History of Sikhism

The Sikh faith began around 1500 CE and is based on the spiritual teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Guru and the nine Gurus that succeeded him. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, named the Sikh scripture Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as his successor, terminating the line of human Gurus and making the holy scripture the eternal, religious spiritual guide for Sikhs. Sikhs now treat their scripture (Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) as their Guru.

Gurdwara

During the early days of Sikhism, the places of worship were referred to as Dharamsalas. This would be a place where Sikhs would gather to hear the Guru speak and sing hymns. However, as the Sikh population grew Guru Hargobind Singh Ji, the sixth Guru, introduced the word Gurdwara, translating to “the gateway through which the Guru could be reached.” From then, a Sikh place of worship came to be known as a Gurdwara.

Gurdwara Etiquette

When entering the Gurdwara one is required to remove their shoes and cover their head as a sign of respect towards the sovereignty of the Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

One is expected to bow down and touch the floor when approaching the Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as a sign of further respect towards the Eternal Sikh Guru.

Offerings of cash are usually made (in the golak) at this time to help support the expenses of running the Gurdwara, these contributions are voluntary.

All people irrespective of their status sit on the floor as a sign of equality and the Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is always installed on a higher level.

Gurdwaras are open to people of all religions and provide langar (food) for their sangat (congregation).