key term - Gurdwara

Definition

A gurdwara is a place of worship for Sikhs, where the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, is housed and revered. It serves as a community center where individuals gather to engage in prayer, reflection, and community service. Gurdwaras play a central role in Sikh spiritual life, offering a space for congregational worship, education, and the practice of the core Sikh tenets of equality and service to humanity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gurdwaras often have a distinct architectural style, featuring a domed roof and a flagpole with the Nishan Sahib, the Sikh flag.
2. In addition to worship services, gurdwaras commonly host educational programs about Sikh teachings and values.
3. The practice of removing shoes and covering one's head before entering a gurdwara is a sign of respect and humility.
4. Gurdwaras welcome individuals of all backgrounds regardless of religion, emphasizing inclusivity and community spirit.
5. The Akhand Path is often conducted in gurdwaras, which involves continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib over a 48-hour period.

Review Questions

• How does the role of the gurdwara contribute to the practice of Sikh teachings and community life?
  • The gurdwara plays a vital role in reinforcing Sikh teachings by serving as a hub for spiritual growth and community engagement. It fosters a sense of belonging among Sikhs by offering opportunities for collective worship and social activities. Through practices like langar, where meals are shared without distinction, gurdwaras emphasize equality and selfless service, embodying core Sikh values in everyday life.
• Discuss the significance of langar in gurdwaras and how it reflects Sikh values.
  • Langar is significant in gurdwaras as it embodies the Sikh principles of equality, selflessness, and community. By providing free meals to anyone who enters, regardless of their background or beliefs, langar breaks down social barriers and promotes unity among diverse groups. This practice not only fulfills the spiritual obligation of serving others but also instills a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the community.
• Evaluate how gurdwaras serve as both spiritual centers and community hubs within Sikh society.
  • Gurdwaras function as spiritual centers by facilitating worship services that include recitation from the Guru Granth Sahib and communal prayers. They also act as community hubs by offering educational programs and social services that address various needs within the community. This dual function enhances the role of gurdwaras as places where faith and daily life intertwine, creating an environment where individuals can grow spiritually while actively contributing to society.

Related terms

Guru Granth Sahib: The central religious scripture of Sikhism, regarded by Sikhs as the final, sovereign, and eternal living Guru.

Langar:

A communal meal served in gurdwaras to all visitors, emphasizing the principles of equality and sharing among all people.

Seva: Selfless service to others, a key principle in Sikhism that is often practiced within gurdwaras through volunteer work and community outreach.