Why Sikhs do not proselytise/convert?
Although, converts to Sikhism are most welcome, the faith does not actively proselytise and is against making bold attempts to change others religion. As is the case with all Dharmic origin religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism. Which strongly advocate that relgion should be a individuals choice without there being overt pressure or cohersion to bring others into the fold of a particular faith.
This type of conversion or proslethism however can be a practice that takes place in other faiths, particulalry those of Abrahamic backgrounds and may have certain negative or unethical connotations related to it. This is one reason why the numbers of Sikhs and other Dharmic faiths is relativeley lower then other religions, due to no widescale missionary efforts throughout the history and beginings of the faiths.
However Sikhi is now gaining much more awareness in the west, partly to do with the many good online websites and resources with a wealth of information freely accesible to all. Many are now understanding the true beauty of this unique and beautiful religion for this first time. Because of this lack of missionary element within the faith, Sikhs do not really preach, but only teach for those who would like to know more about the faith. This is inline with the Sikh teachings of religious tolerance, peace and equal respect for all faiths.
Sikhi also does not hold onto concepts or beliefs such as “non believers are destined for a “hell”. Sikhi rather ephasises the importance of how our actions good /bad moral deeds will effect how we are judged by God rather then simply our religious tags. Furthermore, Sikhi teaches that all faiths should be respected and everyone should be able to practice their religion without any form of discrimination or persecution.
Sikhs strongly believe in religious freedom and have never been a missionary based religion that tries to impose its views on others. Sikhi teaches that it is completley wrong to try and forcibly instill our beliefs on others who maybe happy in their own respective faiths. Historically Sikhs have come to the aid of peoples and faiths who were being persecuted beacuse of their religion.
There is also a great emphasis on the brotherhood of humanity regardless of the faiths we follow. Everyone is welcome in the Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) irrespective of their faith and can also enjoy a communal free meal together. Infact the concept of Langar is to bring all faiths together as one.
