are same sex relationships allowed?
Guidance from Gurbani
The Guru Granth Sahib focuses on the spiritual union of the individual soul with the Divine, emphasizing virtues, devotion, and righteous living. It does not directly address or prohibit same-sex relationships. The teachings encourage all individuals to live a life of truth, compassion, contentment, humility, and love, free from lust, anger, greed, attachment, and ego. The Sikh Rehat Maryada outlines the code of conduct for Sikhs, including the institution of Anand Karaj (Sikh marriage). It defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman, stating, 'A Sikh man and woman should be joined in wedlock by Anand Karaj' (Sikh Rehat Maryada, Chapter V, Article XVIII, Section (a)). The focus in Gurbani is on the spiritual journey and the qualities of the soul, which is considered genderless.
Sources & Citations
“A Sikh man and woman should be joined in wedlock by Anand Karaj.”
“The soul is neither male nor female; it is absorbed in the True One.”
“O Nanak, by His Command, all forms came into being. No one can describe what His Command is. By His Command, all creatures are born, and by His Command, they die.”
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This guidance is drawn exclusively from the Guru Granth Sahib and the Sikh Rehat Maryada. If you believe a citation is inaccurate, please let us know.