The Sikhs; a colorful and controversial people about whom little is generally known; have been the subject of much hypothetical speculation. Their non-conformist behavior; except to their own traditions; and their fierce independence; even to demanding autonomy; have recently attracted world-wide attention. Hew McLeod; internationally known scholar of Sikh studies; provides a just and accurate description in his introduction to this religious community from northern India now numbering about sixteen million people; exploring their history; doctrine; and literature.The Sikhs begins by giving an overview of the people's history; then covers the origins of the Sikh tradition; dwelling on controversies surrounding the life and doctrine of the first Master; Guru Nanak (1469-1539). The book surveys the subsequent life of the community with emphasis on the founding of the Khalsa; the order that gives to Sikhs the insignia by which they are best known. The remaining sections concern Sikh doctrine; the problem of who should be regarded as a Sikh; and a survey of Sikh literature. Finally; the book considers the present life of the community―its dispersion around the world to Asia; Australasia; North America; Africa; and Europe; and its involvement in the current trials of the Punjab. Sikh culture is believed to have been settled and unchanging from the time of the Gurus onwards.The Sikhs; a major new work by a leading authority; reveals that this is a very misleading view. McLeod treats a variety of questions sympathetically and in so doing he establishes a new understanding for students of religion and for all those interested in current events in India.
#596554 in Books Palgrave Macmillan 2012-10-16 2012-10-02Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.51 x .70 x 5.49l; .90 #File Name: 0230574831320 pages
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