Q:
The other religions celebrate days and acts done by previous prophets. E.g. The
offering of a sacrifice of a sheep by Muslims on Eid. This they do because of the
offering Abraham gave [nearly sacrificing his son, and instead sacrificing a
sheep/ram on God's command.] The day Moses defeated the armies of The Pharaoh.
Muslims and Jews celebrate by fasting on this day. etc. Why do Sikhs not
celebrate such events?
A:
As mentioned before, Sikhism rejects the previous prophets and thus the celebrations
of the other faiths are of no consequence. Giving of animal sacrifices is considered
a pointless ritual. What greatness is there in taking a creature God has created,
ruthlessly slaughtering it in the name of God, and then eating it yourself?
thaero keeaa thujhehi kiaa arapo naam thaeraa thuhee chavar dtolaarae ||3||
Why should I offer to You, that which You Yourself created? Your Name is the fan, which I wave over You. ||3|| (694).
Sikhism teaches that the only sacrifice that is worth giving is the sacrifice of the
self. Giving up one's entire being to God is a sacrifice that is acceptable.
In fact, Amrit or initiation into Gurmat is given only when the Sikh is willing to
give his or her life in return for it. Sikhism itself is about sacrificing one's
self for the love of God, not sacrificing helpless, frightened animals.
|