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'''Gurdwara:''' literally Guru SatGur's portal/ abode / House or Door.
[[Image:gtbss001.jpg|thumb|300px|left|The Golden Temple, [[Harimandir Sahib]] in [[Amritsar]], [[India]]]]


The word can be split into two: Gur meaning '''[[Guru Granth Sahib| SatGur]]''' i.e. [[Gurbani]] / Waheguru / TRUTH(GOD) and "duwara" meaning "Main Door" of the "House"'''
'''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 or [[Shabad]] and "duwara" meaning "Door" of the "House"'''


The common translation of the term as 'Sikh Temple' is not satisfactory for, their faith caters for no symbolism what so ever , [[Sikh]]s have neither idols nor altars in any GurDwara.  They have no sacraments and no priestly order.  The essential feature of a [[gurdwara]] is the presiding presence in it of the '''ONLY''' [[Sikh Scripture]], i.e. '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]] & Holy ''''[[Khalsa|KHALSA]] congregation' in humble obediance of '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur's]]''' commandments at all costs '''.
The common translation of the term as 'Sikh Temple' is not satisfactory for as it does not convey the full meaning of the term. In Sikhism, there is room for symbolism whatsoever; [[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]].  


==[[Khalsa|KHALSA]] Training Institution==
The Sikhs hold high respect for the commandments laid down in the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] and most faithful adherents will adhere to these commandments at all costs. Within the Gurdwara the Sikhs engage in prayer ([[Simran]] or [[Naam Japna]]) and in voluntary service called [[Sewa]]. [[Langar]], free community kitchen serves meals to anyone who visits this Sikh institution. All the facilities are generally managed on a voluntary basis by volunteers called [[Sewadar]]s. Very few paid staff are generally maintained in Gurdwaras.  
A Gurdwara is a '''[[Khalsa|KHALSA]]''' training institution; a place for organised [http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php?title=KNOW_YOUR_OWN_SELF#Step_5:_SERVE_TRUE_IDEAs Satgur Seva] of Satgur Granth Sahib.[[Golden Temple|Darbar Sahib]] in [[Amritsar]], [[Punjab]], [[India]] is the  focal institution for all the Gurdwaras located the world over.
[[Image:gtbss001.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The Golden Temple|right]]


In early [[Sikhism]], the place used for congregational prayers was called dharamsala, the abode of dharma, different from the modern usage which generally limits the term to a resting place.  According to the [[Janam Sakhis]], [[Guru Nanak]] wherever he went, called upon his followers to establish dharamsalas and congregate in them to repeat God's Name, and to recite His praise.  He himself established one at Kartarpur on the bank of the River Ravi where he settled down at the end of his extensive preaching tours. "I have set up a dharamsal of truth," sang [[Guru Arjan]] (1563-1606).  "I seek the [[Sikh]]s of the [[Guru]] (to congregate therein) so that I may serve them and bow at their feet" (GG, 73).
This is the place where the young Sikhs learn the essentials of their faith and as they grow older this becomes their spiritual training centre - the '''[[Khalsa|KHALSA]]''' training institution; a place for organised [http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php?title=KNOW_YOUR_OWN_SELF#Step_5:_SERVE_TRUE_IDEAs "Satgur de Seva" or service of the True Guru].
 
[[Golden Temple|Darbar Sahib]] in [[Amritsar]], [[Punjab]], [[India]] is the  focal institution for all the Gurdwaras located the world over.
 
{{Tocleft}}
==Background==
[[Image:Sikh gurdwara.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwaras in Augusta, Georgia, USA]]
 
In early [[Sikhism]], the place used for Congregational prayers was called dharamsala, the abode of dharma, different from the modern usage which generally limits the term to a resting place.  According to the [[Janam Sakhis]], [[Guru Nanak]] wherever he went, called upon his followers to establish dharamsalas and congregate in them to repeat God's Name, and to recite His praise.  He himself established one at [[Kartarpur]] on the bank of the [[River Ravi]] where he settled down at the end of his extensive preaching tours. "I have set up a dharamsal of truth," sang [[Guru Arjan]] (1563-1606).  "I seek the [[Sikh]]s of the [[Guru]] (to congregate therein) so that I may serve them and bow at their feet" (GG, 73).


