The Evolution of the Sikh Community: FIVE ESSAYS

W. H. McLeod is an internationally renowned scholar of Sikh studies. He is Emeritus Professor at the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.

About the Book:

Beginning in the early sixteenth century as an intensely interior system of devotion, Sikhism emerged into prominence later in the eighteenth century as a clearly defined belief laying stress on martial prowess and external symbols. Thus traditionally, Sikh history has always been regarded as a paradox.

McLeod seeks a more intricate interpretation, a more radical concept of development, taking into account a wider range of historical and sociological phenomena. In this series of five essays he examines the history and sacred literature of the Sikhs, probing into the roots of Nanak's teachings and beyond. He demonstrates that the evolution of the community has in fact been a logical and consistent process.

Authoritative yet lucidly written, this volume will make interesting reading for scholars and students of religion, culture, Sikh studies, sociology, and history, as well as general readers and members of the Sikh community interesting in the living faith.