What are the distinctive features of Sikhism?
Each prophet gives some light and message to the world. Guru Nanak, the Founder of Sikhism, and his nine successors made a distinct contribution to religion and religious thought. Sikhism may be distinguished from other religions from three stand-points: philosophy, community or institution and physical appearance. From the philosophical stand-point, the contribution of Sikhism may be called Naam Marg. Guru Nanak emphasized the need for man’s devotion to the Timeless Almighty. He illustrates the attributes of God in his Mul-Mantra. He asks man to dedicate himself, day and night to the remembrance of God and His Name. The Guru also gave to his followers the form of a community with certain institutions such as Deg, Teg, and Fateh. By Deg is meant the system of community kitchen (Langar) maintained by contributions of the Sikhs. Everyone is to donate one-tenth (Daswandh) of his income. Teg, is the sword or Bhagwati represents power, which was necessary to preserve freedom of religious wo
