Different paths: The Guru also tells us: “Where have the Hindus and Muslims come from? Who put them on their different paths?
So it is accepted that God intended for there to be different paths for human salvation, HOWEVER, the Guru has also criticised some of the practises followed by the devotees such as: 3. Fasting & other rituals: : “Fasting, daily rituals, and austere self-discipline – those who keep the practice of these, are rewarded with less than a shell.” (SGGS p216) 4. Ceremonial Marks: : “Around your neck is a rosary, and on your forehead is a sacred mark; upon your head is a turban, and you wear two loin cloths. If you knew the nature of God, you would know that all of these beliefs and rituals are in vain.” (SGGS p470) It is clear that the Gurus do not accept that rituals like fasting, circumcision, shaving the head, ceremonial marks, etc will please God even a little bit and so these rituals have always been criticised. The discrimination against women; against lower castes, etc have always been objected to by the Gurus. So when the Sikhs criticise these practises, it because they are unfair EV
