The Source Book On Sikhism

Importance and Significance of Akal Takhat

Ideological challenge is normal phenomena not uncommon in the history of religious thought. In fact, it may be desirable for better understanding of religious doctrines and gives the opportunity to the adherence to affirm their faith. But no religion can run its affairs until there is strong central authority who can make a final decision firmly. Akal Takhat (world-wide) and SGPC (India) are the only custodians of Sikhism. There needs to be education among the Sikh masses about the importance and significance of Akal Takhat. There is a lot of confusions being created about the institution of Akal Takhat these days. It is the consensus of the Sikh community, especially those who have moved away from India, that in order to save Sikhism from going into any Protestant way, like Christianity, there is an immediate need to set up an office of Akal Takhat in the West; so that the Sikh institutions in the West can come under control of Akal Takhat Sahib Amritsar. There is a need to evolve a system/secretariat/senate under Sri Akal Takhat and form a think tank who can guide the custodians regarding religious, academic, social, and political day to day problems of the Sikhs in India and abroad. It is the need of the day that the Sikh perspective on different issues cannot be put under the rug anymore. It is a great challenge that must be accepted by the Sikh intellectuals and clergy to respond to it appropriately if Sikhism has to survive in the next century of this dynamic global community.