*There is only one God and he is the same God for all religions.

*The soul goes through a cycle of birth and death before reaching its human form. The goal of life is to merge with God and to maintain a balance between spiritual and temporal obligations.

*The true path to God does not mean a renunciation of the world but through living the life of a householder, earning an honest living and avoiding temptation and sin.

*Sikhism condemns rituals such as fasting, pilgrimages

*All people of all races and sex are equal in the eyes of God. There is total equality between man and woman and women can participate in any religious function and lead the congregation in prayer.

Scriptures forbid the eating of meat killed in the Muslim tradition (Halal) and the consumption of tobacco, alcohol or other intoxicants.

Sikhs live according to the Rahit Nama (code of Discipline) which is believed to interpret the Gurbani and to be based upon the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh.

Guru Nanak taught a devotional monotheism, referring to God as Sat Nam - ‘The True Name.’ Other names used for God include Ram, Gobind, Hari, Waheguru (‘Wonderful Lord’).

He rejected Ahimsa, though he accepted the principle of reincarnation and the law of Karma. He eliminated ceremonialism and ritual. Guru Nanak also believed in the Hindu doctrine of Maya or illusion.

For the Guru salvation consisted in becoming one with God. Salvation was not going to Paradise (Islam) after the last judgment but absorption in Nirvana – becoming one with God, the True Name.

There are five cardinal vices which a Sikh looks to overcome in order to achieve salvation, they are:

Kam (Lust) Karodh (Anger) Lobh (Greed) Moh (Worldly attachment) Hankar (Pride)

To overcome these vices the following qualities are required:

Santokh (Contentment) Dan (Charity) Daya (Kindness) Parsanta (Happiness) Nimarta (Humility)

Sikhs have identified 5 stages on the journey to God:

1. Dharam Khand (realisation of spiritual duty)
2. Gian Khand (Divine Knowledge)
3. Saram Khand (wisdom and effort)
4. Karam Khand (Divine grace).
5. Sach Khand (Truth).