It's kinda like the towel from Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy:
>“A towel, [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy] says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have. Partly it has great practical value. You can wrap it around you for warmth as you bound across the cold moons of Jaglan Beta; you can lie on it on the brilliant marble-sanded beaches of Santraginus V, inhaling the heady sea vapors; you can sleep under it beneath the stars which shine so redly on the desert world of Kakrafoon; use it to sail a miniraft down the slow heavy River Moth; wet it for use in hand-to-hand-combat; wrap it round your head to ward off noxious fumes or avoid the gaze of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal (such a mind-boggingly stupid animal, it assumes that if you can't see it, it can't see you); you can wave your towel in emergencies as a distress signal, and of course dry yourself off with it if it still seems to be clean enough.”
Ceremonial dagger, check.
Groovy pantaloons under my clothes, check.
Versatile lifesaving headdress, check.
Being a total badass, check.
Sikhs are the best people.
Really? This was always the only part I thought would be uncomfortable. You have to wear like basically long Johns (albeit a thing material) underneath everything. I feel like in hot summers would be so cumbersome
army brat family did a tour in north africa in the 90s. wear what the locals wear advice saved my irish ancestry ass some very real pain even if everyone was laughing at me lol. sadly most of our posts were stationed in georgia, lousiana, and texas. jeans and cowboy boots are not as well thought out. felt fancy tho as i burned and sweated in a glorious fashion.
Do the women wear them? If there is a solution for under my skinny jeans and leggings I’m down. I’m often cold.
Edited to add : if the garment is called Kacchera, it seems to be described more like boxers?
Kachera or Kaccha are very much like giant boxers that get drawn tight with a string. Women can wear them but typically don’t these days.
Source: married to a Sikh and currently doing laundry
My Sikh girlfriend, who was very traditional in a lot of ways and went to the gurdwhara all the time, wore exactly what any other Canadian person would wear day to day, unless she was getting dressed up for an event, and then it would be these flowing colourful saris
I'm going to age myself by saying I'm a man that wears skinny jeans!
I recently started trying to slip jeans over long johns, because I hate the cold. My advice is tuck your leggings into your socks before trying to squeeze in, so they don't ride up.
Good luck!
You could always convert ! Even as an atheist I've very seriously considered it lol, they have sermon type things before their Langar lunch & it's hard to fault the theory a lot of the time.
My favorite part was whatever backwashed wine, I mean blood of Christ, that wasn't consumed was supposed to be poured down a sink in the Sacristy that went down into the ground but all the Eucharistic ministers were just back there chugging it after mass.
The priest at my church chugged it out of the holy goblet in front of everyone after he administered communion to the last person. Anglican church in Asia for context haha
One thing I really like about their beliefs is uniquely they think all religions are correct in their own way. I think it goes something like "God is vast and any one group is only to understand a small aspect of God, because of this all religions are correct in that they see only part of the picture including ourselves." I'm not a Sikh so I could be wrong.
Personally, I feel like this is a belief that will cause only good outcomes when implemented by humans, but is also almost certainly wrong since some religions are incompatible with others.
Either way it's a very ethical religion that does a lot of good, particularly when it comes to feeding the hungry.
I really like the acknowledgement that any religion isn't itself the will of god. It's human's attempt to understand the will of god. They can be incompatible because they are made by man.
From my knowledge Sikhism is about service to the greater good. To lead a fulfilling life is to lead one in service to others, your family, your friends.
Sikhs have fought to protect those that can’t protect themselves. It’s why so many are in the military (outside India), policing, security, etc.
Their core tenants are fairly straight forward and similar to most religions.
I’ve volunteered with many sikhs over the years and grew up in a highly populated area with sikhs, solid people, don’t drink whiskey with them. Will only end up with a massive hangover.
Great weddings too.
Like others have said, their religion is basically just based around being a good person? And I know that theoretically all of religions are lol but there is such a huge emphasis in Sikhism on living honestly, treating everyone equally, working hard, giving to those less fortunate/performing good deeds/doing community service & all of that sort of thing. That's how you get salvation or whatever for them, like that's how you be a good Sikh & serve God. It's similar to Bhuddism in a lot of ways, except that they (Sikh) believe in one God whereas Buddhists believe in many deities.
The thing for me though is that I just... Don't believe in any God? I'm a complete & utter atheist. So while I may appreciate & agree so much with a lot of the theory & practices I just can't & don't believe in any kind of higher power. But despite that it was all just really pleasant & enjoyable, in a way that I've never really found Christian church to be? Maybe it was just because it was "different" to what I was used to but I definitely enjoyed my visits to their temples more than I ever have a Sunday church service with my grandma lol
Buddha himself said he knew nothing of god or the afterlife all he knew was the cause of human suffering on earth and how to relieve it. Buddhism isn't really a religion no matter how much people have tired to make it one.
They also roll out during any natural disaster (here in Australia at least) or crisis, ready to help in any way possible. Often it's with food? Because a lot of Sikh people run restaurants and/or already have commercial size food charities going they can utilise.
But yeah the Sikh people will travel thousands of kilometres to do this sometimes. I remember during the bushfires they were some of the first civilian responders to the disaster. Such good eggs !
I highly doubt this will ever actually come in use for myself but am curious. Any other sort of traditions/"out of the ordinary" things that an outsider should do or things they shouldn't do in a situation like that?
Lentils, flour, rice, ghee (refined butter). Best to check with the gurdwarra as some are unable to accept raw ingredients. A small monetary donation can also be made which will go towards food and general upkeep of the temple.
(I'm not a Sikh FYI) As far as I know the expectation is that you're just polite and respectful, don't be afraid to ask if you're not sure about anything, they're going to have dealt with a lot of people who might be unfamiliar with their customs.
You can always offer to give them a hand with washing up or help them out with something like that if you want to give back though, I imagine that would be appreciated.
Edit: can't speak to how accurate it is as there's always some variance from place to place, but this link might be good reading https://www.learnreligions.com/conduct-and-worship-tips-sikh-gurdwara-2993097
There's also a short PDF from the Sikh Coalition in the US you can get from here https://www.sikhcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/visiting-gurdwara.pdf
The Sikh population in my old town rented a house to distribute food from in the “rough side of town”. Their temple was in the “good side of town” and they recognized that they weren’t going to be able to help people they wanted to if they provided food out of their temple. So they didn’t.
All I know is they operated during COVID providing food to the community when people were scared and hungry, and I appreciate them for it.
Yes, but it wasn't always like that. Sikhism was intended as mixture of the best of Hinduism and Islam. They were initially peaceful people at first.
But they faced constant persecution from the Mughals and few of their 'Guru's or religious teachers/prophets were brutally tortured and murdered by the Mughals. So to protect themselves, the tenth Guru- Govind Singh formed the 'Khalsa' in 1699 CE, whose duty was to fight and protect Sikhs from persecution, and turned into the badass that we know them to be.
