Understanding The Minorities In Singapore

During the second half of the 19th century, the Peranakan community relocated to Emerald Hill. This area, located in Singapore, became a popular residential neighborhood for the Peranakan people. The Peranakan, also known as Straits Chinese, were descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago. Emerald Hill provided a convenient and desirable location for the Peranakan community due to its proximity to the city center and its attractive and affluent surroundings. The move to Emerald Hill allowed the Peranakan to maintain their cultural identity and traditions while adapting to the changing times.

'Tok Panjang' is a traditional feast in Peranakan culture, which is a unique blend of Chinese and Malay influences. The Peranakan people are descendants of Chinese immigrants who married local Malays in the Malay Archipelago. They developed their own distinct culture and cuisine, which includes the Tok Panjang feast. Therefore, 'Tok Panjang' is associated with the Peranakan people.

The name 'Kaur' given to all Sikh women means Princess. In Sikhism, 'Kaur' is a mandatory surname given to Sikh women, which signifies equality and independence. It was introduced by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, to ensure that women are not identified by their marital status or lineage. 'Kaur' means princess and represents the royal and sovereign nature of every Sikh woman. It is a symbol of empowerment and serves as a reminder of the inherent dignity and worth of women in Sikh society.

Guru Gobind Singh is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the 10th Guru of Sikhism. He succeeded his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and played a crucial role in shaping Sikhism. Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, a community of committed Sikhs, and introduced the concept of the Five Ks. He also compiled the final version of the Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, and emphasized the importance of fighting for justice and righteousness. Guru Gobind Singh's teachings and contributions have had a significant impact on Sikhism and continue to inspire followers today.

Pantun and Dondang Sayang are traditional forms of poetry and music that are associated with the Peranakan culture. The Peranakan people are descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago and intermarried with the local Malays. They have their own unique culture, language, and traditions, which include art forms like Pantun and Dondang Sayang. These art forms are an important part of Peranakan heritage and are often performed during special occasions and celebrations. Therefore, the correct answer is Peranakan.

A gurdwara is the correct answer because it is a Sikh place of worship. Gurdwara is a term used in the Sikh religion to refer to a place where Sikhs gather for communal worship, prayers, and to listen to the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. It is a place of spiritual significance for Sikhs and serves as a center for community activities and religious ceremonies.

The Armenian Church in Singapore was the first place of worship to have electric lights and fans installed. This suggests that the church was at the forefront of technological advancements in Singapore during that time.

In the 20th century, the middle-class Peranakan community started relocating to Joo Chiat, Katong, and Siglap. At the same time, the wealthier members of the community chose to move to Katong and Pasir Panjang. The given answer, Pasir Panjang, aligns with this historical trend.

The Peranakan social group believes that the food craving of an expectant mother must be satisfied otherwise the child will drool incessantly.

The Guru Granth Sahib is considered the holy book of the Sikh religion. It is a sacred scripture that contains the teachings and writings of the Sikh Gurus and other saints. The Guru Granth Sahib is highly revered by Sikhs and is seen as a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration. It is considered the eternal Guru and is treated with great respect and reverence in Sikh temples and households. The Guru Granth Sahib plays a central role in Sikh worship and is considered the embodiment of the Guru's teachings.

The term "orthodox" refers to a belief system or practice that adheres strictly to established principles or doctrines. In the context of the Armenians' religious beliefs, being considered orthodox implies that they follow traditional and conservative principles, and they adhere closely to the established doctrines of their religion. This suggests that they are likely to maintain traditional rituals, customs, and values, and are less likely to deviate from the established norms of their religious practices.

The correct answer is St Gregory the Illuminator because the Armenian church in Singapore is known by this name. St Gregory the Illuminator is a prominent figure in Armenian Christianity, recognized as the patron saint and the first official head of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The choice of this name for the church in Singapore reflects its historical and religious significance within the Armenian community.

