Introduction:
There are all sorts of reasons why people want to have the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at their houses. In sad times we need strength, in times of happiness we say thank you and at some occasion we seek the Gurus blessings. Whatever the reason we must remember one thing that your house must have a Gurdwara Atmosphere in the presence of Sri Guru Granth sahib Ji to show utmost respect to Guru Ji.
A few points to be aware of:
• The reason why we are seeking Guru Ji’s blessings. Some “Sikhs” may be opening an off licence and therefore want Guru Ji’s blessings before the Grand opening. This is ridiculous as the Guru would never bless corrupt practices which they preached against. Guru Nanak Dev Ji refused a meal at the palace of a King due to the same principle.
• In the Darbar (room where Guru Ji‘s parkash is) there should be no photos of the deceased (dead), living humans, and idols present. The platform of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji should be the highest and the focal point of the Darbar. No photo of a person should be placed in front of Guru Ji, that is a Anti-Sikh ritual which is forbidden, as Sikhs do not bow to photos or idols.
• The reason why we are seeking Guru Ji’s blessings. Some “Sikhs” may be opening an off licence and therefore want Guru Ji’s blessings before the Grand opening. This is ridiculous as the Guru would never bless corrupt practices which they preached against. Guru Nanak Dev Ji refused a meal at the palace of a King due to the same principle.
• In the Darbar (room where Guru Ji‘s parkash is) there should be no photos of the deceased (dead), living humans, and idols present. The platform of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji should be the highest and the focal point of the Darbar. No photo of a person should be placed in front of Guru Ji, that is a Anti-Sikh ritual which is forbidden, as Sikhs do not bow to photos or idols.
• There should be no meat, alcohol (drugs) or tobacco present within the premises.
• Nobody should rest or walk in the room above Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
• Head should be covered at all times.
All the above are basic principles in order to maintain a high level of respect of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Please keep them in mind for the next time you plan to have Darshan of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at your house.
Waheguru Ji ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji ki Fateh.
Written by Professor Daljit Singh, Chairman of Sikh Institutes Amritsar. Bsc honours in Sikh studies and university lecturer of Sikh studies.
