Revision as of 08:30, 23 February 2009 editSikh-history (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users10,267 editsm Reverted 1 edit by Khalsaburg identified as vandalism to last revision by Sikh-history. (TW)← Previous edit | Latest revision as of 15:16, 20 December 2024 edit undoMaplesyrupSushi (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users14,145 edits →Reincarnation: + captionTag: Visual edit | ||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Short description|Views on what followers of Sikhism are permitted to eat}} | |||
{{Quotefarm|date=January 2009}} | |||
{{pp-pc}} | |||
In ], only ] food is served in the ], but Sikhs are not totally bound to be meat-free. The general consensus is that Sikhs are free to choose whether to adopt the vegetarian or meat diet<ref>http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html Only Meat killed by Ritual is banned for a Sikh</ref>, although once baptized by taking ], some minority sects of Sikhs (], ], ]s, ] and the ]), believe that a Sikh should be meat free<ref>"Sikh Identity: An Exploration of Groups Among Sikhs" by Opinderjit Kaur Takhar, pg. 51, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd, 2005, ISBN 0754652025</ref>, however this is not a Universally held belief amongst Sikhs. Orthodox Sikhs believe that once ] is taken, Sikh's are only prohibited from eating Kuttha or ritually slaughtered (Halal, Kosher). | |||
] | |||
{{Sikhism sidebar}} | |||
Followers of ] do not have a preference for meat or vegetarian consumption.<ref name="SHP"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081228061910/http://www.sikhs.org/meat_au.htm |date=28 December 2008 }} at {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090117061657/http://sikhs.org/ |date=17 January 2009 }}</ref><ref> ''Sikhs and Sikhism'', by I.J. Singh, Manohar, Delhi {{ISBN|978-81-7304-058-0}}: ''Throughout Sikh history, there have been movements or subsects of Sikhism which have espoused vegetarianism. I think there is no basis for such dogma or practice in Sikhism. Certainly Sikhs do not think that a vegetarian's achievements in spirituality are easier or higher. It is surprising to see that vegetarianism is such an important facet of Hindu practice in light of the fact that animal sacrifice was a significant and much valued Hindu Vedic ritual for ages. Guru Nanak in his writings clearly rejected both sides of the arguments—on the virtues of vegetarianism or meat eating—as banal and so much nonsense, nor did he accept the idea that a cow was somehow more sacred than a horse or a chicken. He also refused to be drawn into a contention on the differences between flesh and greens, for instance. History tells us that to impart this message, Nanak cooked meat at an important Hindu festival in Kurukshetra. Having cooked it he certainly did not waste it, but probably served it to his followers and ate himself. History is quite clear that Guru Hargobind and Guru Gobind Singh were accomplished and avid hunters. The game was cooked and put to good use, to throw it away would have been an awful waste''.</ref><ref>''Guru Granth Sahib, An Analytical Study'' by Surindar Singh Kohli, Singh Bros. Amritsar {{ISBN|81-7205-060-7}}: ''The ideas of devotion and service in Vaishnavism have been accepted by Adi Granth, but the insistence of Vaishnavas on vegetarian diet has been rejected.''</ref><ref>''A History of the Sikh People'' by Dr. Gopal Singh, World Sikh University Press, Delhi {{ISBN|978-81-7023-139-4}}: ''However, it is strange that now-a-days in the Community-Kitchen attached to the Sikh temples, and called the Guru's Kitchen (or, Guru-ka-langar) meat-dishes are not served at all. May be, it is on account of its being, perhaps, expensive, or not easy to keep for long. Or, perhaps the Vaishnava tradition is too strong to be shaken off.''</ref> There are two views on initiated or "Amritdhari Sikhs" and meat consumption. "Amritdhari" Sikhs (i.e. those that follow the ] - the Official Sikh Code of Conduct<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sgpc.net/sikhism/sikh-dharma-manual.html |title=Sikh Reht Maryada, The Definition of Sikh, Sikh Conduct & Conventions, Sikh Religion Living, India |publisher=www.sgpc.net |accessdate=29 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090820234942/http://www.sgpc.net/sikhism/sikh-dharma-manual.html |archive-date=20 August 2009 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref>) can eat meat (provided it is not ]).<ref name="Mosher 108"/><ref name="SekhonSingh2005">{{cite book|last1=Sekhon|first1=Devinder Singh|last2=Singh|last3=Devinder|title=Philosophy of Guru Granth Sahib|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LHNrD5PE6OgC|accessdate=26 November 2010|date=2005-01-01|publisher=Anmol Publications PVT. LTD.|isbn=978-81-261-2357-5|pages=143 to 172|chapter=10 Gurmat and Meat}}</ref><ref>Punjabi-English Dictionary, Punjabi University, Dept. of Punjabi Lexicography, {{ISBN|81-7380-095-2}}; Hardcover; 2002-10-01</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Kaur|first=Upinder Jit|title=Sikh Religion And Economic Development|year=1990|publisher=National Book Organisation|isbn=9788185135489|page=212}}</ref> "Amritdharis" that belong to some Sikh sects (e.g. ], ], ]<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080926115512/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/archives/2007/4-6/18-32_veggie.shtml |date=26 September 2008 }} April/May/June, 2007 ]</ref><ref name="Takhar2005" />) are vehemently against the consumption of meat and eggs.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090502042059/http://www.sikhwomen.com/Community/Volunteer/langar.htm |date=2 May 2009 }} at {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091027205316/http://www.sikhwomen.com/ |date=27 October 2009 }}</ref> | |||
The ] have indicated their preference for a simple diet,<ref>{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Prithi Pal |title=The History of Sikh Gurus|publisher=Lotus Press|location=New Delhi|year=2006|page=38|chapter=3 Guru Amar Das|isbn=978-81-8382-075-2|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EhGkVkhUuqoC&q=The+History+of+Sikh+Gurus+By+Prithi+Pal+Singh}}</ref> which could include meat or be vegetarian. ] said that ] of food i.e. ] (Greed) involves a drain on the Earth's resources and thus on life.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sikhs.org/meat_gn.htm |title=The Sikhism Home Page |publisher=Sikhs.org |accessdate=9 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090627192504/http://www.sikhs.org/meat_gn.htm |archive-date=27 June 2009 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In the case of meat, passages from the ] (the holy book of Sikhs, also known as the Adi Granth) say that fools argue over this issue. The tenth guru, ], prohibited the Sikhs from the consumption of ] (any ritually slaughtered) meat because of the Sikh belief that sacrificing an animal in the name of God is mere ritualism (something to be avoided).<ref name="SHP"/> | |||
], the holiest book of the Sikhs quotes first Sikh ]: | |||
{{Quoter| | |||
''First Mehl:'' <br> | |||
''The fools argue about flesh and meat, but they know nothing about meditation and spiritual wisdom.'' <br> | |||
''What is called meat, and what is called green vegetables? What leads to sin?'' <br> | |||
''It was the habit of the gods to kill the rhinoceros, and make a feast of the burnt offering.'' <br> | |||
''Those who renounce meat, and hold their noses when sitting near it, devour men at night.'' <br> | |||
''They practice hypocrisy, and make a show before other people, but they do not understand anything about meditation or spiritual wisdom.'' <br> | |||
