Should Sikhs and Jains Be Considered as Hindus?

Upon close examination of the historical and religious identities of Sikhs and Jains, it becomes clear that they should not be considered as Hindus. This article delves into the historical origins and distinct identities of these belief systems, and highlights why they should be seen as separate entities.

Understanding the History of Indic Religions

The term Hinduism was not coined until much later in history. India's religious landscape initially featured various forms of paganism, with a multitude of local deities. The concept of Dharma, or the law of righteousness, was an early ideology that influenced the development of religious practices in the subcontinent.

The Vedas, ancient texts composed over several centuries, contain references to both modern Hindu and Jain gods. Notably, the earliest mentions of Jainate Tirthankaras are found in the Vedas, rather than exclusively in Jain literature. This reflects the intertwined nature of these religions during their early developments.

The Rise of Pagan Gods

Slowly, certain pagan gods like Shiva and Vishnu gained prominence, leading to a more structured pantheon of deities. These gods became central figures in the evolving religious landscape of ancient India.

The Emergence of Jainism

The advent of Jainism marked a significant turning point. Mahaveer, a key figure in Jainism, organized teachings derived from the original Satana Dharma, which was influenced by early Rishabha and his contemporaries. Mahaveer's teachings can be found in various Upanishads and Puranas, indicating the gradual development of a distinct Jain identity. Notably, no older Jain or Hindu texts explicitly consider themselves a separate religion.

The Formation of Hinduism

Hinduism itself did not emerge as a distinct religion until much later, primarily following the advent of Islam and the subsequent political and cultural developments. Historically, various Dharmic teachings, including Jaina and Buddhist traditions, were collectively labeled as Hindu, reflecting a broader, more secular concept of a geographical and cultural identity.

The Origins of Sikhism

Sikhism was founded by Sri Guru Nanak Dev, who was born into a Hindu family. He introduced the concept of Sikhi, which involves gathering knowledge from various sources. His teachings were continued by various Hindu and Sikh gurus, eventually compiled into the Guru Granth Sahib or Adi Granth.

Comparative Analysis: Sikhism and Islam

While Islam is characterized by its strict orthodoxy, it does not readily accept variations in its teachings. The Ahmediyas, for instance, continue to fight for recognition as Muslims. In contrast, Hindu communities generally accept Sikhs as one of their own, which is not the case with Muslims, who typically view Sikhs as Qafirs (non-believers).

What is Hinduism?

The essence of Hinduism lies in its historical evolution. Originally, it was a geographical and cultural identity encompassing a diverse range of beliefs and practices. Over time, these practices coalesced into a defined religion known as Hinduism.

In conclusion, the distinct identities of Sikhs and Jains, rooted in their unique historical and ideological foundations, warrant their separate classification from Hinduism. Each religion represents its own rich tradition and legacy that should be respected and acknowledged independently.