Religious practices of Sikhism

    OCR
    GCSE

    Examine the manifestation of Sikh theology through individual and communal praxis. Focus on the Gurdwara as the locus of worship and social cohesion, specifically analyzing the Langar as the practical application of equality (Sangat and Pangat). Evaluate the significance of rites of passage, particularly the Amrit Sanskar, in defining Khalsa identity versus Sahajdhari practice. Assess the role of festivals (Gurpurbs, Vaisakhi) in maintaining historical continuity and the transmission of the Sant-Sipahi (Saint-Soldier) ideal.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
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    Mark Points

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • 1699: The formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh at Vaisakhi.
    • The 5 Ks: Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan.
    • Three Pillars: Nam Japna, Kirat Karna, Vand Chakko.
    • Panj Piare: The Five Beloved Ones (significance in Amrit Sanskar).
    • Takht: The five seats of temporal authority in Sikhism.

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have described the practice accurately; now explain its impact on the believer's daily life."
    • "Integrate a specific quote from the Guru Granth Sahib to substantiate this point."
    • "Your evaluation is one-sided; consider how a non-Khalsa Sikh might view this requirement."
    • "Differentiate clearly between cultural traditions and mandatory religious obligations defined in the SRM."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award marks for precise use of Gurmukhi terminology (e.g., Nitnem, Akhand Path, Takht) rather than English approximations.
    • Credit analysis that links the physical features of the Gurdwara (4 doors, Palki) to theological concepts (inclusivity, respect for GGS).
    • Responses must distinguish between 'Tan', 'Man', and 'Dhan' forms of Seva when explaining service.
    • High-level responses must evaluate the relevance of the 5 Ks in modern society, referencing the Sikh Rehat Maryada.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡In 15-mark 'Discuss' questions, ensure you address 'common and divergent views' within Sikhism (e.g., Sahajdhari vs. Amritdhari perspectives).
    • 💡Always cite a Source of Wisdom and Authority (SOWA); 'The Guru says...' is insufficient. Use 'Guru Granth Sahib 1' or 'Rehat Maryada'.
    • 💡Allocate 15-18 minutes for the final essay question; it carries 25% of the section marks.
    • 💡When explaining festivals (Vaisakhi/Diwali), explicitly link the historical event to its contemporary spiritual significance.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Conflating the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) with the generic function of a local Gurdwara.
    • Describing Langar merely as 'free food' without linking it to the rejection of caste (Jat/Zat) and equality.
    • Failing to distinguish between Naming Ceremonies (Naam Karan) and Initiation (Amrit Sanskar).
    • Asserting that all Sikhs wear the 5 Ks, ignoring Sahajdhari and non-initiated Sikhs.

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    State
    Describe
    Explain
    Outline
    Discuss
    Evaluate

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