Differences between Hinduism and Sikhism
Hinduism vs. Sikhism[edit]
Hinduism and Sikhism are two distinct religions that originated in the Indian subcontinent.[1][2] Hinduism is considered one of the world's oldest religions, with roots tracing back to prehistoric times.[1][3] Sikhism was founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak.[1] While both faiths share certain philosophical concepts, such as karma, dharma, and samsara (the cycle of rebirth), their interpretations of these ideas and core theological tenets differ significantly.[1][2]
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, emphasizing the belief in one formless God, referred to as Ik Onkar.[4][5] In contrast, Hinduism is diverse, encompassing a range of beliefs including monotheism, polytheism, and panentheism, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses who are seen as manifestations of a single supreme reality, Brahman. A fundamental difference lies in their forms of worship; Sikhism strictly prohibits idol worship, whereas the use of images and murtis is a common practice in Hindu worship.[1]
The concept of spiritual authority also diverges. In Sikhism, the lineage of ten human Gurus concluded with Guru Gobind Singh, who established the scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, as the eternal living Guru. Hindus revere many gurus and sacred texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, without a single authoritative scripture.[3] Furthermore, Sikhism actively rejects the caste system, a social hierarchy that has been a traditional feature of Hindu society. The Sikh institution of langar, a free community kitchen where all people eat together regardless of social status, exemplifies this commitment to equality.[4]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Hinduism | Sikhism |
|---|---|---|
| Origins | Ancient religion with prehistoric roots.[1][3] | Founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak.[1] |
| Concept of God | Diverse beliefs including monotheism, polytheism, and henotheism, with numerous gods and goddesses. | Strictly monotheistic, belief in one formless God (Ik Onkar).[4][5] |
| Idol Worship | Permitted and widely practiced as a means to worship deities.[1] | Prohibited; worship is focused on the divine name and teachings.[1] |
| Primary Scripture | No single primary scripture; Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Bhagavad Gita are key texts.[3] | The Guru Granth Sahib is the sole and eternal living Guru.[4] |
| Caste System | Traditionally recognized a social hierarchy of castes (varnas). | Rejects the caste system and emphasizes the equality of all humankind. |
| Clergy | A priestly class (Brahmins) traditionally performs rituals. | No formal clergy; all individuals are considered capable of direct connection with God. |
| Dietary Law | Many Hindus practice vegetarianism, and the cow is considered sacred.[5] | Rejects ritualistic dietary laws; prohibits ritually slaughtered meat (halal).[5] |
| Founder | No single human founder.[3] | Founded by Guru Nanak and developed by nine succeeding Gurus. |
Both traditions practice cremation after death and share a cultural heritage that includes similar festivals, though the reasons for their observance may differ.[1] They also hold a shared belief in karma, the law of cause and effect that influences an individual's future.[1][3] Despite these overlaps, Sikhism maintains a distinct identity, with unique practices such as the wearing of the Five Ks by initiated Sikhs and a different approach to salvation, which is achieved through meditation on the divine name and selfless service.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved December 05, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "quora.com". Retrieved December 05, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "quora.com". Retrieved December 05, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 "hinduismtoday.com". Retrieved December 05, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved December 05, 2025.