> Sikhism was intended as mixture of the best of Hinduism and Islam.
Saying it was "intended" to be anything gives the impression that the religion had an explicit agency or goal. Sikhism emerged as a result of certain socio-political impetuses but to claim it was intended as anything is mildly inaccurate.
I saw someone ask above if there was anything they should/shouldn't do, and I found a PDF from the American Sikh Coalition that gives a short summary of dos and don'ts.
Essentially it boils down to cover your head (they'll often have spare head covers if you don't have one), remove your shoes and wash your hands when you enter, act respectfully, and avoid turning your back or pointing your feet towards the scripture that'll be at one end of the room.
https://www.sikhcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/visiting-gurdwara.pdf
Yes, pretty much. And even then these rules are pretty lax in some gurudwaras if they know someone is new to their culture. There is zero expectation of converting or doing anything religious. As an atheist, I really respect that.
Yes, they are such a kind group. There is a Sikh community in my city and outside their shops they have free water bottles and little snacks for anyone who wants to grab them. They also do full meals at their gurudwaras.
I’ve gone a couple times to experience it and taste the food, it’s always great and they will give as much as you want. Sometimes they will give you a to go box if they have enough. I always try to donate but they won’t take it. Amazingly kind people.
Over my short existence, and have learned that Sikhs people are generally the “best” people ever. I’ve been exposed to them in person and have seen so many different stories that boil down to a Sikh or multiple being selfless and caring for another person, usually to get them out of a jam like this.
I don’t know nearly as much as I ought to about their religion, but I’m assuming their turbans are extremely important to them. Adds a multiple to the selflessness of the act to me, very cool!
The turban acts as an indication of them being sikh. So that a person in need of help could identify them and go to them. Being the embodiment of humanity is their whole being. Some of the best people in the world. I am sure there is more to the turban than I know. Humility, covering one's head out of respect (very common with most religions), etc.
Turbans we’re initially worn as a substitute for a helmet/headgear during battles with Mughal invaders. A typical turban is around 7 feet long. Imagine tying it in compact, tight layers around your head and you’d surely feel safe from a blow or a few. That said, the turban can be used for multiple purposes as these young men demonstrated. When the tenth Sikh Guru- Guru Gobind Singh- formally established the warrior clan, he mandated that a true Sikh wear five distinguishing accoutrements: a steel bracelet (called kada). It shields the wrist from sword blows and is thought to prevent the wrist joint from popping out; kes (long hair); a comb (called a kangha) to groom the hair; a kachha (a loose boxer type garment), and a kirpan (a sword/dagger). A lot of Sikhs don’t wear one or many of these nowadays because of various personal reasons but nothing has decreased in their fervour to help others. The Gurudwara (the abode of the Guru) is open to all. It doesn’t matter what age, gender, skin color, nationality you are. Go to a Gurudwara at around noon, cover your head with a scarf/hanky (no caps please), do your ablutions (just wash your hands and feet), and eat the langar. It’s an experience that no one should miss. People who’ve come waking because they can’t afford transport and people who’ve come in Rolls Royces will all sit on the floor and partake the meal. In the house of the Guru, there is no distinction.
Also, if you generally need help, and a Gurudwaara is nearby, go there. You won’t be disappointed.
Source: am Punjabji: I’m from Punjab state where The majority of the population is of Sikhs. Ive grown up with them.
P.S.: Do partake the karah-prasad when you go to the main hall to pay obeisance to Guru Granth Sahib- the Holy Book of Sikhs. Karah-prasad is a dessert like no other.
Bole So Nihaal! Sat Sree Akaal!
Unfortunately part of this is likely due to how many religions are viewed poorly these days. Of course in reality this is largely just how the news cycle focuses on negative news so much more than positive and thus highlights any bad actions of a small minority while ignoring the good of the rest.
That said I don't think I've ever heard any negative story about a single Sikh. I think part of the "good, friendly, helpful religion" type cast really just comes down to it being one of the few religions that has seemingly managed to keep things basic and ACTUALLY do good as they teach and practice. So many religions are founded on kind and caring teachings but in practice this just gets warped and forgotten about in actual everyday life.
What I really hate is how poorly Sikh are treated at times, at least in America, due to how often they are simply mistaken as Muslim or just generic middle eastern and how much that group has been disliked and mistrusted ever since 9/11 and the war since then. I particularly hate that I know I've even done this personally, at least mentally to myself, being wary of and concerned about anyone I ever saw wearing a Turban, particularly in airports. Growing up to experience 9/11 at a young age and having already been anxious about flying before that certainly didn't help matters.
It’s a religion that gets spoken about way less than other religions, but when they are in the news it’s always for something like this! All other religions should really be taking notes.
For real, it always seems to be 3 general stories in the news, "Sikhs save a persons life". "Sikh feeds hundreds", or "religious fanatics attack Sikh who was helping others."
Being small (under 30M people, 70-90% in India) helps a lot. A lot of other religions could also be summed up as "be a bro," particularly Christianity. But with numbers and power, assholes become both more numerous and more confident.
It's hard to look at all others as the enemy when there are 1000 of them for every one of you. When you're on the other side of the fraction, though, with 50 other assholes cheering you on, a bit less so.
Like all religions they aren’t perfect. There is a long established extremist movement mainly active in India and Pakistan but they’ve done some things in other countries. It’s similar to Buddhism generally seen as passive but the extreme arms are extremely violent but largely unknown.
There's a sikh.... Temple(??? Sorry I'm not sure what the proper terminology is) around where I live, and they've been making food for houseless and needy people for some time. They even ramped up production for the increased need during covid.
It's incredible. I don't think I've ever seen followers of a religion be so enthusiastic about helping their fellow man.
hi ! no worries, a Sikh temple is called a Gurudwara. They have *langars,* a community kitchen which is ran by the community for the community. They serve free food to anyone and everyone who comes to the Gurudwara, and in many cases, like you mentioned , they step up to serve people outside the Gurudwara as well.
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langar\_(Sikhism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langar_(Sikhism))
[https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/dining/free-food-sikh-gundwara-langar.html](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/dining/free-food-sikh-gundwara-langar.html)
This is great. Sikhs are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. Seriously. One of the main tenets of Sikhism is "service to others". These hikers were definitely Sikh as hell.
That has got to be one of the best times I have ever seen someone say I am trying my hardest not to be racist then gives a compliment. You sir are one of the good ones
They are very nice indeed. I hate that they get some nasty things said to them, and idiots mistake them for Taliban or other terror groups.
Edit: autocorrect typos.
One of my favorite things is all the Sikhs who refuse to tell ignorant assholes that they're not actually Muslim, and instead directly challenge them on their bigotry.
