also learn how the belief in Ik Onkar shapes Sikh worship and daily life and explore how Sikh beliefs about God differ from or relate to other religious views.
Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m Lauren Layfield, your host for this series all about Sikhism. I’m a TV and radio presenter, and in this series, we explore the beliefs and practices you may come across in your Religious Studies GCSE.
In this episode, we’re looking at how God is understood in Sikh teachings and practice. And joining me to do so is my brilliant co-host and practising Sikh, Jaz Singh.
Jaz: Hi Lauren, I’m very excited to be here!
Lauren: Oh, we’re excited to have you. Now you are a broadcaster, and people may also obviously know you from the reality show The Traitors. And you’ve also been raised in the Sikh faith.
Jaz: That’s right. It was the main reason I actually applied for The Traitors, to showcase what a British Sikh is all about. And I’m now very grateful to now speak about my faith sometimes on the radio too. Sikhism has definitely taught me a lot Lauren, so my relationship with God and my faith is very important to me.
Lauren: Yes, we can’t wait to hear more. Before we get stuck in though, grab a pen, some paper, or you can use your notes app, because throughout the episode, we’ll highlight some key ideas you may want to jot down.
Jaz: And stay listening to the end, because there’ll be a quick quiz too.
Lauren: So, Jaz, Sikhism, also known as Sikhi, is one of the world’s major religions. And it’s one that has been founded more recently. Is that right?
Jaz: Yes Lauren. Sikhism as a religion was founded about 500 years ago and today has about 25 million followers around the world. The religion was started by Guru Nanak Dev Ji who we call the first Guru.
Lauren: Yeah, and we’ll hear about him more in other episodes in this series. Before that though, there’s some key beliefs for Sikhs, aren’t there? To start with, can you tell us about God, Jaz?
Jaz: Yes Lauren. We believe there is only one God, who Sikhs worship. We have lots of words to describe God in Sikhism, but a really common name is Waheguru, which means ‘wondrous enlightener’.
Lauren: And how do Sikhs describe Waheguru?
Jaz: We believe Waheguru is genderless, so neither male nor female, and can’t really be explained or described in words. The term for that is ineffable. Waheguru is eternal, meaning our God doesn’t exist in time and space like we do. Sikhism teaches us that the universe and everything in it was created by Waheguru's command, known as 'Hukam.'
Lauren: Jaz, you said that Waheguru can’t be explained in words, so can you tell us a little bit more about that?
Jaz: Sure. Sikhs believe that God is ‘Nirgun’, which means transcendent. And that means God is beyond human understanding and without physical form. But we also believe God is ‘sargun’ which means immanent. That means, for Sikhs, God is present in the material world.
Lauren: So, God is both Nirgun (beyond understanding or transcendent) and Sargun (present in the world, or immanent). Can you talk about how Sikhs believe God is present in the world?
Jaz: Sikhs believe God’s presence is within all living beings, and this is sometimes described as a ‘divine spark’. It’s kind of like a soul.
Lauren: It’s really interesting, thanks for that Jaz. For more information about the nature of God in Sikhism, head over to the Bitesize website where there are loads more resources for you. Just search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’.
Lauren: So, Jaz, how do Sikhs know these things about God?
Jaz: Good question Lauren! Well, we have something called the Mool Mantra, sometimes called the Mool Mantar. It’s a written verse which defines this core Sikh belief in one God. It’s the foundational declaration, or opening, of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji - that’s a really important holy scripture in Sikhism.
Lauren: And can you give us some more detail about what the Mool Mantra says?
Jaz: Yes of course. The first line says “Ik Onkar”. Now Ik Onkar can mean different things to different people. For some it means God is One. Others may interpret it as One Divine Spirit or One force. For me personally, it means that there is only one God. This is a key belief in Sikhism.
Lauren: So, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is really important, Jaz. Can you tell us more about it?
Jaz: Yeah of course. Although we believe in only one God, we have a number of spiritual guides which we call Gurus. There have been ten Gurus throughout history who taught people about God. Their teachings, and teachings from several other important holy people, have been written in the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, our holy scripture.
Lauren: So, does that belief, ‘Ik Onkar’, show up in daily life for Sikhs?
Jaz: Definitely. It’s represented by a symbol, written in Gurmukhi, which is a script used in Punjab in India. Many Sikhs display the symbol in their homes and in gurdwaras - our place of worship. Now it reminds us that God is one, and you can see an example of the symbol on the Bitesize website. Just search ‘Mool Mantra Bitesize’.
Lauren: Is the Mool Mantra used in worship too Jaz?
Jaz: Yes Lauren. Many Sikhs will recite the Japji Sahib prayer, of which the Mool Mantra is the first verse. The Mool Mantra and the symbol help us focus on God when we worship and meditate. And that really allows me to be present in the moment and realign myself with God.
Lauren: And is there anything else within the Mool Mantra that you can tell us about?
Jaz: Well, the other lines tell us more about the nature of God. Shall I read it to you?
Lauren: Yes please!
Jaz: We have:
- Ik Onkar - there is one God
- Sat Naam - God's name is the truth
- Karta Purkh - God is the creator
- Nir Bhau - God has no fear
- Nir Vair - God has no hatred
- Aakaal Moorat - God is eternal (beyond time)
- Ajooni - God is not born and does not die
- Saibhang - God is not dependent on anything. He is self-emanated, meaning he just exists.
- Gur Parsaad - Only through Guru's grace we exist
Lauren: Jaz, do Sikhs believe it’s possible to meet Waheguru?
Jaz: Now that’s a really interesting question Lauren. Sikhs believe in the cycle of samsara - that’s the cycle of birth, death and rebirth.
Lauren: And Hindus and Buddhists believe in the samsara cycle too, don’t they?
Jaz: Yes, they do! Samsara is the belief that we are born, we die, and we are reborn again. Sikhs believe in reincarnation. Now this means when a person dies, their soul is reborn into another body. As Sikhs we believe this happens in a continuous cycle until we achieve mukti.
Lauren: Okay. Can you explain mukti for us?
Jaz: Of course. Mukti is when we are free from the cycle of samsara, so we won’t be reborn again. If we achieve mukti, we have the chance to reach Waheguru - to be united with God.
Lauren: So, Sikhs can be united with God (Waheguru) by exiting the cycle of birth, death and rebirth, which is samsara. Is that right?
