SCORE - Sikh Council on Religion and Education

	SIKHISM and the ENVIRONMENT
		"Creating the world, God has made it a place to practice spirituality"
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 1035.)
	The Sikh scripture declares that the purpose of human beings is to achieve a blissful state and be in harmony with the earth and all creation. It seems, however, that humans have drifted away from that ideal. For the earth is today saturated with problems. It is agonizing over the fate of its inhabitants and their future! It is in peril as never before. Its lakes and rivers are being choked killing its marine life. Its forests are being denuded. A smoky haze envelops the cities of the world. Human beings are exploiting human beings. There is a sense of crisis in all parts of the world, in various countries and amongst various peoples. The demands of national economic growth and individual needs and desires are depleting the natural resources of the earth. There is serious concern that the earth may no longer be a sustainable bio-system. The major crises facing the earth - the social justice crisis and the environmental crisis - together are heading the earth towards a disastrous situation. The social justice crisis is that of humanity's confrontation with itself and the environmental crisis is caused by humanity's confrontation with nature. The social justice crisis is that poverty, hunger, disease, exploitation and injustice are widespread. There are economic wars over resources and markets. The rights of the poor and the marginal are violated. Women constituting half the world's population have their rights abused. The environmental crisis caused by humanity's exploitation of nature is leading to the depletion of renewable resources, destruction of forests, over-use of land for agriculture and habitation. Today pollution is contaminating air, land and water. Smoke from industries, homes and vehicles is in the air. Industrial waste and consumer trash is affecting streams and rivers, ponds and lakes. Much of the waste is a product of modern technology; it is not bio-degradable, not re-usable and its long term consequences are unknown. The viability of many animal and plant species, and possibly that of the human species itself is at stake. This crisis cries out for an immediate and urgent solution. The crisis requires a going back to the basic question of the purpose of human beings in this universe and an understanding of ourselves and God's creation. We are called to the vision of Guru Nanak which is a World Society comprising God-conscious human beings who have realized God. To these spiritual beings the earth and the universe are sacred; all life is unity, and their mission is the spiritualization of all. Guru Nanak laid the foundation of Sikhism in the late fifteenth century. His writings, those of other human Gurus who succeeded him, and other spiritual leaders, are included in the scripture - Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Granth has been the Guru and Divine Master of the Sikhs since 1708, when Guru Gobind Singh declared that there would be no more human Gurus. Guru Nanak and his successors during their lifetime worked towards creating an ideal society that has as its basis spiritual awareness and ethical integrity. The name ‘Sikh’ means disciple or learner of the Truth. Guru Nanak in his philosophy states that the reality that humans create around themselves is a reflection of their inner state. The current instability of the natural system of the earth - the external environment of human beings, is only a reflection of the instability and pain within humans. The increasing barrenness of the earth's terrain is a reflection of the emptiness within humans. The solution to problems manifest in our world lies in prayer and accepting God's hukam. It is difficult to translate certain Sikh concepts accurately. Hukam is one such concept - it may be best described as a combination of God's will, order, or system. With an attitude of humility, and surrender to the Divine Spirit, conscientious human beings can seek to redress the current crises of the environment and of social justice. In the Sikh Way this is done through the guidance of the Guru, who is the Divine Master and messenger of God. A Sikh theologian, Kapur Singh, explains that Sikhism has three postulates implicit in its teachings:
		One, that there is no essential duality between spirit and matter. Two, that humans have the capacity to consciously participate in the process of spiritual progression. Three, the highest goal of spiritual progression is harmony with God, while remaining earth-conscious, so that the world itself may be transformed to a spiritual plane of existence.

	Unity of spirit and matter and the Interconnectedness of all creation
	The Sikh view is that spirit and matter are not antagonistic. Guru Nanak declared that the spirit was the only reality and matter is only a form of spirit. Spirit takes on many forms and names under various conditions.
		"When I saw truly, I knew that all was primeval. Nanak, the subtle (spirit) and the gross (material) are, in fact, identical."
