How to Divorce in Sikhism
- 1). Recognize the traditional religious perspective. In most cases, divorce is not condoned by the Sikh community. This is largely due to the fact that marriage is not considered a civil dissoluble act in Sikhism but a contract recognized and ordained by God. Therefore, divorce is not something to which a man or woman is generally entitled.
- 2). Attempt resolution with the community. The individuals can solicit that community for advice on how to resolve the problem if at all possible and retain the bonds of marriage. If this proves impossible due to either one or both party's position(s), then the community may opt to allow for the divorce through their leadership.
- 3). Approach the Punj Payaary. This is the traditional institution of community leadership and is comprised of five members. These highly respected individuals will likely hear the facts of the situation and render a decision as to either allow or disallow the divorce. (From the faith's perspective, that is; in the United States's civil justice system, these decisions have no legal bearing.)
- 4). Establish grounds. In order for the divorce to be presented as necessary or desirable, you must present the Panj Payaary with the circumstances you believe merit it. Sikhism 101 lists the following as potential grounds for the divorce: "cruelty, adultery, change of religion and suffering from an incurable disease." Although not as frequent, other irreconcilable differences in personality or temperament may be taken into consideration.
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