Christianity vs. Sikhism: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Published on January 1, 2024
Christianity, based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, focuses on salvation through faith; Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak, emphasizes oneness with God and service to humanity.
Key Differences
Christianity, originating in the 1st century AD, centers around the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Sikhism, established in the 15th century in the Punjab region of South Asia, was founded by Guru Nanak and nine successive Gurus.
The core belief in Christianity is salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and adherence to the Bible. Sikhism teaches salvation through loving devotion to God and living a truthful, disciplined life as outlined in the Guru Granth Sahib.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Sikhism strictly believes in monotheism, with a focus on a singular, formless God.
In Christianity, practices include prayer, sacraments, and attending church services. Sikhism involves meditation on God's name, community service (Sewa), and gathering in the Gurdwara for worship and Langar.
The cross is a central symbol in Christianity, representing Christ's sacrifice. Sikhism is symbolized by the Khanda, representing divine knowledge, strength, and unity.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
1st century AD, Middle East
15th century, Punjab, South Asia
Foundational Figure
Jesus Christ
Guru Nanak
Core Beliefs
Salvation through faith in Jesus
Oneness with God, living truthfully
Practices
Prayer, sacraments, church services
Meditation, Sewa, Gurdwara, Langar
Symbolism
Cross
Khanda
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Christianity and Sikhism Definitions
Christianity
Christianity is a monotheistic religion centered on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
The church service I attended focused on the central principles of Christianity.
Sikhism
It emphasizes equality, service, and devotion to one God.
In Sikhism, serving Langar at the Gurdwara is an act of community service.
Christianity
Christianity emphasizes salvation and an eternal life through faith in Jesus.
In Christianity, the concept of grace is fundamental to understanding salvation.
Sikhism
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak.
Sikhism teaches the importance of selfless service and spiritual development.
Christianity
The Bible is the holy scripture in Christianity, guiding the moral and spiritual life.
My daily readings of the Bible deepen my understanding of Christianity.
Sikhism
The Guru Granth Sahib is the central religious scripture of Sikhism.
Reading the Guru Granth Sahib is a daily practice for many followers of Sikhism.
Christianity
It's the world's largest religion, with various denominations and interpretations.
Christianity has diverse forms, from Catholicism to Protestantism.
Sikhism
Sikhism promotes a disciplined life of honesty, integrity, and hard work.
The principles of Sikhism influence its followers to lead a moral life.
Christianity
Christian practices include prayer, worship services, and the sacraments.
Baptism and Communion are important sacraments in Christianity.
Sikhism
Key Sikh practices include meditation, community service, and maintaining five articles of faith.
The five Ks are significant in Sikhism as symbols of faith and devotion.
Christianity
A religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus. Most forms of Christianity hold that Jesus is the son of God and is the second person of the Trinity, through whom humans may attain redemption from sin.
Sikhism
A monotheistic religion founded in northern India in the 1500s by the guru Nanak. Sikhism rejects caste distinctions, idolatry, and asceticism and is characterized by belief in a cycle of reincarnation from which humans can free themselves by living righteous lives as active members of society.
Christianity
Christians as a group; Christendom.
Sikhism
The doctrines of a monotheistic religion founded in northern India in the 16th century by Guru Nanak and combining elements of Hinduism and Islam
FAQs
What is the holy book of Christianity?
The Bible, comprising the Old and New Testaments.
What is Christianity?
A religion based on the teachings and life of Jesus Christ.
Who is the central figure in Christianity?
Jesus Christ, believed to be the Son of God.
What does Sikhism teach?
Oneness with God, living truthfully, and serving others.
How do Christians practice their faith?
Through prayer, attending church, and observing sacraments.
What is the holy book of Sikhism?
The Guru Granth Sahib.
What symbol represents Sikhism?
The Khanda, symbolizing divine knowledge and unity.
Who founded Sikhism?
Guru Nanak, followed by nine successive Gurus.
Are there different denominations in Christianity?
Yes, including Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant branches.
What is Sikhism?
A monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century.
How is salvation viewed in Christianity?
As a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ.
What role do rituals play in Christianity?
Rituals like baptism and communion are important in many Christian traditions.
What are the core beliefs of Christianity?
Salvation through faith in Jesus and living according to the Bible.
Does Sikhism have sects or divisions?
Sikhism is relatively unified with no major sects.
Do Christians believe in an afterlife?
Yes, they believe in heaven and hell.
What is the symbol of Christianity?
The cross, representing Christ's sacrifice.
What is the Sikh view of salvation?
Achieved by living an honest life and remembering God.
What are the key practices in Sikhism?
Meditation on God's name, community service, and gathering in the Gurdwara.
What is the Sikh perspective on afterlife?
Sikhism focuses on merging with God rather than a distinct heaven or hell.
Are there rituals in Sikhism?
Sikhism has fewer rituals, focusing more on inner spirituality and service.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
