Nitnem - Daily Observance

Definition:

Nitnem is a compound word meaning daily observance. The root word nit means daily, or continual and nem means observance or pact. In Sikhism, Nitnem is a pact of daily observance which refers to five required daily prayers, called the Panj Bania, which are reviewed through out the day at the appropriate time.

During Amritsanchar the Sikh initiation ceremony, the Panj Pyara, the administers of Amrit, instruct the initiates to review Nitnem daily thereafter without fail. The Sikh may read, recite, or listen to Nitnem. The prayers of Nitnem correspond to specific times of day including:

Morning Prayers - To be read after bathing, following morning meditation at sunrise.
• Evening Prayers - To be read at sunset.
• Bedtime Prayers - To be read last thing before sleeping.

The prayers are bound in a small volume which can be held in the hand which iis called a Nitnem Gutka. Other prayers favored in the daily routine may also be printed in a Nitnem Gutka including Amrit Banis and Ardas.

Pronunciation: nit-name

Also Known As: Panj Bania

Alternate Spellings: Nitname