Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) has released its eighth report in the State of the Panth series titled Dan: Sikhi & Giving, exploring what it means to give in a Sikh context, how giving is understood throughout Sikh history, and how it is understood by Sikhs today. The report traces conceptions of giving, charity, and philanthropy through their development, institutionalization, and application over a period of 553 years, from the Guru period to the present day.
What is giving, or Dan, in Sikh understanding? How have Sikhs historically understood and applied Nam-Dan-Isnan doctrine to their individual contexts through time? How is giving understood in Sikh institutions and organizations across India and the diaspora? How can we evaluate these institutions and organizations that are tasked with addressing the short-term and long-term needs of the Panth? How do we give thoughtfully and with purpose?
Join us in conversation with Harinder Singh and Jasleen Kaur as we try to understand Dan from a Gurmat (Guru’s Way) perspective, as inferred from Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle).
The Sikh Research Institute recognizes its ethical responsibility to promptly correct any factual small or large errors. Please get in touch with us via email to request a correction if you have identified a mistake.
Suggest a correction →Gatha refers to a song or verse, rooted in the word gai, to speak, sing, or recite. It can also refer to a profound discourse with the self beyond simple praise or devotion.
Harinder Singh explores Bhai Vir Singh's unique framing of Sikh history at Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan, Delhi.
The essence of this composition is revealed in the stanza of rahau (Pause). In it, worldly accounting (entanglements) is described as useless.
Stay informed with our weekly updates, important events and more at SikhRI.