The correct answer is dry curries because kabab and tikka are both types of dishes that are typically prepared with meat and cooked using dry heat methods such as grilling or roasting. They are not fish dishes, chapatti, or naan, which are all different types of bread.

After the Second World War, many Armenians migrated from Singapore to Australia. This could be attributed to various factors such as economic opportunities, political stability, and the presence of an established Armenian community in Australia. Australia was actively promoting immigration during that time, offering incentives for skilled migrants and providing a favorable environment for settling down. Additionally, Australia's geographical proximity to Singapore and its growing economy made it an attractive destination for Armenians seeking a fresh start and better prospects.

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The Jews' rest day, also known as the Sabbath, starts at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday. This is based on the biblical account of creation, where God rested on the seventh day. The Jewish tradition follows this pattern, observing a day of rest and worship from Friday evening until Saturday evening. This time period is considered sacred and is dedicated to prayer, study, and spending time with family.

George Drumgoole Coleman was the architect commissioned to design the Armenian Church.

The Armenian Church was built in the Palladian style, which is characterized by symmetry, grandeur, and classical elements. This architectural style originated in the 16th century in Italy and was popularized by Andrea Palladio. It incorporates classical Greek and Roman design principles, such as columns, pediments, and balanced proportions. The Palladian style is known for its elegance and harmony, making it a fitting choice for the construction of the Armenian Church.

Seven is considered a hallowed figure by the Jews because it holds significant importance in Jewish tradition and religious practices. In Judaism, the number seven symbolizes completeness, perfection, and divine blessing. It is associated with various aspects of Jewish faith, such as the seven days of creation, the seven days of the week, the seven branches of the menorah, and the seven-year cycle in agricultural laws. Additionally, the seventh day of the week, Shabbat, is a sacred day of rest and worship for Jews. Thus, seven is revered and holds a special place in Jewish culture and beliefs.

The Golden Temple at Amritsar is the central shrine of the Sikhs because it is considered the holiest Gurdwara (place of worship) in Sikhism. It is a symbol of the Sikh faith and is visited by millions of Sikhs from around the world every year. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, including its golden dome, and its sacred pool, which is believed to have healing powers. The Sikhs consider the Golden Temple as the spiritual and cultural center of their religion, making it the correct answer.

The correct answer is "All of the above" because Jews follow dietary laws known as kosher, which include not eating pork or shellfish, requiring meat to be specially slaughtered, and prohibiting the consumption of milk and meat together.

Guru Nanak is the founder of Sikhism. He was born in 1469 in Punjab, India. Guru Nanak preached a message of love, equality, and devotion to God. He emphasized the importance of meditation, community service, and living a moral life. He laid the foundation of Sikhism by establishing the principles and teachings that form the core of the religion. His teachings were later compiled into the holy scripture of Sikhs, known as Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Nanak's spiritual and social teachings continue to guide and inspire millions of Sikhs around the world.

The Sikh emblem consists of the Chakra, Kirpan, and the Khanda, which are symbols of the Sikh faith. However, the given options of attire, social practices, and customs do not accurately represent the Sikh emblem. The correct option is "flag," as the Sikh emblem is often depicted on the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib, which is an important symbol in Sikhism.

Catchick Moses is the correct answer because he was an Armenian who co-founded The Straits Times in 1845. The other options, Ben Meyer, Anes Joaquim, and the Sarkies brothers, are not associated with the founding of The Straits Times. Therefore, Catchick Moses is the most suitable answer based on the information provided.

An Eurasian is defined as someone who has at least one European parent. This means that their ancestry includes European heritage, either through one of their parents or ancestors. This term is often used to describe individuals who have mixed European and Asian heritage.

The correct answer is Eurasian. 'Feng' or pork curry is a dish that is commonly associated with Eurasian cuisine. Eurasian cuisine is a fusion of European and Asian flavors, as a result of the intermarriage between European settlers and Asian locals in colonial times. Pork curry is a popular dish in Eurasian communities, and it combines influences from both European and Asian culinary traditions.

