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Summary of Question:	I Do Not Feel Like A Sikh
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Friday, 8/24/2001 10:35 AM MDT

Hi there,

Reading through the various emails from people, they seem to be highly knowledgeable on Sikhism. I dont even understand what some of the basic things associated with Sikhism are i.e. Bhani, Simran, Rehras etc etc.

I have read emails from young people (14,15 year olds) and I feel ashamed of myself. I dont wear the 5ks, not even a kara. Where can I find a simple book to read up on?

p.s. Is it against Sikhism to eat Halaal meat? I know this must be one of the most illiterate questions you have ever come across as Sikhs are not supposed to eat meat at all (which I am also confused about as I believe one Guru did eat meat).

Regards

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REPLY
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Sat Siri Akaal, Ji.

There is not shame in your situation. You were probably not raised in a strong Sikh environment. So let go of the guilt, and start afresh.

If you are sincere about practicing as a Sikh, then start by thoroughly reading the information on this Web site http://www.sikhnet.com.
Read other Sikh Web sites as well (start by going to http://www.sikhseek.com). Read the queries/replies on this Forum concerning meat by searching the Forum using keywords "meat" "Vegetarian".
Go to http://www.sikhnet.com/sikhism and read the Rehit Maryada and the injunctions against Halaal meat.
Go to http://www.sikhnet.com/CHat and chat with Sikh youth, find Sikh youth support groups, etc.
Go to the gurdwara in your area and talk to the youth there as well. Give them a chance to serve you by mentoring you.

Guru ang sang,
-DKK