Sikh gurus’ vision of equality for women

Guru Nanak was a champion of women’s emancipation as far back as the 16th century. In Sikhism, women were given the freedom to pursue education, engage in worship, study sacred scriptures, and work alongside men, whether in the area of agriculture or other workplaces. Rather, their empowerment extends beyond mere participation – they are warriors, scholars, and contributors to the Sangat, congregation and langar, community kitchen, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. Sikhism unequivocally rejects the regressive notion of women being inferior or impure.

The Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the spiritual cornerstone of Sikhism, offered a radical reimagining of human dignity and equality. The Shabad of Guru Nanak Dev celebrates the centrality of women with an unmistakable clarity:

From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married.

Woman becomes his friend; through woman, the future generations come.

When his woman dies, he seeks another woman; to the woman, he is bound.

So, why call her bad? From her, kings are born.

From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be no one at all.

O Nanak! Only the True Lord is without a woman.

The Sri Guru Granth Sahib SGGS, Page 473

In Sikhism, women are accorded equal opportunities, and the Sikh gurus translated them into action. Guru Angad Dev, the second guru, ensured girls received the same opportunities as boys. Historical accounts highlight that his daughter, Bibi Amro, displayed remarkable aptitude, quickly mastering and demonstrating exceptional proficiency in her learning. Mata Khivi Ji, his wife, took charge of Langar – the community kitchen that continues to be a symbol of equality and service.

Guru Amar Das, the third guru, appointed women as preachers and leaders, granting them administrative authority, including revenue collection.

Guru Gobind Singh also, in a transformative gesture, extended the sacred rite of Sikh Khalsa baptism to both men and women, thereby flinging wide open gates of inclusivity.

Teachings and actions of all Sikh gurus consistently promote  dignity and rights of women in both spiritual and societal spheres.