Sikhism: A Guide for the Perplexed

Guides for the Perplexed

by Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair

Sikhism's short but relatively eventful history provides a fascinating insight into the working of misunderstood and seemingly contradictory themes such as politics and religion, violence and mysticism, culture and spirituality, orality and textuality, public sphere versus private sphere, tradition and modernity. This book presents students with a careful analysis of these complex themes as they have manifested themselves in the historical evolution of the Sikh traditions and the encounter of Sikhs with modernity and the West, in the philosophical teachings of its founders and their interpretation by Sikh exegetes, and in Sikh ethical and intellectual responses to contemporary issues in an increasingly secular and pluralistic world. " A Guide for the Perplexed" serves as an ideal guide to Sikhism, and also for students of Asian studies, Sociology of Religion and World Religions.

Genres: Religion

257 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Sangeeta K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I never finished, this is a great guide on understanding Sikhism. It seems catered to an outside audience but makes sense as a Sikh as well.

[Sukh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sikhism has a unique position. Outsiders sometimes confuse it as a part of Islam.

The book aims to provide a concise introduction to Sikhism, focusing on aspects that might be difficult for readers to grasp. It explores the historical evolution of the Sikh tradition, from its founding by Guru Nanak through the period of the Gurus and the development of the Khalsa, to its encounters with modernity and colonialism.

Then it delves into core Sikh teachings and practices, including philosophy, ethics, and communal life as expressed in the Guru Granth Sahib and various rituals.

[Tynan Brooks]

A tight yet wide-ranging intro. You can tell that the author has his own perspective on intra-Sikh debates, but that's not a bad thing.

[Japjit Singh]

One of the nicer and few books to learn about Sikhism. Covers the roots and the philosophy the latter of which was pleasantly suprising and succinct. Def. recommended to all the philosophy-inclined sikhs - 'learners' by the word, no matter the religion.