''O Nanak, what can be said to the blind people? They cannot answer, or even understand what is said.'' <br> | |||
''They alone are blind, who act blindly. They have no eyes in their hearts.'' <br> | |||
''They are produced from the blood of their mothers and fathers, but they do not eat fish or meat.'' <br>| Page 1289 <ref>http://www.srigranth.org/servlet/gurbani.gurbani?Action=Page&Param=1289&english=t&id=55405</ref> ]}} | |||
In ], only ] food is ] in the ] (Sikh temple) but Sikhs are not bound to be meat-free.<ref name="Sgpc">{{cite web|url=http://sgpc.net/sikh-rehat-maryada-in-english/|title=Only Meat Killed by Ritual (Kutha) Is Banned for a Sikh |publisher=Sgpc |accessdate=2009-08-09}}</ref><ref name="Mosher 108">{{cite book|last= Mosher|first=Lucinda|title=Belonging (Faith in the Neighbourhood) |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HrFYN3IEJ6wC&dq=Belonging+(Faith+in+the+Neighbourhood)&pg=PR10|accessdate=24 November 2010|date=1 June 2005|publisher=Church Publishing Inc |isbn=1-59627-010-1 |page=108|chapter=4 Distance}}</ref> The general consensus is that Sikhs are free to choose whether to adopt a meat diet or not.<ref name="Mosher 108"/><ref name="Sgpc6">{{cite web |url=http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html |title=Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the Muslim way (Kutha) |publisher=Sgpc |accessdate=2009-08-09 |archive-date=2002-02-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020202081302/http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
On the views that eating meat would be eating flesh, first Sikh ] states: | |||
{{Quoter| | |||
''First Mehl:''<br> | |||
ਪਾਂਡੇ ਤੂ ਜਾਣੈ ਹੀ ਨਾਹੀ ਕਿਥਹੁ ਮਾਸੁ ਉਪੰਨਾ ॥ ਤੋਇਅਹੁ ਅੰਨੁ ਕਮਾਦੁ ਕਪਾਹਾਂ ਤੋਇਅਹੁ ਤ੍ਰਿਭਵਣੁ ਗੰਨਾ ॥ | |||
==Langar== | |||
O Pandit, you do not know where did flesh originate! It is water where life originated and it is water that sustains all life. It is water that produces grains, sugarcane, cotton and all forms of life. | |||
{{Main|Langar (Sikhism)}} | |||
|AGGS, M 1, p 1290. <ref>http://www.srigranth.org/servlet/gurbani.gurbani?Action=Page&Param=1290&g=1&h=1&r=1&t=1&p=0&k=0</ref>}} | |||
] | |||
Within the gurdwara, the Guru ka Langar (Guru's community kitchen) serves purely ] food because the Langar is open to all. Since people of many faiths with varying dietary taboos, and since Sikhs accept these restrictions and accommodate people regardless of their faith or culture, the Sikh Gurus adopt vegetarian food for Langar. Meat was included in langar at the time of ], but was discontinued to accommodate ].<ref>{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Prithi Pal |title=The History of Sikh Gurus|publisher=Lotus Press|location=New Delhi|year=2006|pages=38|chapter=3 Guru Amar Das|isbn=81-8382-075-1|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EhGkVkhUuqoC&q=The+History+of+Sikh+Gurus+By+Prithi+Pal+Singh|accessdate=2019-02-07}}</ref> | |||
==Reincarnation== | |||
Sikhism is a liberal, tolerant faith that acknowledges personal liberty and the crucial proponent of human nature, free will <ref>http://www.srigranth.org/servlet/gurbani.gurbani?Action=Page&Param=787&english=t&id=33605#l33605 Page 787 Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji</ref>. As such, Sikh philosophy and Scriptures are not didactic in nature, for Sikhism offers spiritual, ethical and moral guidance to a fulfilling way of life rather than a tightly-construed and strict religious discipline. As a result, it is the subject of much debate as to whether Sikhs are prohibited by the Sikh Code of Conduct, the ], from eating meat. The consensus is however, Sikhs are bound to avoid meat that is killed in a ritualistic manner<ref>"Sikhism, A Complete Introduction" by Dr. H.S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt, Hemkunt Press, New Delhi, 1994, ISBN 81-7010-245-6</ref> e.g. ], ] etc.<ref>http://www.sikhs.org/meat_au.htm Misconceptions About Eating Meat - Comments of Sikh Scholars by Sandeep Singh Brar]</ref><ref></ref> | |||
Sikhism argues that the soul can possibly undergo millions of transformations as various forms of life before ultimately becoming human. These life forms could be a mineral, vegetation, or an animal. Sikhism does not see a difference between these types of existence,<ref>{{cite book|last=Garces-Foley|first=Kathleen |title=Death and Religion in a Changing World |edition=1st |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=G0R_MMqNxu4C&q=Death+and+Religion+in+a+Changing+World|access-date=24 November 2010|year=2006|publisher=M.E. Sharpe|isbn=978-0-7656-1222-9 |page=187|chapter=8. Sikhism and Death}}</ref> however the human has a privileged position compared to other life forms.<ref name="Jagbir">{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=37i7uAYe6QEC&q=Sikhism+Today++By+Jagbir+Jhutti-Joha | title=Sikhism Today | publisher=Bloomsbury Academic | last=Jhutti-Johal |first = Jagbir |author-link=Jagbir Jhutti Johal |year=2011 | location=England | page=17 | isbn=978-1-84706-272-7}}</ref> In terms of the Sikh view of ], human life is seen as being most precious, and animal, vegetable, and mineral all viewed as being equally below human life. Therefore, Sikhs view eating an animal is the same as eating a plant or mineral.<ref>{{cite book|editor1-last=Morgan|editor1-first=Peggy |editor2-last=Lawton |editor2-first=Clive|title=Ethical Issues in Six Religious Traditions|publisher=Edinburgh University Press|location=Edinburgh|edition=2nd|page=144|chapter=6. Questions of Right and Wrong|year=2007 |isbn=978-0-7486-2330-3|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NM8a6x3ykTMC&q=Ethical+issues+in+Six+Religious+Traditions|access-date=7 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
== Viewpoints == | |||
Within the Gurdwara, the Guru ka Langar (Guru's community kitchen) serves purely vegetarian food, freshly prepared from all natural ingredients for all people, at all times. The reason for serving vegetarian food is that the ] is open to all. Since many faiths and people have varying taboos on what to eat and how meat should be prepared etc, and since Sikhs accept these restrictions and accommodate people no matter their faith or culture, the safest option thought by the Sikh Gurus was to adopt vegetarian food for Langar. The exception to vegetarian langar is when ]s, ( a minor but oldest Sikh ] in India) serve meat<ref>www.singhsabha.com/holla_mohalla.htm</ref> on the occasion of ], and call it ] . | |||
=== Guru Granth Sahib === | |||
Sikhism argues that the soul can possibly undergo millions of transformations as various forms of life before ultimately becoming human. These life forms could be a rock, vegetation or animal. Sikhism does not see a difference between mineral, vegetation and animal. The only distinction made is that between these (mineral, vegetation and animal), and human. <ref></ref> | |||
According to Surjit Singh Gandhi, the ''Guru Granth Sahib'' on page 472 and Guru Nanak in early 16th century said that "avoidance of flesh as food was impractical and impossible so long as they used water, since water was the source of all life and the first life principle".<ref>{{cite book |author=Surjit Singh Gandhi |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qw7-kUkHA_0C |title=History of Sikh Gurus Retold: 1469–1606 C.E |publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist |year=2007 |isbn=9788126908578 |page=95 |accessdate=2009-08-09}}</ref> ] states that all living beings are connected. Even meat comes from the consumption of vegetables, and all forms of life are based on water.<ref name="Clarke">{{cite book |last=Clarke |first=Steve |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cDGsDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT117 |title=Religious Studies Route A: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical studies and Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism |publisher=Hachette UK |year=2020 |isbn=9781510479531 |pages=117}}</ref> | |||
