Sikhism in North America

Demographics for Sikhs in the United States is difficult to determine, as sources range from 300,000 to 700,000. Canada demographics are much more firm, as the 2011 Census affirms over 455,000 Sikhs. (Read More - a very good overview of Sikhism and Sikhs in Canada).

Sikhs are predominantly from the Punjab state in India. A common Sikh greeting is Sat Sri Akal! (“The Timeless, Immortal Power, is the Truth”). Sikhism is the 5th largest religion in the world.

Sikhism rejects all distinctions based on caste, creed, gender, color, race, or national origin. For Sikhs, God is not found in isolation or by renouncing the world, but is attained as an active family member and member of one’s community. The word “Sikh” means student. Therefore, a Sikh is and remains a student of the meaning of life.

Total USA Gurdwara: 246

Gurdwara, is more than a place of worship. It has historically served as a refuge for the homeless and the destitute. Visitors, irrespective of their religion, are offered shelter, comfort, and food. The prerequisites for entering a Gurdwara are removing shoes and covering one’s head with a handkerchief, scarf, or other cloth.

"After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb."(Revelation 7:9, NIV)