"Truth is higher than everything,
But higher still is truthful living"(Guru Nanak, the 1st Sikh prophet)
Unlike many other Eastern philosophies which preach asceticism and escapism, the Sikh religion exists as a faith of life-affirmation. A Sikh regards the world not as a place of suffering, but as a meaningful creation of God wherein noble, truthful, and selfless actions can bring a person closer to realizing Him. Sikhism preaches universal equality, and therefore, regards all religions and people as equal before the eyes of God. A Sikh is enjoined to rise above ego, live a truthful family life, share earnings with the less fortunate, and, as a human being, work toward progress on the individual and social level.
THE BASIC BELIEFS OF SIKHS The Mool Mantar (literally, the root verse; the first hymn composed by Guru Nanak) sums up the basic belief of the Sikhs. Guru Granth Sahib begins with the Mool Mantar. Every Sikh is expected to recite it daily. The English translation is given below:
| Ik Onkaar | There is only one God |
| Sat Naam | His Name is Truth |
| Karta Purkh | He is the Creator |
| Nir Bhau | He is without fear |
| Nir Vair | He is without hate |
| Akaal Moorat | He is beyond time (Immortal) |
| Ajooni | He is beyond birth and death |
| Saibhang | He is self-existent |