{{Quote|O Pandit, you do not know where did flesh originate! It is water where life originated and it is water that sustains all life. It is water that produces grains, sugarcane, cotton and all forms of life.|] 1290 <ref name="Clarke" />}} | |||
The first Sikh ] said it was a pointless argument to debate the merits of either not eating or eating meat in the context of religion, as maintaining a strict diet does not make one blessed or elevate one to a superior status, spiritually or otherwise, over another. Being a member of a religion incorporates not merely one's dietary customs but the entire way in which they govern their lifestyle. <ref></ref> He advocated a lifestyle consisting of honest, hard work and humility ], focus and remembrance of God ] and compassion for all of humanity and God's creation all around ], with these 3 key principles taking far greater precedence over one's mere dietary habits. | |||
=== Akal Takht ruling === | |||
==Sikh Intellectual Views on Vegetarianism and Sikhism== | |||
The ] (Central Body for Sikh Temporal Affairs) represents the final authority on controversial issues concerning the Sikh ] (community or collective). The ] (edict or clarification), issued by the ] (head priest or head caretaker) ] dated February 15, 1980, states that eating meat does not go against the code of conduct (]) of the Sikhs; Amritdhari Sikhs can eat meat as long as it is ] meat.<ref name="Singh 2001 89">{{cite book|last=Singh|first=Dharam|title=Perspectives on Sikhism: Papers Presented at the International Seminar on Sikhism: a Religion for the Third Millennium Held at Punjabi University, Patiala on 27-29 March 2000|year=2001|publisher=Publication Bureau, Punjabi University|isbn=9788173807367|page=89}}</ref> | |||
==== Disagreement with the ruling ==== | |||
Many articles have been written by many Sikh intellectuals on this issue. Cited below are extracts from various pieces of work by these experts. | |||
Some religious sects of Sikhism—], ], ]s, ]<ref name="Takhar2005">{{cite book|last=Takhar|first=Opinderjit Kaur|title=Sikh identity: an exploration of groups among Sikhs|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aeKWQzesOc4C&pg=PA51|accessdate=26 November 2010|year=2005|publisher=Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.|isbn=978-0-7546-5202-1|page=51|chapter=2 Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha}}</ref> and the ]<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XsBJnpCwWLYC&dq=meat+eating+Sikhs&pg=PA397 |title=Conscious Eating |author=Gabriel Cousens |year=2000 |publisher=North Atlantic Books |isbn=9781556432859 |accessdate=2009-08-09}}</ref>—believe that the Sikh diet should be meat-free.<ref name="Takhar2005"/> The reason for the disagreement with this ruling is that these sects had many ] converts to Sikhism who were staunchly vegetarian.<ref name="Dhillon">{{cite book | url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sikhism-origin-development-Dalbir-Dhillon/dp/B0006ERQ7U | title=Sikhism, Origin and Development | publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Distributors | author=Singh Dhillon, Dalbir | year=1988 | location=New Delhi | pages=247 | isbn=9788171561520}}</ref> | |||
The ] dispute the meaning of the word "]", claiming it means all meat.<ref name="McLeod2003">{{cite book|last=McLeod|first=W. H.|authorlink=|title=Sikhs of the Khalsa: a history of the Khalsa rahit|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HIrXAAAAMAAJ|accessdate=25 November 2010|edition=Hardcover|year=2003|publisher=Oxford University Press|location=Oxford |isbn=978-0-19-565916-0|page=185|chapter=6 The Singh Sabha and the Years After}}</ref> However, in mainstream Sikhism this word has been accepted to mean that which has been prepared according to Muslim rituals.<ref name="H. S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt 1994">{{cite book|title=Sikhism, A Complete Introduction |author=H. S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt |publisher=Hemkunt Press |location=New Delhi|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5_SirMuPr54C&dq=Sikhism%2C%20A%20Complete%20Introduction&pg=PP1|format= Limited preview digitized online by Google books |year=1994 |isbn=81-7010-245-6|accessdate=2010-02-07}}</ref> | |||
{{Quoter| Throughout Sikh history, there have been movements or subsects of Sikhism which have espoused vegetarianism. I think there is no basis for such dogma or practice in Sikhism. Certainly Sikhs do not think that a vegetarian's achievements in spirituality are easier or higher. It is surprising to see that vegetarianism is such an important facet of Hindu practice in light of the fact that animal sacrifice was a significant and much valued Hindu Vedic ritual for ages. Guru Nanak in his writings clearly rejected both sides of the arguments - on the virtues of vegetarianism or meat eating - as banal and so much nonsense, nor did he accept the idea that a cow was somehow more sacred than a horse or a chicken. He also refused to be drawn into a contention on the differences between flesh and greens, for instance. History tells us that to impart this message, Nanak cooked meat at an important Hindu festival in Kurukshetra. Having cooked it he certainly did not waste it, but probably served it to his followers and ate himself. History is quite clear that Guru Hargobind and Guru Gobind Singh were accomplished and avid hunters. The game was cooked and put to good use, to throw it away would have been an awful waste. <br>|'''Sikhs and Sikhism by I.J. Singh, Manohar, Delhi ISBN-13: 9788173040580'''}} | |||
=== Sikh Rehat Maryada === | |||
{{Quoter|The ideas of devotion and service in Vaishnavism have been accepted by Adi Granth, but the insistence of Vaishnavas on vegetarian diet has been rejected.<br>|'''Guru Granth Sahib, An Analytical Study by Surindar Singh Kohli, Singh Bros. Amritsar ISBN : 8172050607'''}} | |||
According to the Sikh code of conduct or ], Sikhs are free to choose whether or not to include meat in their diet.<ref name="Sgpc.net">{{cite web|url=http://new.sgpc.net/sikh-rehat-maryada-in-english/ |title=Only Meat Killed by Ritual Is Banned for a Sikh |publisher=Sgpc.net }}</ref> | |||
{{Quote| In the Rehat Maryada, Article XXIV - Ceremony of Baptism or Initiation (page 38),<ref>{{cite web|title=Sikh Rehat Maryada in English, Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV-(p)|editor=Sikh Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee|url=http://new.sgpc.net/sikh-rehat-maryada-in-english/|page=38|accessdate=2018-06-26}}</ref> it states:<br /> | |||
{{Quoter|Commenting on meat being served in the langar during the time of Guru Angad: However, it is strange that now-a-days in the Community-Kitchen attached to the Sikh temples, and called the Guru's Kitchen (or, Guru-ka-langar) meat-dishes are not served at all. May be, it is on account of its being, perhaps, expensive, or not easy to keep for long. Or, perhaps the Vaishnava tradition is too strong to be shaken off.<br>|'''A History of the Sikh People by Dr. Gopal Singh, World Sikh University Press, Delhi ISBN 13: 9788170231394'''}} | |||
The undermentioned four transgressions (tabooed practices) must be avoided: | |||
#Dishonouring the hair | |||
#Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the ] way | |||
#Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse | |||
#Using tobacco.|Sikh Rehat Maryada|title=|source=}} | |||