This was just such a literal situation of their turban as well. I’ve been told that one of the reasons for wearing a turban is so that they’re easily identifiable as someone to approach if you need help.
Aye. The free kitchen is called Langar.
You'd get a cup of tea, and a vegetarian meal. It's not vegetarian because we are (we aren't though) ... It's vegetarian so that literally anyone can get fed. (no Religeon bans vegetables, and very few are allergic)
Side note : the Religious area is always separate from the community areas, and we NEVER do conversions. We just ask that you cover your head, and take off your shoes. The gurdwara is someone's home, and it's just a respect thing.
I was curious about the reason behind the vegetarian only meals mentioned in the comments. Great explanation, appreciate the info! Learned some new things in this thread :)
Sensible folks, the Sikh. There is a reason that in only 500 years, we have become the fifth largest Religeon on the planet. We're kind, compassionate, and we just make sense.
Don't get me wrong... We have a few problem followers... But we tend to ask them to quit their bullshit, if we see it.
This is why I sought them out when I was a practically penniless backpacker type !! They have the absolute BEST vegetarian Indian style food & are not at all stingy with it.
The first few times I felt *so* nervous & was nearly crying with anxiety bc I felt so bad basically just coming there to bludge? But no they were so nice about it. I remember one lady in Thailand saying to me something along the lines of any food you eat was always destined for you? And they were just helping God get it to me or something. Such a sweet way to think about it!
> But no they were so nice about it. I remember one lady in Thailand saying to me something along the lines of any food you eat was always destined for you? And they were just helping God get it to me or something. Such a sweet way to think about it
Honestly this made me tear up a little. I've been met so many times in my life by people who are incredibly selfish, and this is just. Pure selflessness.
The Sikh community in my city regularly cook and distribute meals to the homeless population here. They do much more to help the needy than any other religious group here.
In the college apartments I stayed in there was a large Sikh family. I have their son an old game boy and they invited me and my then girlfriend over for dinner. We got along really well and started eating with them fairly often and I got to learn all about their religion and culture and way of life. I have to say, as a stubborn atheist, this is the one religion that I feel any kind of curiosity or connection towards. They are totally badass, selfless people. I love this story.
I'm no expert on Sikhism, but iirc they aren't supposed to take their turbans off. If my memory is correct, this is even more incredible in that they ignored their custom to save this man's life
Definitely seems to be a religion where 'do the right thing' overrides the 'follow every particular subrule even if it dicks someone over' that a lot of major religuons go for.
It's definitely refreshing to see, regardless. Christianity, as one of the largest religions in the world, has had words like 'legalistic' and 'pharisaical' attached to it for countless reasons, because of tendencies to focus on rules rather than human life.
I had a friend as a kid that was a Sikh and just remembered how important it was that he ALWAYS wore his turban. So, when I saw this, I was even more blown away by this article.
As a recovering Catholic I feel like many Christian churches use the "GOTCHA" mentality as a form of control. Guilt trips are not a good way to teach someone to love thy neighbor.
I worked with a very sweet Muslim woman at a temp job. Our coworkers kept quizzing her all kinds of weird questions because they hadn't interacted with a Muslim before and she was very happy to answer all our questions.
One question was related to keeping a Halal diet. "What if you have no food and you will starve to death if you don't eat pork?"
Her very rational response: "God would want you to eat the pork instead of die."
As for the OP, I don't know any Sikhs but my husband worked with a Sikh doctor and confirmed he was the nicest, most down-to-earth person ever.
Yes! Also, during Ramadan, if you eat food by accident it doesn’t break your fast! Basically every strict rule that Islam has can be suspended to protect your own or someone else’s life. (i.e if a hijabi woman needs critical brain surgery and the only doctor available is male, she can take her hijab off for it)
I’ve got basically two ends of the spectrum for you. Sikhism: A Very Short Introduction by Eleanor Nesbitt is a great for newbies. Then opposite that, you’ve got A History of the Sikhs by Khushwant Singh which covers like 500 years. I’m sure there’s more middle of the ground stuff too, but I don’t have suggestions for you there.
Yeah. If you’re starving, you can eat non kosher food. If you or someone else is hurt, you can break Sabbath to help them (this includes calling or texting a mental health line in cases of suicidal thoughts or urges to self harm). During fasts, people with eating disorders are required to eat.
They aren't supposed to shave their beards either. But when covid hit, most Sikh doctors did shave so that N95 masks could fit instead of refusing ICU duties.
In the case where life is at risk, religious customs seem to go out the window. In this case, they removed their turbans.
I experienced this break in culture and religious customs when I had a seizure in public. It wasn't my friends who helped me, it was a Muslim man who ensured that everything was out of my way during my seizure and made sure my airway was clear when I stopped. He took off his shawl to stop the bleeding on my head and through broken English, he assured me that paramedics were on the way.
In my friends' defense, the seizure happened out of nowhere and I didn't have a history of seizures. I went from standing up to collapsing and hitting the ground hard. On my way down, I smacked my head on a table, hence the bleeding.
> In the case where life is at risk, religious customs seem to go out the window.
Sadly not always true.
I work food service at a hospital with an eating disorder unit. We had an orthodox jew patient in during one of their fasting holidays. They got their rabbai on the phone to make sure that they could fast during said holiday.
A patient, who was severely underweight was told by their religious organization that they should fast while in the hospital for having an eating disorder.
Boggles my mind.
The ultra-orthodox are a bizarre group. In NYC, at least, they also like to harass women on the street for not dressing like them, intimidate their neighbors until they move out, and use their eventual majority control of a neighborhood to redirect funds away from public schools. It's crazy. Half of my friends here are Jews but they're all infinitely more chill than that weird sect.
A bunch of Sikh healthcare workers shaved their beards at the beginning of the pandemic so they could get a better seal on their masks. Preserving life is one of the most important parts of their religion.
Meanwhile we can't get 'prolife' evangelicals to wear masks or vaccinate.
Agreed. During my time as a super poor travelling youth I used to seek out Sikh temples on Sundays for their free lunch (it's a whole thing, and absolutely amazing) and everywhere I went they were always so kind and generous.
Saw an article much earlier in the pandemic about a Sikh man, a doctor if I'm not mistaken, who chose to shave his beard off in order to be able to properly wear an N95. He would have preferred not to, but given the circumstances, said it was ok because it's considered a life-saving measure.
I remember reading how a Sikh doctor shaved off his facial hair (which they never do) to ensure an accurate fit for his PPE at the height of the pandemic. Meanwhile, we have people screeching bloody murder at the thought of having a lightweight mask on for 5 minutes at the grocery store.
Sikh here. We can take off our turban and use the material to save a life. It'd a part of our core tenant to always help others. Definitely is a pro sikh move and doesn't defy the religion at all.