In the time of [[Guru Hargobind]] (1595-1644), dharamsals began to be called [[gurdwara]]s. The change of nomenclature was significant. [[Guru Arjan]] had compiled in 1604 a Book, pothi or [[granth]] (later [[Guru Granth Sahib]]) of holy hymns. Besides his own, he had included in it the compositions of his four spiritual predecessors and of some of the Indian saints and sufis. "The pothi is the abode of the Divine," said he (GG, 1226). This first copy of the Granth he installed in the central [[Sikh]] shrine, the [[Harimander]], at [[Amritsar]]. Copies of the [[Granth]] began to be piously transcribed. The devotees carried them on their heads for installation in their respective dharamsals. Reverently, the Book was called the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] and was treated as a sacred embodiment of the [[Gurus]]' revealed utterances.  The dharamsal where the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] was kept came to be called [[gurdwara]]. The designation became universal after the guruship passed to the holy Book, although the central shrine at Amritsar continued to be called [[Harimander]] or [[Darbar Sahib]].
In the time of [[Guru Hargobind]] (1595-1644), dharamsals began to be called [[gurdwara]]s. The change of nomenclature was significant. [[Guru Arjan]] had compiled in 1604 a Book, pothi or [[granth]] (later [[Guru Granth Sahib]]) of holy hymns. Besides his own, he had included in it the compositions of his four spiritual predecessors and of some of the Indian saints and sufis. "The pothi is the abode of the Divine," said he (GG, 1226). This first copy of the Granth he installed in the central [[Sikh]] shrine, the [[Harimander]], at [[Amritsar]]. Copies of the [[Granth]] began to be piously transcribed. The devotees carried them on their heads for installation in their respective dharamsals. Reverently, the Book was called the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] and was treated as a sacred embodiment of the [[Gurus]]' revealed utterances.  The dharamsal where the [[Guru Granth Sahib]] was kept came to be called [[gurdwara]]. The designation became universal after the guruship passed to the holy Book, although the central shrine at Amritsar continued to be called [[Harimander]] or [[Darbar Sahib]].
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During the second half of the eighteenth century and after, as the [[Sikh]]s acquired territory, gurdwaras sprang up in most of the [[Sikh]] habitations and on sites connected with the lives of the Gurus and with events in [[Sikh]] history.  Most of the historical [[gurdwara]]s were endowed by the ruling chiefs and nobility with liberal grants of land.  
During the second half of the eighteenth century and after, as the [[Sikh]]s acquired territory, gurdwaras sprang up in most of the [[Sikh]] habitations and on sites connected with the lives of the Gurus and with events in [[Sikh]] history.  Most of the historical [[gurdwara]]s were endowed by the ruling chiefs and nobility with liberal grants of land.  
[[Image:Gurdwara Visitors.JPG|thumb|300px|left|Non-Sikh and Sikh Visitors to a Gurdwara shown with their heads covered.]]


This well- intentioned philanthropy, however, in many cases led to the rise of hereditary priesthood, which was brought to an end through a sustained agitation culminating in securing from the Punjab Legislative Council legislation called the [[Sikh]] [[Gurdwara]]s Act, 1925, providing for the management of the major historical Sikh shrines by a body known as the [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee]] elected through adult franchise under government auspices.  This kind of democratic control is a unique ecclesiastical feature.  Most of the shrines not covered by the [[Gurdwara]]s Act are administered by committees chosen by local [[sangat]]s.
This well- intentioned philanthropy, however, in many cases led to the rise of hereditary priesthood, which was brought to an end through a sustained agitation culminating in securing from the Punjab Legislative Council legislation called the [[Sikh]] [[Gurdwara]]s Act, 1925, providing for the management of the major historical Sikh shrines by a body known as the [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee]] elected through adult franchise under government auspices.  This kind of democratic control is a unique ecclesiastical feature.  Most of the shrines not covered by the [[Gurdwara]]s Act are administered by committees chosen by local [[sangat]]s.
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Anyone of the five selected Sikhs, best male / female,(normally & not necessarily ) the seniormost in Age, may become president to repersent this organisation of '''[[Panj Piaras]]''' institutionalised by 10th  Nanak, Guru Gobind Singh . These selected five best Sikhs are by default expected to be epitomes of '''Daya''' ( concern for the  Sikh 'Have Nots' ) , '''Dharm''' ( TRUTHfullness), '''Himmat''' ( Courage of Conviction ), '''Mohkam''' ( Demonstrative Ability to Lead TRUTHfully ) '''Sahib''' ( The Head of the organisation possessing all these four Holy attributes (Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership)     
Anyone of the five selected Sikhs, best male / female,(normally & not necessarily ) the seniormost in Age, may become president to repersent this organisation of '''[[Panj Piaras]]''' institutionalised by 10th  Nanak, Guru Gobind Singh . These selected five best Sikhs are by default expected to be epitomes of '''Daya''' ( concern for the  Sikh 'Have Nots' ) , '''Dharm''' ( TRUTHfullness), '''Himmat''' ( Courage of Conviction ), '''Mohkam''' ( Demonstrative Ability to Lead TRUTHfully ) '''Sahib''' ( The Head of the organisation possessing all these four Holy attributes (Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership)     


