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n. a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab
in the 15th c. by Guru Nanak. It combines elements
of Hinduism and
Islam, accepting the Hindu
concepts of karma and reincarnation but rejecting
the caste system, and has one sacred scripture, the Adi
Granth.
The tenth and last series of Gurus, Gobind Singh,
prescribed the distinctive outward forms (the so-called
five Ks) - long hair (to be covered by a turban) and
uncut beard (kesh), comb (kanga), short
sword (kirpan), steel bangle (kara),
and short trousers for horse-riding (kaccha).
Originating as a religion, Sikhism became a militant
political movement within the Punjab.
There are over 10 million Sikhs, most of whom live
in the Punjab.
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