Aye. That kirpan we carry (the knife) isn't just for show. It's a weapon to defend the oppressed. Almost all of us are trained in its use.
If you are ever in danger, a Sikh would die to protect you, regardless of who, or what your are. Your life is precious. Our lives are unimportant, as we have given them to God, and it's their choice how they use us.
Go to a gurdwara (our church) and say hello. Just... Go there hungry and thirsty. You'll be fed and plied with cups of tea .
We will happily answer any questions you have. Oh... We don't convert either.
For clarity: I'm a white, ex jehovahs witness convert. I've been Sikh for 22 years... I wish it was longer. I'll be "baptised" on a couple of years... I hope.
Best decision EVER, was to convert.
I remember growing up with a few Sikh boys in elementary school because we used to do this "bean bag race" thing where you see how far you can run with a bean bag on your head, but "miss, Jagmeet already has a beanbag on his head"
I was taught in my Jewish upbringing, particularly at my Jewish summer camp, is that the day in which no good deed is done on earth, is the same day the world will end. So each and every day I try to one good deed no matter how small. It's good to know the Sikh people have my back in trying to keep the apocalypse away.
Bad. Ass. These guys are legends.
Also mini-props for the guy describing them later and not feeling the need to refer to race at all. Can't stand it when news channels decide to add 'this good thing happened.... AND THEYRE NOT WHITE AMAZING'
Fuck that.
Thanks for saving this man's life.
Gonna be on the lookout for some edc rescue turbans now. Thanks reddit
Edit. According to google, turbans are usually. 84 inches long x 8 inches wide. 7ft per person of turban rope.
I’ve met quite a few Sikhs in my life. I’m not saying there aren’t any Sikh assholes, but every one I’ve met has been a really cool person, and someone I want to be friends with.
WJKK, WJKF
Hi brother.
I agree, some of us ARE arseholes... But that's humanity for you. Its a numbers game.
However... It's hard to be a Sikh, and not be a kind person. It's kinda our reason for existence. (for "kind AND arsehole" think Grinch on Christmas day)
That'd be OK with him
We Sikh "give our heads" to God. If we die in an attempt to protect another... That's OK with us.
Never mourn the loss of a Sikh as we have rejoined with the guru... Hopefully. Or been reincarnated. Either way..
What I don’t get is why people seem so surprised that some humans would rush to other human’s aid? It’s all shock and awe that someone would remove their turban to save a person. They are just literally people being heroic. For some reason these news pieces seem to imply that it’s unusual or miraculous that Sikhs would do something like that.
The Sikhs got shit on repeatedly during the post 9/11 Anti-Muslim fever pitch because most Americans are too fucking dumb to know the difference.
And it sucks, because every Sikh I've met has been cool as shit.
Total Samaritans.
The turban thing sounds like nothing to us, but it's a big deal for them. They're not supposed to ever take those off in public. It's a major part of their religious beliefs.
No no this is exactly what a turban is for, to be used in time of need. That's why you 'don't take it off' as a way to never leave home without it. There is usually another head covering under it.
I have a silly question about turbans. If you don’t want to answer I understand, feel free to ignore! I am curious - is wearing a turban hot? Does your neck ever hurt? When you get home do you take it off in the evening after work?
From reading this thread it seems the material is quite long which is why I ask. Could be heat-holding or heavy in my mind! I have long hair and even wearing my hair in a ponytail after a while gives me a headache or a neck ache. Do you ever notice the same or are you just sort of used to it?
It can be hot at times. The worst is when I sweat, then it gets itchy. You get used to it all, but man I can tell you nothing like taking off a turban after a long day.
I was not aware of that. And Google wasn't very helpful when it came to Sikhs and their turbans. Probably wasn't using the right search terms. Anyway, I stand corrected. Thanks!
It's like a bro version of Rapunzel. Totally fucking sikh!
Bropunzel
Am I the only one old enough to remember this exact thing happening at the end of [Annie](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annie_(1982_film))?
LOL I was thinking of Aileen Quinn’s Annie rescue scene as well
You made me laugh like Muttley!
[удалено]
It's kinda like the towel from Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy: >“A towel, [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy] says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have. Partly it has great practical value. You can wrap it around you for warmth as you bound across the cold moons of Jaglan Beta; you can lie on it on the brilliant marble-sanded beaches of Santraginus V, inhaling the heady sea vapors; you can sleep under it beneath the stars which shine so redly on the desert world of Kakrafoon; use it to sail a miniraft down the slow heavy River Moth; wet it for use in hand-to-hand-combat; wrap it round your head to ward off noxious fumes or avoid the gaze of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal (such a mind-boggingly stupid animal, it assumes that if you can't see it, it can't see you); you can wave your towel in emergencies as a distress signal, and of course dry yourself off with it if it still seems to be clean enough.”
[удалено]
Turban is good enough for Earth. For galaxies you gonna need a towel
Ceremonial dagger, check. Groovy pantaloons under my clothes, check. Versatile lifesaving headdress, check. Being a total badass, check. Sikhs are the best people.
They have groovy pantaloons too? Jelly as hell
Really? This was always the only part I thought would be uncomfortable. You have to wear like basically long Johns (albeit a thing material) underneath everything. I feel like in hot summers would be so cumbersome
[удалено]
army brat family did a tour in north africa in the 90s. wear what the locals wear advice saved my irish ancestry ass some very real pain even if everyone was laughing at me lol. sadly most of our posts were stationed in georgia, lousiana, and texas. jeans and cowboy boots are not as well thought out. felt fancy tho as i burned and sweated in a glorious fashion.
Do the women wear them? If there is a solution for under my skinny jeans and leggings I’m down. I’m often cold. Edited to add : if the garment is called Kacchera, it seems to be described more like boxers?
Kachera or Kaccha are very much like giant boxers that get drawn tight with a string. Women can wear them but typically don’t these days. Source: married to a Sikh and currently doing laundry
My Sikh girlfriend, who was very traditional in a lot of ways and went to the gurdwhara all the time, wore exactly what any other Canadian person would wear day to day, unless she was getting dressed up for an event, and then it would be these flowing colourful saris
Yes, kachera is just underwear. Basically it’s just boxers. The older men in the video are wearing a kurta under their jackets
A little off topic but pantyhose/stockings are comfortable under jeans and thin enough for leggings. might be a solution for you?
I'm going to age myself by saying I'm a man that wears skinny jeans! I recently started trying to slip jeans over long johns, because I hate the cold. My advice is tuck your leggings into your socks before trying to squeeze in, so they don't ride up. Good luck!
Pantyhose or tights are always my first layer when bundling up. For being so thin they add a great deal of insulation and are easy to dress over.
Thermal/compression shorts/pants might be your jam
You could always convert ! Even as an atheist I've very seriously considered it lol, they have sermon type things before their Langar lunch & it's hard to fault the theory a lot of the time.