As [[Sikhism]] has no priesthood, administrative control of gurdwaras is exercised by the best Sikhs selected (not elected) by [[Khalsa|KHALSA]] strictly as per the qualitative requirements ('''Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership & accountability''')  formally outlined in '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]'''. The [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee]] provides all available resources to the community for understanding the Commandments of TRUTH(GOD) formally documented in '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]
As [[Sikhism]] has no priesthood, administrative control of gurdwaras is exercised by the best Sikhs selected (not elected) by [[Khalsa|KHALSA]] strictly as per the qualitative requirements ('''Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership & accountability''')  formally outlined in '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]'''. The [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee]] provides all available resources to the community for understanding the Commandments of 'TRUTH god' formally documented in '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]
[[Image:Gurdwara Visitors.JPG|thumb|250px|right|Non-Sikh and Sikh Visitors to a Gurdwara shown with their heads covered.]]


People of all racial / social / political / religious background or of none of these are welcomed to these shrines. As a protocol & holy KHALSA tradition , remember to remove your shoes and cover your head before entering the more sacred parts of the building.
People of all racial / social / political / religious background or of none of these are welcomed to these shrines. As a protocol & holy KHALSA tradition , remember to remove your shoes and cover your head before entering the more sacred parts of the building.


The [[gurdwara]] and its hospitality are open to non-[[Sikh]]s as well as to members of the faith. The [[Sikh]] [[rahit]] [[maryada]] or code of conduct, however, contains certain rules pertaining to them.  For example, no one should enter the gurdwara premises with one's shoes on or with head uncovered.  Other rules in the rahit maryada concern the conduct of religious service and reverence due to '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]'''. Rules also prohibit discrimination in the sangat on the basis of religion, caste, sex or social position, and the observation of idolatrous and '''[[FALSEHOOD|superstitious]]''' practices.
The [[gurdwara]] and its hospitality are open to non-[[Sikh]]s as well as to members of the faith. The [[Sikh]] [[rahit]] [[maryada]] or code of conduct, however, contains certain rules pertaining to them.  For example, no one should enter the gurdwara premises with one's shoes on or with head uncovered.  Other rules in the rahit maryada concern the conduct of religious service and reverence due to '''[[Guru Granth Sahib|SatGur]]'''. Rules also prohibit discrimination in the sangat on the basis of religion, caste, sex or social position, and the observation of idolatrous and '''[[FALSEHOOD|superstitious]]''' practices.
[[Image:Sri Guru Granth Sahib.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A Sikh in attendance of
the [[Sri Guru Granth Sahib| Satgur Granth Sahib]].]]


A Gurdwara is identified by the following five basic features:-
A Gurdwara is identified by the following five basic features:-
*1.'''[[SGGS| GURU]]''' i.e. the Sikh holy book. A hall called [[Darbar Sahib]],houses the [[SGGS| GURU]], . This hall in most modern temples is large and will house many hundreds of visitors.
*1.'''[[SGGS| GURU]]''' i.e. the Sikh holy book. A hall called [[Darbar Sahib]],houses the [[SGGS| GURU]], . This hall in most modern temples is large and will house many hundreds of visitors.


*2.'''[[Nishan Sahib| NISHAN ]]''', short for  '''NISHAN SAHIB''' is a triangular orange flag with a [[Khalsa|KHALSA]] emblem ( [[Khanda]] )in the middle. It expresses the faith of Sikh Community in [http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php?title=Mool_Mantar_and_its_Perception#ONE_ETERNAL__Lord_TRUTH__.28the_creator.29........................Gurbani TRUTH god ]& [[Guru Granth Sahib| SatGurBani]]. It is a KHALSA icon for TRUTH(GOD)'s [[SACH KHAND|abode]]''
*2.'''[[Nishan Sahib| NISHAN ]]''', short for  '''NISHAN SAHIB''' is a triangular orange flag with a [[Khalsa|KHALSA]] emblem ( [[Khanda]] )in the middle. It expresses the faith of Sikh Community in [http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php?title=Mool_Mantar_and_its_Perception#ONE_ETERNAL__Lord_TRUTH__.28the_creator.29........................Gurbani TRUTH god ]& [[Guru Granth Sahib| SatGurBani]]. It is a KHALSA icon for ''TRUTH god's [[SACH KHAND|abode]]''


