Year 7 - Religious education
Society at the time of Guru Nanak
Social justice: how might Sikhs promote equality?
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils study in depth at the idea of equality and service in Sikhi. Beginning through a study of Guru Nanak they will learn of his critique of Indian society. They will look at further stories to see how the fight for justice is central to Sikh identity historically and today.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain what Indian society was like at the time of Guru Nanak and the impact of this on his views on equality.
Key Notes
- Society at the time of Guru Nanak impacted his beliefs and actions.
- Key influences were the behaviour of Mughal rulers, the treatment of women and the caste system.
- The teachings of Guru Nanak influence the lives of Sikhs today.
- Sikhs can also turn to the Guru Granth Sahib to find Sikh teachings on equality.
Vocabulary To Learn
- caste (system): a social hierarchy, dividing people in society
- discrimination: the unfair treatment of a people and groups based on a part of their identity such as sex, race or religion
- equality: all people having the same rights and opportunities
- Guru Granth Sahib: the living Guru and main source of authority for Sikhs; a collection of writings from the ten Gurus and other important writers
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- The caste system only applied to Hindus.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
Society at the time of Guru Nanak impacted his beliefs and actions. Key influences were the behaviour of Mughal rulers, the treatment of women and the caste system.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'caste (system)'
a social hierarchy, dividing people in society.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: The caste system only applied to Hindus. Correction: The caste system was applied to people of different religions.
More Lessons In This Unit
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