Sikhism was founded in the 15^th century by Guru Nanak, in an effort to unite Hindus and Muslims. Sikh means disciple. Two for the original 10 gurus who started the religion were murdered. Originally a pacifist religion, but after being persecuted by both Hindus and Muslims they became militant and took up arms. Recognized by their heavy beard and long-coiled turban which is a symbol of the unity of the brotherhood.

It takes the following from each religion:

1. Hinduism
   1. Accepts: Reincarnation, Karma, Hindu festivals,
   2. Rejects:  the caste system, and Hindu gods.
2. Islam
   1. Accepts: One God, the Truth, the Creator, immortal, and omnipresent, God never incarnated into a human being
   2. Forbids:  images in the temples
3. Additional
   1. The Book "Adi Granth" is the object of ceremonial reverence in the temples and the only repository of spiritual authority
   2. No alcohol, tobacco, or meat
   3. The "Nama", is the constant repetition of the name of God, and it is their main prayer and meditation
   4. by doing good works a Sikh  will obtain union with God, but if they disobey the Book, the Granth Sahib, they will be doomed to an endless cycle of reincarnations, or denied for ever any reunion with God.

Initiation ceremony is called Amrit Pahul.
Religious holy book is called the Granth Sahib