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 281)
		That which is inside a person, the same is outside; nothing else exists; By divine prompting look upon all existence as one and undifferentiated; The same light penetrates all existence.
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 599)
	The chasm between the material and the spiritual is in the minds of humans only. It is a limitation of the human condition that spirit and matter appear as duality, and their unity is not self-evident. The material universe is God's creation. Its origin was in God and its end is in God; and it operates within God's hukam. Guru Nanak declares that God alone knows the reasons for and the moment of earth's creation. The origin of the universe is unknowable. The act of creation itself, the creation of the primeval atom, was instantaneous, caused by the Will of God. Further descriptions of the universe and its creation in Sikh scripture are remarkably similar to recent scientific speculation about the universe and its origin. One of the basic hymns in the Sikh Scripture, which may be called the "Hymn of the Genesis" describes the indeterminate void before the existence of this universe. (See Appendix 1.0) Guru Nanak speaks of innumerable galaxies, of a limitless universe, the boundaries of which are beyond human ability to comprehend. God alone knows the extent of creation. (Appendix 3.0) God created the universe and the world, for reasons best known to Him. And being the results of God's actions all parts of the universe are holy. God is an all-pervasive being manifest through various elements of creation. (Appendix 4.0) Having created this universe and the world, God directs them. All actions take place within God's hukam. God alone knows how and why. God, however, not only directs this vast and massive theater, but also watches over with care and kindness-the benign, supportive parent!
		Men, trees, pilgrimage places, banks of sacred streams, clouds, fields. Islands, spheres, universes, continents, solar systems. The sources of creation, egg-born, womb-born, earth-born, sweat-born, oceans, mountains and sentient beings. He, the Lord, knows their condition, O Nanak. Nanak, having created beings, the lord takes care of them all. The creator who created the world, He takes thought of it as well.
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 466)
	The world, like all creation, is a manifestation of God. Every creature in this world, every plant, every form is a manifestation of the Creator. Each is part of God and God is within each element of creation. God is the cause of all and He is the primary connection between all existence.
		"The Creator created himself...... And created all creation in which he is manifest. You Yourself the bumble-bee, flower, fruit and the tree. You Yourself the water, desert, ocean and the pond. You Yourself are the big fish, tortoise and the Cause of causes. Your form can not be known
	(Guru Granth Sahib page 1016)
	In the world God has created he has also provided each species and humans with means of support and nurturing. In Sikh beliefs, a concern for the environment is part of an integrated approach to life and nature. As all creation has the same origin and end, humans must have consciousness of their place in creation and their relationship with the rest of creation. Humans should conduct themselves through life with love, compassion and justice. Becoming one and being in harmony with God implies that humans endeavour to live in harmony with all of God's creation. The second postulate is that humans, practising a highly disciplined life, while remaining active in the world, are capable of further spiritual progression. It is important that Sikhs retain the primacy of spirit over matter, while it is desirable that they do not deny matter or material existence. It is not required that humans renounce the world. They must maintain their life in the world and uphold all responsibilities in the world. Humans should be renouncers of plenty and maintain a simple life. Further spiritual progress fundamentally starts with an individual conquering himself/herself with the guidance of the Guru. (Appendix 6.0) The emphasis is on mastery over the self and the discovery of the self; not mastery over nature, external forms and beings. Sikhism teaches against a life of conspicuous, wasteful consumption. The Guru recommends a judicious utilization of of material and cultural resources available to humans.
		Then why get attached to what you will leave behind. Having wealth, you indulge in pleasures bout, From that, tell me, who will bail you out? All your houses, horses, elephants and luxurious cars, They are just pomp and show, all totally false.
	(Guru Granth Sahib)
	The Gurus taught humans to be aware of and respect the dignity in all life, whether human or not. Such a respect for life can only be fostered where one can first recognize the Divine spark within oneself, see it in others, cherish it, nurture and fulfill it.
		This little shrine of the human body! This great opportunity of life! The object is to meet the Beloved, thy Master!
