Sikh Ceremonies - Page 2

Akhand Path, ਅਖੰਡ ਪਾਠ, means the continuous (non-stop) recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib (the sikh holy book) from beginning to end. Akhand means uninterrupted, without any break and Path means reading. This reading must go on day and night, without a moment's intermission. It is normally completed within 48 hours.This Akhand path is considered a very holy practise and is said to bring peace and solace.

he non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib is undertaken for various reasons.It can be on occasions of elation or joy within the family, in sad or hard times, or simply to increase one?s feeling of connection to the Guru. The relay of reciters who take turns at reading the holybook must ensure that no break occurs in the reading. As they change places at given intervals, one picks the line from his predecessor's lips and continues. During the reading it is tradition for langar (or communal food) to be available at all times, thus requiring the continual service and dedication of those in whose honour the Akhand Path is being held for. Akhand Path is supposed to be read loud, clear and also it should be correct. even though that takes a little longer to complete. After the completion of the reading the bhog ceremony takes place. A Hukam is taken by randomly turning to any page and reading the hymn on that page followed by Ardas. Karah Parshad (sacred pudding) is also distributed to all present.

In Sikhism  "Antim Sanskar," means the funeral ceremony or celebration of the completion of life. In Sikhism death is considered a natural process and reunion of the soul with its maker. Cremation is the usual method for disposal of remains regardless of the age of the deceased in Sikhism. But if it is not possible any other method such as burial or submergence at sea are acceptable. The body is usually bathed and clothed by family members. The hair is covered with a turban or traditional scarf as usually worn by the individual who has passed away. The karkars, or five articles of faith worn by a Sikh in life, remain with the body in death. Before cremation hymns are recited which induce feeling of detachment are recited by the congregation. As the body is being cremated, Kirtan Sohila the nighttime prayer is recited and Ardas is offered. The ashes of the deceased be buried in the earth scattered over or immersed in flowing water such as a river or sea. A non continuos reading of the entire Sri Guru Granth Sahib is undertaken and timed to conclude on the tenth day. This may be undertaken at home or in the Gurdwara. The conclusion of this ceremony known as bhog ceremony marks the end of the mourning period. During bhoj ceremony, all the relatives and friends of the family gather together for the completion of the reading of Guru Granth Sahib. Ragi's (Musicians) sing appropriate Shabads hymns, Saloks of the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur are read, and Ramkali Saad, the Call of God, is recited. After the final prayer, a random reading or Hukam is taken, and Karah Parshad (sacred pudding) is distributed to the congregation. Finally, food from the Guru's kitchen, Langar (or communal food), is served. The conclusion of this ceremony marks the end of the mourning period.