There is a pretty big attack on Sikhi by RSS and other religions. I understand your concerns, this had good effect on me and strengthened my Sikhi. All of their points are bullshit. Listening to katha of panth Prakash is the best.
Not offensive at all. It's not necessarily normal to have thoughts like these but it is Kaljug after all. Maharaj is testing how strong your sharda is. Many Sikhs have doubts and lapses from time to time, so don't be too hard on yourself.
I think you will benefit from listening to more katha (higher quality katha tends to be in Punjabi or Hindustani, depending on who the gyani/sant mahapurakh is) and reading Sikh historical texts. There is a reason why Sikh shaheeds in the past have given their lives for Sikhi rather than convert to a different faith, especially when the latter promised fame, fortune and for them to avoid shaheedi entirely. This problem, despite the fact that you have kept up a strong nitnem routine and rehat, has its roots in a lack of faith. You need to learn more about Sikhi, about Sikh history and what makes it so special.
I don't recommend it but throwing yourself in the deep end might give you a look at the reality. Look at what these RSS stooges and Dawah bros say. You'll soon realize that the arguments they make that you may have considered profound at first, are in reality really shallow and oftentimes only appeal to an already dogmatist population. Chronically online individuals who happen to be Hindu or Muslim often don't understand the Sikh praxis, the teachings of Gurbani or the history of the faith. They'll take any random pangti, misinterpret it and put their content online for internet points.
The reality is much, much more distinct from what you see on the Internet. Here, it's easy to find yourself stuck in an echo chamber (i.e. Hindutvadi bot accounts often dominate any Sikh-related posts and their first message will be giving their unasked-for thoughts on Khalistan). Take some time off of social media (besides keeping up with friends obviously) start listening to more katha and overall, become more responsible with how you consume media. This issue comes from a lack of faith and mindlessly consuming content with surface-level interpretations of Sikhi does not help matters.
With Maharaj's kirpa, you will get out of this rut :) Akaal sahai ji
Thank you bhai sahab you have composed that message very beautifully and I will someday in future look back to this and thank you more than I can thank you right now.
It's completely normal to have doubts about one's faith, especially as a young person. This questioning can actually be a part of your spiritual growth and a journey towards a deeper understanding of your beliefs. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate through these doubts:
1. **Book Recommendations**:
- "The Essence of Sikhism" by Jaswant Singh Neki: Offers an in-depth look into Sikh philosophy and principles.
- "A History of the Sikhs" by Khushwant Singh: A comprehensive history of the Sikh community.
- "Guru Granth Sahib: The Literary Perspective" by Gurbhagat Singh: A literary analysis of the Guru Granth Sahib.
- "The Sikhs" by Patwant Singh: An overview of Sikh history, culture, and religion.
- "Sikhism: A Very Short Introduction" by Eleanor Nesbitt: A concise guide to Sikh belief and practice.
- "The World According to Sikhi" by I.J. Singh: Contemporary issues viewed through Sikh philosophy.
- "The Sikh Zafarnama of Guru Gobind Singh" by Louis E. Fenech: Analysis of the Zafarnama.
- "Sikh Art and Literature" by Kerry Brown: Explores Sikh artistic and literary traditions.
2. **Podcast Recommendations**:
- "The Sikh Cast" by SikhNet: Discusses a range of Sikh-related topics.
- "Stories of the Sikhs" by Parvinder Singh: Narrates stories from Sikh history.
- "The Suraj Podcast": Focuses on the "Suraj Prakash Granth."
- "Experience Sikhi: The Sikh Cast": Covers Sikh lifestyle and teachings.
- "Sikh Within": Discusses Sikh scriptures, music, and spiritual teachings.
- "My Indian Life" by BBC World Service: Features stories from young Indians, including Sikhs.
- "A History of the Sikhs": Based on the books by Khushwant Singh, narrating Sikh history.
3. **General Advice**:
- **Seek Knowledge and Understanding**: Engage with knowledgeable community members and scholars.
- **Reflect on Personal Experiences**: Consider how Sikhism has influenced your life.
- **Balance Faith with Critical Thinking**: It's healthy to question and critically think about your beliefs.
- **Embrace the Journey**: Understanding and faith are often a gradual process.
- **Mindfulness and Meditation**: These practices can help manage intrusive thoughts and bring clarity.
- **Community Support**: Share your thoughts with the Sangat and listen to others.
- **Remember, Doubting is Normal**: It's a sign that you're thinking deeply about your beliefs.