	(Guru Granth Sahib)
	Spiritual Discipline
	Humans have the capability to further their spiritual progression through conscious choice and it is important to identify the method by which they might do so. The method suggested by Guru Nanak is one of spiritual discipline, meditation & prayer, and sharing. Sikhism emphasizes mastering five negative forces: Lust, Anger, Worldly or Materialistic Attachment, Conceit and Greed. These together constitute what Sikhs term Haumai - “I am-ness.” Mastering haumai is achieved by developing five positive forces: Compassion, Humility, Contemplation, Contentment and Service (seva) without expecting any material or spiritual reward. The guiding principles are Love and Forgiveness. Every decision in life has to be based on Rationality and a personal code of ethics. Guru Nanak's philosophy of values inspires the individual to transcend his/her existence through this spiritual discipline. Sikh religion preaches strong family involvement. A person pursuing this spiritual discipline must also work to create an atmosphere for other members of the family to progress spiritualy.
	The ideal Sikh -- someone who has an intense desire to do good
	The third postulate is that the true end of the human beings is in their emergence as God-conscious beings, who remain aware of the earth and operate in the mundane material world, with the object of transforming and spiritualising it into a higher plane of existence. In this spiritual state individuals are motivated by an intense desire to do good, transforming their surroundings. Through a life based on the method prescribed by the Gurus humans may achieve a higher spiritual state. Such truly emancipated, valiant and enlightened spirits (jivan-mukta, brahma-gyani) become the true benefactors of humanity and the world around them. Such an individual would not exploit another human or sentient being, as each is a manifestation of the eternal and the supreme. In this God-conscious state they see God in all and everything.
		"I perceive Thy form in all life and light; I perceive Thy power in all spheres and sight."
	(Guru Granth, page 464)
	Spiritualisation is a liberation from material compulsions and attractions. It means an awareness of the Cosmic Order and striving towards the execution of Divine Will. So, the spiritualised human is creative and constructive. Therefore a Sikh life is a life of harmony with other individuals with other beings and other forms. For an enlightened individual the world has only one purpose - to practice spirituality. That is the ultimate objective of all humans. Such a person is involved in human problems and society and has to prove his or her effectiveness there. Such a person lives with a mission - and works for the emancipation of all. A true Sikh is for individual human rights, the environment, and justice for all.
		"The God-conscious persons is animated with an intense desire to do good in this world."
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 273)


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	PRACTISING THE PHILOSOPHY OF SIKHISM AND CARING FOR ENVIROMENT
	By: Dr. Rajwant Singh
	Integrated Approach: Care of the Environment without Social Justices not possible
	Environmental concerns may be viewed as part of the broader issue of human development and social justice. Many environmental problems, particularly the exploitation of environmental resources in developing nations are due to the poverty of large parts of the population. Therefore an integrated approach is necessary. Sikhism opposes the idea that the human race's struggle is against nature and its supremacy lies in the notion of 'harnessing' nature. The objective is harmony with the eternal - God - which implies a life of harmony with all existence. Striving for a life of harmony, therefore, also implies a life of supporting individual rights, environmentalism, -- a life that works against injustice towards anybody and anything. The tenth Guru founded the Order of the Khalsa in 1699, who practise the spiritual discipline of Sikhism, and are committed to ensure the preservation and prevalence of a World Society. Over the last three centuries the members of Khalsa order have stood up for the rights of the oppressed and the disenfranchised even at the cost of their own lives. The Khalsa vision of the World Society is:
		"Henceforth such is the Will of God: No man shall coerce another; No person shall exploit another. Each individual, has the inalienable birth-right to seek and pursue happiness and self-fulfillment. Love and persuasion is the only law of social coherence."
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 74)
	The Khalsa have opposed any force that has threatened the freedom and dignity of human beings. In the eighteenth century it was the oppressive rulers of northern India, and invaders from Afghanistan; in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries they have struggled against the oppression of European colonists and Indian governments. For the Khalsa justice requires the participation and inclusion of all in obtaining and enjoying the fruits of God's creation. Justice achieved through co-operative effort is desirable. The ideal for the Khalsa is to strive for justice for all, not merely for themselves.
