All About the Gurdwara the Worship Place of Sikhs

Where Sikhs Worship

Gurdwara means the "guru's door". A gurdwara is the Sikh meeting place for worship. The members of the congregation, welcome all people to worship in the gurdwara regardless of caste, color, or creed.

Illustrated Guide to the Gurdwara
Gurdwara,The Sikh Place of Worship
Golden Temple of the Sikhs

Nishan is the name of the Sikh flag. The nishan is raised outside the gurdwara on the highest most central spot. It displays a blue khanda, the emblem of the Sikh coat of arms, on a background of orange.

Nishan, the Sikh Flag
Khanda, the Sikh Emblem
Nishan Of Gurdwara Bradshaw

Guru Granth, the Sikh scripture is considered to be the living guru of the Sikhs. In every gurdwara, the Sikh place of worship, the Guru Granth is kept on a platform in a prominent place. Sikhs worshiping at the gurdwara bow before Guru Granth before sitting down. A Sikh sitting behind the Guru Granth selects a random verse called a hukam, which is believed to be the Guru's divine command.

Guru Granth the Sikh Scripture
Reading a Hukam from the Guru Granth
Illustrated Guide to Reading a Hukam

Kirtan is an important part of a gurdwara worship service when worshipers participate in singing hymns taken from the Guru Granth. An all night program called Rain Sabaee, is a popular event.

Illustrated Kirtan Performance
Night so Beautiful! A Gallery Of Song

Anand Karaj, the Sikh wedding ceremony takes place inside the gurdwara. The bride and groom meet with their families in the presence of the Guru Granth. Wedding vows are made by walking around the Guru Granth four times.

Langar is a divine dining experience of both physical and spiritual nourishment. Langar means kitchen, but the word is used also for the actual food prepared and eaten, as well as the dining hall itself. Worshipers participate in serving members of the congregation who gather to dine.