The Sikh religion has many similarities to, and differences from, other religions. In this section I compare Sikhism to Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.

HINDUISM

SIMILARITIES

Both have many rules and rituals.

Both have previously encouraged their supporters to fight for the religion.

Both believe in reincarnation.

DIFFERENCES

Hinduism has many gods, Sikhism has only one.

Hinduism's rituals vary a lot, Sikhism's are consistent.

Hinduism has no 'ruler' of the religion, Sikhism used to.

Hinduism has no holy book.

CHRISTIANITY

SIMILARITIES

Both have only one god.

Both were previously persecuted.

Both have a holy book.

DIFFERENCES

Christianity is divided into denominations, Sikhism isn't.

Christianity does not have many rituals, other than prayer.

ISLAM

SIMILARITIES

Both have only one god.

Both have many rules and rituals.

Both have previously encouraged their supporters to fight for the religion.

Both have a heavy emphasis on prayer and meditation.

DIFFERENCES

Sikhism has just one holy book, Islam has two.