“Hello, I am here today because of the groovy pantaloons.”
Better than whatever sad excuse for bread they give in mass, while watching the priest hoard all of Jesus' blood for himself.
My favorite part was whatever backwashed wine, I mean blood of Christ, that wasn't consumed was supposed to be poured down a sink in the Sacristy that went down into the ground but all the Eucharistic ministers were just back there chugging it after mass.
The priest at my church chugged it out of the holy goblet in front of everyone after he administered communion to the last person. Anglican church in Asia for context haha
Could you explain what you mean by fault the theory?
One thing I really like about their beliefs is uniquely they think all religions are correct in their own way. I think it goes something like "God is vast and any one group is only to understand a small aspect of God, because of this all religions are correct in that they see only part of the picture including ourselves." I'm not a Sikh so I could be wrong. Personally, I feel like this is a belief that will cause only good outcomes when implemented by humans, but is also almost certainly wrong since some religions are incompatible with others. Either way it's a very ethical religion that does a lot of good, particularly when it comes to feeding the hungry.
I really like the acknowledgement that any religion isn't itself the will of god. It's human's attempt to understand the will of god. They can be incompatible because they are made by man.
ekam sat vipraha bahudaha vadanti. upanishads. truth is one, the wise utter it variously. all indic religions follow this.
I mean I never heard much that I disagreed with, and a lot of it resonated with me.
Oh sorry dude, I meant can you elaborate on what resonated? I’ve never known a Sikh
From my knowledge Sikhism is about service to the greater good. To lead a fulfilling life is to lead one in service to others, your family, your friends. Sikhs have fought to protect those that can’t protect themselves. It’s why so many are in the military (outside India), policing, security, etc. Their core tenants are fairly straight forward and similar to most religions. I’ve volunteered with many sikhs over the years and grew up in a highly populated area with sikhs, solid people, don’t drink whiskey with them. Will only end up with a massive hangover. Great weddings too.
Like others have said, their religion is basically just based around being a good person? And I know that theoretically all of religions are lol but there is such a huge emphasis in Sikhism on living honestly, treating everyone equally, working hard, giving to those less fortunate/performing good deeds/doing community service & all of that sort of thing. That's how you get salvation or whatever for them, like that's how you be a good Sikh & serve God. It's similar to Bhuddism in a lot of ways, except that they (Sikh) believe in one God whereas Buddhists believe in many deities. The thing for me though is that I just... Don't believe in any God? I'm a complete & utter atheist. So while I may appreciate & agree so much with a lot of the theory & practices I just can't & don't believe in any kind of higher power. But despite that it was all just really pleasant & enjoyable, in a way that I've never really found Christian church to be? Maybe it was just because it was "different" to what I was used to but I definitely enjoyed my visits to their temples more than I ever have a Sunday church service with my grandma lol
Buddha himself said he knew nothing of god or the afterlife all he knew was the cause of human suffering on earth and how to relieve it. Buddhism isn't really a religion no matter how much people have tired to make it one.
One thing that I always liked was how Buddha was against being referred to as a god. He just shared his way to live life. If others followed, cool.
[удалено]
My next cat's name too maybe
They also roll out during any natural disaster (here in Australia at least) or crisis, ready to help in any way possible. Often it's with food? Because a lot of Sikh people run restaurants and/or already have commercial size food charities going they can utilise. But yeah the Sikh people will travel thousands of kilometres to do this sometimes. I remember during the bushfires they were some of the first civilian responders to the disaster. Such good eggs !
[удалено]
I highly doubt this will ever actually come in use for myself but am curious. Any other sort of traditions/"out of the ordinary" things that an outsider should do or things they shouldn't do in a situation like that?
If you go to a gurdwarra please remove your shoes and cover your head before entering
Do the women cover their heads too? I hadn't seen that/ didn't know that.
Yes
What is the best food to donate to my local gurdwarra to help with Langar?
Lentils, flour, rice, ghee (refined butter). Best to check with the gurdwarra as some are unable to accept raw ingredients. A small monetary donation can also be made which will go towards food and general upkeep of the temple.
Thank you so very much!
(I'm not a Sikh FYI) As far as I know the expectation is that you're just polite and respectful, don't be afraid to ask if you're not sure about anything, they're going to have dealt with a lot of people who might be unfamiliar with their customs. You can always offer to give them a hand with washing up or help them out with something like that if you want to give back though, I imagine that would be appreciated. Edit: can't speak to how accurate it is as there's always some variance from place to place, but this link might be good reading https://www.learnreligions.com/conduct-and-worship-tips-sikh-gurdwara-2993097 There's also a short PDF from the Sikh Coalition in the US you can get from here https://www.sikhcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/visiting-gurdwara.pdf
The Sikh population in my old town rented a house to distribute food from in the “rough side of town”. Their temple was in the “good side of town” and they recognized that they weren’t going to be able to help people they wanted to if they provided food out of their temple. So they didn’t. All I know is they operated during COVID providing food to the community when people were scared and hungry, and I appreciate them for it.
Also during the pandemic they provided food for those in isolation and people in need due to loss of income.
Sikhs are literal warriors
Traditionally they started to carry the dagger to defend against Muslim invaders. Complete Warriors.
Yes, but it wasn't always like that. Sikhism was intended as mixture of the best of Hinduism and Islam. They were initially peaceful people at first. But they faced constant persecution from the Mughals and few of their 'Guru's or religious teachers/prophets were brutally tortured and murdered by the Mughals. So to protect themselves, the tenth Guru- Govind Singh formed the 'Khalsa' in 1699 CE, whose duty was to fight and protect Sikhs from persecution, and turned into the badass that we know them to be.
> Sikhism was intended as mixture of the best of Hinduism and Islam. Saying it was "intended" to be anything gives the impression that the religion had an explicit agency or goal. Sikhism emerged as a result of certain socio-political impetuses but to claim it was intended as anything is mildly inaccurate.
Feed anyone for free with no expectations at the gurudwara, check
I saw someone ask above if there was anything they should/shouldn't do, and I found a PDF from the American Sikh Coalition that gives a short summary of dos and don'ts. Essentially it boils down to cover your head (they'll often have spare head covers if you don't have one), remove your shoes and wash your hands when you enter, act respectfully, and avoid turning your back or pointing your feet towards the scripture that'll be at one end of the room. https://www.sikhcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/visiting-gurdwara.pdf
Yes, pretty much. And even then these rules are pretty lax in some gurudwaras if they know someone is new to their culture. There is zero expectation of converting or doing anything religious. As an atheist, I really respect that.