Jaz: That’s it!
Lauren: Tell us about how the belief then in Waheguru might influence life for Sikhs?
Jaz: Well Sikhs believe in living a life that is God centered, Lauren. We call this ‘gurmukh’. That’s the opposite to ‘manmukh’ which means self-centred. So, we live our life with God at the centre, rather than ourselves.
Lauren: So, do gurmukh and manmukh affect how Sikhs live day-to-day, Jaz?
Jaz: In lots of ways, yes! Sikhs may try to focus their mind on Waheguru at all times including during prayer and worship as a way to keep God at the centre of their daily life. Other daily acts include; being generous by giving to charity, helping other people when they can, always acting with love and compassion, and performing selfless acts.
Lauren: And what about you then Jaz, how do you aim for ‘gurmukh’, so living a life that’s God centred?
Jaz: I think it’s important to wake up feeling grateful for what you have, and for me, that includes starting the day off with the Mool Mantra prayer. It’s a form of meditation, helping me realign myself with God, be present in the moment, reset, and just remind myself to be thankful for everything.
It’s given me hope, allowed me to develop a form of resilience and it’s actually got me to this point in life, where I would’ve never expected to be.
Lauren: Thank you so much for sharing, Jaz. And we’re going to talk more about some of these themes, like prayer and meditation, in our episode on daily Sikh practices. You can listen to all the episodes in this series over on BBC Sounds.
Just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’. You mentioned reincarnation before Jaz - can you tell me more about that?
Jaz: Sure. Like Hindus and Buddhists, Sikhs believe in reincarnation. Now that’s the idea that each being has a soul, or ‘atma’. So, when we die, our soul is reborn, or reincarnated, as another being.
Lauren: Yeah, and you said that each being has a part of Waheguru in their soul. And you called it the divine spark, I think?
Jaz: Well remembered. The soul is part of God, and we believe God is present in everyone. Now the soul is called atma. So, when we die the atma is born into a new body, and this cycle continues until we are freed. Once your atma is free you achieve mukti and then you join Waheguru.
Lauren: And you can find out more about reincarnation and mukti in Sikhism over on the Bitesize website. Just search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’.
Jaz: Lauren, that was quite a lot of information. Are you ready for a quick quiz to see how much you remember?
Lauren: Yes, let's do it! Grab a pen, paper, or your notes app and jot down your answers.
Jaz: Let’s do this. First question. There are many words for God in Sikhism, but which is the commonly used name that we have used in this episode?
Lauren: That would be Waheguru.
Jaz: Correct, well done! Next question. Sikhs believe there is a way they can be united with Waheguru. They have to achieve something though. What is it?
Lauren: They can achieve mukti. That means they’ve been liberated from the cycle of samsara and are with God.
Jaz: Perfect answer. Now the last question. In the Mool Mantra, there is an opening line which is very important for Sikh belief in the nature of God. Do you remember what that line is?
Lauren: I do. The opening line is “Ik Onkar”.
Jaz: That’s it! It’s really significant for the Sikh belief in the oneness of God.
Lauren: Thank you very much for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast, exploring Sikhism.
Jaz: In the next episode we’ll be exploring how the Sikh faith is expressed in daily life.
Lauren: And remember there are loads of podcasts covering other GCSE subjects like English, Science, and History. Just search for GCSE Bitesize on BBC Sounds.
Jaz: See you next time!
Check out more GCSE Religious Studies series.
Quiz
Try the quiz below to test your knowledge of Sikhism from episode 1.
How is Sikh faith lived out in daily life and why is this significant?
In this episode, Lauren and Jaz break down key Sikh practices such as prayer, meditation on God’s name (Naam Japna), honest work (Kirat Karni), and sharing with others (Vand Chakna), noting how these are lived out in diverse Sikh communities.
You’ll also learn the significance of the Five Ks and the Sikh identity and you will explore how Sikh daily practices build community and spiritual growth.
Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. This series is all about Sikhism and I am your host, Lauren Layfield. I’m a TV and radio presenter, and in this series, we explore the beliefs and practices you may come across in your exam.
In this episode, we’re looking at how Sikhism, also known as Sikhi, is expressed in daily life. But I can’t do it alone, so throughout this series I’m joined by my wonderful co-host Jaz Singh. Hi Jaz!
Jaz: Hey Lauren! I’m a radio presenter too and have also appeared on TV, and I’ve been raised in the Sikh faith. Now I grew up attending the Sikh temple, the gurdwara, and taking part in community practices like the langar. Now I’m going to tell you more about those, and I’ll be bringing other Sikh beliefs and practices to life too.
Lauren: That’s great. That’s going to be very helpful. Thanks, Jaz. But before we start, grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app, because we will be highlighting key ideas that you might want to jot down.
Jaz: And at the end of the episode, I’ll be testing your knowledge with a quick quiz so stay till the end for that. Right then, let’s get started!
Lauren: Jaz, tell me about some of the ways Sikhs practise their faith in daily life.
Jaz: Sure. Worship is a really important part of Sikhism, and it can take place anywhere, at any time. Shall we start with worship at home?
Lauren: Yes please!
Jaz: Okay. At home many Sikhs say daily prayers known as ‘Nitnem’. Some families may have a quiet, clean space set aside for prayer. They may meditate on God's name, Waheguru. This practice is called ‘Naam Japna’, and can involve reciting, chanting, or singing the name Waheguru.
Now it helps Sikhs reflect on the oneness of God and the belief that Waheguru is present everywhere. ‘Naam Japna’ is one of the three foundations of Sikhism, so it’s considered very important.
Lauren: And we will look at the other two foundations of Sikhism a little bit later in the episode, so stay listening for that. Do Sikhs read from any holy books when their worshipping in the home?
Jaz: Yes Lauren. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the most holy scripture in Sikhism, but most Sikh homes won’t have a copy. Many Sikhs will have a Gutka though, which contains hymns from scriptures. Some may recite prayers from their Gutka each day.
Lauren: And is there a special area of the home that you worship in Jaz?
Jaz: There is actually. In my house, we have a small area dedicated to worship where we have pictures of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. And it’s also where our amrit is kept - now that is our holy water.
Lauren: What other forms of worship are there in Sikhism?
Jaz: Worship can take many forms and could also include things like singing hymns - a practice known as ‘kirtan’. It can also be reflecting on Sikh teachings and learning about the Ten Gurus - the ten foundational teachers of Sikhism.