*3. '''[[Langar|PANGAT]]''' i.e. Community Kitchen. It is part of A building complex where communal meals are served. It may have tables and chairs, but as a tradition it is expected from the devotees to sit on the floor.  
*3. '''[[Langar|PANGAT]]''' i.e. Community Kitchen. It is part of A building complex where communal meals are served. It may have tables and chairs, but as a tradition it is expected frome the devotees to sit on the floor.  


*4. '''[[Sangat|SANGAT]]''' is a Holy congregation of the 'Saint Soldiers', the [[Khalsa|KHALSA]]. As per Sikh faith, this KHALSA congregation also represents combined '''ONE'''TRUTH(GOD) and also persona of 'HUMANITY & Guru' in [[SACH KHAND]]. Gurbani Singers & those regulating the function will normally address the KHALSA congregation as 'Guru Roop Sadh Sangat' literally meaning 'O TRUTH(GOD)!' in the guise of this holy gathering of Saint-Soldiers (i.e. [[Khalsa|KHALSA]])  
*4. '''[[Sangat|SANGAT]]''' is a Holy congregation of the 'Saint Soldiers', the [[Khalsa|KHALSA]]. As per Sikh faith, this KHALSA congregation also represents combined '''ONE'''(TRUTH god ETERNAL) persona of 'HUMANITY & Guru' in [[SACH KHAND]]. Gurbani Singers & those regulating the function will normally address the KHALSA congregation as 'Guru Roop Sadh Sangat' literally meaning 'O TRUTH god !' in the guise of this holy gathering of Saint-Soldiers (i.e. [[Khalsa|KHALSA]])  


*5  '''[[GOLAK]]''' refers to a systematic & formal Financial System in the custudy of '''[[SatGurBani|Satgur Granth Sahib]]'''. The Gurdwara management team, on behalf of Satgur Granth Sahib manages the account, expentitures, donations  & gifts etc. .....
*5  '''[[GOLAK]]''' refers to a systematic & formal Financial System in the custudy of '''[[SatGurBani|Satgur Granth Sahib]]'''. The Gurdwara management team, on behalf of Satgur Granth Sahib manages the account, expentitures, donations  & gifts etc. .....
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==GURU==
==GURU==
[[Image:Langar Hall.JPG|thumb|250px|left|View of a Langar Hall (Dining Hall) inside a Gurdwara.]]
Sikhs treat the holy Book like a living Teacher/Guru. This act of respect is  a public resolution of a Sikh's Commitment to live a Truthful life
Sikhs treat the holy Book like a living Teacher/Guru. This act of respect is  a public resolution of a Sikh's Commitment to live a Truthful life
dedicated to nothing but TRUTH god & HUMANITY,  by walking on the [[Compendium of TRUE IDEAs|way]] encapsulated in [[Guru Granth Sahib|Satgur Granth Sahib]].
dedicated to nothing but TRUTH god & HUMANITY,  by walking on the [[Compendium of TRUE IDEAs|way]] encapsulated in [[Guru Granth Sahib|Satgur Granth Sahib]].
[[Image:Sri Guru Granth Sahib.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A Sikh in attendance of
the [[Sri Guru Granth Sahib| Satgur Granth Sahib]].]]


'''Essence of the term 'Worship' in [[Khalsa|KHALSA( TRUTH god incarnate having all HUMAN attributes )]] way of life is  diffrent than that ordinarily understood by people.'''
'''Essence of the term 'Worship' in [[Khalsa|KHALSA( TRUTH god incarnate having all HUMAN attributes )]] way of life is  diffrent than that ordinarily understood by people.'''
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==PANGAT==
==PANGAT==
[[Image:Langar Hall.JPG|thumb|250px|right|View of a Langar Hall (Dining Hall) inside a Gurdwara.]]
 
The aspect of [[Sikhism]] most closely associated with the gurdwara, other than worship, is the institution of [[Guru ka Langar]] or free community kitchen which encourages commensality. [[Seva]] or voluntary service in [[Guru ka Langar]] is considered by Sikhs a pious duty.
The aspect of [[Sikhism]] most closely associated with the gurdwara, other than worship, is the institution of [[Guru ka Langar]] or free community kitchen which encourages commensality. [[Seva]] or voluntary service in [[Guru ka Langar]] is considered by Sikhs a pious duty.
   
