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Summary of Question:	Why Dont More Peple Believe In The Gurus
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Thursday, 7/25/2002 1:39 PM MDT

Sat Siri Akal

My question is regarding Sikhism. It might sound stupid, but i have to ask it anwyas. If sikhism is only 500 years old then why dont more people believe in it. I mean there were plenty of people living on this earth when Guru Nanak Dev Ji were physically present. What I want to know why did it not speread through out the world, we are only talking 500 years. And also 1699, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji was present, thats only little over 300 years ago. Is it logical to ask this question. I was just wondering. Don't get me wrong I am strong follower of Sikhism. Feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Vahe Guru Mer Rakhe

(REPLY) Have you considered that one of tenets of the Sikh faith is that we do NOT try to convert anyone? There is no active missionary attempt to take people away from their own religion and encourage them (or coerce them !) to become Sikhs. We have never fought wars and forced people to convert, as other religions have done - to their shame, I might add. But, ultimately, everthing that happens is God's will, as is stated over and over again in Siri Guru Granth Sahib - beginning with Guru Nanak's Japji Sahib, especially the second Pauri which reminds us that whoever receives rewards should know they are given by God. And to me, the greatest reward is to come to the feet of the Guru. By the way, are you aware that the Sikh religion is now one of the five major world religions? Furthermore, as far as "belief" in Sikhism -- this is not a religion based on belief, but one of experience, and to experience its reality and power one must practice the teachings. that takes commitment. Reading banis, reading in Akhand Paths, attending Gurdwara, wearing turban to remind us of our identity as Sikhs takes commitment. One thing I do believe, and that is that the prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh shall come true: "Nine hundred sixty-million we shall be." (Maybe not in my lifetime, but it shall happen!) Blessings, SP