Lauren: So Sikh worship comes in lots of forms, and it can be done anywhere. Why is that significant?
Jaz: Well Sikhs believe that God is ‘sargun’ or immanent, meaning present in the universe. So, wherever we worship, Waheguru is there. It doesn’t matter where we worship as long as God is at the forefront of our mind.
Lauren: OK Jaz, let’s move on to the gurdwara. Can you tell us about that?
Jaz: Sure. Gurdwara means ‘door to the Guru’, and it’s a Sikh place of worship. Now a gurdwara is any place where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is kept and respected - that’s the Sikh holy scripture.
Lauren: And could you describe a gurdwara to me Jaz?
Jaz: Of course. Typically, you’ll see a Nishan Sahib outside the gurdwara - that’s an orange flag with a blue Khanda on it, which is one of the symbols of Sikhism. It’s made up of a double-edged sword, a circular ring, and two curved swords. Now there is also always a light on inside the gurdwara to reflect our belief that Waheguru, God, is always present.
Lauren: That feels really symbolic. Can you tell us more about the Guru Granth Sahib Ji - you said a gurdwara is a place where that holy scripture is kept?
Jaz: Yes, that’s right Lauren. Sikhs believe any building that holds the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a gurdwara. The scripture is really sacred. Now we see it as the eternal, living Guru. It is kept on a raised platform under a canopy as a sign of significant respect.
Lauren: And when Sikhs go to the gurdwara, is there anything that they’re expected to do?
Jaz: Yes, there are a few rules which are all about showing respect to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. For example:
- Sikhs cover their heads inside the gurdwara
- They remove their shoes before entering
- Those who go to worship sit on the floor so that the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is always higher than them
- Sikhs avoid turning their backs on the Guru Granth Sahib Ji
- And finally at night, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji scripture is put in a different room and put to bed.
Lauren: Now these are just some examples about how Sikhs express their respect to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji in daily life, but for more information search for Bitesize GCSE Sikhism.
Lauren: Jaz, how do Sikhs worship in the gurdwara?
Jaz: As we’ve said, worship can happen anywhere as long as you are focused on Waheguru, so there is no expectation to attend the gurdwara at all. But if you do, it’s a place for the community to gather together. We call the Sikh community the ‘sangat’.
Lauren: What happens during a gurdwara service?
Jaz: Well as soon as you walk into a gurdwara, your head must be covered, and shoes must be taken off before attending the main section. We then go into the ‘darbar sahib’ which is the main hall within the gurdwara. The most important thing in the darbar hall is the Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
You sit down on the floor, facing the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and in many gurdwaras men and women may sit separately as a way to encourage focus. All services will start and end with the Ardas prayer - it’s a prayer where we ask Waheguru to guide us in life.
Lauren: And what kinds of things do Sikhs say during worship?
Jaz: It’s a good question. Those worshipping will often chant ‘Waheguru’ over and over, and we may sing hymns, called ‘kirtan’. These hymns are verses from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and they help us to feel connected to Waheguru. It reminds us of God’s oneness and other important qualities.
Lauren: And who leads these services?
Jaz: Well, there is no formal priesthood in Sikhism, and all Sikhs are considered equal. There are no religious leaders that are seen as more important than those worshipping. So, a Sikh person of any gender, who is knowledgeable about the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, can lead a service.
Lauren: And what about food - does that come into gurdwara services at all?
Jaz: Yes, it does! Karah Parshad is ‘blessed food’. It’s a simple sweet which is given to everyone at the end of services.
Lauren: And why is that significant?
Jaz: Well, it mainly symbolises the Sikh teachings of equality and sharing in the community. It connects to another of the three foundations of Sikhism - Vand Chakna.
Lauren: OK, tell me more about Vand Chakna?
Jaz: It means ‘Share and Consume together’. So, the community, or ‘sangat’ is really important in Sikhism. Every Sikh should contribute however they can to the community - to share their wealth and to help each other. For me, the most incredible thing about a gurdwara is that anyone is welcome no matter their religion, background, ethnicity or status.
Lauren: That sounds really special. So, you’ve told us about two of the three foundations of Sikhism - ‘Naam Japna’ which was meditating on God’s name, and ‘Vand Chakna’ which is about the community sharing together. So, what is the third foundation?
Jaz: That is Kirat Karni. Sikhs believe that God wants us all to live an honourable life, earning an honest living and doing work that helps our community. And by that I don’t mean just the Sikh community but anyone, be they Sikh or non-Sikh - whoever needs that help.
Lauren: So, Kirat Karni is about doing, rather than just thinking?
Jaz: That’s a really good description Lauren. In fact, there’s a quote from the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It’s from ang 465 and it says “Wisdom cannot be found through mere words. To explain it is as hard as iron." Sikhs believe words alone are not enough. It’s important to remember God through living honestly. Those three foundations Naam Japna, Vand Chakna, and Kirat Karni, work together to guide daily life for Sikhs.
Lauren: Jaz, you’ve helped us to understand how Sikhism can be expressed in daily life. Can you tell us about the five Ks now?
Jaz: Of course. Now within Sikhism, people may express their commitment to faith in different ways. Amritdhari Sikhs are individuals who have taken part in an initiation ceremony and have become part of The Khalsa community. This group of Sikhs are no more or less important than any other Sikh, but as part of The Khalsa they have rules to follow - the five Ks.
Lauren: OK so what are the five Ks?
Jaz: For Amritdhari Sikhs, the five Ks serve as a daily reminder of their faith. Sikhs who are not part of The Khalsa may follow some, or all, of the 5 Ks too. They are:
- Kesh - meaning ‘uncut hair’. Sikhs believe hair is a gift from God and should not be cut. It is often kept covered, for example with a turban, as a sign of respect.
- Kanga - Sikhs carry a wooden comb with them to help keep themselves tidy.
- Kara - that’s wearing a steel bracelet. Its circular shape is a reminder of the eternal nature of God.
- Kaccha - Sikhs wear plain, cotton underwear to remind them to show self-control and chastity, meaning no sexual activity before marriage.
- Kirpan - carrying a small ceremonial sheathed blade. It symbolises the duty to protect others since everyone is equal, and that Sikhs should always fight for justice.
The Five Ks act as constant reminders of Sikh faith and identity.