The Sikh '']'' states that Sikhs cannot consume meat that is <ref name="H. S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt 1994"/> ] (Muslim), or ] (Jewish).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sikhs.org/meat_au.htm |title=Misconceptions About Eating Meat — Comments of Sikh Scholars |author=Sandeep Singh Brar |publisher=Sikhs.org |accessdate=2009-08-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.faithandfood.com/Sikhism.php |title=Faithandfood Fact Files — Sikhism|author=Dr Indarjit Singh, OBE | |||
{{Quoter|As a true Vaisnavite Kabir remained a strict vegetarian. Kabir far from defying Brahmanical tradition as to the eating of meat, would not permit so much, as the plucking of a flower (G.G.S. pg 479), whereas Nanak deemed all such scruples to be superstitions, Kabir held the doctrine of Ahinsa or the non-destruction of life, which extended even to that of flowers. The Sikh Gurus, on the contrary, allowed and even encouraged, the use of animal flesh as food. Nanak has exposed this Ahinsa superstition in Asa Ki War (G.G.S. pg 472) and Malar Ke War (G.G.S. pg. 1288). <br>|'''Philosophy of Sikhism by Gyani Sher Singh (Ph.D), Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. Amritsar <ref>http://sgpc.net/index-nm.html</ref>'''}} | |||
|publisher=Faithandfood.com |accessdate=2009-08-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Aditya Menon|title=Why Hindutva Outfits Are Calling for a Boycott of Halal Products|url=https://www.thequint.com/news/india/boycott-halal-products-hindutva-muslims-jhatka-meat|access-date=23 October 2021|work=The Quint|date=14 May 2020}}</ref> | |||
=== Sikh intellectual views === | |||
{{Quoter|The Gurus were loath to pronounce upon such matters as the eating of meat or ways of disposing of the dead because undue emphasis on them could detract from the main thrust of their message which had to do with spiritual liberation. However, Guru Nanak did reject by implication the practice of vegetarianism related to ideas of pollution when he said, 'All food is pure; for God has provided it for our sustenance' (AG 472). Many Sikhs are vegetarian and meat should never be served at langar. Those who do eat meat are unlikely to include beef in their diet, at least in India, because of their cultural proximity to Hindus. '''<br>|A Popular Dictionary of Sikhism, W.Owen Cole and Piara Singh Sambhi, England ISBN-13: 978-0844204246'''}} | |||
I. J. Singh states that throughout Sikh history, there have been many subsects of Sikhism that have espoused vegetarianism. However, this was rejected by the ].<ref>{{cite book| title=Sikhs and Sikhism |author=I. J. Singh |year=1994 |publisher=Manohar |location=Delhi |isbn=978-81-7304-058-0}}</ref> Sikhs consider that vegetarianism and meat-eating are unimportant in the realm of Sikh spirituality. Surinder Singh Kohli links vegetarianism to ] behaviour.<ref>{{Citation|title=Guru Granth Sahib, An Analytical Study |author=Surindar Singh Kohli |year=1992 |publisher=Singh Bros. |location=Amritsar |isbn=81-7205-060-7}}</ref> Gopal Singh, commenting on meat being served in the langar during the time of Guru Angad<ref>{{cite book|title=A History of the Sikh People |author=Gopal Singh |year=1988 |publisher=World Sikh University Press |location=Delhi |isbn=978-81-7023-139-4}}</ref> Gyani Sher Singh—who was the head priest at the ]—notes that ] does not fit in with Sikh doctrine.<ref>{{Citation|title=Philosophy of Sikhism |author=Gyani Sher Singh |publisher=Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee |location=Amritsar}}</ref> W. Owen Cole and Piara Singh Sambhi<ref>{{Citation |title=A Popular Dictionary of Sikhism| author=W. Owen Cole and Piara Singh Sambhi | year=1997 |location=England |isbn=978-0-8442-0424-6}}</ref> comment that if the Sikh Gurus had made an issue on vegetarianism, it would have distracted from the main emphasis of Sikh spirituality. H. S. Singha and Satwant Kaur comment on how ritually-slaughtered meat is considered a sin for initiated Sikhs.<ref>{{Citation|title=Sikhism, A Complete Introduction |author=H. S. Singha and Satwant Kaur |year=2005 |publisher=Hemkunt Press |location=Delhi |isbn=81-7010-245-6 }}</ref> G. S. Sidhu also notes that ritually-slaughtered meat is taboo for a Sikh.<ref>{{Citation|title=Introduction to Sikhism |author=G. S. Sidhu |year=1973 |publisher=Shromini Sikh Sangat |location=Toronto |isbn=0-900692-07-3 }}</ref> Gurbakhsh Singh comments on how non-Kutha meat is acceptable for the Sikhs.<ref>{{Citation|title=The Sikh Faith |author=Gurbakhsh Singh |year=2002 |publisher=Canadian Sikh Study and Teaching Society |location=Vancouver |isbn=978-81-7205-188-4}}</ref> Surinder Singh Kohli comments on the "fools wrangle over flesh"<ref>{{Citation|title=Real Sikhism |author=Surinder Singh Kohli |year=1994 |publisher=Harman Publishing |location=New Delhi |isbn=81-85151-64-4}}</ref> quotation from the Guru Granth Sahib by noting how Guru Nanak mocked hypocritical vegetarian priests. Gobind Singh Mansukhani states how vegetarianism and meat-eating has been left to the individual Sikh.<ref>{{Citation|title=Introduction to Sikhism |author=Gobind Singh Mansukhani |year=1993 |publisher=Hemkunt Press |location=Delhi |isbn=81-7010-181-6}}</ref> Devinder Singh Chahal comments on the difficulties of distinguishing between plant and animal in Sikh philosophy.<ref>{{Citation|title=Scientific Interpretation of Gurbani |author=Devinder Singh Chahal |url=http://www.iuscanada.com/journal/articles/art002.html }}</ref> H. S. Singha comments in his book how the Sikh Gurus ate meat.<ref>{{Citation|title=Mini Encyclopaedia of Sikhism |author=H. S. Singha |publisher=Hemkunt Press |location=Delhi |isbn=81-7010-200-6}}</ref> ] also notes that most Sikhs are meat-eaters and decry vegetarians as ''daal khorey'' (lentil-eaters).<ref name=KS>{{cite news|newspaper=] |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091107/jsp/opinion/story_11704316.jsp |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130104210614/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091107/jsp/opinion/story_11704316.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 4, 2013 |title= An Ancient Brotherhood |author=] |date=2009-11-07|accessdate= 2009-11-10}}</ref> | |||
=== Sikh Kharku view === | |||
{{Quoter|In general Sikhism has adopted an ambivalent attitude towards meat eating as against vegetarianism. But if meat is to be taken at all, Guru Gobind Singh enjoined on the Khalsa Panth not to take kosher meat ie. Halal meat slaughtered and prepared for eating according to the Islamic practice. In fact it is one of the kurahits for every amritdhari Sikh. One who infringes it becomes patit (apostate). <br>|'''Sikhism, A Complete Introduction by Dr. H.S. Singha and Satwant Kaur, Hemkunt Press, Delhi SBN 81-7010-245-6'''}} | |||
