Year 7 - Religious education
Women in Sikhi
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 use the tools of social science to explain Sikh teachings on women and the role of Sikh women historically and today.
Key Notes
- At the time Sikh Gurus lived, women experienced fewer opportunities than men.
- The experiences of Guru Nanak's sister, Bibi, helped shape his views on the treatment of women.
- The Guru Granth Sahib states that men and women are equal because God made them.
- Sikh women are encouraged to study, participate and lead worship equally with men.
- Data shows there may still be inequalities between men and women in lived experience.
Vocabulary To Learn
- equality: all people having the same rights and opportunities
- pangat: the act of eating together in rows, signifying equality and unity
- sangat: the community of Sikhs who meet and worship in the gurdwara
- survey: a process of collecting, analysing and interpreting data
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Sikh women are not as involved as men in religious and community life.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
At the time Sikh Gurus lived, women experienced fewer opportunities than men. The experiences of Guru Nanak's sister, Bibi, helped shape his views on the treatment of women.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'equality'
all people having the same rights and opportunities.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: Sikh women are not as involved as men in religious and community life. Correction: Sikh women have always played an active and important role, historically, as activists and modern day professionals.
More Lessons In This Unit
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