   
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==Gurdwara Architecture==
==Gurdwara Architecture==
[[Image:Gurdwara.Sri.Guru.Singh.Sabha.Southall.jpg|thumb|250px|right|[[Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha]], [[Southall]], [[United Kingdom|UK]].]]


Unlike the places of worship in some other religious systems, [[gurdwara]] buildings do not have to conform to any set architectural design. The only established requirement is the installation of the [[Guru Granth Sahib]], under a canopy or in a canopied seat, usually on a platform higher than the floor on which the devotees sit, and a tall Sikh pennant atop the building.
Unlike the places of worship in some other religious systems, [[gurdwara]] buildings do not have to conform to any set architectural design. The only established requirement is the installation of the [[Guru Granth Sahib]], under a canopy or in a canopied seat, usually on a platform higher than the floor on which the devotees sit, and a tall Sikh pennant atop the building.


Lately, more and more [[gurdwara]]s have been having buildings imitating more or less the [[Harimander]] pattern, a mixture of Indo-Persian architecture.  Most of them have square halls, stand on a higher plinth, have entrances on all four sides, and have square or octagonal domed sanctums usually in the middle. During recent decades, to meet the requirements of larger gatherings, bigger and better ventilated assembly halls with the sanctum at one end have become accepted style. The location of the sanctum, more often than not, is such as to allow space for circumambulation.  Sometimes, to augment the space, verandahs are built to skirt the hall. Popular model for the dome is the ribbed lotus topped by an ornamental pinnacle.  Arched copings, kiosks and solid domelets are used for exterior decorations.
Lately, more and more [[gurdwara]]s have been having buildings imitating more or less the [[Harimander]] pattern, a mixture of Indo-Persian architecture.  Most of them have square halls, stand on a higher plinth, have entrances on all four sides, and have square or octagonal domed sanctums usually in the middle. During recent decades, to meet the requirements of larger gatherings, bigger and better ventilated assembly halls with the sanctum at one end have become accepted style. The location of the sanctum, more often than not, is such as to allow space for circumambulation.  Sometimes, to augment the space, verandahs are built to skirt the hall. Popular model for the dome is the ribbed lotus topped by an ornamental pinnacle.  Arched copings, kiosks and solid domelets are used for exterior decorations.
[[Image:Gurdwara.Sri.Guru.Singh.Sabha.Southall.jpg|thumb|250px|left|[[Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Southall]], {{wiki|Southall}}, [[United Kingdom|UK]].]]


For functions other than purely religious, a [[gurdwara]] complex must provide, in the same or adjacent compound, for [[Guru ka Langar]] and accommodation for pilgrims.
For functions other than purely religious, a [[gurdwara]] complex must provide, in the same or adjacent compound, for [[Guru ka Langar]] and accommodation for pilgrims.
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== BIBLIOGRAPHY ==
== BIBLIOGRAPHY ==


1. Patwant Singh, Gurdwaras in India and around the World. Delhi, 1992
*1. Patwant Singh, Gurdwaras in India and around the World. Delhi, 1992
 
*2. Arshi, P.S., The Sikh Architecture. Delhi, 1984
2. Arshi, P.S., The Sikh Architecture. Delhi, 1984
*3. Madanjit Kaur, The Golden Temple: Past and Present. Amritsar, 1983
 
*4. Teja Singh, Sikhism: Its Ideals and Institutions. Bombay, 1938
3. Madanjit Kaur, The Golden Temple: Past and Present. Amritsar, 1983
*5. Cole, W. Owen and Piara Singh Sambhi, The Sikhs: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Delhi, 1978
 
*6. Prakash Singh, The Sikh Gurus and the Temple of Bread. Amritsar, 1964
4. Teja Singh, Sikhism: Its Ideals and Institutions. Bombay, 1938
*7. Pratap Singh, Giani, Gurudwara Sudhar arthat Akali Lahir. Amritsar, 1975
 
5. Cole, W. Owen and Piara Singh Sambhi, The Sikhs: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices.  
Delhi, 1978
 
6. Prakash Singh, The Sikh Gurus and the Temple of Bread. Amritsar, 1964
 
7. Pratap Singh, Giani, Gurudwara Sudhar arthat Akali Lahir. Amritsar, 1975
 
 


Above adapted from article By Fauja Singh
Above adapted from article By Fauja Singh

Revision as of 18:45, 16 May 2007

The Golden Temple, Harimandir Sahib in Amritsar, India

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 or Shabad and "duwara" meaning "Door" of the "House"

The common translation of the term as 'Sikh Temple' is not satisfactory for as it does not convey the full meaning of the term. In Sikhism, there is room for symbolism whatsoever; Sikhs 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.

