Hello, I'm Dr. Singh, a scholar of Sikhism and religious studies. I've spent years researching and understanding the intricacies of Sikhism, its beliefs, and its practices. The question you've asked, "Who does the Sikh worship?", is a fascinating one that delves into the heart of Sikh theology.

While the answer might seem straightforward, it's important to understand that Sikhism is a monotheistic religion, meaning that Sikhs believe in one God. However, the way Sikhs understand and relate to this one God is unique and differs significantly from other monotheistic traditions.

Here's a breakdown of how Sikhs approach the concept of God:

1. The Transcendent God:

At its core, Sikhism recognizes a transcendent God, one who is beyond human comprehension. This God is formless, timeless, and all-powerful, beyond any physical manifestation or description. Sikhs believe this God is the ultimate reality, the source of all creation, and the ultimate truth.

2. The Immanent God:

While acknowledging the transcendent nature of God, Sikhs also believe in the immanence of God, meaning God is present within all creation. This is where the concept of Waheguru comes in. Waheguru is not a separate deity but a name that encompasses the attributes and essence of God. It translates roughly to "Wonderful Lord" or "Great Teacher" and symbolizes God's presence and power in everything.

3. The Accessible God:

Sikhism emphasizes the accessibility of God. Sikhs believe that anyone, regardless of their caste, gender, or social status, can connect with God through meditation, prayer, and service. This accessibility is reflected in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, which contains hymns and teachings from various spiritual figures, including those from other religions.

4. No Idolatry:

Unlike some other religions, Sikhism strictly forbids idolatry. Sikhs do not worship any images, idols, or physical representations of God. Instead, they focus on internalized worship, seeking connection with God through devotion, ethical living, and service to humanity.

5. The Focus on Truth:

The ultimate aim of a Sikh's spiritual journey is to realize the truth of God and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This understanding of God is not just a theoretical concept; it's a lived experience. It translates into a life guided by honesty, compassion, and a commitment to justice.

6. The Role of Gurus:

The role of the Gurus is essential in Sikhism. The Ten Gurus, who lived between the 15th and 18th centuries, were not considered divine but divine messengers who guided humanity towards God. They provided teachings, established institutions, and led the community in fighting for justice and equality. The Guru Granth Sahib, the final Guru, is seen as the embodiment of all previous Gurus and continues to guide and inspire Sikhs today.

In conclusion, Sikhs worship one transcendent and immanent God, whom they refer to as Waheguru. This worship is not about rituals or idolatry but about seeking a personal connection with God through meditation, prayer, and living a life aligned with Sikh values.

It is important to understand that Sikhism is a living, evolving religion. While the core principles remain constant, their understanding and practice evolve with time and changing social contexts. So, while this overview provides a foundation, it's just the beginning of exploring the complex and beautiful relationship Sikhs have with God.
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Sikhs believe that God is visible in the Sikh congregation or Sangat, and that God is pleased by the act of serving the Sangat. Congregational Sikh worship takes place in a Gurdwara. Sikh public worship can be led by any Sikh, male or female, who is competent to do so.read more >>