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Interfaith Cooperation - a Matter of Faith for Sikhs
noted that not only Hindus but many Muslims had started to gather around him. The Ninth Guru, Siri Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib, sacrificed his life for the right of the Hindus to wear the sacred thread and the saffron mark on their forehead even though he did not believe in those rituals himself. Siri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib writes about it as follows:
"He protected their (right to wear) the sacred thread and the saffron mark. He did this great act in kalyug. He did this for the sake of the sadhus: he gave his life and did not express pain. He did this for Dharam. He gave up his head but not his determination.'
The story of Bhai Ghanaiya Ji, a Sikh, providing water to the wounded enemy soldiers after a battle is well-known. When some Sikhs complained about this, upon questioning by Siri Guru Gobind Sahib, Ghanaiya Ji is said to have replied:
'Everywhere I see Your form, I see no other. You pervade all equally. I cannot tell friend from foe. In all places I see Your form. I do not see any difference among people.'
During the period of Sikh rule in Punjab, the people of all religions felt free to practice their faiths and to participate in administrative and political affairs of the state at all levels of responsibility. There was no pressure on any one to embrace the Sikh religion.
Sikh Gurdwaras have always been open to everybody regardless of religion, race, colour or caste. Gurdwaras have free kitchens that are open to all and everyone is treated as equal. Harmandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) has doors on all four sides signifying acceptance of visitors from all the four corners of the world. The Gurus spoke against hypocrisy and false emphasis on outer formalisms and practices of every religion but respected the right of all to profess their faith and serve mankind in their own ways. During many ups and downs in their history, the Sikhs have always respected the scriptures and places of Worship of others. Many Hindus, to this day, routinely attend Sikh worship.
Recently, there has been a recognition among members of various traditions of the need for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Everywhere this has happened, Sikhs, dedicated by faith to inter-religious respect, understanding and cooperation, have joined in enthusiastically, not only in celebration with joint worship, but also in raising their voices with others against violence and injustice.
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