The Sikhs hold high respect for the commandments laid down in the Guru Granth Sahib and most faithful adherents will adhere to these commandments at all costs. Within the Gurdwara the Sikhs engage in prayer (Simran or Naam Japna) and in voluntary service called Sewa. Langar, free community kitchen serves meals to anyone who visits this Sikh institution. All the facilities are generally managed on a voluntary basis by volunteers called Sewadars. Very few paid staff are generally maintained in Gurdwaras.

This is the place where the young Sikhs learn the essentials of their faith and as they grow older this becomes their spiritual training centre - the KHALSA training institution; a place for organised "Satgur de Seva" or service of the True Guru.

Darbar Sahib in Amritsar, Punjab, India is the focal institution for all the Gurdwaras located the world over.

Background

Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwaras in Augusta, Georgia, USA

In early Sikhism, the place used for Congregational prayers was called dharamsala, the abode of dharma, different from the modern usage which generally limits the term to a resting place. According to the Janam Sakhis, Guru Nanak wherever he went, called upon his followers to establish dharamsalas and congregate in them to repeat God's Name, and to recite His praise. He himself established one at Kartarpur on the bank of the River Ravi where he settled down at the end of his extensive preaching tours. "I have set up a dharamsal of truth," sang Guru Arjan (1563-1606). "I seek the Sikhs of the Guru (to congregate therein) so that I may serve them and bow at their feet" (GG, 73).

In the time of Guru Hargobind (1595-1644), dharamsals began to be called gurdwaras. The change of nomenclature was significant. Guru Arjan had compiled in 1604 a Book, pothi or granth (later Guru Granth Sahib) of holy hymns. Besides his own, he had included in it the compositions of his four spiritual predecessors and of some of the Indian saints and sufis. "The pothi is the abode of the Divine," said he (GG, 1226). This first copy of the Granth he installed in the central Sikh shrine, the Harimander, at Amritsar. Copies of the Granth began to be piously transcribed. The devotees carried them on their heads for installation in their respective dharamsals. Reverently, the Book was called the Guru Granth Sahib and was treated as a sacred embodiment of the Gurus' revealed utterances. The dharamsal where the Guru Granth Sahib was kept came to be called gurdwara. The designation became universal after the guruship passed to the holy Book, although the central shrine at Amritsar continued to be called Harimander or Darbar Sahib.

Ending the line of personal Gurus, Guru Gobind Singh, Nanak X, had installed the sacred volume in 1708 as his eternal successor. The Holy Book has since been the Guru for the Sikhs and it must reign over all Sikh places of worship where religious ceremony focuses around it. The basic condition for a Sikh place to be so known is the installation in it of the Guru Granth Sahib. Every Sikh place by that token is the house of the Guru. Hence the name Gurdwara (gur+dwara= the guru's door).

During the second half of the eighteenth century and after, as the Sikhs acquired territory, gurdwaras sprang up in most of the Sikh habitations and on sites connected with the lives of the Gurus and with events in Sikh history. Most of the historical gurdwaras were endowed by the ruling chiefs and nobility with liberal grants of land.

Non-Sikh and Sikh Visitors to a Gurdwara shown with their heads covered.

This well- intentioned philanthropy, however, in many cases led to the rise of hereditary priesthood, which was brought to an end through a sustained agitation culminating in securing from the Punjab Legislative Council legislation called the Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1925, providing for the management of the major historical Sikh shrines by a body known as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee elected through adult franchise under government auspices. This kind of democratic control is a unique ecclesiastical feature. Most of the shrines not covered by the Gurdwaras Act are administered by committees chosen by local sangats.

Best Men / Women of saintly standing, well versed with GurMat & GurBani fundamentals in the Sikh community are selected by KHALSA ( best 5 Sikh intellactuals who are pulically acknowledged as TRUE [Sikh]s ]])to constitute Gurdwara Management committee.