In early 1987 '']'' issued a moral code banning the sale and consumption of meat. The ban led to much of Punjab being without meat. Those who continued to sell or eat meat risked death and commonly would have their businesses destroyed and be killed. One survey found that there were no meat or tobacco shops between ] and ]. In the peak of the militancy most of Punjab was meatless. Famous restaurants that served meat had removed it from their menu and denied ever serving it. The ban was popular among rural Sikhs. Kharkus justified the ban by saying, "No ], Hindu or Sikh, ever did these things. To eat meat is the job of '']'' (]) and we don't want people to become ''rakshasas''."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=AISSF forces shopkeepers to shut liquor and meat shops in Punjab |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/indiascope/story/19870430-aissf-forces-shopkeepers-to-shut-liquor-and-meat-shops-in-punjab-798798-1987-04-29 |access-date=2023-09-14 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Sikh militants in Punjab, putting a moral edge on... - UPI Archives |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1987/05/10/Sikh-militants-in-Punjab-putting-a-moral-edge-on/5864547617600/ |access-date=2023-05-21 |website=UPI |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Chima |first=Jugdep S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sxpBDwAAQBAJ&dq=sikh+militant+meat&pg=PT159 |title=The Sikh Separatist Insurgency in India: Political Leadership and Ethnonationalist Movements |date=2010-03-11 |publisher=SAGE Publishing India |isbn=978-93-5150-953-0 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Fazal |first=Tanweer |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=P2stBAAAQBAJ&dq=sikh+militant+meat&pg=PT181 |title=Nation-state and Minority Rights in India: Comparative Perspectives on Muslim and Sikh Identities |date=2014-08-01 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-317-75178-6 |language=en}}</ref> | |||
==Historical dietary behaviour of Sikhs== | |||
{{Quoter|A close study of the above-mentioned hymns of Guru Nanak Dev clarifies the Sikh standpoint regarding meat-eating. The Guru has not fallen into the controversy of eating or not eating animal food. He has ridiculed the religious priests for raising their voice in favour of vegetarianism. He called them hypocrites and totally blind to the realities of life. They are unwise and thoughtless persons, who do not go into the root of the matter. According to him, the water is the source of all life whether vegetable or animal. Guru Nanak Dev said. "None of the grain of corn is without life. In the first place, there is life in water, by which all are made green" (Var Asa M.1, p. 472). Thus there is life in vegetation and life in all types of creatures.<br>|'''Real Sikhism by Surinder Singh Kohli, Harman Publishing, New Delhi ISBN 81-85151-64-4'''}} | |||
]According to '']'' (a contemporary Persian chronology of the Sikh Gurus), Guru Nanak did not eat meat, and ] thought that meat eating was not in accordance with Nanak's wishes. This differs from I. J. Singh's research that states that Guru Nanak ate meat on the way to ].<ref>{{cite book|title=Sikhs and Sikhism |author=I. J. Singh |year=1994 |publisher=Manohar |location=Delhi| isbn=978-81-7304-058-0}}</ref> According to Persian records, Guru Hargobind (the 6th Guru) ate meat and hunted, and his practice was adopted by most Sikhs.<ref>{{Citation|title=Sikh History from Persian Sources: Translations of Major Texts |author=J.S. Grewal |year=2001 |isbn=978-81-85229-17-1}}</ref> | |||
==Dietary avoidance out of politeness== | |||
{{Quoter|The Gurus neither advocate meat nor banned its use. They left it to the choice of the individual. There are passages against meat, in the Adi Granth. Guru Gobind Singh however prohibited for the Khalsa the use of Halal or Kutha meat prepared in the Muslim ritualistic way.<br>|'''Introduction to Sikhism by Dr. Gobind Singh Mansukhani, Hemkunt Press, Delhi ISBN 81-7010-181-6'''}} | |||
Sikhs also generally avoid eating beef because the cow, the buffalo and the ox are an integral part of rural ] livelihoods.<ref name="skrait">{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hRfkTq1ykSIC&pg=PA62 | title=Sikh Women in England: Their Religious and Cultural Beliefs and Social Practices | publisher=Trentham Books | last=Rait | first=S.K. | year=2005 | pages=62 | isbn=9781858563534}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair|title=Sikhism: A Guide for the Perplexed |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vdhLAQAAQBAJ|year=2013|publisher=Bloomsbury Academic |isbn=978-1-4411-0231-7|pages=171–172}}</ref> Similarly, Sikhs may avoid eating beef in the company of Hindus and avoid eating pork in the company of Muslims out of respect for their shared values. However, there is no religious prohibition about eating beef and pork.<ref name=skrait/> | |||
{{Quoter|There are no restrictions for the Sikhs regarding food, except that the Sikhs are forbidden to eat meat prepared as a ritual slaughter. The Sikhs are asked to abstain from intoxicants.<br>|'''Introduction to Sikhism by G.S. Sidhu, Shromini Sikh Sangat, Toronto ISBN 0900692073'''}} | |||
==Sarbloh Bibek== | |||
{{Quoter|According to the Maryada booklet 'Kutha', the meat prepared by the Muslim ritual, is prohibited for a Sikh. Regarding eating other meat, it is silent. From the prohibition of the Kutha meat, it is rightly presumed that non-Kutha meat is not prohibited for the Sikhs. Beef is prohibited to the Hindus and pork to the Muslims. Jews and Christians have their own taboos. They do not eat certain kinds of meat on certain days. Sikhs have no such instructions. If one thinks he needs to eat meat, it does not matter which meat it is, beef, poultry, fish, etc., or which day it is. One should, however, be careful not to eat any meat harmful for his health. Gurbani's instructions on this topic are very clear. "Only fools argue whether to eat meat or not. Who can define what is meat and what is not meat? Who knows where the sin lies, being a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian?" (1289) The Brahmanical thought that a religious person should be a vegetarian is of recent origin. Earlier, Brahmans had been eating beef and horse meat. In conclusion, it is wrong to say that any person who eats meat (of course Kutha, because of the Muslim rituals is prohibited) loses his membership of the Khalsa and becomes an apostate.<br>|'''The Sikh Faith by Gurbakhsh Singh, Canadian Sikh Study and Teaching Society, Vancouver ISBN-13: 978-8172051884'''}} | |||
Some Sikh groups like ] keep Sarbloh Bibek. Sikhs who follow this practice eat from iron bowls and iron plates only.<ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=q6feCwAAQBAJ&pg=PT341 | title=Sikhs in Europe: Migration, Identities and Representations | publisher=Routledge | last=Myrvold | first=Kristina | year=2016 | pages=341 | isbn=9781317055051}}</ref> | |||
Another key aspect to maintaining Sarbloh Bibek is that Sikhs must only eat food prepared by other ] (baptized) Sikhs. Amritdhari Sikhs are also not to eat Jootha food (previously eaten food) from non-Amritdharis.<ref>{{cite book|last=Jacobsen|first=Knut|title=Sikhs in Europe: Migration, Identities and Representations|year=2011|publisher=Ashgate Publishing|isbn=9781409424345|page=262}}</ref> | |||
{{Quoter|The above discussion leads us to the conclusion that the Sikh Gurus made people aware of the fact that it is very difficult to distinguish between a plant and an animal, therefore, it is difficult to distinguish between a vegetarian and a non-vegetarian diets and there is no sin of eating food originating from plants or animals.<br>|'''Scientific Interpretation of Gurbani, Paper by Dr. Devinder Singh Chahal<ref>www.iuscanada.com/journal/articles/art002.html</ref> '''}} | |||
==See also== | |||
{{Quoter|The practice of the Gurus is uncertain. Guru Nanak seems to have eaten venison or goat, depending upon different janamsakhi versions of a meal which he cooked at Kurukshetra which evoked the criticism of Brahmins. Guru Amardas ate only rice and lentils but this abstention cannot be regarded as evidence of vegetarianism, only of simple living. Guru Gobind Singh also permitted the eating of meat but he prescribed that it should be Jhatka meat and not Halal meat that is jagged in the Muslim fashion.<br>|'''Mini Encyclopaedia of Sikhism by H.S. Singha, Hemkunt Press, Delhi.ISBN 8170102006 '''}} | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
==References== | |||
==The Sikh Code of Conduct on the Vegetarian Issue== | |||
