What is Ardas and Hukamnama?

Ardas and Hukamnama are two important aspects of Sikh religious practices, commonly observed in Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) during congregational gatherings.

Ardas is a Sikh prayer that is performed before and after significant events, gatherings, or ceremonies. It is a collective prayer that seeks blessings, guidance, and protection from the divine. Ardas is recited by a Sikh Granthi (religious leader) or a designated person, while the congregation stands with folded hands.

The Ardas typically begins with an invocation, followed by historical references, supplications, and concluding prayers. It expresses gratitude, seeks blessings for the community, and asks for divine guidance and support in all endeavors. Ardas is a unifying prayer that brings the congregation together in a spirit of humility, devotion, and communal harmony.

Hukamnama refers to a random verse or passage from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, which is received as divine guidance or instruction. It is obtained through a ceremonial process known as “taking Hukam” or “Hukamnama Sahib.”

During a Hukamnama ceremony, the Granthi or a designated person opens the Guru Granth Sahib at a random page, reads the verse or passage from the scripture, and shares it with the congregation. The Hukamnama is considered a message from the divine and is believed to provide guidance, inspiration, and solace to the Sikh community.

The Hukamnama is treated with great reverence and respect. It is regarded as the divine will and is followed by an Ardas to seek blessings and understanding of the divine message. The Hukamnama is often related to the current events, challenges, or spiritual needs of the community, providing guidance and inspiration for personal and collective well-being.

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