Anyone of the five selected Sikhs, best male / female,(normally & not necessarily ) the seniormost in Age, may become president to repersent this organisation of Panj Piaras institutionalised by 10th Nanak, Guru Gobind Singh . These selected five best Sikhs are by default expected to be epitomes of Daya ( concern for the Sikh 'Have Nots' ) , Dharm ( TRUTHfullness), Himmat ( Courage of Conviction ), Mohkam ( Demonstrative Ability to Lead TRUTHfully ) Sahib ( The Head of the organisation possessing all these four Holy attributes (Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership)

As Sikhism has no priesthood, administrative control of gurdwaras is exercised by the best Sikhs selected (not elected) by KHALSA strictly as per the qualitative requirements (Daya, Dharam, Himmat, Leadership & accountability) formally outlined in SatGur. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee provides all available resources to the community for understanding the Commandments of 'TRUTH god' formally documented in SatGur

People of all racial / social / political / religious background or of none of these are welcomed to these shrines. As a protocol & holy KHALSA tradition , remember to remove your shoes and cover your head before entering the more sacred parts of the building.

The gurdwara and its hospitality are open to non-Sikhs as well as to members of the faith. The Sikh rahit maryada or code of conduct, however, contains certain rules pertaining to them. For example, no one should enter the gurdwara premises with one's shoes on or with head uncovered. Other rules in the rahit maryada concern the conduct of religious service and reverence due to SatGur. Rules also prohibit discrimination in the sangat on the basis of religion, caste, sex or social position, and the observation of idolatrous and superstitious practices.

A Sikh in attendance of the Satgur Granth Sahib.

A Gurdwara is identified by the following five basic features:-

  • 1. GURU i.e. the Sikh holy book. A hall called Darbar Sahib,houses the GURU, . This hall in most modern temples is large and will house many hundreds of visitors.
  • 3. PANGAT i.e. Community Kitchen. It is part of A building complex where communal meals are served. It may have tables and chairs, but as a tradition it is expected frome the devotees to sit on the floor.
  • 4. SANGAT is a Holy congregation of the 'Saint Soldiers', the KHALSA. As per Sikh faith, this KHALSA congregation also represents combined ONE(TRUTH god ETERNAL) persona of 'HUMANITY & Guru' in SACH KHAND. Gurbani Singers & those regulating the function will normally address the KHALSA congregation as 'Guru Roop Sadh Sangat' literally meaning 'O TRUTH god !' in the guise of this holy gathering of Saint-Soldiers (i.e. KHALSA)
  • 5 GOLAK refers to a systematic & formal Financial System in the custudy of Satgur Granth Sahib. The Gurdwara management team, on behalf of Satgur Granth Sahib manages the account, expentitures, donations & gifts etc. .....

In addition to the 5 Basic features, a Gurdwara may have :-

  • 6. Rest Room for the SGGS: A room where the Sikh Holy Book is placed overnight. This room is sometimes called "SACH KHAND" (which translates to abode of 'TRUTH god'/True /Pure Domain /Paradise )
  • 7. Various utility rooms, washrooms, kitchen, etc. Some of the larger Sikh temples may also have rooms for the devotees to stay overnight with bathroom facilities.

GURU

View of a Langar Hall (Dining Hall) inside a Gurdwara.

Sikhs treat the holy Book like a living Teacher/Guru. This act of respect is a public resolution of a Sikh's Commitment to live a Truthful life dedicated to nothing but TRUTH god & HUMANITY, by walking on the way encapsulated in Satgur Granth Sahib.

Essence of the term 'Worship' in KHALSA( TRUTH god incarnate having all HUMAN attributes ) way of life is diffrent than that ordinarily understood by people.

'Worship' here is living with 'TRUTH god in ONE's own mind' & 'serving the GURU Satgur Granth Sahib' by:-

A Sikh's shrine of worship is 'His Own Mind'. His worship ends only after he/she dies & becomes part of TRUTH god (having no attributes but a 'Name'. Lord's TRUE Name is 'TRUTH'.

A sikh is expected to believe in, swear by, worship, live with, die for, work for nothing but TRUTH(god).This 'impossible' feat becomes 'possible' for him through the grace of TRUE Guru SatGur's GurBani

This way Sikhs worship nothing bur 'ONE TRUTH god' which does not stay in specific temples or holy places. For a Sikh nothing else what so ever, but TRUTH alone is Holy. As TRUTH prevails in universes beyond the known universe, for a Sikh all ritualistic & traditional worships, being too trivial to please TRUTH god, are part of FALSEHOOD.Only TRUTHful living, conduct & disposition of KHALSA encompassing HUMANITY, has to be worshiped, served & glorified instead.

