Our Approach

The Study Sikhi perspective represents a bridging of two perspectives, firstly the traditional interpretative approach to Sikh scripture (Gurbāṇī) and history (itihāsa), and secondly decolonial academic approaches. 

Both of these perspectives provide unique benefits to interpreting and enjoying the Sikh tradition. The traditional interpretations, kept alive over the centuries by learning institutions, provide key internal clues and insights into the tropes, metaphors, poetics, and definitions relevant to understand Sikh literature. 

A decolonial academic perspective is essential to give deference to precolonial sources, pushing back against colonial and western interpretations on Sikh thought. This perspective understands the colonial effect upon South Asian traditions, and seeks to avoid the various pitfalls in the field. One example would include avoiding the centering of Euro-centric frameworks like "religion" upon the South Asian context.