Isnaan, is a derivative of asnaan, and is a word which appears is the Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, meaning to bathe, cleanse, purify, or otherwise perform ablution.
Sikhism instructs the devotee to rise early and perfom isnaan, bathing both body and soul. The body is to be cleansed in water, the soul cleansed in contemplation of the divine.
There is a say which goes "Sarovar pani - Isnaan bani," which signifies that, "In the sarovar one bathes in water, but true cleansing is found in the scripture."
Many historic gurdwaras have been constructed close to a sarovar, or water source, such as a tank, well, fountain or pool. Certain of these sarovar are thought to have sacred or curative properties capable of healing both body and soul. There are legends of healing having taken place when a leprous or cancerous person performed isnaan by bathing in the water of sacred pool where scripture is continually recited. Some believe that performing isnaan by bathing in sacred waters, especially while reciting scripture, can absolve and enlighten the soul, liberating one from the cycle of transmigration and being born endlessly into existences.
The Amritdhari, or initiated Sikh performs isnaan while wearing the five articles of faith, also known as the 5 K's:
- Kachhera
- Kanga
- Kara
- Kes
- Kirpan
Upon arising early in the morning, one is to bathe, and cleanse oneself in the sacred pool of immortal nectar." SGGS||305