Lauren: Do you know what, that is all really interesting. Thanks so much Jaz! Jaz, I think I’m ready for you to put me to the test.
Jaz: Great, let’s do a quick quiz then. Grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app to jot down your answers.
Lauren: And pause this episode if you need some more time to think. Ok let’s do it, I’m ready!
Jaz: First question. What does ‘Naam Japna’ involve? Hint, it’s one of three key foundations of Sikhism.
Lauren: OK. ‘Naam Japna’ is meditating on God’s name. So that could be singing, chanting, or reciting God's name, Waheguru.
Jaz: Yes, that’s it! Next question. What do we call the Sikh place of worship?
Lauren: That is the gurdwara.
Jaz: Perfect! Worship can take place anywhere though, including in the home. And final question. What is the name for the kind of honest work Sikhs are encouraged to do? It involves earning an honest living and doing work that helps our community. A clue for you - it’s one of the three key Sikh foundations.
Lauren: That is Kirat Karni and it’s the third foundation of Sikhism.
Jaz: Spot on, well done!
Lauren: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.
Jaz: In the next one we’ll be exploring why festivals are significant in Sikhism.
Lauren: And remember you can listen to all episodes in this series over on BBC Sounds. Just search for GCSE Bitesize.
Jaz: See you next time!
Check out more GCSE Religious Studies series.
Question
How are the three Sikh principles of Naam Japna, Kirat Karni and Vand Chakna put into practice in daily life?
Naam Japna is practised through prayer and meditation, such as repeating the name “Waheguru” to remember God. Kirat Karni is shown by working honestly and helping others, for example doing a job fairly or supporting people in need. Vand Chakna means sharing with others, for example, giving to charity or taking part in langar at the gurdwara, where food is shared with everyone. Together, these principles guide Sikhs to live a spiritual and community-focused life.
How do festivals, like Vaisakhi, shape Sikh faith?
In this episode, Lauren and Jaz describe the purpose of major festivals such as Vaisakhi and Gurpurbs, highlighting variations in how they are celebrated in Sikh traditions worldwide.
You'll discover the historical and spiritual significance of these festivals and how festivals promote unity, remembrance, and religious identity and freedom.
Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. In this series we’re exploring Sikhism, also known as Sikhki, and the beliefs and practices you may come across in your studies.
I’m your host, TV and radio presenter Lauren Layfield and in this episode, we’re talking about Sikh festivals and their historical and spiritual significance. And helping me bring these themes to life is my co-host Jaz Singh.
Jaz: Hey Lauren! Yes, I am a radio presenter, I’ve been on the TV too, and I have been raised Sikh, so these concepts are real life for me. Sikhism teaches us always to try to be a great member of society, and I believe my faith has definitely shaped me to be who I am today. Sikh festivals are a really exciting part of the faith so I’m looking forward to telling you more.
Lauren: I love hearing about religious festivals so really looking forward to that. But before we dig in, grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app, because we’ll be highlighting key ideas you might want to jot down.
Jaz: And at the end of the episode, I’ll be testing your knowledge with a quick quiz so stay listening till the end for that.
Lauren: Let’s get started! Jaz, I would love to hear about how you celebrate your faith. Tell me about some of the festivals and special days in Sikhism.
Jaz: Well, we have a number of festivals throughout the year actually, celebrated by Sikhs all over the world. They’re a time for us to come together and celebrate key events and dates. And Vaisakhi is one of the biggest festivals and it celebrates the founding of The Khalsa.
Lauren: We spoke about The Khalsa in our episode exploring how the Sikh faith is expressed in daily life, didn’t we?
Jaz: Yeah, we did Lauren. The Khalsa is actually a community of Sikhs who have taken part in an initiation ceremony to be fully committed to the Sikh way of life, as commanded by the tenth Guru - Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Lauren: And you can listen to that episode, and all others, over on BBC Sounds. Just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’. So, Jaz, can you tell us how Vaisakhi began?
Jaz: So, before it became significant to Sikhs, Vaisakhi was already a traditional spring harvest festival in Punjab, that’s an area in northern India. It was a time for people to show gratitude for the upcoming harvest. And in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, one of the Ten Gurus who guided the Sikh faith, chose this festival to establish The Khalsa.
Lauren: This is so interesting. So, when does Vaisakhi take place?
Jaz: We celebrate it in April every year and it's a time for families and communities to come together and remember the events and bravery of 1699. Everyone gives thanks to the tenth Guru for creating the Khalsa Panth - that’s what we call the worldwide community of initiated Sikhs.
Lauren: So, the Guru chose Vaisakhi as the time to establish The Khalsa - can you tell us a little bit more about that?
Jaz: Well Sikhs believe that during this festival, the Guru extended an invitation. Any person willing to give their life to the Guru should step forward. The Guru was holding a sword. The five volunteers who were prepared to offer their lives for the Guru Gobind Singh Ji became the first members of The Khalsa and are known as the 'Beloved Five'.
Lauren: Wow so Vaisakhi is a festival with lots of religious significance because it’s when The Khalsa was created.
Jaz: That’s right Lauren. The story of the Beloved Five is connected to Sikh identity, unity, bravery, and commitment.
Lauren: So how is Vaisaki celebrated nowadays?
Jaz: It’s celebrated in a number of ways, and it can be different in different parts of the world. Some ways Vaisaki might be celebrated worldwide include:
- Sikhs will visit their place of worship, the gurdwara, which will be specially decorated for the festival.
- There may be parades through the streets. These are called ‘nagar kirtans’ which often involve reading scriptures and chanting hymns.
- Some Sikhs may choose Vaisakhi as the day they are initiated into The Khalsa community.
- And in India some Sikhs may go on pilgrimage to Anandpur Sahib, the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji established The Khalsa.
Lauren: And how is Vaisakhi special for you then Jaz?
Jaz: Well for me, over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of attending many Nagar Kirtans. And yes Lauren, it’s a chance to eat the most delicious food like the hot jalebi or the samosa but, more importantly, it’s an opportunity to spend time with friends and family.
You know, taking the time out and putting the effort in, it’s had a huge impact in solidifying what really matters in my life.
Lauren: Jaz, can you tell us more about the role of communities in festivals like Vaisakhi?
