Supreme Sikh Council UK is the country’s foremost strategic body for Sikhs. We work to lead national representation, advise on Sikh faith matters, and support our community.
History and Origins
The religion of Sikhism emerged in the Punjab, India in the 15th century as a response to its current religious beliefs. Founded by Guru Nanak Dev, ten gurus shaped the faith from 1469 to 1708. A ‘Sikh’ translates to one who is a seeker, learner, disciple, or student.
Beliefs, Values, Ethics
Sikhs believe in one God, who is omnipresent. Sikhs also value equality, social justice, service to humanity, and devotion to God, through concepts and practices such as the role of service (Seva), welfare of all (Sarbat da Bhalla), and optimism (Chardi Kala).
Siri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Mool Mantra
The Sikh scriptures begin with Guru Nanak’s concept of One God: ‘There is but one God. True is His name, creative His personality and immortal His form. He is without without fear, sans enmity, unborn and self-illumined. By the Guru’s grace He is obtained’. (Image: 17th c., hand of Guru Arjan)
Sikh Articles of Faith
Devout Sikhs carry the 5Ks, five symbols of identity: long hair, hair comb, metal bangle, undergarment, and spiritual sword. The Khalsa, a warrior brotherhood against persecution was established by the tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
Symbols of the Sikhs
‘Ek Onkar’ (One God) is Guru Nanak’s original identifier for Sikhism, written with the numeral 1. The Khanda was later developed by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth guru, to signify the Khalsa MORE INFO. Both identifiers remain in use today.
Siri Guru Granth Sahib
The gurus’ teachings form the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, the ’11th Guru’, and tome of 1,430 pages. A new script devised by Siri Guru Angad Dev Ji and called Gurmukhi, today the defining script for Punjabi people worldwide. (Note: to view this website in Gurmukhi see footer.)
The Sikh Calendar
The Nanakshahi calendar is based on the Barah Maha (Twelve Months), a composition reflecting the changes in nature. The first month is Chet (14 March). The second, Vaisakh is the harvest season and anniversary of the Khalsa, the ‘new year’ celebration.
Sikhs in the UK
World: Indian Subcontinent
Alliances – develop strategic organisational links for the benefit of the UK Sikhs.
Isolation (minority Sikh communities) – provide support, advocacy and aid.
Opportunities – pursuing and creating these for the benefit of the Sikh Community.
Positive relationships – promote these with people of other nations.
Sikh way of life – promote the Ek Granth and Ek Panth to help achieve unity.
Alliances – develop strategic organisational links for the benefit of the UK Sikhs.
Isolation (minority Sikh communities) – provide support, advocacy and aid.
Opportunities – pursuing and creating these for the benefit of the Sikh Community.
Positive relationships – promote these with people of other nations.
Sikh way of life – promote the Ek Granth and Ek Panth to help achieve unity.
Global Sikhism
The Sikh diaspora is global, with communities flourishing in numerous countries. The impact of Sikhism is significant, promoting values of tolerance, compassion, and social justice, whilst observing interfaith dialogue.
Free consultation!
Acting in the best interests of Sikhs across the UK and beyond.