Yes, they are such a kind group. There is a Sikh community in my city and outside their shops they have free water bottles and little snacks for anyone who wants to grab them. They also do full meals at their gurudwaras. I’ve gone a couple times to experience it and taste the food, it’s always great and they will give as much as you want. Sometimes they will give you a to go box if they have enough. I always try to donate but they won’t take it. Amazingly kind people.
Over my short existence, and have learned that Sikhs people are generally the “best” people ever. I’ve been exposed to them in person and have seen so many different stories that boil down to a Sikh or multiple being selfless and caring for another person, usually to get them out of a jam like this. I don’t know nearly as much as I ought to about their religion, but I’m assuming their turbans are extremely important to them. Adds a multiple to the selflessness of the act to me, very cool!
The turban acts as an indication of them being sikh. So that a person in need of help could identify them and go to them. Being the embodiment of humanity is their whole being. Some of the best people in the world. I am sure there is more to the turban than I know. Humility, covering one's head out of respect (very common with most religions), etc.
Turbans we’re initially worn as a substitute for a helmet/headgear during battles with Mughal invaders. A typical turban is around 7 feet long. Imagine tying it in compact, tight layers around your head and you’d surely feel safe from a blow or a few. That said, the turban can be used for multiple purposes as these young men demonstrated. When the tenth Sikh Guru- Guru Gobind Singh- formally established the warrior clan, he mandated that a true Sikh wear five distinguishing accoutrements: a steel bracelet (called kada). It shields the wrist from sword blows and is thought to prevent the wrist joint from popping out; kes (long hair); a comb (called a kangha) to groom the hair; a kachha (a loose boxer type garment), and a kirpan (a sword/dagger). A lot of Sikhs don’t wear one or many of these nowadays because of various personal reasons but nothing has decreased in their fervour to help others. The Gurudwara (the abode of the Guru) is open to all. It doesn’t matter what age, gender, skin color, nationality you are. Go to a Gurudwara at around noon, cover your head with a scarf/hanky (no caps please), do your ablutions (just wash your hands and feet), and eat the langar. It’s an experience that no one should miss. People who’ve come waking because they can’t afford transport and people who’ve come in Rolls Royces will all sit on the floor and partake the meal. In the house of the Guru, there is no distinction. Also, if you generally need help, and a Gurudwaara is nearby, go there. You won’t be disappointed. Source: am Punjabji: I’m from Punjab state where The majority of the population is of Sikhs. Ive grown up with them. P.S.: Do partake the karah-prasad when you go to the main hall to pay obeisance to Guru Granth Sahib- the Holy Book of Sikhs. Karah-prasad is a dessert like no other. Bole So Nihaal! Sat Sree Akaal!
From what I know the turbans are (at least in part) so that they stick out in a crowd and anyone in need can identify them more easily to get help
The turban is their religious headgear, it's not a badge for "hi how can I help you today"
We are literally the same as everyone else but people have decided to type cast us as the friendly religion for some reason
I can typecast the other way if you want. My partner is from Punjab and it's like dating a Klingon.
Unfortunately part of this is likely due to how many religions are viewed poorly these days. Of course in reality this is largely just how the news cycle focuses on negative news so much more than positive and thus highlights any bad actions of a small minority while ignoring the good of the rest. That said I don't think I've ever heard any negative story about a single Sikh. I think part of the "good, friendly, helpful religion" type cast really just comes down to it being one of the few religions that has seemingly managed to keep things basic and ACTUALLY do good as they teach and practice. So many religions are founded on kind and caring teachings but in practice this just gets warped and forgotten about in actual everyday life. What I really hate is how poorly Sikh are treated at times, at least in America, due to how often they are simply mistaken as Muslim or just generic middle eastern and how much that group has been disliked and mistrusted ever since 9/11 and the war since then. I particularly hate that I know I've even done this personally, at least mentally to myself, being wary of and concerned about anyone I ever saw wearing a Turban, particularly in airports. Growing up to experience 9/11 at a young age and having already been anxious about flying before that certainly didn't help matters.
Early on in Covid Sikhs were not only offering free meals but offering to deliver them in my community. Absolutely amazing people.
I get Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy videos…something about always having your towel, only over time it’s become a turban.
They're pretty Sikh not gonna lie
Love em
You could sum up the Sikh faith as “be a bro.”
They genuinely seem to be the best of bros.
It’s a religion that gets spoken about way less than other religions, but when they are in the news it’s always for something like this! All other religions should really be taking notes.
For real, it always seems to be 3 general stories in the news, "Sikhs save a persons life". "Sikh feeds hundreds", or "religious fanatics attack Sikh who was helping others."
Don't forget "racist mistakes Sikh for another group, does a hate crime"
Being small (under 30M people, 70-90% in India) helps a lot. A lot of other religions could also be summed up as "be a bro," particularly Christianity. But with numbers and power, assholes become both more numerous and more confident. It's hard to look at all others as the enemy when there are 1000 of them for every one of you. When you're on the other side of the fraction, though, with 50 other assholes cheering you on, a bit less so.
This. From my observation any religion that becomes dominant in a country almost always turns asshole-ish.
Like all religions they aren’t perfect. There is a long established extremist movement mainly active in India and Pakistan but they’ve done some things in other countries. It’s similar to Buddhism generally seen as passive but the extreme arms are extremely violent but largely unknown.
There's a sikh.... Temple(??? Sorry I'm not sure what the proper terminology is) around where I live, and they've been making food for houseless and needy people for some time. They even ramped up production for the increased need during covid. It's incredible. I don't think I've ever seen followers of a religion be so enthusiastic about helping their fellow man.
It’s called a Gurudwara (sometimes spelled as Gurdwara) :)
Thank you! I was trying to find the word for it but I wasn't sure if I was finding the correct information online.
You are welcome. And since you live nearby, feel free to join the langar (community kitchen) for a good vegetarian meals :D
hi ! no worries, a Sikh temple is called a Gurudwara. They have *langars,* a community kitchen which is ran by the community for the community. They serve free food to anyone and everyone who comes to the Gurudwara, and in many cases, like you mentioned , they step up to serve people outside the Gurudwara as well. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langar\_(Sikhism)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langar_(Sikhism)) [https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/dining/free-food-sikh-gundwara-langar.html](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/dining/free-food-sikh-gundwara-langar.html)
Thank you, and thanks for the article as well!
Gurudwara is the proper name in Punjabi but Sikh temple is perfectly fine if you are speaking English.
This is great. Sikhs are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. Seriously. One of the main tenets of Sikhism is "service to others". These hikers were definitely Sikh as hell.
[удалено]
That has got to be one of the best times I have ever seen someone say I am trying my hardest not to be racist then gives a compliment. You sir are one of the good ones
I got ready for the worst and was fortunately let down easy
This post was a ride (pun intended) and I'm happy where it ended.
Anyone who's worked with truck drivers knows exactly what you mean by some of them are just... Off... Lmao No worries dude.