Jaz: Yeah of course. Community worship is a big part of Sikh festivals. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji, that’s our holy Sikh scripture, contains a teaching. It’s from ang 368 and says:
“Join the Sat Sangat, the Lord’s True Congregation, joining the Company of the Holy, sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord.”
Lauren: So, what does that quote tell us about the significance of Sikh festivals?
Jaz: Well, that message is connected to the Sikh principle of Sangat - that is the Sikh spiritual community. Now we believe in gathering together, for example during festivals, to worship and learn more about Waheguru, God.
Lauren: I imagine festivals like Vaisakhi are a great time to gather together as the Sangat.
Jaz: Exactly. During festivals, Sikhs often take part in ‘Kirtan’, where hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji are sung together as a community.
Lauren: So, by worshipping together during these celebrations, Sikhs can feel united?
Jaz: Exactly Lauren, and it can help them feel more connected to Waheguru too.
Lauren: Can you tell us about another Sikh festival then Jaz?
Jaz: Sure. Bandi Chhor Divas is celebrated in October or November and means 'Day of Liberation'. It often falls on the same day as Divali actually, which is a religious festival celebrated by many Hindus.
Lauren: Oh yes so Divali is the ‘festival of lights’, isn’t it?
Jaz: That’s right. Like Divali, Bandi Chhor Divas is often associated with the themes of justice and freedom. It marks the day in 1619 when Guru Hargobind, the 6th Guru, was released from prison and helped release 52 Hindu princes and other prisoners.
Lauren: So why is Bandi Chhor Divas an important festival for Sikhs today?
Jaz: It’s important for us to remember the Guru's bravery and his commitment to justice. The festival reminds Sikhs of the importance of religious freedom and having the courage to stand up for what is right. It also is a reminder to treat everyone fairly.
Lauren: Yeah, it’s lovely. And how do Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas?
Jaz: Again, celebrations differ around the world, and they are linked to Divali celebrations. Some ways that it can be celebrated include:
- Lighting lamps in gurdwaras and homes as a symbol of the Guru Hargobind’s homecoming.
- Performing Kirtan - that’s worship hymns.
- Sharing meals and supporting the community.
Now when I celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, I light candles around the house, attend the gurdwara and spend time with family and friends.
Lauren: I am loving hearing about these festivals and the history of Sikhism, Jaz. So, tell us about one more festival.
Jaz: Sure. Gurpurbs are festivals that take place throughout the year. They celebrate the anniversary of the birth or death of a Guru.
Lauren: Yeah, and a reminder, there are ten Gurus that have guided the Sikh faith throughout history.
Jaz: Remembering the Gurus is important for Sikhs as we look to them for guidance and an example for living. Now there are many gurpurbs around the world, taking place at different times. But one of the most widely celebrated gurpurb is the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Lauren: OK so who was Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Jaz: He was a spiritual teacher who was the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, so he’s often seen as the founder of the Sikh faith.
Lauren: OK so he’s a very important figure. How is the gurpurb of Guru Nanak Dev Ji celebrated?
Jaz: The celebration can last three days and gurdwaras and homes are lit with candles and celebrations may include gatherings with family and community, special meals, and acts of generosity. But the central event is often The Akhand Path.
Lauren: Can you tell us what the Akhand Path is?
Jaz: It’s when the Sikh holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib Ji, is read out aloud in full. It can take about 48 hours in total. It is a continuous, unbroken reading usually done by a team of readers who take turns, in shifts, reading the scripture.
People may come at different times to listen and take part in the prayers. And it’s a special time for Sikhs to remember the history of our faith and our key Sikh beliefs.
Lauren: And are celebrations for gurpurbs the same around the world Jaz?
Jaz: Not quite. The dates can differ. In India, gurpurbs are often celebrated on the exact date, so on the day of birth or death of the Guru. But in the UK and other places, they may take place on a nearby date.
Lauren: Jaz, that was all very interesting, and I think I’m ready for you to put my knowledge to the test.
Jaz: Well then, let’s have a quick quiz. Grab a pen, some paper or your notes app to jot down your answers as we go.
Lauren: And remember you can pause this episode if you need some time to think.
Jaz: First question. What is the name of the Sikh festival that remembers the birth of The Khalsa?
Lauren: The name of the Spring festival is Vaisakhi.
Jaz: That’s right, well done! Now the next question. What do Gurpurbs celebrate?
Lauren: Gurpurbs celebrate the anniversary of the birth or the death of a Sikh Guru.
Jaz: Correct again! The gurpurb we most commonly celebrate is for the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Now, the final question. What is the Sangat in Sikhism?
Lauren: The Sangat is the Sikh community of worshippers.
Jaz: Yes! Festivals are a great time to bring the Sangat together in communal worship.
Lauren: Thanks very much for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast, exploring Sikh festivals.
Jaz: In the next episode we’ll be looking at justice and equality in Sikhism.
Lauren: Yeah, remember there are loads more resources over on the Bitesize website. For more help with your exams, just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies’. And we’ll see you next time.
Jaz: Catch you soon!
Check out more GCSE Religious Studies series.
Question
Why is the Vaisakhi festival so important?
Vaisakhi is important because it celebrates the founding of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh. This event is central to Sikh identity as it marks the creation of a committed community of Sikhs (Khalsa). It also reminds Sikhs of values such as bravery, unity, and commitment.
Today, it is celebrated through visiting the gurdwara, taking part in processions (Nagar Kirtan), and coming together as a community.
Why are justice and equality important in Sikhism?
In this episode, Lauren and Jaz look at Sikh teachings on justice, equality, and standing against oppression, recognising how these values are applied in different Sikh contexts.
You’ll learn the importance of seva (selfless service) and langar (community kitchen) and how Sikhs work for social justice in their communities and the wider world.
Lauren: Hey and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m Lauren Layfield, a TV and Radio presenter and your host for this series all about Sikhism.
In each episode we look at the beliefs and practices you may come across in your exam, and in this episode, we’re looking at what Sikhism teaches about justice and equality. Helping me out is my co-host and practising Sikh, Jaz Singh.
Jaz: Hey Lauren! Yes, you may have heard my voice on the radio, and importantly for co-hosting this series, I have been raised in the Sikh faith. Having the Sikh faith so close to my heart has definitely shaped me to become who I am today, so I’m looking forward to lifting these beliefs out of that textbook and into the real world for you.