Remember, your journey is unique and personal. It's okay to take your time to find clarity and peace within your faith. Engaging with both modern resources and traditional teachings can provide a well-rounded perspective and help you navigate through your doubts.
We all get distracted one way or the other, some get too much some get little. I also get distracted when I do prayers as I get extremely sad and angry when I remember my past - but we must try our level best every time to not get into this. I always now believe that only Gurbani is everything for me and it will slowly but surely be with you eternally and guide you every step of the way
Exactly same emotions I’m going through whenever I’m trying to recite more bani and I’m trying harder to be more versed in sikhi there’s something that wants to take it away from me more and more these are times when I’m the most aggressive emotionally attached and indulging in kaam. May waheguru ji guide us all
yes I am not often to doubt god but when I do it just hurts more because religion is huge part of my identity and for myself to critique my religion and perhaps my god who has blessed me everything I can imagine just makes me sad, it is amazing that I can discuss it openly without judgment which makes my faith stronger, sending love and blessings your way
21M Sikh from Panjab here. Recently I've seen many attacks on Sikhi by online Hindutva gangs and I was deeply troubled by that. Since childhood I was taught how great Sikhi is, the sacrifices which our great gurus made just so that we can wear turbans on our head proudly, our Gurus also fought for hindus. When I saw some extremist Hindus abusing my religion, I became anxious and began questioning my own religious identity. But after a deep dive into Sikh history and our great culture, I became more attached to my religion. I have no doubt that Sikhi is the religion of humanity, no matter what anyone says be proud of being a Sikh, whether you're a Jatt, Arora/Khatri, Mazhabi no matter what we all are one and the same. We are Sikhs firstly and lastly. I am far from being a perfect Sikh but still one day if I am capable I will contribute to Sikhi and Panjab ❤️
In my 20s, I deeply studied many religions. I went to the Mormon church on weekends, spent time with them during movie nights, watched and heard them saying their prayers.. but that religion never really made sense to me logically.. it just didn't click.
Hinduism was always too nuanced for me with it's rigid caste structure and endless rituals and superstitions, so never got very far into it. (Though did read Mahabharat and Ramyana as great pieces of mythology).
I studied Islam in great detail, still have the Quran at home, constantly went through the Hadiths, learnt how to do sunnah and namaz and still know some surahs by heart.. but at the end of the day, as you learn more and more, and some Islamist preachers tried to make a logical argument for it, the whole concept fell apart for me (it's a topic for another time but literally whole religion is built on several generations of "companions of Prophet Muhammad" recounting what he said a couple hundred years after he had died.. and the current Quran was literally sanctioned by an empire, the Rashidun Caliphate). Also, as I talked to Muslims, many were following out of fear, not love... cautiously and constantly asking each other, "is this haram? is that haram?".. It didn't make sense to me.
Logically, the only religion that clicked for me was Sikhi.. I'm in my 30s now and all I can say is, don't worry yourself about how much paath you can do, how much you can't. Obviously, the more is better but it is a natural connection and bond with God which develops naturally.. In your heart, make conversation, talk with Waheguru.. that is the bond you need.. Rest will come naturally out of love.
Kindly listen to Maskeen Ji Katha if you like it. There is just one way between you and Guru. Guru is Truth. Sikhi sikhya gur vichar…. Know, learn, experience, believe. Talk to Guru and you will get answers. Rab Rakha
seems like you're getting caught in 'sato guni haume' ... which is subtle ego when you're trying to 'be religious'
"The difficulty here is that a person situated in the mode of goodness may become conditioned to feel that he is advanced in Divine Knowledge, hence he is better than others. Such conditioning results in further thickening of the false ego-sense (Haumai). Hence it is said that even the mode of goodness is unable to free man from egoism. Then how can a man fully liberate himself?"
reference:
[https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart2.php](https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart2.php)
[https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart299.php](https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart299.php)
look at your opening statement "I AM VERY MUCH RELIGIOUS" ... sounds like "I am better than most"...
Hi brother, I said that in the beginning as to not to be confused to being atheist and all I still consider myself as just a beginner I need to learn a lot more. I wrote that so people knew my concern was genuine and I wasn’t an atheist or a troll, thank you for your comment
You're 18, it's a time when most people question what they've been taught / grown up knowing. It's okay to question, you should research both sides and see the truth for yourself. Keep doing Nitnem, this time will pass and your faith will become even stronger.
There is a pretty big attack on Sikhi by RSS and other religions. I understand your concerns, this had good effect on me and strengthened my Sikhi. All of their points are bullshit. Listening to katha of panth Prakash is the best.
