Gurdwaras

Question 0

Inside the Gurdwaras

Answer 0

No pictures to worship (false idols) god has no physical form. To ritualistic objects. GGS is prime focus. Placed on platform ‘takht’ under a canopy. A chaur waves a fan over GGS in service.

Question 1

Langar

Answer 1

Established by Guru Nanak. Free food kitchen. Communal meal, food vegetarian to ensure everyone’s needs are met. EQUALITY. Sikhs participate (sewa) to obtain mukti.

Question 2

4 Doors

Answer 2

door of peace, livelihood,learning, grace. Symbolizes all people from points of the compass are welcome, and all castes are welcome. Always a light on, showing gurus light is always visible.

Question 3

Service

Answer 3

Any Sikh can lead, the granthi just organizes the ceremony–normally a Khalsa. Morning service=kirtan (singing), a sermon on history of Sikhism, Ardas=congregation faces GGS for prayer, repeating Waheguru. Hukam=opened at random, top left read. Ceremonial food (5 portions) offered as remembrance for pianj piaras.

Question 4

Visitation

Answer 4

Some visit before work, no holy days (e.g. Sunday) shoes removed, heads covered. No smoking. Sikhs bow to GGS. Indicates submission, people offer also food or money, and everyone sits in floor. Men and women separated.