The Sikh Rehat Maryada presents a vision of life rooted in a clear theological and ethical foundation. At its heart stands belief in one formless God and full acceptance of the ten Gurus, with the Guru Granth Sahib recognized as the eternal Guru and sole spiritual authority. This entails a conscious rejection of idol worship, superstition, caste discrimination, and any competing objects of devotion. Flowing from this center are the well-known three pillars: constant remembrance of the Divine (Naam Japna), earning through honest work (Kirat Karni), and sharing with others (Vand Chhakna). These principles invite the Sikh to shape every aspect of life—inner attitude, livelihood, and social relationships—according to the light of Gurbani.

The Rehat Maryada also gives concrete form to this inner orientation through daily discipline and Khalsa identity. It prescribes regular recitation and contemplation of Gurbani, including specific morning and evening prayers such as Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Rehras Sahib, and Sohila, so that remembrance of the Divine becomes a steady rhythm rather than an occasional act. For initiated Sikhs, the Five Ks—Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, and Kirpan—serve as visible and constant reminders of commitment to the Guru’s path. These articles of faith are not merely symbols of group identity; they are meant to sustain a life of vigilance, self-restraint, and readiness to defend righteousness.

Moral and social conduct occupy a central place in this code. The Rehat Maryada calls for truthful living, compassion, humility, and a steadfast commitment to gender equality and social justice. It insists on earning a livelihood through honest means, refraining from exploitation, and engaging in seva, selfless service to the community. Participation in sangat (congregation) and pangat (communal dining) embodies the principle that all sit and serve as equals, regardless of caste, creed, gender, or social status. In this way, spiritual ideals are woven directly into the fabric of communal life.

Alongside these positive injunctions, the Rehat Maryada sets clear boundaries to protect the integrity of the path. It identifies four major prohibitions for Khalsa Sikhs—cutting hair, eating halal meat, committing adultery, and using tobacco—and extends the spirit of restraint to intoxicants and gambling more generally. By discouraging empty ritualism, superstitious practices, and reliance on astrology or omens, it directs attention back to the living guidance of the Guru Granth Sahib. Family life, marriage through the Anand Karaj ceremony, and observance of gurdwara protocols are all framed as opportunities to align ordinary human relationships with the Guru’s teachings. In this way, the code of conduct becomes not a mere list of rules, but a disciplined path toward a life infused with remembrance, integrity, and shared responsibility.