{{reflist|30em}} | |||
==External links== | |||
Leading Sikh intellectuals ruled on this issue in the 1920s (as some Sikh Sects confused the issue by trying to get all Sikhs to be vegetarian) and came up with the following rule or Code of Conduct for baptised Sikhs with regards to meat and Vegetarianism: | |||
* on ] | |||
{{Sikhism}} | |||
{{Quoter| In the Rehit Marayada (http://www.sgpc.net/rehat_maryada/section_six.html), Section Six, it states: <br> | |||
{{Vegetarianism|state=expanded}} | |||
The undermentioned four transgressions (tabooed practices) must be avoided <br> | |||
1. Dishonouring the hair;<br> | |||
2. Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the Muslim way(Kutha); <br> | |||
3. Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse<br> | |||
4. Using tobacco.<br>|Sikh Rehit Maryada}} | |||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Vegetarianism In Sikhism}} | |||
==Historical Records and Behaviour of Sikhs and Diet== | |||
] | |||
] | |||
There are a number of eyewitness accounts from European travellers as to the eating <ref>Siques, Tigers or Thieves Parmajit Singh Madra Singh ISBN 13: 978140396201</ref> habits of Sikhs. Although there is no prohibition on Sikhs for eating beef, it is clear that Sikhs as a mark of respect for their Hindu neighbours did not partake in eating beef: | |||
{{Quoter|''The Seiks receive Proselytes of almost every Cast, a point in which they differ most materially from the Hindoos. To initiate Mohammedans into their mysteries, they prepare a Dish of Hogs legs, which the Converts are obliged to partake of, previous to admission………………..They are not prohibited the use of Animal food of any kind, excepting Beef, which they are rigidly scrupulous in abstaining from.''<br>|John Griffiths writes in February 17th 1794}} | |||
{{Quoter|''The seiks are remarkably fond of the flesh of the jungle hog, which they kill in chase: this food is allowable by their law. They likewise eat of mutton and fish; but these being unlawful the Brahmins will not partake, leaving those who chose to transgress their institutes to answer for themselves. <br>|''William Francklin in his writing about Mr George Thomas 1805}} | |||
The following is an Extract from an officer in the Bengal Army and is taken from the Asiatic Annual Register 1809: | |||
{{Quoter|''Now become a Singh, he is a heterodox, and distinct from the Hindoos by whom he is considered an apostate. He is not restricted in his diet, but is allowed, by the tenets of his new religion, to devour whatever food his appetite may prompt, excepting beef.''<br>|Asiatic Annual Register 1809}} | |||
The following extract from Dabistan e Mazhib | |||
<ref> | |||
Sikh History from Persian Sources: Translations of Major Texts (Paperback) | |||
by (Author, Editor), (Editor) '''ISBN-13:''' 978-8185229171</ref> | |||
{{Quoter|''Many person became his disciples. Nanak believed in the Oneness of God and in the way that it is asserted in Muhammadan theology. He also believed in transmigration of souls. Holding wine and pork to be unlawful, he had abandoned eating meat. He decreed avoidance of causing harm to animals. It was after his time that meat-eating spread amongst his followers. Arjan Mal, who was on of his lineal succesors, found this to be evil. He prohibited people from eating meat, saying “This is not in accordance with Nanak’s wishes”. '''Later, Hargobind, son of Arjan Mal, ate meat and took to hunting. Most of their followers adopted his practice'''.''<br>|Mobad’ Dabistan-I Mazahib 1645-46}} | |||
==See also == | |||
* | |||
* | |||
== References == | |||
{{Reflist}} | |||
{{Vegetarianism}} | |||
] |
Latest revision as of 15:16, 20 December 2024
Views on what followers of Sikhism are permitted to eat
Followers of Sikhism do not have a preference for meat or vegetarian consumption. There are two views on initiated or "Amritdhari Sikhs" and meat consumption. "Amritdhari" Sikhs (i.e. those that follow the Sikh Rehat Maryada - the Official Sikh Code of Conduct) can eat meat (provided it is not Kutha meat). "Amritdharis" that belong to some Sikh sects (e.g. Akhand Kirtani Jatha, Damdami Taksal, Namdhari) are vehemently against the consumption of meat and eggs.
The Sikh Gurus have indicated their preference for a simple diet, which could include meat or be vegetarian. Guru Nanak said that overconsumption of food i.e. Lobh (Greed) involves a drain on the Earth's resources and thus on life. In the case of meat, passages from the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy book of Sikhs, also known as the Adi Granth) say that fools argue over this issue. The tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh, prohibited the Sikhs from the consumption of Kutha (any ritually slaughtered) meat because of the Sikh belief that sacrificing an animal in the name of God is mere ritualism (something to be avoided).
In Sikhism, only lacto-vegetarian food is served in the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) but Sikhs are not bound to be meat-free. The general consensus is that Sikhs are free to choose whether to adopt a meat diet or not.
Langar
Main article: Langar (Sikhism)Within the gurdwara, the Guru ka Langar (Guru's community kitchen) serves purely lacto-vegetarian food because the Langar is open to all. Since people of many faiths with varying dietary taboos, and since Sikhs accept these restrictions and accommodate people regardless of their faith or culture, the Sikh Gurus adopt vegetarian food for Langar. Meat was included in langar at the time of Guru Angad, but was discontinued to accommodate Vaishnavites.
Reincarnation
Sikhism argues that the soul can possibly undergo millions of transformations as various forms of life before ultimately becoming human. These life forms could be a mineral, vegetation, or an animal. Sikhism does not see a difference between these types of existence, however the human has a privileged position compared to other life forms. In terms of the Sikh view of karma, human life is seen as being most precious, and animal, vegetable, and mineral all viewed as being equally below human life. Therefore, Sikhs view eating an animal is the same as eating a plant or mineral.
Viewpoints
Guru Granth Sahib
According to Surjit Singh Gandhi, the Guru Granth Sahib on page 472 and Guru Nanak in early 16th century said that "avoidance of flesh as food was impractical and impossible so long as they used water, since water was the source of all life and the first life principle". Guru Nanak states that all living beings are connected. Even meat comes from the consumption of vegetables, and all forms of life are based on water.
O Pandit, you do not know where did flesh originate! It is water where life originated and it is water that sustains all life. It is water that produces grains, sugarcane, cotton and all forms of life.
— Guru Granth Sahib 1290
Akal Takht ruling
The Akal Takht (Central Body for Sikh Temporal Affairs) represents the final authority on controversial issues concerning the Sikh Panth (community or collective). The Hukamnama (edict or clarification), issued by the Jathedar of the Akal Takht (head priest or head caretaker) Sadhu Singh Bhaura dated February 15, 1980, states that eating meat does not go against the code of conduct (Kurehit) of the Sikhs; Amritdhari Sikhs can eat meat as long as it is Jhatka meat.
Disagreement with the ruling
Some religious sects of Sikhism—Damdami Taksal, Akhand Kirtani Jatha, Namdharis, Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha and the 3HO—believe that the Sikh diet should be meat-free. The reason for the disagreement with this ruling is that these sects had many Vaishnav converts to Sikhism who were staunchly vegetarian.