Typical Sikh Thoughts

"TRUTH god was, is & will ever be TRUE to his Name which is TRUTH, so will be KHALSA."

"This is the will of TRUTH god (with no attributes) & that of KHALSA(TRUTH god incarnate with all human attributes)."

"TRUTH god in this world lives in KHALSA & KHALSA lives in TRUTH god. Both live in SACH KHAND as one entity called TRUTH.

"A TRUTHful person is TRUTH god on earth."

NISHAN

Its external distinguishing mark is the Nishan Sahib or the Sikh flag, saffron in colour, that flies day and night atop the building, or, more often, separately close to it.

PANGAT

The aspect of Sikhism most closely associated with the gurdwara, other than worship, is the institution of Guru ka Langar or free community kitchen which encourages commensality. Seva or voluntary service in Guru ka Langar is considered by Sikhs a pious duty.

SANGAT

A typical layout for the Darbar hall.Men and women usually sit on separate sides of the hall.

A second characteristic of a [gurdwara]] is its being universal public place open to all devotees to pray individually or to assemble in congregation. Traditionally the devotees will sit cross legged on floor, however a covenient sitting arrangements for sick & elderly, normally along the walls, as required, may be made by the Gurdwara Managemet Team.

All those who enter Darbar Sahib, as asocial protocol & expression of love & faith in Satgur Granth Sahib, remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering. The devotees normally on entering this hall will walk slowly and respectfully to the dominant throne graced by Satgur Granth Sahib. They then stand before the Holy Scriptures, may say silent prayers, may offer any gifts to GURU and then bow humbly before Satgur Satgur Granth Sahib .

GOLAK

A systematic & formal Financial Management System, in the custudy of Satgur Granth Sahib exists in every Gurdwara. The Gurdwara management team, on behalf of Satgur Granth Sahib manages the account, expentitures, donations & gifts etc. .....

Gurdwara Architecture

Unlike the places of worship in some other religious systems, gurdwara buildings do not have to conform to any set architectural design. The only established requirement is the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib, under a canopy or in a canopied seat, usually on a platform higher than the floor on which the devotees sit, and a tall Sikh pennant atop the building.

Lately, more and more gurdwaras have been having buildings imitating more or less the Harimander pattern, a mixture of Indo-Persian architecture. Most of them have square halls, stand on a higher plinth, have entrances on all four sides, and have square or octagonal domed sanctums usually in the middle. During recent decades, to meet the requirements of larger gatherings, bigger and better ventilated assembly halls with the sanctum at one end have become accepted style. The location of the sanctum, more often than not, is such as to allow space for circumambulation. Sometimes, to augment the space, verandahs are built to skirt the hall. Popular model for the dome is the ribbed lotus topped by an ornamental pinnacle. Arched copings, kiosks and solid domelets are used for exterior decorations.

For functions other than purely religious, a gurdwara complex must provide, in the same or adjacent compound, for Guru ka Langar and accommodation for pilgrims.

The main function of the gurdwara is to provide Sikhs with a meeting-place for GurSeva. This mainly consists of listening to the words of the Guru Granth Sahib, singing them to musical accompaniment and hearing them expounded in katha, or lectures: and sermons.

The gurdwara also serves as a community centre, a school, a guest house for pilgrims and travellers, occasionally a clinic, and a base for local charitable activities. Apart from morning and evening services, the gurdwaras hold special congregations to mark important anniversaries on the Sikh calendar. They become scenes of much éclat and festivity when celebrations in honour of the birth anniversaries of the Gurus and of the Khalsa take place.

See Also

BIBLIOGRAPHY

  • 1. Patwant Singh, Gurdwaras in India and around the World. Delhi, 1992
  • 2. Arshi, P.S., The Sikh Architecture. Delhi, 1984
  • 3. Madanjit Kaur, The Golden Temple: Past and Present. Amritsar, 1983
  • 4. Teja Singh, Sikhism: Its Ideals and Institutions. Bombay, 1938
  • 5. Cole, W. Owen and Piara Singh Sambhi, The Sikhs: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Delhi, 1978
  • 6. Prakash Singh, The Sikh Gurus and the Temple of Bread. Amritsar, 1964
  • 7. Pratap Singh, Giani, Gurudwara Sudhar arthat Akali Lahir. Amritsar, 1975

Above adapted from article By Fauja Singh