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The distinctive dress of the Sikh makes him or her responsible at all times for representing the Guru. Therefore, he or she acts with that awareness, with noblility, as a saint and a soldier.
A Sikh lives in the world as a householder, earning an honest living. In the midst of the impurities and vices of society, he or she remains immersed in the love of God and Guru.
Sikhs are married in the presence of the Guru and their commitment to God and Guru is reflected in their commitment to their family. The lifestyle of the Sikh is the lifestyle of success, and for success in marriage, monogamy is a basic prerequisite. Extra-marital sex is contrary to the science of lifestyle of Sikh Dharma.
A Sikh regards the body and mind as the Temple of God. No intoxicants or drugs which impair the consciousness should be taken into the body. To be "holy," one is aware of what goes into and out of the body’s nine holes. A Sikh tries to avoid places and people which draw the mind away from healthy and elevating thoughts. A Sikh seeks the company of God-loving beings, who love to sing songs in praise of God, and talk of subjects which inspire and elevate the spirit to be in Charhdi Kala.
The diet of a Sikh is the food of the Guru’s Lungar (free kitchen) which is lacto-vegetarian. It includes vegetables, grains, fruits and nuts, as well as milk and milk products. Neither meat, nor poultry, nor fish, nor eggs, are part of the Sikh diet.
A Sikh is honorable in all dealings, and earns a righteous living through honest labor. Should any dispute arise which cannot be settled between the parties involved, the Guru has instructed his Sikhs to submit the matter to an assembly of five Sikhs for arbitration.
A Sikh gives to those less fortunate, as well as to give Das Vandh—ten per cent of his earnings as an offering to the Guru. A Sikh is, by definition, charitable, kind, patient, understanding, fearless and tolerant of all people. He or she is prepared to come to the aid of any other human being in need. He is a defender of the weak, provider to the poor, and an inspiration to the down-trodden. A Sikh will not permit any insult to a woman, to the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, or to any Gurdwara or place of worship of any religion. He stands prepared to defend each one with his life. He or she is God’s servant and soldier of righteousness.
