Over the years, religion has played an important role in the development of the world. Religion has helped guide many in the right direction and give meaning to life. As defined in the dictionary, religion is the set of beliefs relating to the nature, cause and purpose of the universe, including ritual and devotional observances. Religion often includes a moral code along with submission to a higher power or authority (Dictionary). There are hundreds of religions practiced around the world today. Some of the major religions known today include Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and so on. However, there are some religions that may not be well known to people like Sikhism. The religion is followed by around 20 million people known as Sikhs in the world. Sikhism is a branch of the Indian religion that split from Hinduism when it was founded in the 16th century by Guru Nanak. The religion is based on his teachings along with the 9 Sikh gurus who follow him. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion most often practiced in the Punjab province of India. The faith began around 1500 AD when Guru Nanak was teaching a faith different from Hinduism and Islam at the time. There were nine gurus who followed Guru Nanak in his teachings and helped develop the faith of Sikhism. By the time of the fifth guru, known as Guru Arjun, Sikhism was well established. Guru Arjun had declared the capital of the Sikh world Amritsar and declared the official Sikh scripture Adi Granth. Guru Arjun was executed because Sikhism was seen as a threat by the state at the time. However, the sixth Guru Hargobind continued to keep the Sikh faith alive. With the help of gurus, the Sikh community has fought many ... middle of paper ... who could interfere in the work of God. It is a sin to take life as most Sikhs believe that life begins at the moment of conception. Organ donation is allowed in Sikhism as it is a way to help others in need. It teaches you to put others before yourself and to sacrifice yourself when necessary. One of the greatest things one can do in Sikhism is to save another person's life. Euthanasia is usually not allowed in Sikhism as it once again destroys or kills God's creation. Life is a gift from God and it should be left to Him to decide when to be born and end. Sikhs must learn to use life in a responsible way in which God would approve. Works Cited "Religion". Dictionary. Np, nd Web. May 4, 2014. “Religion: Sikhism.” BBC. Np, nd Web. May 4 2014. .