Sikh baby names have spiritual meanings and are chosen from scripture. Newborns are named shortly after birth. Sikh names may also be given at the time of marriage, or at the time of initiation (baptism), or at any time by anyone wishing to have a spiritual name.
Spiritual Sikh Baby Names and Meanings
Photo © [Gurumustuk Singh Khalsa]
Sikh names selected from Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism's holy scripture have spiritual meanings. Many Punjabi baby names also have Sikhism origins. The original spelling of Sikh names are Gurmukhi script or Punjabi alphabet and in the West are spelled phonetically with corresponding Roman letters:
Glossary of Sikh Baby Names and Spiritual Names
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M
N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
Secondary Sikh Names and Meanings:
Before You Select a Spiritual Sikh Baby Name
Photo © [Gurumustuk Singh Khalsa]
Janam Naam Sanskar (Sikh Baby Naming Ceremony)
Photo © [S Khalsa]
A newborn is given a spiritual Sikh name when the infant is formally presented by the family to Guru Granth Sahib for the naming ceremony, Janam Naam Sanskar. A kirtan program is helf featuring hymns sung on behalf of the newborn.
Taking a Sikh Name Upon Intiation
Photo © [Ravitej Singh Khalsa / Eugene, Oregon / USA]
Initiates into the the Khalsa order may be given a new Sikh spiritual name by the Panj Pyare. The name is decided upon after reading a random verse fo scripture. All initiates also take the name of either Singh or Kaur depending on gender.
Taking a Sikh Name Upon Marriage
Photo © [Courtesy Guru Khalsa]
Upon marriage a bride's in-laws may give her a new spiritual name. The groom may wish to take a spiritual name. A couple may decide to share a name followed by Singh or Kaur respective of gender.
