Worship
In Sikhism worshipTo show devotion to God and/or religion through actions - for example, prayer. is a way of life. Many Sikhs believe that they should dedicate their lives to WaheguruSikhs believe in one God called Waheguru which means ‘Wonderful Lord’ or ‘Wonderful Teacher’. and follow the teachings of the Guru Granth SahibThe Guru Granth Sahib is the most important Sikh holy book. It is a collection of songs, prayers and hymns from the Sikh Gurus and other holy men, as well as teachings from other faiths. It is treated as a living Guru..
diwan hallThe main hall in a Sikh gurdwara where worship takes place. refers to an act of worship. For Sikhs, worship takes many forms, including:
- listening to the Guru Granth Sahib being read by the granthiReader of the Guru Granth Sahib, who officiates at ceremonies. This can be a man or a woman.
- meditating on God’s name (Naam JapnaRepeating and remembering God's name.)
- serving in the langarThe kitchen and place where food is eaten in a Sikh Gurdwara. Often volunteers provide and cook food that is served to all as an act of sewa (charity).
- singing
- reciting the Guru Granth Sahib
- teaching others the Punjabi language
- listening to ragisMusicians who sing or play accompaniments for kirtan (hymns) in Sikhism. (musicians)
- learning about the Ten GurusThe spiritual teachers in Sikhism, from Guru Nanak (1469–1539) to Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708).
Sikhs believe that Waheguru is present throughout the universe. Therefore, wherever they worship and show reverence to Waheguru, he is present. However, special importance is placed on the gurdwaraSikh place of worship. Literally, the 'doorway to the Guru'. and on places of pilgrimageA journey which has religious or spiritual significance, usually to an important religious place., such as the Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple in AmritsarCity in North-Western part of Indian. Spiritual centre for Sikhs.) in Amritsar.
Worship the True Lord, and believe in the True Guru; this brings the merit of making donations to charity, kindness and compassion.