The Akhand Kirtani Jatha dispute the meaning of the word "kutha", claiming it means all meat. However, in mainstream Sikhism this word has been accepted to mean that which has been prepared according to Muslim rituals.
Sikh Rehat Maryada
According to the Sikh code of conduct or Rehat Maryada, Sikhs are free to choose whether or not to include meat in their diet.
In the Rehat Maryada, Article XXIV - Ceremony of Baptism or Initiation (page 38), it states:
The undermentioned four transgressions (tabooed practices) must be avoided:
- Dishonouring the hair
- Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the Halal way
- Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse
- Using tobacco.— Sikh Rehat Maryada
The Sikh Rehat Maryada states that Sikhs cannot consume meat that is Halal (Muslim), or Kosher (Jewish).
Sikh intellectual views
I. J. Singh states that throughout Sikh history, there have been many subsects of Sikhism that have espoused vegetarianism. However, this was rejected by the Sikh Gurus. Sikhs consider that vegetarianism and meat-eating are unimportant in the realm of Sikh spirituality. Surinder Singh Kohli links vegetarianism to Vashnavite behaviour. Gopal Singh, commenting on meat being served in the langar during the time of Guru Angad Gyani Sher Singh—who was the head priest at the Darbar Sahib—notes that ahimsa does not fit in with Sikh doctrine. W. Owen Cole and Piara Singh Sambhi comment that if the Sikh Gurus had made an issue on vegetarianism, it would have distracted from the main emphasis of Sikh spirituality. H. S. Singha and Satwant Kaur comment on how ritually-slaughtered meat is considered a sin for initiated Sikhs. G. S. Sidhu also notes that ritually-slaughtered meat is taboo for a Sikh. Gurbakhsh Singh comments on how non-Kutha meat is acceptable for the Sikhs. Surinder Singh Kohli comments on the "fools wrangle over flesh" quotation from the Guru Granth Sahib by noting how Guru Nanak mocked hypocritical vegetarian priests. Gobind Singh Mansukhani states how vegetarianism and meat-eating has been left to the individual Sikh. Devinder Singh Chahal comments on the difficulties of distinguishing between plant and animal in Sikh philosophy. H. S. Singha comments in his book how the Sikh Gurus ate meat. Khushwant Singh also notes that most Sikhs are meat-eaters and decry vegetarians as daal khorey (lentil-eaters).
Sikh Kharku view
In early 1987 Kharkus issued a moral code banning the sale and consumption of meat. The ban led to much of Punjab being without meat. Those who continued to sell or eat meat risked death and commonly would have their businesses destroyed and be killed. One survey found that there were no meat or tobacco shops between Amritsar and Phagwara. In the peak of the militancy most of Punjab was meatless. Famous restaurants that served meat had removed it from their menu and denied ever serving it. The ban was popular among rural Sikhs. Kharkus justified the ban by saying, "No avatars, Hindu or Sikh, ever did these things. To eat meat is the job of rakshasas (demons) and we don't want people to become rakshasas."
Historical dietary behaviour of Sikhs
According to Dabistan-e-Mazhib (a contemporary Persian chronology of the Sikh Gurus), Guru Nanak did not eat meat, and Guru Arjan thought that meat eating was not in accordance with Nanak's wishes. This differs from I. J. Singh's research that states that Guru Nanak ate meat on the way to Kurukshetra. According to Persian records, Guru Hargobind (the 6th Guru) ate meat and hunted, and his practice was adopted by most Sikhs.
Dietary avoidance out of politeness
Sikhs also generally avoid eating beef because the cow, the buffalo and the ox are an integral part of rural Sikh livelihoods. Similarly, Sikhs may avoid eating beef in the company of Hindus and avoid eating pork in the company of Muslims out of respect for their shared values. However, there is no religious prohibition about eating beef and pork.
Sarbloh Bibek
Some Sikh groups like Akhand Kirtani Jatha keep Sarbloh Bibek. Sikhs who follow this practice eat from iron bowls and iron plates only.
Another key aspect to maintaining Sarbloh Bibek is that Sikhs must only eat food prepared by other Amritdhari (baptized) Sikhs. Amritdhari Sikhs are also not to eat Jootha food (previously eaten food) from non-Amritdharis.
See also
References
- ^ "Misconceptions About Eating Meat - Comments of Sikh Scholars," Archived 28 December 2008 at the Wayback Machine at The Sikhism Home Page Archived 17 January 2009 at the Wayback Machine
- Sikhs and Sikhism, by I.J. Singh, Manohar, Delhi ISBN 978-81-7304-058-0: Throughout Sikh history, there have been movements or subsects of Sikhism which have espoused vegetarianism. I think there is no basis for such dogma or practice in Sikhism. Certainly Sikhs do not think that a vegetarian's achievements in spirituality are easier or higher. It is surprising to see that vegetarianism is such an important facet of Hindu practice in light of the fact that animal sacrifice was a significant and much valued Hindu Vedic ritual for ages. Guru Nanak in his writings clearly rejected both sides of the arguments—on the virtues of vegetarianism or meat eating—as banal and so much nonsense, nor did he accept the idea that a cow was somehow more sacred than a horse or a chicken. He also refused to be drawn into a contention on the differences between flesh and greens, for instance. History tells us that to impart this message, Nanak cooked meat at an important Hindu festival in Kurukshetra. Having cooked it he certainly did not waste it, but probably served it to his followers and ate himself. History is quite clear that Guru Hargobind and Guru Gobind Singh were accomplished and avid hunters. The game was cooked and put to good use, to throw it away would have been an awful waste.
- Guru Granth Sahib, An Analytical Study by Surindar Singh Kohli, Singh Bros. Amritsar ISBN 81-7205-060-7: The ideas of devotion and service in Vaishnavism have been accepted by Adi Granth, but the insistence of Vaishnavas on vegetarian diet has been rejected.
- A History of the Sikh People by Dr. Gopal Singh, World Sikh University Press, Delhi ISBN 978-81-7023-139-4: However, it is strange that now-a-days in the Community-Kitchen attached to the Sikh temples, and called the Guru's Kitchen (or, Guru-ka-langar) meat-dishes are not served at all. May be, it is on account of its being, perhaps, expensive, or not easy to keep for long. Or, perhaps the Vaishnava tradition is too strong to be shaken off.
- "Sikh Reht Maryada, The Definition of Sikh, Sikh Conduct & Conventions, Sikh Religion Living, India". www.sgpc.net. Archived from the original on 20 August 2009. Retrieved 29 August 2009.
- ^ Mosher, Lucinda (1 June 2005). "4 Distance". Belonging (Faith in the Neighbourhood). Church Publishing Inc. p. 108. ISBN 1-59627-010-1. Retrieved 24 November 2010.
- Sekhon, Devinder Singh; Singh; Devinder (2005-01-01). "10 Gurmat and Meat". Philosophy of Guru Granth Sahib. Anmol Publications PVT. LTD. pp. 143 to 172. ISBN 978-81-261-2357-5. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- Punjabi-English Dictionary, Punjabi University, Dept. of Punjabi Lexicography, ISBN 81-7380-095-2; Hardcover; 2002-10-01
- Kaur, Upinder Jit (1990). Sikh Religion And Economic Development. National Book Organisation. p. 212. ISBN 9788185135489.