The Peranakan community believes that only two birthdays are worth celebrating. This is because they follow a unique tradition where they only celebrate the birthdays of their parents. This practice is rooted in their cultural beliefs and customs, emphasizing the importance of honoring and respecting their parents. By focusing on these two birthdays, the Peranakan community values the significance of family and filial piety.

In Peranakan culture, it is customary for the bride's parents to bear the costs of a wedding. This tradition stems from the belief that the bride is leaving her family to join the groom's family, and therefore, it is the responsibility of the bride's parents to provide for the wedding expenses. This practice ensures that the bride's family shows their support and commitment to the union, while also acknowledging the bride's transition into her new family.

The Askenazi people, who are of Jewish descent, spoke a language called Yiddish. Yiddish is a Germanic language with Hebrew and Slavic influences, and it was primarily spoken by Jews in Central and Eastern Europe. It developed as a way for Jewish communities to communicate with each other and preserve their cultural and religious traditions. Ladino is another language spoken by Sephardic Jews, who have Spanish and Portuguese roots, while Arabic is a Semitic language spoken in the Middle East and North Africa. Therefore, the correct answer is Yiddish.

The 'Bar Mitzvah' Jewish ceremony is a celebration that marks the coming of age of a Jewish boy who has reached the age of thirteen. During this ceremony, the boy is recognized as an adult in the Jewish community and is given the responsibility of observing the commandments and reading from the Torah on the Sabbath. This ceremony does not relate to the purification of the body before burial or the naming and circumcision of a baby boy or girl.

In early 19th century Singapore, the Peranakan community initially settled in shophouses and terrace houses located near Telok Ayer Street and Amoy Street. These streets were popular among the Peranakan people due to their proximity to the bustling trading activities and commercial centers in Singapore at that time. The Peranakan community, also known as the Straits Chinese, were descendants of Chinese immigrants who married local Malays and Indonesians, creating a unique blend of Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. The settlement in Telok Ayer Street and Amoy Street allowed the Peranakan community to maintain their cultural traditions while participating in the thriving trade and economic opportunities in Singapore.

Chewing sireh is associated with all of the above cultures, namely Peranakan, Indians, and Malays. Sireh, also known as betel leaf, is commonly chewed as a traditional practice in these cultures. It is often combined with other ingredients like areca nut and tobacco. This practice has cultural and social significance, and is believed to have various health benefits.

The correct answer is unshorn hair to mirror God's given form. In Sikhism, 'Kes' refers to the practice of not cutting or shaving one's hair. Sikhs believe that their hair is a gift from God and should be kept in its natural form as a way to show respect and acceptance of God's will. This practice is seen as a way to mirror the form that God has given them and to maintain a connection with the divine.

The shawl that is part of the Punjab attire of Sikh women is called a dupatta. This traditional garment is worn over the shoulders or head to cover the upper body. It is commonly paired with a salwar kameez, which consists of loose pants (salwar) and a long tunic (kameez). The dupatta adds elegance and completes the traditional look of the outfit.

Sikhs do not eat beef due to religious beliefs and practices. Sikhism promotes a vegetarian lifestyle and emphasizes compassion for all living beings. The consumption of beef is considered disrespectful and against the principles of Sikhism. Sikhs believe in treating animals with kindness and avoiding any harm or violence towards them. Therefore, beef is not a part of Sikh dietary practices.

The Peranakan Chinese can be traced back to their ancestry from Fujian province. This province, located in southeastern China, has a long history of migration and trade with other Southeast Asian countries. The Peranakan Chinese, also known as the Straits Chinese or Baba-Nyonya, are descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. They have preserved their unique culture and traditions, which blend Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences. Fujian province is considered the main ancestral homeland of the Peranakan Chinese, making it the correct answer.

