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Sikh Research Institute
Sikh Research Institute Canada
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This report aims to understand and explore what it means to give in a Sikh context, how giving is conceptualized and understood through Sikh history, and how it is understood and practiced today.
Download ResourceThe report analyzes ideas conveyed in the Nam-Dan-Isnan (Identifying-Giving-Cleansing) doctrine from a Gurmat (or Guru’s Way) perspective, as inferred from Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle).
The report analyzes ideas conveyed in the Nam-Dan-Isnan (Identifying-Giving-Cleansing) doctrine from a Gurmat (or Guru’s Way) perspective, as inferred from Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle).
The Bani section explores Nam-Dan-Isnan as it is found in primary and secondary texts.
The Tavarikh section traces and analyzes conceptions of giving, both charity and philanthropy, from their beginnings with Guru Nanak Sahib through their development, institutionalization, and application through time and context over 553 years — covering the Guru Period, the Khalsa Raj, the Sikh Empire, the Sikhs and the Crown, and the Sikhs and the Indian State.
The Rahit section explores present-day understandings and application of Nam-Dan-Isnan doctrine in Sikh institutions and organizations across India and the diaspora.
This educational series provides students with historical insights that strengthen their connection to Sikhi.
This educational series provides learners with historical insights that strengthen their connection to Sikhi.