Gurudwaras of World
Gateway to Sikhism proudly launches
Gurudwaras of World @ www.worldgurudwaras.com
Gateway to Sikhism proudly launches Gurudwaras of World @ www.worldgurudwaras.com on auspicious day of Khalsa Sajna Divas , Vaisakhi April 14th 2012. Worldgurudwaras.com will strive to be most comprehensive directory of Historical Gurudwaras and Non Historical Gurudwaras around the world.
The etymology of the term 'gurdwara' is from the words 'Gur (ਗੁਰ)' (a reference to the Sikh Gurus) and 'Dwara (ਦੁਆਰਾ)' (gateway in Gurmukhi), together meaning 'the gateway through which the Guru could be reached'. Thereafter, all Sikh places of worship came to be known as gurdwaras.
It is a work in progress and We strongly urge the Sikh Cyber Community to contribute to this project by submitting contact information, details, images of Gurudwaras around the world to make this a comprehensive directory.
Sikhism FAQs
Sikhism FAQs:How should we treat the apostates (Patits)?
Q68. How should we treat the apostates (Patits)? |
 |
|
The weak followers of any religion are likely to renounce their faith in fear or temptation, so it is, necessary to accept only those adherents who have a firm and sincere belief in the basic tenets of their religion.
It has been observed that some Sikhs become apostate - Patits - on account of mixing with bad company, when they go to foreign counteries. Some people have told me that they shaved because otherwise they could not get employment. This is not always true, because some Keshdhair Sikhs are able to get decent jobs. It all depends on the qualifications of the individual Sikh. Some Sikhs may have shaved because they mixed with foreign girls and wanted to appear more acceptable to them, like so many things, a reflection of their human weakness.
Much depends on the strength and vitality of the individual's faith. Recently,
a Sikh bus-conductor in England won the right to wear a turban on duty.
Another Sikh who was not admitted to a recreation club received an apology
from the management. If the Sikhs in the West maintain their form and
symbols, the turban and the beard will become respected. Recently the
Sikhs in Britain won the right of riding motorcycles with turbans instead
of helmets. Similarly Sikhs with turbans have been allowed to join the
U.S. Navy and Canadian Armed forces.
The reclamation of apostates should be given the greatest encouragement
in any program of spiritual uplift. The apostates have to be persuaded
to realize their shortcomings and weaknesses and convinced of the value
of repentance and the turning over of a new leaf.
According to the Rahtnama, the Khalsa must maintain his tradition and
individuality:
"So long as the Khalsa remains distinct,
His glory and lustre will grow,
Once he adopts Brahmanical ways
It will not be possible to trust him."
Many apostates, in their heart of hearts, realize that they have wronged
themselves and their community, but do not have the moral courage to admit
to their weakness. The only approach to Patits is to re-educate them and
offer assistance in their return to the Sikh fold. Give understanding
and sympathy, they may well react favourably to an approach by responsible
Sikhs.
