What is Sikhi's position on the role of women
Guidance from Gurbani
Sikhi teaches that women are equal to men in all aspects of life, both spiritually and socially. The Guru Granth Sahib emphasizes that all human beings, regardless of gender, are manifestations of the Divine Light and are equally capable of achieving spiritual liberation. Guru Nanak Dev Ji challenged the prevailing social norms of his time that demeaned women, asking how one could speak ill of those who give birth to kings and prophets. Women are considered the foundation of society, through whom humanity continues. They are encouraged to participate fully in religious congregations (Sangat), lead prayers, perform Kirtan, and take part in all religious ceremonies. The Sikh Rehat Maryada, the Sikh Code of Conduct, affirms this equality by stating that men and women are equal partners in all spheres of life and that no distinction is to be made between them.
Sources & Citations
“From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married. Woman becomes his friend; through woman, the future generations come. When his woman dies, he seeks another woman; to woman he is bound. So why call her bad? From her, kings are born. From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be none. O Nanak, only the True Lord is without a woman. That mouth which praises the Lord continually is blessed and beautiful.”
“Why forget from your mind the One who created and sustains all?”
“The Sikh man and woman are equal partners in all spheres of life. No distinction is to be made between them.”
“Any Sikh man or woman who has taken Amrit and keeps the Rehat (discipline) may perform the Ardas.”
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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.