Culture Region
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Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world with over 30 million followers. Although it is worldwide, about 75% of Sikhs live in Punjab, India. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion whose believers' chief belief is faith in Waheguru, their one God. "Sikhs are expected to embody the qualities of a "Sant-Sipāhī"—a saint-soldier. One must have control over one's internal vices and be able to be constantly immersed in virtues clarified in the Guru Granth Sahib" (wikipeida-Sikhism).
Diffusion
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Sikhism was founded near Punjab, India. It was founded around the year 1500 by Guru Nanak. Nine Gurus succeded Nanak and further developed the faith. Guru Arjan was a key figure in the religon's progression. He complimented the creation of Amristar, essentially the capital of the Sikh faith. Arjan also completed the first piece of Sikh religious scripture, the Adi Granth. Although there are no more Gurus, Sikhs are still well alive today.
Religious Ecology
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Sikhs believe that God gave them the Earth, just as Muslim, Christian, and Jewish people believe. Sikhs, unlike these religions, believe ina life cycle of birth, life, and rebirth. Depending on how people live their lives and the law of Karma, will decide their reincarnation. The primary goal is to achieve union with God and all things.
Culture Integration
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Because most Sikhs live in the birth place of Sikhism, Punjab, pilgrimage is not neccesarily present. Sikhs do, however, travel to holy places, such as the Golden Temple. Occassionally Sikh ethics interfere with common political issues. Sikhs, although this rule is often disobeyed in Sikh communities, do not believe in abortion. They are also against ethunasia and suicide. They believe these actions destroy a creative work of God.
Cultural Landscapes
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Harmandir Sahib, or the Golden Temple, is the cheif sacred location in the Sikh faith. The most holy of all Sikh scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, is always present inside the temple. Near the golden templ, Sikh monuments and artwork can be found.