Sikhs and Sikhism: A View with a Bias

Sikhs are now a visible presence all over the globe. Their young, logical and practical religion invites considerable interest and attention. Dr. I.J. Singh has written a thoughtful series of essays on issues and problems confronting the Sikhs at the end of the twentieth century. As a Sikh who has lived much of his life (over three decades) in a non-Sikh milieu in the United States, he reflects on what it means to be a Sikh, the import of Sikh rituals in daily life, the interaction of Sikh beliefs and practices with those of other religions, and the experiences common to all Sikh immigrants. These perceptive essays challenge the Sikhs and intrigue the non-Sikhs. Religious, historical, social and political issues are debated. The age old traditions and practices of the Sikhs are recast in language and concepts that are contemporary and relevant. Forthrightly but tactfully they engage issues that impact on life everyday, but without neglecting the magic and meaning of tradition. The essays run the gamut from the essence of Parshad to drug abuse; from Sikh symbols and Khalistan to racism and sexism.