	The Institution of Sangat, Pangat and Langar
	The Sikh Gurus, through their lives provided role models for the Sikhs. They all actively worked to stress the equality of all humans and challenged the rigid social stratification of the caste system in India. The very existence of the Sikh religion is based on challenging (1) inequality in society, and (2) the exploitation of the poor and the marginal by the religious and political establishment. Sikh Gurus provided many examples of standing by their principles and confronting exploitation and oppression. They stood by the ‘low’ and the ‘poor’, for, as Guru Nanak said:
		There are the lowest men among the low-castes. Nanak, I shall go with them. What have I got to do with the great? God's eye of mercy falls on those who take care of the lowly.
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 15)
	Sikh Gurus challenged the status quo and came into conflict with the entrenched elite - political, social, religious and economic. The Gurus were most sympathetic to the down-trodden of society, the untouchables and those of lower caste, . They vehemently opposed the division of society on the basis of caste, which had been and is still significantly present. They identified themselves with the poor in full measure and were critical of those responsible for their misery. In the course of their travels they preferred to live in the homes of those who made an honest living to the homes of the rich who thrived on exploitation. Two Sikh Gurus were martyred by the regimes of their period for challenging the contemporary authorities. One, Guru Tegh Bahadur was martyred when he stood up for the religious freedom of the Hindu inhabitants of Kashmir who were being forced to accept Islam by the rulers. Sikh Gurus also moulded traditional lifestyles to exemplify a more equitable society. They created many institutions that form the basis of Sikh society and are based on the equality of all. The Sikh Gurus invited people of all castes and creed to meditate together. That would be called Sangat. Either before or after the meditation, people were asked to sit and eat together irrespective of their social background to create a sense of equality. That process would be called Pangat. Sikh Gurus started a tradition of free distribution of food to the rich or poor through the Sikh meeting areas. That would be called Langar. These three ideas were in contrast to the Indian society which had separate temples or water wells for social outcasts. These changes by the Sikh Gurus created a lot of opposition from the religious establishment. These changes are still much alive in Sikh practices today. Through the creation of the Khalsa, the Gurus established a system which would protect and maintain a free and just order.
	Equality of women
	Women and their rights have been ignored for too long. Any approach to solve problems of social justice and the environment must be sensitive to women's concerns, and must include women as equals. Often piece-meal solutions to environmental problems focus on limiting population growth and family planning programs. Most family planning measures end up abusing women's rights and should be rejected on those grounds alone. Meanwhile they spread mistrust of family planning among women. Guru Nanak and other Sikh Gurus in their life advocated equality and dignity to women and took steps to implement these principles. Guru Nanak denounced the idea that spirituality was only for men, and not for women. The first Sikh Guru in his preaching and writings made direct statements emphasizing that women were no less than men:
		After the death of one's wife, one seeks another, and through her social bonds are cemented. Why should we condemn women who give birth to leaders and rulers? Everyone is born of a woman and a woman alone. Nobody is born otherwise. God alone is an exception to this rule.
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 473)
	Guru Amardas strongly opposed the custom of Sati in the sixteenth century and also advocated widow marriages. Sati was the Indian practice whereby widows burned themselves with their husband's corpse at cremation. Guru Amar Das appointed and ordained a large number of women preachers, and at least one bishop - Mathura Devi, four hundred years ago. The Sikh Gurus also raised their voice against the Purdah or veil. Guru Amardas did not even allow the Queen of Haripur to come into the religious assembly wearing a veil. The immediate effect of these reforms was that women gained an equal status with men. Those who lived as groveling slaves of society became fired with a new hope and courage to lift them-selves to be equals of the best in humanity. The spirit of the Sikh woman was raised with the belief that she was not a helpless creature but was a responsible being endowed with a will of her own with which she could do much to mould the destiny of society. Women came forward as the defenders of their honor and dignity. They also became the rocks that stood against tyrants. Without the burden of unnecessary and unreasonable customs, Sikh women became the temporal and spiritual supporters of men, often acting as the 'conscience of men.' Sikh women proved themselves as the equals of men in service, devotion, sacrifice and bravery. Since the late nineteenth century Sikh community organizations have made efforts at expanding educational opportunities for all. Individual Sikhs, men and women, in various cities and towns, took the initiative to start and operate women's colleges and schools. Women's education was part of the drive to improve education among the Sikhs, initiated by Sikh organizations in the 1920s. In towns and villages in the Punjab and in cities with significant Sikh populations there exists schools and colleges operated by Sikh organizations.