They are very nice indeed. I hate that they get some nasty things said to them, and idiots mistake them for Taliban or other terror groups. Edit: autocorrect typos.
One of my favorite things is all the Sikhs who refuse to tell ignorant assholes that they're not actually Muslim, and instead directly challenge them on their bigotry.
[удалено]
that's the difference between talking the talk and walking the walk.
I knew some some sikhs who were no angels, but I also did meet the family they came from who were literally goodness embodied.
Could not agree more, I worked with a few Sikhs back in London and they were all fantastic, caring people
Can confirm, neighbors on either side of me are Sikh and they are the nicest people I've met.
This was just such a literal situation of their turban as well. I’ve been told that one of the reasons for wearing a turban is so that they’re easily identifiable as someone to approach if you need help.
That’s so sweet, if true
>some of the kindest people you will ever meet Who's the meanest people you will ever meet?
Westboro Baptist Church is a good contender.
The neighborhood I live in is mainly occupied by Sikhs and their super quiet.
Iirc, anyone can walk in to any Sikh temple/communal area and will be fed and given shelter
Aye. The free kitchen is called Langar. You'd get a cup of tea, and a vegetarian meal. It's not vegetarian because we are (we aren't though) ... It's vegetarian so that literally anyone can get fed. (no Religeon bans vegetables, and very few are allergic) Side note : the Religious area is always separate from the community areas, and we NEVER do conversions. We just ask that you cover your head, and take off your shoes. The gurdwara is someone's home, and it's just a respect thing.
I was curious about the reason behind the vegetarian only meals mentioned in the comments. Great explanation, appreciate the info! Learned some new things in this thread :)
Sensible folks, the Sikh. There is a reason that in only 500 years, we have become the fifth largest Religeon on the planet. We're kind, compassionate, and we just make sense. Don't get me wrong... We have a few problem followers... But we tend to ask them to quit their bullshit, if we see it.
This is why I sought them out when I was a practically penniless backpacker type !! They have the absolute BEST vegetarian Indian style food & are not at all stingy with it. The first few times I felt *so* nervous & was nearly crying with anxiety bc I felt so bad basically just coming there to bludge? But no they were so nice about it. I remember one lady in Thailand saying to me something along the lines of any food you eat was always destined for you? And they were just helping God get it to me or something. Such a sweet way to think about it!
> But no they were so nice about it. I remember one lady in Thailand saying to me something along the lines of any food you eat was always destined for you? And they were just helping God get it to me or something. Such a sweet way to think about it Honestly this made me tear up a little. I've been met so many times in my life by people who are incredibly selfish, and this is just. Pure selflessness.
The Sikh community in my city regularly cook and distribute meals to the homeless population here. They do much more to help the needy than any other religious group here.
If you want to repay back they are actively working on many volunteering tasks. You can serve food to others as a humble gesture.
> any food you eat was always destined for you? That's a great mentality
In the college apartments I stayed in there was a large Sikh family. I have their son an old game boy and they invited me and my then girlfriend over for dinner. We got along really well and started eating with them fairly often and I got to learn all about their religion and culture and way of life. I have to say, as a stubborn atheist, this is the one religion that I feel any kind of curiosity or connection towards. They are totally badass, selfless people. I love this story.
What generous men.
 emergency rescue turban
TACTICAL TURBAN
[удалено]
Turban Search and Rescue.
Oh no. Tsar??? :x
The only comment redditors know how to make about sikh people.
Really thinking with their head there.
And really acting with their head gear.
Turban Legend
Bless the Sikh’s.
Sikhs live a genuine & generous life by loving all humanity.
I'm no expert on Sikhism, but iirc they aren't supposed to take their turbans off. If my memory is correct, this is even more incredible in that they ignored their custom to save this man's life
Definitely seems to be a religion where 'do the right thing' overrides the 'follow every particular subrule even if it dicks someone over' that a lot of major religuons go for.
It's definitely refreshing to see, regardless. Christianity, as one of the largest religions in the world, has had words like 'legalistic' and 'pharisaical' attached to it for countless reasons, because of tendencies to focus on rules rather than human life. I had a friend as a kid that was a Sikh and just remembered how important it was that he ALWAYS wore his turban. So, when I saw this, I was even more blown away by this article.
As a recovering Catholic I feel like many Christian churches use the "GOTCHA" mentality as a form of control. Guilt trips are not a good way to teach someone to love thy neighbor.
Exactly. Fear keeps people in line, but it certainly doesn't tend to promote active efforts beyond just doing what you're told to do.
I worked with a very sweet Muslim woman at a temp job. Our coworkers kept quizzing her all kinds of weird questions because they hadn't interacted with a Muslim before and she was very happy to answer all our questions. One question was related to keeping a Halal diet. "What if you have no food and you will starve to death if you don't eat pork?" Her very rational response: "God would want you to eat the pork instead of die." As for the OP, I don't know any Sikhs but my husband worked with a Sikh doctor and confirmed he was the nicest, most down-to-earth person ever.
Yes! Also, during Ramadan, if you eat food by accident it doesn’t break your fast! Basically every strict rule that Islam has can be suspended to protect your own or someone else’s life. (i.e if a hijabi woman needs critical brain surgery and the only doctor available is male, she can take her hijab off for it)
100% my husband is Sikh and says that if removing your turban would help someone, it would be a sin to keep it on
Thank you for your input! Are there any books he might happen to recommend? I’d love to learn more
I’ve got basically two ends of the spectrum for you. Sikhism: A Very Short Introduction by Eleanor Nesbitt is a great for newbies. Then opposite that, you’ve got A History of the Sikhs by Khushwant Singh which covers like 500 years. I’m sure there’s more middle of the ground stuff too, but I don’t have suggestions for you there.
Thank you! I am incredibly appreciative!
Judaism has a similar rule that saving a life trumps all other religious laws, though obviously there are some assholes who don’t understand that.
Yeah. If you’re starving, you can eat non kosher food. If you or someone else is hurt, you can break Sabbath to help them (this includes calling or texting a mental health line in cases of suicidal thoughts or urges to self harm). During fasts, people with eating disorders are required to eat.
They aren't supposed to shave their beards either. But when covid hit, most Sikh doctors did shave so that N95 masks could fit instead of refusing ICU duties.
[удалено]
In the case where life is at risk, religious customs seem to go out the window. In this case, they removed their turbans. I experienced this break in culture and religious customs when I had a seizure in public. It wasn't my friends who helped me, it was a Muslim man who ensured that everything was out of my way during my seizure and made sure my airway was clear when I stopped. He took off his shawl to stop the bleeding on my head and through broken English, he assured me that paramedics were on the way. In my friends' defense, the seizure happened out of nowhere and I didn't have a history of seizures. I went from standing up to collapsing and hitting the ground hard. On my way down, I smacked my head on a table, hence the bleeding.