Lauren: Right before we dig in, grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app, because we’ll be highlighting key ideas that you might want to jot down.
Jaz: And stay listening to the end, as I’ll be checking what you’ve learnt with a quick quiz. Now let’s get started!
Lauren: Jaz, let's talk about what Sikhism, also known as Sikhi, teaches about equality and justice. Can you tell me about these teachings?
Jaz: Yeah of course. A key belief in Sikhism is that all humans are created by Waheguru, God. Sikhs believe God’s presence is within all beings, sometimes described as the ‘atma’ or soul. And because of this idea, many Sikhs believe that all humans are equal. We call this the ‘oneness of humanity’ and equality is key.
Lauren: We looked at concepts like ‘the atma’ in our episode on Sikh understandings about God. You can listen to that one, and all episodes in this series, over on the BBC Sounds app. Just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’. Jaz, how do Sikhs apply this belief in ‘the oneness of humanity’ to everyday life?
Jaz: Well, we believe in treating all people with respect. No matter someone’s background, identity, or circumstances, Sikhs believe everyone should be treated equally. This is called ‘egalitarianism’. It underpins key Sikh practices like ‘seva’ and ‘langar’, which we’ll talk about in this episode.
Lauren: Does this belief in treating everyone equally have a role in Sikh worship?
Jaz: Definitely. You can see this belief in the oneness of humanity during gurdwara worship. The gurdwara is run by the community, known as the sangat. And any Sikh, regardless of gender, wealth or background, who is knowledgeable about the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, our holy scripture, can lead worship.
Lauren: Equality seems like a really important belief for Sikhs then.
Jaz: Oh, one hundred percent. It’s fundamental. And so is justice. The first Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, taught that taking away any other person’s rights is a moral offence. In Sikhism, we must respect everyone’s rights and work towards a just and fair society for all. This idea is called social justice.
There’s a quote in the Dasam Granth Sahib, a sacred Sikh scripture. The quote comes from Guru Gobind Singh Ji who said: “recognise the whole human race as One.”
This belief informs every aspect of Sikh life.
Lauren: What about in the community, or the ‘Sangat’ Jaz, is that an egalitarian structure too?
Jaz: Yes, the Sangat is the Sikh community or congregation. Everyone is equal within the Sangat, and anyone who wants to, can become part of The Khalsa - that’s the initiated members of the Sikh faith. The Sangat has many important roles, including:
- running the gurdwara
- bringing Sikhs together to worship
- helping to teach the Punjabi language
- passing on the history of Sikh religion
- developing the Sikh belief in the ‘oneness of humanity’
- and providing financial support to each other. The sangat will help those who need it.
Lauren: These are just some examples. For more information on the role of the sangat, head to the Bitesize website - just search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Sikhism’.
Jaz: Food also plays an important role in Sikh practice. And it’s another way we can represent the Sikh belief in equality and the ‘oneness of humanity’. One important way we do this is through the ‘langar’ which means ‘free kitchen’. It is a place to go and eat for free, and it is also a practice, where Sikhs prepare, serve, and share food together as an act of equality and selfless service, known as ‘seva’.
Lauren: This is so interesting. Tell us more about ‘the langar’.
Jaz: Well, the idea was introduced by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru. He would offer free meals to everyone, which were prepared and served by the community. It didn’t matter who you were, where you came from, or how much money you had. Everyone would be served the same meal and would eat together. Guru Nanak Dev Ji did this because he encouraged people to nourish themselves physically before coming into his presence to be nourished mentally and spiritually.
Lauren: And does the langar still happen today?
Jaz: Yes! If you go to a gurdwara, no matter your faith or background, you will be able to enjoy the langar. Sitting and eating together reinforces that aspect of equality and oneness. The entire operation runs on volunteers and donations and for me, the principle behind it is what makes it so special. Everyone sits on the floor together, side by side, as equals. And it’s a chance to really connect with the faith as part of a wider community.
Lauren: So, I could take part in the langar even though I’m not Sikh?
Jaz: Yes Lauren. The langar is a reminder that all humans are equal, so everyone is welcome. The food is free and it’s vegetarian, so no meat or fish. And that helps ensure it is inclusive for every faith no matter their specific food laws.
Lauren: That sounds absolutely amazing. And what kind of food might there be?
Jaz: There might be foods like chickpea curry, daal, saag, breads like roti, rice, and always sweets! Oh, and I can’t forget the regular fruit that’s handed out. Always good to keep on top of your 5 a day! And I can honestly say, the food served at the gurdwara is so nourishing, wholesome and delicious. It still amazes me, even to this day, how much it’s contributed to so many lives around the world.
Lauren: It sounds so good. And tell us about the volunteers at the langar, Jaz.
Jaz: It's seen as a real privilege to volunteer at the gurdwara. And it’s a way Sikhs believe they can serve God and help others, so many people are eager to volunteer. In very large gurdwaras around the world, there is often a waiting list of people wanting to help with langar!
Lauren: That sounds really generous.
Jaz: Oh yeah. It all comes back to this belief in the ‘oneness of humanity’ and a just, equal world. For me, the langar is about kindness and generosity, and trying to make the world a better place to live.
Lauren: We've talked about the importance of equality in Sikhism. Now let's turn our focus to justice. We’ve touched on it a bit already.
Jaz: Yes, we have. In Sikhism, an important aspect of worship is ‘seva’. It means ‘selfless service’ and it’s a way we can show our devotion to Waheguru. Seva means doing selfless acts and helping others, without expecting anything in return. Social justice is a core belief connected to seva. And Sikhism teaches us to work towards a fair society and defend those who are oppressed.
Lauren: And are there different types of ‘seva’?
Jaz: There are three types of seva. They are:
- Tan - ‘With body’. These are physical acts that show selflessness. So, volunteering in the langar or looking after the gurdwaras would be examples of tan.
- Man - ‘With mind’. These are acts of seva that use knowledge or skills to help others. This could include teaching people about Sikh beliefs or helping someone learn to read the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Or it might be running activities that support the community, like teaching computer skills or art classes.
- Dhan - ‘With money’. This involves helping others financially so it might be donating to charity, giving money to the sangat, or offering money to those in need.
Lauren: OK so Tan, Man and Dhan. I think I’ve got it. How does ‘seva’ affect Sikhs’ relationship with Waheguru?
