Sacred Ecology in Sikh Thought: Environmental Ethics in Sri Guru Granth Sahib

The contemporary environmental crisis has prompted renewed scholarly interest in religious and ethical traditions that promote ecological responsibility. Sikhi, rooted in the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, presents a deeply integrated spiritual and ecological worldview that emphasizes harmony between humanity and nature. This article examines the prime environmental teachings of Sikhism as articulated in Gurbani and exemplified by the Sikh Gurus. Central to Sikh environmental ethics is the belief in the immanence of the Divine within nature, rendering the Earth and its elements sacred and worthy of reverence. Concepts such as Panj Tatt (five classical elements), Earth as dharamsal (a place for righteous action), interdependence of all life forms, and simple living provide a comprehensive ecological framework grounded in spiritual consciousness. The study highlights how Sikh teachings critique ego-driven exploitation (haumai) as a root cause of environmental degradation and instead advocate humility, restraint, and service (seva). By analyzing scriptural hymns and theological principles, this article demonstrates that Sikhism offers not merely symbolic reverence for nature but a practical ethic of sustainability encompassing economic justice, community sharing, and ecological stewardship. The findings suggest that Sikh environmental philosophy is highly relevant to contemporary ecological discourse, offering a faith-based model for sustainable living, ethical development, and planetary well-being grounded in spiritual wisdom and universal responsibility.