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{{aowh|[[Gurdwara]]}}
{{pm|Image:gtbss001.jpg|[[Harimandir Sahib]], the premier [[Gurdwara]]}}

'''[[Gurdwara]]:''' literally Guru's portal/ abode / House or Door. In the early period of [[Sikhism]], before the advent of the word "[[Gurdwara]]", the word "Dharamsala" was used to refer to [[Sikh]] places of worship and service ([[Sewa]]). The word can be split into two: "Gur" or "Guru" referring to their Guru, '''[[Guru Granth Sahib]]''' i.e. [[Gurbani]] / [[Waheguru]] / the word [[Shabad]] and "duwara" meaning "Door" of the "House"'''

Although most [[Sikh]]s spell "[[Gurdwara]]" and refer it as the House of the Guru, that may not be the accurate spelling and meaning. If we look at the word "Gurdwara" closely in [[Gurmukhi]], and compare it to each time it has been mentioned in the [[Sri Guru Granth Sahib]] or [[Bhai Gurdas ji's Vaars]], there is no "vava" or "w" sound in it.  The word is actually spelt "Gur-duara."  The word Dwara means place or home, but Duara means 'through' or 'by means of'.  So the accurate definition of a "Gurduara" would be through or by means of our [[Guru]].  For a [[Sikh]], every thing is achieved by means or by grace of the Guru.

[[Sikhism]], has no room for symbolism or ritualism; [[Sikh]]s have neither idols nor altars in their [[Gurdwara]].  They have no sacraments and no priestly order.  <!---The essential feature of a [[gurdwara]] is the presiding presence in it of the holy [[Sikh Scripture]], called the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] also referred to as '''Satguru'''. This essentially is the focal point of a Gurdwara.  The other main component is the holy congregation called the [[Sadh Sangat]] who are present within this sacred structure in humble obedience of principles laid down by the [[Sikh Gurus]].---> {{aowf|Gurdwara}}