The principle of equality is timeless. But although the true meaning of an ethical principle can be unchangeable, it does not mean it can’t be be ignored and abused. Humanity has a long and painful history of oppressing different groups of people. This has led to the suffering and death of those who have had the courage to stand up for what they believe in. We live in a society where people of different cultures and faiths often live amongst each other, emphasising the importance of equality.
The importance of equality can be found at the very heart of Sikhism. The faith was founded in the 16th century, making it the youngest major world religion. It was begun by the first leader, Guru Nanak who shaped its teachings, as did the nine Gurus who succeeded him. The story behind the life and sad death of the fifth leader, Guru Arjan, is still celebrated today. This brave man spent his life expressing the importance of equality until he was challenged by a cruel emperor who could not grasp such concepts of tolerance and compassion. When Guru Arjan refused to abandon his faith, he was tortured and sentenced to death. This religious leader showed true courage by putting his beliefs before anything else. The legacy of this martyr lives on through the Sikh community and is celebrated every year on the 16th of June.
TrueTube have provided a range of resources which can be used when teaching this important part of Sikhism. The assembly script tells the story of Guru Arjan’s death, the significance of equality within the religion, the Sikh holy book and the building of the Golden Temple. It also provides an activity which demonstrates the importance of treating each other with respect. The film however, focuses on a virtual tour of a Gurdwara, given by a young Sikh called Ramanjot who takes the camera around the holy building, pointing out the key features. These resources are perfect if you want to convey the core principles of this religion and spark up thought-provoking discussion amongst your class.
The importance of equality can be found at the very heart of Sikhism. The faith was founded in the 16th century, making it the youngest major world religion. It was begun by the first leader, Guru Nanak who shaped its teachings, as did the nine Gurus who succeeded him. The story behind the life and sad death of the fifth leader, Guru Arjan, is still celebrated today. This brave man spent his life expressing the importance of equality until he was challenged by a cruel emperor who could not grasp such concepts of tolerance and compassion. When Guru Arjan refused to abandon his faith, he was tortured and sentenced to death. This religious leader showed true courage by putting his beliefs before anything else. The legacy of this martyr lives on through the Sikh community and is celebrated every year on the 16th of June.
TrueTube have provided a range of resources which can be used when teaching this important part of Sikhism. The assembly script tells the story of Guru Arjan’s death, the significance of equality within the religion, the Sikh holy book and the building of the Golden Temple. It also provides an activity which demonstrates the importance of treating each other with respect. The film however, focuses on a virtual tour of a Gurdwara, given by a young Sikh called Ramanjot who takes the camera around the holy building, pointing out the key features. These resources are perfect if you want to convey the core principles of this religion and spark up thought-provoking discussion amongst your class.