Jaz: Well Sikhism teaches that these acts of selflessness help an individual to become ‘gurmurkh’ which means ‘God-centred’. It’s a way we can show devotion to God and become closer to Wagehuru. Therefore, many Sikhs believe ‘seva’ should be part of our daily life. In my opinion, Seva can come in any form, as long as you're helping others and making a positive difference to the people around you.
Lauren: Yeah, I can see how ‘seva’ connects to ideas of equality and justice. Everyone is encouraged to do selfless acts, and no one is better than anyone else.
Jaz: Exactly. By serving others, we show our love to Waheguru. We can avoid becoming ‘manmukh’ which means self-centred, just following our own desires. And we’re focusing on the needs of others, rather than our own. Lauren, I want to test how much you’ve learnt now with a quick quiz. Are you ready?
Lauren: I am feeling ready! Grab a pen, some paper or your notes app to jot down your answers as we go. And remember you can pause this episode if you need time to think on it as well.
Jaz: Let’s start. First question. Who can lead gurdwara worship in Sikhism?
Lauren: I think I know this. Any Sikh who is knowledgeable about the Guru Granth Sahib Ji can lead gurdwara worship, regardless of gender, or wealth or background.
Jaz: That’s a great answer, well done! Now the next question. What is ‘langar’?
Lauren: The langar is the community kitchen in the gurdwara where anyone can eat for free.
Jaz: Correct! And now the final question. What does ‘seva’ mean in Sikhism?
Lauren: Seva means selfless service, so doing helpful acts without expecting anything in return.
Jaz: That is perfect, well done Lauren! It’s an important part of the Sikh belief in the ‘oneness of humanity’.
Lauren: Thanks so much for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. We’ve been exploring justice and equality.
Jaz: Next time, we’ll be bringing together the knowledge from the series into an exam skills episode, helping you prepare for your exam.
Lauren: Yeah, that’s right. And remember, you can hear all episodes in this series, and series on other faiths you may be studying at GCSE. Just search ‘GCSE Religious Studies’.
Jaz: See you next time.
Lauren: See you next time!
Check out more GCSE Religious Studies series.
Question
How do Sikhs apply the belief in ‘oneness of humanity’?
Sikh teachings encourage believers to stand against injustice through the belief in the oneness of humanity, which means all people are equal because God is present in everyone. Guru Nanak taught that everyone should be treated with respect, no matter what their background.
Sikhs should promote fairness and equality. This is supported by Guru Gobind Singh’s teaching to “recognise the whole human race as one”.
Exam skills - Sikhism
In this episode, Lauren and Jaz break down how to approach different Religious Studies exam questions and command words, using examples drawn from Sikhism.
You’ll learn how to apply key teachings and terms effectively in structured exam answers, and gain confidence using sources of wisdom to support your points.
Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m your host, Lauren Layfield. I’m a TV and radio presenter, and in this series, we’ve been exploring Sikhism, also known as Sikhi.
We’ve looked at some of the beliefs and practices you may come across in your exam and each episode I’ve been joined by my excellent co-host Jaz Singh.
Jaz: Hello again Lauren! I’m Jaz. I’m a radio presenter and I’m a practicing Sikh so I’ve been helping to bring some of the learning to life. And in this episode, we’ll be helping you prepare for your exam on Sikhism by building the skills you may need. We’ll use some of what you’ve learned across this series to help.
Lauren: Yeah first, we’ll look at some different question types, and how you might respond to different command words.
Jaz: Then we’ll look at how you could approach those command words, depending on the type of question and the marks available.
Lauren: And finally, we’ll cover sources of wisdom, like the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and how you can use quotes from it within your answers.
Jaz: So, grab your pen and paper or notes app because this episode is all about helping you feel confident for the exam.
Lauren: And remember you can find podcasts on other faiths you may be studying at GCSE too. Just search for Bitesize GCSE over on the BBC Sounds app. Before answering any question in your exam, it’s important to know the best way to approach it. Basically, you need to figure out what the question is asking you to do.
Jaz: A helpful way to do that, is to understand the different command words. These are verbs or phrases that guide you to respond and they’ll usually appear at the start of the question.
Lauren: Now we can’t cover every command word, but some common ones that you may see in your exam are ‘Describe’, ‘Explain’ or ‘Evaluate’.
Jaz: Here’s a tip Lauren. Before you write anything down, read the question carefully, circle the command word, and underline key parts of the question. Then keep checking back on the question as you write to help make sure you’re on the right track.
Lauren: Yeah, that tip helps you make sure that your answer is tailored to the question, doesn’t it? Now different exam boards may ask questions differently and we’re not predicting what will come up in your exams. This is just to give you a broad explanation of some of the question types. Now that we know what command words are, shall we look at how they might be used in your exam?
Jaz: Yes! Once you've identified the command word, think about what it wants you to do when answering the question.
Lauren: There are lower, mid and higher mark questions and they want different responses. So lower mark questions want short answers, which recall some key knowledge. Mid-mark questions usually want more detail. And higher mark questions need you to balance different viewpoints and then reach a conclusion.
Jaz: Let’s look at some command words in action. We’ll use examples from Sikhism that we’ve covered in this series. The number of marks will give you an idea of the level of detail you need to give in your answer, and how long you should spend writing it.
Lauren: OK let’s start with lower mark questions, which may use command words like ‘describe’.
Jaz: Describe questions usually want a ‘what’, not a ‘why’ in your answer.
Lauren: Yeah, they're more focussed on knowledge recall and are usually worth fewer marks. You probably don’t need loads of detail. Instead, we’re looking for short, factual answers. Shall we try an example Jaz?
Jaz: Let’s do it.
Lauren: OK thinking about our episode on how God is understood within Sikhism, here’s an example question. ‘Describe one key belief about Waheguru’. Could you try that one for us Jaz?
Jaz: I would answer something like, ‘Sikhism teaches that Waheguru is Nirgun, meaning transcendent. This means God is beyond human understanding and has no physical form.’
Lauren: Yeah, that’s a good answer because it’s factual, short and to the point. This kind of question is usually looking for a sentence or two, depending on the marks. Let’s move on to questions that start with the command word ‘Explain’.
Jaz: Explain means ‘give reasons’, so you’ll need to include words and phrases that invite you to do that, like ‘because’, ‘therefore’, or ‘this means that’.
Lauren: Yeah, these questions will likely need a bit more detail, and in your answer you need to link cause and effect. They’re often worth more marks but always check that yourself.
