Sikhism and Polygamy: A Comprehensive Overview

As a Sikh woman, I have been surprised by the representations of polygamy in Sikhism. While historical accounts suggest that certain Sikh Gurus practiced polygamy, the teachings of the Gurus and the principles of Sikhism advocate for monogamous marriages. This article seeks to clarify the stance of Sikhism on polygamy and the role of the Gurus as role models for Sikhs.

Understanding Sikhism's Stance on Polygamy

Religiously speaking, the Sikh scriptures, such as the Guru Granth Sahib and the Dasam Granth Sahib, do not explicitly prohibit polygamy. However, this does not mean that polygamy is encouraged or endorsed. Instead, the teachings of Sikhism emphasize the importance of family values and the sanctity of marriage, with an emphasis on monogamy.

The Guru Granth Sahib stresses the significance of family life, but does not explicitly mention the practice of polygamy. Guruvani, or the teachings of the Gurus, guide Sikhs towards a monogamous relationship as a form of marital bliss. The following verses from the Guru Granth Sahib highlight the Sikh perspective:

'You may enjoy the pleasures of hundreds of thousands of women and rule the nine continents of the world. But without the True Guru, you will not find peace; you will be reincarnated over and over again.'

In essence, the teachings emphasize that true fulfillment and spiritual peace come through devotion to the True Guru, not through multiple marital relationships.

Moreover, the principles of detachment and living a simple life, as highlighted in the Guru Granth Sahib, are in direct contrast to the practice of polygamy. Verse 35 of Bhai Gurdas Vaar 36 further solidifies this perspective:

'Having one women as wife he the Sikh is a celebate and considers any others wife as his daughter or sister.'

This verse suggests that a true Sikh who adheres to the teachings of the Gurus would consider any other woman as part of his family, emphasizing the importance of familial bonds over multiple marital relationships.

The Role of the Sikh Gurus in Sikhism

The Sikh Gurus were enlightened beings who established the core values of Sikhism, emphasizing equality, justice, and free education. However, the practice of polygamy among the Gurus is often misunderstood. Historical accounts suggest that some Gurus practiced polygamy, but this does not imply an endorsement of the practice.

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, appeared to have multiple wives. While this could be a culturally relevant practice of the time, it is important to understand the context and the teachings of the Gurus. Several historians and scholars have documented the practices of the Gurus and their marriages, but the teachings themselves remain focused on monogamy and marital unity.

It is crucial to separate historical practices from the current teachings of Sikhism, which unequivocally emphasize monogamy as the ideal form of marriage. The Gurus, as exalted figures, are revered for their teachings and values, which continue to guide Sikhs to this day. They did not come to practice polygamy but to improve society and establish a better way of life.

Legal and Social Context

In the context of modern India, polygamy is illegal under the Hindu Marriage Act, which applies to Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. Hence, in a legal and social sense, polygamy is not permissible for Sikhs in India. As Bhai Gurdas Vaar 36 highlights:

'Husband of two women and the wife of two husbands are bound to perish.'

This verse underscores the negative outcome and societal disruption caused by polygamy, emphasizing the importance of monogamous relationships in Sikhism.

Conclusion

While historical practices among some Sikh Gurus may suggest the possibility of polygamy, the core teachings of Sikhism and the principles established by the Gurus emphasize monogamy. The Guru Granth Sahib and other sacred texts promote family values and the sanctity of monogamous relationships. Sikh women like myself see the Ghurijis as divine role models, and their teachings guide us towards living a simple and fulfilling life, not through multiple marital relationships.

For Sikhs, the ideal form of marriage is a monogamous relationship, where one husband and one wife come together in the Name of the True Guru. This perspective not only aligns with the teachings of the Gurus but also provides a strong foundation for a peaceful and harmonious society.