	Community-based sharing of resources
	Traditional modes of farming, and traditional modes of life in Northern India have been dependent upon limited resources. As there exist circumstances where there are large number of people dependent upon relatively limited resources., the traditional lifestyle ensures use of the least resources, considerable re-use, and recycling of resources. In a culture based on organic resources and materials recycling is an intrinsic and natural part of the resource cycle. There are strong traditions of sharing resources. There have been traditional practices that maintained lands and forests as community property within proximity of human habitation. For instance in traditional rural India and Punjab, two of the most important centers of human activity have been the Sikh gurudwara, and a source of water - pond, tank, pool or running water. Both of these sites were surrounded by community land, not owned by any one and not used for agriculture. This was where there were trees and plants - groves or small forests. They provided shade and shelter, and the were a source of firewood within easy reach of habitation. The Gurus established towns and cities, each created around a religious center. The focus was on a lifestyle based on sharing. A lifestyle that promoted equity among people, and optimum utilization of resources. Even today even rural Punjab, families share resources with their neighbors. This is particularly evident on large family occasions such as weddings, when the entire village may play host to guests and share living space, beds, etc. Most gurudwaras in India were specifically designed to have a water tank, or were near running water- river, or pool - always a community resource. For instance, Amritsar grew up around the Harimandir (ordinarily referred to as the Golden Temple) and the Amrit Sarovar (The pool of nectar - the water.. The cities and towns that grew around gurudwaras ideally, were centered on a spiritual lifestyle based on sharing. Since the time of the Gurus, Sikh gurudwaras, have included institutionalized practices that emphasize sharing of resources. Gurudwaras, in addition to being places for congregation for prayer and meditation, are (1) a place to stay for travelers and others; (2) a community kitchen - langar; (3) a place for dispensing medication and medical care; (4) a place to impart education to the young. Gurudwaras have always been places of shelter for travelers, and visitors. Most major gurudwaras have rooms where visitors may stay. In addition Sikh gurudwaras stock extra beds, pots and pans etc. At weddings and other family events, the gurudwaras are a source for borrowing sheets, beds, pots and pans. There has always been great emphasis on avoiding waste. Traditionally the community kitchen served food on plates made from leaves and cups made from clay. Today they tend to use steel plates and utensils that are re-used. The kitchens have always been stocked by ordinary people - farmers, traders, others in the community - on a voluntary basis.
	Conclusion
	The ideal for Sikhism is a society based upon mutual respect and co-operation and providing an optimal atmosphere for individuals to grow spiritually. Sikhism regards a co-operative society as the only truly religious society. As the Sikh view of life and society is grounded in the worth of every individual as a microcosm of God. Therefore, an individual must never be imposed upon, coerced, manipulated or engineered.
		"If thou wouldst seek God, demolish and distort not the heart of any individual"
	(Guru Granth Sahib, page 1384)
	All life is interconnected. A human body consists of many parts, every one of them has a distinct name, location and function and all of them are dependent upon each other. In the same way, all the constituents of this universe and this earth are dependent upon each other. Decisions in one country or continent cannot be ignored by others. Choices in one place have measurable consequences for the rest of the world. It is part of the same system. Life, for its very existence and nurturing, depends upon a bounteous nature. A human being needs to derive sustenance from the earth; not to deplete, exhaust, pollute, burn or destroy it. Sikhs believe that an awareness of that sacred relationship between humans and the environment is necessary for the health of our planet, and for our survival. A new 'environmental ethic' dedicated to conservation and wise use of the resources provided by a bountiful nature can only arise from an honest understanding and dedicated application of our old, tried and true spiritual heritage.

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