Commonalities in the Teachings of Islam and Sikhism: A Research-Based Study in the Light of the Sīrah

اسلام اور سکھ ازم کی مشترکہ تعلیمات : سیرت النبیﷺ کے تناظر میں تحقیقی مطالعہ

Abstract

Sikhism and Islam, though emerging from distinct historical and cultural contexts, share a number of fundamental spiritual and ethical principles. This study explores their commonalities, with particular emphasis on the concept of the oneness of God, human equality, service to humanity, modes of worship, and core moral values. Both traditions affirm belief in a single, all-encompassing Divine reality Allah in Islam and Vāhigurū or Ik Oaṅkār in Sikhism. Furthermore, both religions strongly uphold the principle of human equality. Islam emphasizes that superiority is based solely on piety (taqwā), while Sikhism advocates universal equality irrespective of caste, class, or social status. Service to humanity is another central tenet in both traditions; Islam regards helping others as an act of virtue and devotion, whereas Sikhism places significant emphasis on selfless service (sevā) as a core religious duty. In addition, both faiths attach great importance to worship practices, including regular prayers and spiritual discipline, which foster a direct connection with the Divine. Ethical values such as truthfulness, honesty, compassion, and justice are deeply embedded within both traditions. The Sīrah of the Holy Prophet ﷺ further provides numerous examples of compassion, empathy, and concern for human welfare, reinforcing these shared values. This study highlights how the common principles of Sikhism and Islam can serve as a foundation for mutual respect, interfaith harmony, and deeper understanding. All these aspects are analyzed in the light of the Sīrah, demonstrating their relevance in contemporary society.