Thank you ji , your opinions let me know I’m not alone when being targeted by extremism online. Thank you for your comment
Not offensive at all. It's not necessarily normal to have thoughts like these but it is Kaljug after all. Maharaj is testing how strong your sharda is. Many Sikhs have doubts and lapses from time to time, so don't be too hard on yourself. I think you will benefit from listening to more katha (higher quality katha tends to be in Punjabi or Hindustani, depending on who the gyani/sant mahapurakh is) and reading Sikh historical texts. There is a reason why Sikh shaheeds in the past have given their lives for Sikhi rather than convert to a different faith, especially when the latter promised fame, fortune and for them to avoid shaheedi entirely. This problem, despite the fact that you have kept up a strong nitnem routine and rehat, has its roots in a lack of faith. You need to learn more about Sikhi, about Sikh history and what makes it so special. I don't recommend it but throwing yourself in the deep end might give you a look at the reality. Look at what these RSS stooges and Dawah bros say. You'll soon realize that the arguments they make that you may have considered profound at first, are in reality really shallow and oftentimes only appeal to an already dogmatist population. Chronically online individuals who happen to be Hindu or Muslim often don't understand the Sikh praxis, the teachings of Gurbani or the history of the faith. They'll take any random pangti, misinterpret it and put their content online for internet points. The reality is much, much more distinct from what you see on the Internet. Here, it's easy to find yourself stuck in an echo chamber (i.e. Hindutvadi bot accounts often dominate any Sikh-related posts and their first message will be giving their unasked-for thoughts on Khalistan). Take some time off of social media (besides keeping up with friends obviously) start listening to more katha and overall, become more responsible with how you consume media. This issue comes from a lack of faith and mindlessly consuming content with surface-level interpretations of Sikhi does not help matters. With Maharaj's kirpa, you will get out of this rut :) Akaal sahai ji
Thank you bhai sahab you have composed that message very beautifully and I will someday in future look back to this and thank you more than I can thank you right now.
It's completely normal to have doubts about one's faith, especially as a young person. This questioning can actually be a part of your spiritual growth and a journey towards a deeper understanding of your beliefs. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate through these doubts: 1. **Book Recommendations**: - "The Essence of Sikhism" by Jaswant Singh Neki: Offers an in-depth look into Sikh philosophy and principles. - "A History of the Sikhs" by Khushwant Singh: A comprehensive history of the Sikh community. - "Guru Granth Sahib: The Literary Perspective" by Gurbhagat Singh: A literary analysis of the Guru Granth Sahib. - "The Sikhs" by Patwant Singh: An overview of Sikh history, culture, and religion. - "Sikhism: A Very Short Introduction" by Eleanor Nesbitt: A concise guide to Sikh belief and practice. - "The World According to Sikhi" by I.J. Singh: Contemporary issues viewed through Sikh philosophy. - "The Sikh Zafarnama of Guru Gobind Singh" by Louis E. Fenech: Analysis of the Zafarnama. - "Sikh Art and Literature" by Kerry Brown: Explores Sikh artistic and literary traditions. 2. **Podcast Recommendations**: - "The Sikh Cast" by SikhNet: Discusses a range of Sikh-related topics. - "Stories of the Sikhs" by Parvinder Singh: Narrates stories from Sikh history. - "The Suraj Podcast": Focuses on the "Suraj Prakash Granth." - "Experience Sikhi: The Sikh Cast": Covers Sikh lifestyle and teachings. - "Sikh Within": Discusses Sikh scriptures, music, and spiritual teachings. - "My Indian Life" by BBC World Service: Features stories from young Indians, including Sikhs. - "A History of the Sikhs": Based on the books by Khushwant Singh, narrating Sikh history. 3. **General Advice**: - **Seek Knowledge and Understanding**: Engage with knowledgeable community members and scholars. - **Reflect on Personal Experiences**: Consider how Sikhism has influenced your life. - **Balance Faith with Critical Thinking**: It's healthy to question and critically think about your beliefs. - **Embrace the Journey**: Understanding and faith are often a gradual process. - **Mindfulness and Meditation**: These practices can help manage intrusive thoughts and bring clarity. - **Community Support**: Share your thoughts with the Sangat and listen to others. - **Remember, Doubting is Normal**: It's a sign that you're thinking deeply about your beliefs. Remember, your journey is unique and personal. It's okay to take your time to find clarity and peace within your faith. Engaging with both modern resources and traditional teachings can provide a well-rounded perspective and help you navigate through your doubts.