Jaz: Now let’s look at an example based on what we’ve learnt in the series.
Lauren: Yeah, OK try this Jaz. ‘Explain why seva is important in Sikhism.’
Jaz: I might say something like, ‘Seva is important in Sikhism because it asks Sikhs to give selfless service to others. Sikhs believe that by helping others without expecting anything in return, they put God before themselves and become ‘gurmukh’, or God-centred. For example, Sikhs may volunteer in the langar by cooking and serving food. This means that they can show devotion to Waheguru and help themselves grow spiritually.’
Lauren: That is a great answer! You clearly explained the connection between what Sikhs believe and what that actually means in practice. And by using terms like ‘because’ and ‘this means that’ you explained the reasons you gave.
Lauren: Let’s move onto the higher mark questions. Here you might see the command word ‘Evaluate’.
Jaz: In your answer to these questions, you need to give arguments that support the statement, as well as arguments that counter it.
Lauren: As well as providing reasons for both sides, you need evidence and examples too. These examples could involve quotes from religious texts. And then you need to finish your answer with a conclusion of your own.
Jaz: These question types will probably be worth more marks and will require longer to answer.
Lauren: OK let’s look at this example Jaz. ‘Evaluate this statement: For Sikhs, following The Five Ks is more important than volunteering in the langar.’ How would you go about answering that?
Jaz: Well to begin, I would give reasons that support the statement, and then I’d give reasons that counter it. We need to cover both sides of the argument and provide evidence for both. So, my possible points to support the statement that ‘following The Five Ks is more important than volunteering in the langar’ could be:
‘The Five Ks are an important way for Sikhs to express their faith. Following them symbolises that an individual has undergone an initiation ceremony to become an Amritdhari Sikh.
This means they are part of The Khalsa community and have therefore dedicated their life to the Sikh faith. Hair is seen as a gift from God, so by being uncut, Sikhs can show gratitude to Waheguru. And by wearing a circular steel bracelet (a Kara), Sikhs are reminded of the eternal nature of God. By following these five rules of appearance, Sikhs have a physical and daily reminder of their faith.’
Lauren: Those are some really well-made points. But what about the reasons that counter the statement that following The Five Ks is more important than volunteering in the langar?
Jaz: I could say:
‘Volunteering in the langar is also important because it is an act of selflessness, or ‘seva’, which is a key part of Sikhism. It is a way for Sikhs to serve God, help others, and therefore become closer to Waheguru. The langar is a shared practice where food is prepared and served, and welcomes people from all backgrounds, faiths, class and gender.
This connects to the Sikh belief in the ‘oneness of humanity’, as shown in the quote “Recognise the whole human race as one”, a quote by Guru Gobind Singh from the Dasam Granth Sahib. The langar is a reminder that all humans are equal, which is fundamental in Sikhism.’
Lauren: Again, these are really strong arguments. You don’t need to criticise either side, but you should present clear arguments for both viewpoints. And then you should finish with your own conclusion. In your exam, including sources of wisdom may give you more marks, so I think we should recap the ones we’ve covered in this series.
Jaz: Sources of wisdom are things like Guru Granth Sahib Ji which is the Sikh holy scripture. They help to understand key Sikh beliefs.
Lauren: Now you don’t need to memorise lots of long quotes and where they’re from. But having a couple which are short and meaningful and that you can understand could help you to achieve those higher marks.
Jaz: Let’s look at some examples, using quotes we’ve already mentioned throughout the series.
Lauren: Yeah, when we looked at how God is understood within Sikhism, we heard a quote from the Mool Mantra, which is the opening foundational declaration of the Sikh holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Jaz: “Ik Onkar”. Ik Onkar has different meanings for different people. For me it means there is only one God. For many, this is the most important belief in Sikhism and tells us a lot about the nature of God.
When we explored how Sikhism is expressed in daily life, we heard:
“Wisdom cannot be found through mere words. To explain it is as hard as iron"
from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, ang 465.
Lauren: We talked about that in reference to Kirat Karni. That’s the Sikh belief in living an honourable life and doing work that helps your community. Sikhs believe words alone are not enough. It’s important to remember God through living honestly.
Jaz: Exactly! When we discussed why festivals in Sikhism matter, we heard a teaching from Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It’s from ang 368 and says:
“Join the Sat Sangat, the Lord’s True Congregation; joining the Company of the Holy, sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord.”
During festivals like Vaisakhi and Gurpurbs, the Sikh community, or ‘Sangat’, gather together to worship and learn more about the teachings of Waheguru.
Lauren: Yeah, and finally, we learnt about how Sikhs respond to justice and equality.
Jaz: We heard:
“Recognise the whole human race as one”,
from Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the Dasam Granth Sahib. That is a really helpful quote to explain the Sikh belief in equality. And all humans are equal, no matter their faith, background, wealth, or anything else.
Lauren: When using sources of wisdom like these, the key is not just writing the quote. You need to show why it’s relevant.
Jaz: Let’s try one more example question and we’ll try to answer it using a source of wisdom.
Lauren: Yeah, try this one. ‘Explain why Vaisakhi is important to Sikh people?’
Jaz: I would say:
‘Vaisakhi is hugely important to Sikhs as it’s a time for the Sikh community, or ‘sangat’, to come together. They gather to remember the founding of The Khalsa and come together to worship. This includes ‘Kirtan’ where Sikhs will sing hymns from the holy scripture - Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
And there’s a quote from that scripture, “Join the Sat Sangat, the Lord’s True Congregation; joining the Company of the Holy, sing the Glorious Praises of the Lord.”
That quote demonstrates the importance of this communal celebration. Worshipping together allows Sikhs to feel more connected to the community and to the teachings of Waheguru.’
Lauren: That is a really great answer. It used the quote to explain the importance of the belief. And for more resources, like quotations, quizzes and flashcards, go to the Bitesize website and search for GCSE Religious Studies.
Jaz: Thank you so much for listening to this Religious Studies series on Sikhism. We hope you are feeling more confident as you tackle your exam!
Lauren: Yeah, listen to this series as many times as you need, and remember we have series on other religions that you may be studying as well. All you need to do is search for Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies over on BBC Sounds.
Jaz: Thanks for listening, and good luck!
Lauren: See you later!
Check out more GCSE Religious Studies series.
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