The Spiritual Odyssey: Navigating the Traditional Steps of a Sikh Wedding

A Sikh wedding ceremony, also known as Anand Karaj, follows a specific set of steps that hold deep religious and spiritual significance. We will be diving in deeper to each of the main steps below. For now, here are is an overview of the ceremony and the steps involved in a Sikh wedding ceremony:

Ardas and Milni: The ceremony begins with an Ardas, a Sikh prayer, followed by the Milni. During the Milni, family members from the bride and groom’s sides greet and embrace each other.

Anand Karaj: The couple proceeds to the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) where the Anand Karaj takes place. The Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, is present in the Gurdwara during the ceremony.

Kirtan and Laavan: Kirtan (hymn singing) is performed by a trained Sikh singer or a group of musicians, and the Laavan (four hymns) are recited. The Laavan signify the stages of a soul’s spiritual union with the Divine and represent the couple’s journey together.

Ardas and Hukamnama: After the recitation of the Laavan, an Ardas is performed, and a Hukamnama (random reading from the Guru Granth Sahib) is taken to seek guidance and blessings for the couple.

Lavan Pheras: The couple walks around the Guru Granth Sahib in a clockwise direction while the Laavan are being recited. They take four rounds, symbolizing their commitment to each other and their spiritual union.

Anand Sahib and Ardas: After the completion of the Lavan Pheras, the couple sits in front of the Guru Granth Sahib, and the Anand Sahib prayer is recited. An Ardas is then performed to conclude the ceremony.

Prasad and Langar: Following the wedding ceremony, Prasad (blessed food) is distributed to all present as a symbol of communal sharing and blessings. A Langar (community meal) is also served to all attendees as a gesture of equality and unity.

The Sikh wedding ceremony is conducted in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib and is intended to emphasize the spiritual and egalitarian aspects of the union. It focuses on the couple’s commitment to each other and their shared journey in accordance with Sikh teachings.

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