The Feminine Principle in the Sikh Vision of the Transcendent

Cambridge Studies in Religious Traditions

by Nikky-Guninder Kaur Singh

This work is an original and critical interpretation of Sikh literature from a feminist perspective. It analyzes the rich feminine imagery and symbolism that pervades the divine-human encounter in this literature, and gives a new authenticity to a relatively neglected religious tradition. Nikky Singh shows convincingly that Sikh Gurus and poets did not want the feminine principle to serve just as a figure of speech or literary device, but was intended, rather, to pervade the whole life of the Sikhs. Her work thus reverses an androcentric approach to Sikhism.

332 pages, Hardcover

First published September 24, 1993

Reviews

[Kush · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the book, the feminine principle in the Sikh vision of the Transcendent, Nikky - Guninder Kaur Singh convincingly argues the feminine principle is an important element in Sikh sacred and secular literature, which not only serves as a literary device, but, more importantly, is woven into Sikh identity.

Growing up Sikh, and being immersed in Punjabi culture this book’s message resonated with me. Often, in Punjabi culture, women are ostracized and subjugated. While, in the Sikh religion the female, the mati, sustains and nurtures humanity. The dichotomy is paradoxical - in Sikh sacred literature the feminine spirit is perceived as a path to enlightenment and liberation, whereas in dominant Punjabi culture the female is perceived as a burden and an object to be objectified. This book is an enlightening read. I recommend it to Sikhs and feminists. Specifically to Sikh and Punjabi youths (both male and female), who too often fall victim to the patriarchal and misogynistic culture.

[Tom Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enriching read. Strangely, while reading this book it felt like the points being made were intuitive to my understanding of Guru Sahib’s message and subsequent calls to action. It is very well structured while citing various sources and different frameworks when looking at Gurbani and more contemporary works. This book lays out some incredibly important interpretations and explanations of the Sikh philosophy that is undervalued and under appreciated.