The Torah of the Jews consists of the laws that the Jews believe God gave to Moses. Moses is a significant figure in Judaism as he is believed to have received the Ten Commandments and other laws directly from God on Mount Sinai. The Torah, which is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, is considered the most important text in Judaism and serves as a guide for Jewish religious and moral practices. Therefore, Moses is the correct answer as he is traditionally credited with receiving and transmitting the Torah to the Jewish people.

Baisakhi is a festival celebrated by Sikhs to mark the formation of the Khalsa Panth. It is a significant day in Sikh history as it commemorates the birth of the Khalsa in 1699. On this day, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, initiated the first five members of the Khalsa and established the principles of Sikhism. Baisakhi holds great religious and cultural importance for Sikhs worldwide, making Sikhism the correct association for this festival.

Bandi Chorh Divas always coincides with the festival of Diwali. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people worldwide. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Bandi Chorh Divas, which translates to "Day of Liberation", is a Sikh festival that commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from prison in 1619. This festival is celebrated on the same day as Diwali, hence the coincidence.

The correct answer is Iraq because historically, there was a small but significant Jewish community in Iraq dating back to ancient times. In the late 19th century and early 20th century, some Jews from Iraq migrated to various parts of the world, including Singapore. These Jewish migrants played a role in the development of the Jewish community in Singapore and contributed to the cultural diversity of the country.

The correct answer is March because the Persians celebrate their New Year, known as Nowruz, on the first day of spring. Nowruz is a traditional festival that marks the beginning of the Persian calendar year and is celebrated by many Iranians and Persian-speaking communities around the world.

Zionism is a political and ideological movement that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the Holy Land of Palestine. It sought to address the historical and ongoing persecution of Jews and promote their self-determination and national identity. The goal of Zionism was to create a safe haven for Jews and ensure their return to their ancestral land. The movement played a significant role in the establishment of the modern State of Israel in 1948.

The correct answer is Gujerat in India. The Bohras, originally from Iraq, migrated to Yemen and later settled in Gujerat, India. Gujerat has a significant Bohra population and is considered one of their major centers.

The correct answer is "All of the above." In the past, wealthy Eurasians in Singapore lived in Tanglin, Katong, and near Serangoon Road. This means that all three options mentioned in the question were locations where wealthy Eurasians resided.

The Sikhs do not celebrate birthdays or wedding anniversaries as they believe in focusing on the spiritual aspects of life rather than materialistic celebrations. They prioritize selfless service and meditation over personal milestones. Instead, they celebrate Gurpurbs, which are anniversaries of important events in the lives of their Gurus. This is a significant aspect of their religious and cultural practices.

The correct answer is "All of the above". The Torah, which is written on scrolls in Hebrew, is kept in the Ark in the synagogue. The Ark is typically located in the inner sanctum or sanctuary of the synagogue. Therefore, all three options mentioned in the question are correct.

The middle of the 19th century is the correct answer because it is stated that the Parsis came to settle in Singapore during this time period. This suggests that the Parsis arrived in Singapore sometime between the early and late 19th century.

The Parsis celebrate their New Year in the month of August. This is because the Parsi New Year, also known as Navroz, is based on the Zoroastrian calendar which follows the solar year. It falls on the first day of the first month of the Zoroastrian calendar, which is called Farvardin. Farvardin usually begins around August 17th or 18th in the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, August is the correct month for the Parsis to celebrate their New Year.

The Armenian Church was built in 1835 with contributions from Armenians in Singapore, Calcutta, and Java. This suggests that the Armenian community in Java also played a significant role in the construction of the church.

Fire is considered sacred by the Parsis. The Parsis are followers of Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion that originated in Persia (modern-day Iran). In Zoroastrianism, fire is seen as a symbol of purity and divinity. It is believed to represent the presence of Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity, and is used in various religious rituals and ceremonies. The Parsis have a long-standing tradition of maintaining sacred fires in their temples, which are tended to by priests called "mobeds". Fire plays a central role in their religious practices and is highly revered by the Parsi community.