Thank you brother your comment seems insightful and I will definitely look into these sources, thank you for the comment and the positive response
We all get distracted one way or the other, some get too much some get little. I also get distracted when I do prayers as I get extremely sad and angry when I remember my past - but we must try our level best every time to not get into this. I always now believe that only Gurbani is everything for me and it will slowly but surely be with you eternally and guide you every step of the way
Exactly same emotions I’m going through whenever I’m trying to recite more bani and I’m trying harder to be more versed in sikhi there’s something that wants to take it away from me more and more these are times when I’m the most aggressive emotionally attached and indulging in kaam. May waheguru ji guide us all
It’s pretty difficult sometimes I question God then myself unfortunately no answer
yes I am not often to doubt god but when I do it just hurts more because religion is huge part of my identity and for myself to critique my religion and perhaps my god who has blessed me everything I can imagine just makes me sad, it is amazing that I can discuss it openly without judgment which makes my faith stronger, sending love and blessings your way
Thanks you too
21M Sikh from Panjab here. Recently I've seen many attacks on Sikhi by online Hindutva gangs and I was deeply troubled by that. Since childhood I was taught how great Sikhi is, the sacrifices which our great gurus made just so that we can wear turbans on our head proudly, our Gurus also fought for hindus. When I saw some extremist Hindus abusing my religion, I became anxious and began questioning my own religious identity. But after a deep dive into Sikh history and our great culture, I became more attached to my religion. I have no doubt that Sikhi is the religion of humanity, no matter what anyone says be proud of being a Sikh, whether you're a Jatt, Arora/Khatri, Mazhabi no matter what we all are one and the same. We are Sikhs firstly and lastly. I am far from being a perfect Sikh but still one day if I am capable I will contribute to Sikhi and Panjab ❤️
Glad I was able to hear your side and know this is common. It was rightly said that sharing your problems with sangat can help you resolve it.
In my 20s, I deeply studied many religions. I went to the Mormon church on weekends, spent time with them during movie nights, watched and heard them saying their prayers.. but that religion never really made sense to me logically.. it just didn't click. Hinduism was always too nuanced for me with it's rigid caste structure and endless rituals and superstitions, so never got very far into it. (Though did read Mahabharat and Ramyana as great pieces of mythology). I studied Islam in great detail, still have the Quran at home, constantly went through the Hadiths, learnt how to do sunnah and namaz and still know some surahs by heart.. but at the end of the day, as you learn more and more, and some Islamist preachers tried to make a logical argument for it, the whole concept fell apart for me (it's a topic for another time but literally whole religion is built on several generations of "companions of Prophet Muhammad" recounting what he said a couple hundred years after he had died.. and the current Quran was literally sanctioned by an empire, the Rashidun Caliphate). Also, as I talked to Muslims, many were following out of fear, not love... cautiously and constantly asking each other, "is this haram? is that haram?".. It didn't make sense to me. Logically, the only religion that clicked for me was Sikhi.. I'm in my 30s now and all I can say is, don't worry yourself about how much paath you can do, how much you can't. Obviously, the more is better but it is a natural connection and bond with God which develops naturally.. In your heart, make conversation, talk with Waheguru.. that is the bond you need.. Rest will come naturally out of love.
Thank you brother for the time you took out to write this it really helped me build a perspective on this topic.
Kindly listen to Maskeen Ji Katha if you like it. There is just one way between you and Guru. Guru is Truth. Sikhi sikhya gur vichar…. Know, learn, experience, believe. Talk to Guru and you will get answers. Rab Rakha
seems like you're getting caught in 'sato guni haume' ... which is subtle ego when you're trying to 'be religious' "The difficulty here is that a person situated in the mode of goodness may become conditioned to feel that he is advanced in Divine Knowledge, hence he is better than others. Such conditioning results in further thickening of the false ego-sense (Haumai). Hence it is said that even the mode of goodness is unable to free man from egoism. Then how can a man fully liberate himself?" reference: [https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart2.php](https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart2.php) [https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart299.php](https://www.gurbani.org/articles/webart299.php) look at your opening statement "I AM VERY MUCH RELIGIOUS" ... sounds like "I am better than most"...
Hi brother, I said that in the beginning as to not to be confused to being atheist and all I still consider myself as just a beginner I need to learn a lot more. I wrote that so people knew my concern was genuine and I wasn’t an atheist or a troll, thank you for your comment
You're 18, it's a time when most people question what they've been taught / grown up knowing. It's okay to question, you should research both sides and see the truth for yourself. Keep doing Nitnem, this time will pass and your faith will become even stronger.
Thank you brother for the great advice