Over the years, religion has played an important role in the development of the world. Religion has helped guide many people in the right direction and give meaning to life. As defined in the dictionary, religion is the set of beliefs relating to the nature, cause and purpose of the universe, while including ritual and devotional observances. Religion often includes a moral code as well as submission to a higher power or authority (Dictionary). There are hundreds of religions practiced around the world today. Some of the major religions known today include Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, etc. However, some religions may not be well known to people, such as Sikhism. This religion is practiced by approximately 20 million people known as Sikhs worldwide. Sikhism is a branch of Indian religion that split from Hinduism when it was founded in the 16th century by Guru Nanak. The religion is based on his teachings as well as the 9 Sikh gurus who follow him. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion most commonly practiced in the Punjab province of India. The faith began around 1500 CE, when Guru Nanak taught a faith different from Hinduism and Islam of the time. Nine gurus followed Guru Nanak in his teachings and helped develop the faith of Sikhism. By the time of the fifth Guru, known as Guru Arjun, Sikhism was well established. Guru Arjun had declared the capital of the Sikh world as Amritsar and declared the official Sikh scripture as Adi Granth. Guru Arjun was executed because Sikhism was considered a threat by the state at the time. However, the sixth Guru Hargobind continued to keep the Sikh faith alive. With the help of the gurus, the Sikh community fought many ...... middle of paper ...... who threatened to interfere in the work of God. It is a sin to take life, as most Sikhs believe that life begins at conception. Organ donation is permitted in Sikhism because it is a way to help others in need. It teaches to put others before yourself and to make sacrifices when necessary. One of the greatest things one can do in Sikhism is to save the lives of others. Euthanasia is generally not permitted in Sikhism because, once again, it destroys or kills God's creation. Life is a gift from God and it is up to him to decide when it should begin and end. Sikhs must learn to use life in a responsible manner that God would approve of. Works Cited “Religion”. Dictionary. Np, and Web. May 4, 2014. “Religion: Sikhism.” BBC. Np, and Web. May 4 2014. .