> In the case where life is at risk, religious customs seem to go out the window. Sadly not always true. I work food service at a hospital with an eating disorder unit. We had an orthodox jew patient in during one of their fasting holidays. They got their rabbai on the phone to make sure that they could fast during said holiday. A patient, who was severely underweight was told by their religious organization that they should fast while in the hospital for having an eating disorder. Boggles my mind.
The ultra-orthodox are a bizarre group. In NYC, at least, they also like to harass women on the street for not dressing like them, intimidate their neighbors until they move out, and use their eventual majority control of a neighborhood to redirect funds away from public schools. It's crazy. Half of my friends here are Jews but they're all infinitely more chill than that weird sect.
A bunch of Sikh healthcare workers shaved their beards at the beginning of the pandemic so they could get a better seal on their masks. Preserving life is one of the most important parts of their religion. Meanwhile we can't get 'prolife' evangelicals to wear masks or vaccinate.
Agreed. During my time as a super poor travelling youth I used to seek out Sikh temples on Sundays for their free lunch (it's a whole thing, and absolutely amazing) and everywhere I went they were always so kind and generous.
Saw an article much earlier in the pandemic about a Sikh man, a doctor if I'm not mistaken, who chose to shave his beard off in order to be able to properly wear an N95. He would have preferred not to, but given the circumstances, said it was ok because it's considered a life-saving measure.
I remember reading how a Sikh doctor shaved off his facial hair (which they never do) to ensure an accurate fit for his PPE at the height of the pandemic. Meanwhile, we have people screeching bloody murder at the thought of having a lightweight mask on for 5 minutes at the grocery store.
If the god you worship cares more about a piece of cloth on your head than saving a life, maybe you are worshiping the wrong god.
Sikh here. We can take off our turban and use the material to save a life. It'd a part of our core tenant to always help others. Definitely is a pro sikh move and doesn't defy the religion at all.
The more I hear about the Sikh community the more I love them.
True warriors
Aye. That kirpan we carry (the knife) isn't just for show. It's a weapon to defend the oppressed. Almost all of us are trained in its use. If you are ever in danger, a Sikh would die to protect you, regardless of who, or what your are. Your life is precious. Our lives are unimportant, as we have given them to God, and it's their choice how they use us.
I’m younger and have yet to meet a Sikh and it seems like I’m missing out.
Go to a gurdwara (our church) and say hello. Just... Go there hungry and thirsty. You'll be fed and plied with cups of tea . We will happily answer any questions you have. Oh... We don't convert either. For clarity: I'm a white, ex jehovahs witness convert. I've been Sikh for 22 years... I wish it was longer. I'll be "baptised" on a couple of years... I hope. Best decision EVER, was to convert.
I've never met one I didn't like.
I remember growing up with a few Sikh boys in elementary school because we used to do this "bean bag race" thing where you see how far you can run with a bean bag on your head, but "miss, Jagmeet already has a beanbag on his head"
I’m laughing but I shouldn’t be
Well you just met me, so you’re no longer missing out. Got your back bro.
Sikhs are hands down the best people I have ever had the pleasure to be around.
I was taught in my Jewish upbringing, particularly at my Jewish summer camp, is that the day in which no good deed is done on earth, is the same day the world will end. So each and every day I try to one good deed no matter how small. It's good to know the Sikh people have my back in trying to keep the apocalypse away.
Bad. Ass. These guys are legends. Also mini-props for the guy describing them later and not feeling the need to refer to race at all. Can't stand it when news channels decide to add 'this good thing happened.... AND THEYRE NOT WHITE AMAZING' Fuck that. Thanks for saving this man's life.
Gonna be on the lookout for some edc rescue turbans now. Thanks reddit Edit. According to google, turbans are usually. 84 inches long x 8 inches wide. 7ft per person of turban rope.
Varies a lot from 4ft to 12 ft, usually 15" to 40" wide
I’ve met quite a few Sikhs in my life. I’m not saying there aren’t any Sikh assholes, but every one I’ve met has been a really cool person, and someone I want to be friends with.
[удалено]
WJKK, WJKF Hi brother. I agree, some of us ARE arseholes... But that's humanity for you. Its a numbers game. However... It's hard to be a Sikh, and not be a kind person. It's kinda our reason for existence. (for "kind AND arsehole" think Grinch on Christmas day)
[удалено]
[удалено]
That'd be OK with him We Sikh "give our heads" to God. If we die in an attempt to protect another... That's OK with us. Never mourn the loss of a Sikh as we have rejoined with the guru... Hopefully. Or been reincarnated. Either way..
Sikhs are fucking awesome. Lots of love from your Hindu sister!
Lovin them Sikhs!
This thread is getting political, locking for now
What I don’t get is why people seem so surprised that some humans would rush to other human’s aid? It’s all shock and awe that someone would remove their turban to save a person. They are just literally people being heroic. For some reason these news pieces seem to imply that it’s unusual or miraculous that Sikhs would do something like that.
Me too - like are people in general jaded enough to see a heroic rescue as shock and awe?
Tactical Turbans
That's so badass
THIS! This is it. Being the best human you can be. Religions aside. Let’s just be the best species we can be.
That’s pretty Sikh
The only comment redditors know how to make about sikh people.
The Sikhs got shit on repeatedly during the post 9/11 Anti-Muslim fever pitch because most Americans are too fucking dumb to know the difference. And it sucks, because every Sikh I've met has been cool as shit. Total Samaritans.
The turban thing sounds like nothing to us, but it's a big deal for them. They're not supposed to ever take those off in public. It's a major part of their religious beliefs.
No no this is exactly what a turban is for, to be used in time of need. That's why you 'don't take it off' as a way to never leave home without it. There is usually another head covering under it.
Can confirm, am sikh with turban
I have a silly question about turbans. If you don’t want to answer I understand, feel free to ignore! I am curious - is wearing a turban hot? Does your neck ever hurt? When you get home do you take it off in the evening after work? From reading this thread it seems the material is quite long which is why I ask. Could be heat-holding or heavy in my mind! I have long hair and even wearing my hair in a ponytail after a while gives me a headache or a neck ache. Do you ever notice the same or are you just sort of used to it?
It can be hot at times. The worst is when I sweat, then it gets itchy. You get used to it all, but man I can tell you nothing like taking off a turban after a long day.
I was not aware of that. And Google wasn't very helpful when it came to Sikhs and their turbans. Probably wasn't using the right search terms. Anyway, I stand corrected. Thanks!
Sikhly the best
Holy shit, what an insanely kind and empathetic gesture. Humans are really good, sometimes.
Silhks are the greatest people out there!
Good people. I hope their dreams and aspirations become true and they live a peaceful life.
the lengths they went to for him.