- Vegetarianism and Meat-Eating in 8 Religions Archived 26 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine April/May/June, 2007 Hinduism Today
- ^ Takhar, Opinderjit Kaur (2005). "2 Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha". Sikh identity: an exploration of groups among Sikhs. Ashgate Publishing, Ltd. p. 51. ISBN 978-0-7546-5202-1. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- "Langar," Archived 2 May 2009 at the Wayback Machine at http://www.sikhwomen.com Archived 27 October 2009 at the Wayback Machine
- Singh, Prithi Pal (2006). "3 Guru Amar Das". The History of Sikh Gurus. New Delhi: Lotus Press. p. 38. ISBN 978-81-8382-075-2.
- "The Sikhism Home Page". Sikhs.org. Archived from the original on 27 June 2009. Retrieved 9 August 2009.
- "Only Meat Killed by Ritual (Kutha) Is Banned for a Sikh". Sgpc. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- "Eating the meat of an animal slaughtered the Muslim way (Kutha)". Sgpc. Archived from the original on 2002-02-02. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- Singh, Prithi Pal (2006). "3 Guru Amar Das". The History of Sikh Gurus. New Delhi: Lotus Press. p. 38. ISBN 81-8382-075-1. Retrieved 2019-02-07.
- Garces-Foley, Kathleen (2006). "8. Sikhism and Death". Death and Religion in a Changing World (1st ed.). M.E. Sharpe. p. 187. ISBN 978-0-7656-1222-9. Retrieved 24 November 2010.
- Jhutti-Johal, Jagbir (2011). Sikhism Today [Religion Today series]. England: Bloomsbury Academic. p. 17. ISBN 978-1-84706-272-7.
- Morgan, Peggy; Lawton, Clive, eds. (2007). "6. Questions of Right and Wrong". Ethical Issues in Six Religious Traditions (2nd ed.). Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press. p. 144. ISBN 978-0-7486-2330-3. Retrieved 7 February 2014.
- Surjit Singh Gandhi (2007). History of Sikh Gurus Retold: 1469–1606 C.E. Atlantic Publishers & Dist. p. 95. ISBN 9788126908578. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- ^ Clarke, Steve (2020). Religious Studies Route A: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical studies and Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism. Hachette UK. p. 117. ISBN 9781510479531.
- Singh, Dharam (2001). Perspectives on Sikhism: Papers Presented at the International Seminar on Sikhism: a Religion for the Third Millennium Held at Punjabi University, Patiala on 27-29 March 2000. Publication Bureau, Punjabi University. p. 89. ISBN 9788173807367.
- Gabriel Cousens (2000). Conscious Eating. North Atlantic Books. ISBN 9781556432859. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- Singh Dhillon, Dalbir (1988). Sikhism, Origin and Development. New Delhi: Atlantic Publishers & Distributors. p. 247. ISBN 9788171561520.
- McLeod, W. H. (2003). "6 The Singh Sabha and the Years After". Sikhs of the Khalsa: a history of the Khalsa rahit (Hardcover ed.). Oxford : Oxford University Press. p. 185. ISBN 978-0-19-565916-0. Retrieved 25 November 2010.
- ^ H. S. Singha & Satwant Kaur Hemkunt (1994). Sikhism, A Complete Introduction (Limited preview digitized online by Google books). New Delhi: Hemkunt Press. ISBN 81-7010-245-6. Retrieved 2010-02-07.
- "Only Meat Killed by Ritual Is Banned for a Sikh". Sgpc.net.
- Sikh Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (ed.). "Sikh Rehat Maryada in English, Section Six, Chapter XIII, Article XXIV-(p)". p. 38. Retrieved 2018-06-26.
- Sandeep Singh Brar. "Misconceptions About Eating Meat — Comments of Sikh Scholars". Sikhs.org. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- Dr Indarjit Singh, OBE. "Faithandfood Fact Files — Sikhism". Faithandfood.com. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
- Aditya Menon (14 May 2020). "Why Hindutva Outfits Are Calling for a Boycott of Halal Products". The Quint. Retrieved 23 October 2021.
- I. J. Singh (1994). Sikhs and Sikhism. Delhi: Manohar. ISBN 978-81-7304-058-0.
- Surindar Singh Kohli (1992), Guru Granth Sahib, An Analytical Study, Amritsar: Singh Bros., ISBN 81-7205-060-7
- Gopal Singh (1988). A History of the Sikh People. Delhi: World Sikh University Press. ISBN 978-81-7023-139-4.
- Gyani Sher Singh, Philosophy of Sikhism, Amritsar: Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee
- W. Owen Cole and Piara Singh Sambhi (1997), A Popular Dictionary of Sikhism, England, ISBN 978-0-8442-0424-6
{{citation}}
: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) - H. S. Singha and Satwant Kaur (2005), Sikhism, A Complete Introduction, Delhi: Hemkunt Press, ISBN 81-7010-245-6
- G. S. Sidhu (1973), Introduction to Sikhism, Toronto: Shromini Sikh Sangat, ISBN 0-900692-07-3
- Gurbakhsh Singh (2002), The Sikh Faith, Vancouver: Canadian Sikh Study and Teaching Society, ISBN 978-81-7205-188-4
- Surinder Singh Kohli (1994), Real Sikhism, New Delhi: Harman Publishing, ISBN 81-85151-64-4
- Gobind Singh Mansukhani (1993), Introduction to Sikhism, Delhi: Hemkunt Press, ISBN 81-7010-181-6
- Devinder Singh Chahal, Scientific Interpretation of Gurbani
- H. S. Singha, Mini Encyclopaedia of Sikhism, Delhi: Hemkunt Press, ISBN 81-7010-200-6
- Khushwant Singh (2009-11-07). "An Ancient Brotherhood". The Telegraph. Archived from the original on January 4, 2013. Retrieved 2009-11-10.
- "AISSF forces shopkeepers to shut liquor and meat shops in Punjab". India Today. Retrieved 2023-09-14.
- "Sikh militants in Punjab, putting a moral edge on... - UPI Archives". UPI. Retrieved 2023-05-21.
- Chima, Jugdep S. (2010-03-11). The Sikh Separatist Insurgency in India: Political Leadership and Ethnonationalist Movements. SAGE Publishing India. ISBN 978-93-5150-953-0.
- Fazal, Tanweer (2014-08-01). Nation-state and Minority Rights in India: Comparative Perspectives on Muslim and Sikh Identities. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-317-75178-6.
- I. J. Singh (1994). Sikhs and Sikhism. Delhi: Manohar. ISBN 978-81-7304-058-0.
- J.S. Grewal (2001), Sikh History from Persian Sources: Translations of Major Texts, ISBN 978-81-85229-17-1
- ^ Rait, S.K. (2005). Sikh Women in England: Their Religious and Cultural Beliefs and Social Practices. Trentham Books. p. 62. ISBN 9781858563534.
- Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair (2013). Sikhism: A Guide for the Perplexed. Bloomsbury Academic. pp. 171–172. ISBN 978-1-4411-0231-7.
- Myrvold, Kristina (2016). Sikhs in Europe: Migration, Identities and Representations. Routledge. p. 341. ISBN 9781317055051.
- Jacobsen, Knut (2011). Sikhs in Europe: Migration, Identities and Representations. Ashgate Publishing. p. 262. ISBN 9781409424345.
External links
Veganism and vegetarianism | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Perspectives |
| ||||||
Ethics |
| ||||||
Food and drink | |||||||
Groups and events |
| ||||||
Companies | |||||||
Books, reports, journals |
| ||||||
Films and shows |
| ||||||
Magazines | |||||||
Academics, activists, authors, physicians |
| ||||||
Chefs and cookbook authors |
| ||||||
Restaurants | |||||||
Former restaurants | |||||||
Related |