Sikh Philosophy: Exploring gurmat Concepts in a Decolonizing World

Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair's book provides a rigorous engagement with Sikh philosophy in the West,examining key concepts such as reality,mind/self/ego,and spirituality. It highlights the importance of including Sikh philosophical thought in discussions of world philosophies and addresses broader themes such as the body,health,creation,death,action,intention,bioethics,and spirituality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Sikhism, a significant spiritual-philosophical tradition in India, often remains overlooked in discussions of cross-cultural philosophy. In this groundbreaking introduction, Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair, an esteemed expert in Sikh studies, offers the first comprehensive exploration of Sikh philosophy in the Western world. Mandair's work is both sensitive to the historical development of Sikh thought and mindful of the decolonial context in which he writes. Through meticulous examination of key concepts within Sikh philosophy, Mandair delves into their implications for understanding the nature of reality, the relationship between mind, self, and ego, and the possibility of discerning a coherent Sikh logic, epistemology, and ontology.

Furthermore, the book explores how these concepts address broader themes such as the body, health and well-being, creation and cosmology, death and rebirth, the nature of action and intention, bioethics, and spirituality, which serves as a thread that runs through every chapter. Each chapter concludes with a concise summary of the key concepts discussed, thought-provoking questions for further exploration, and teaching points to facilitate lively discussions.

By providing this much-needed introduction, readers gain a deeper understanding of the place of Sikh Philosophy within modern Sikh studies and the reasons why it has been marginalized in contemporary Sikh scholarship. Moreover, the book encourages scholars and enthusiasts to look beyond the well-trodden paths of Hindu and Buddhist thinkers and incorporate Sikh philosophical thought into the emerging field of world philosophies. This exploration not only broadens our understanding of religious and philosophical diversity but also contributes to the ongoing dialogue between different belief systems and promotes mutual respect and understanding.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 216 x 138 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350202252