Page 32 - Gurmat Book 5

Lesson 15: Pahul: The Amrit Sanchaar

The modern Amrit Ceremony is called Pahul or the Amrit Sanchaar. The word
“Pahul” is derived from “Pahu” which refers to a substance that has capabilities

of enhancing the qualities of an object it is applied too. Amrit has the qualities of

improving the Sikhs. Amrit is also referred to as “Khande di Pahul”. The
ceremony is called Amrit Sanchaar in Punjabi.

Description of the Amrit Ceremony

Every Amrit Ceremony recreates the experience from 1699. It takes place
during Amrit Vela - the hours before sunrise. The Sikhs willing to become Khalsa

get ready by taking bath, washing their hair and dressing. They also wear five

Kakkaars. Five people who have already taken Amrit before serve as the Panj
Piaray. They represent the original Panj Piaray who offered their heads to Guru

Gobind Singh Ji. A sixth one sits and does Chaur Seva for Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Sometimes a seventh one stands as guard at the door to make sure that no one
disturbs the ceremony.

The Panj Piaray prepare Amrit by stirring water and sugar in an iron bowl (baata),
each one reciting one of the five Banis JapuJi Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Savaiye, Bainti

Chaupaee Sahib and Chhay Paudiaan Anand sahib. The power of the sacred

vibrations infuses the water and transforms it into Amrit. Meanwhile those
present to take Amrit either listen to the Banis being recited or do Naam

Simran.

Ardas is performed to ask for permission from Guru Granth Sahib Ji to perform
the Amrit ceremony. Hukamnama is taken from Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Those

receiving the Amrit come forward and participate in a beautiful and powerful

ceremony of transformation. Each is given 5 sips of Amrit. Amrit is also sprinkled
on their heads, face and eyes. This purifies their bodies, mind and vision. They

become pure of the impurities of the world.

After taking Amrit, men commit to taking the last name Singh, representing that
their new identity is fearlessness. Women take the last name Kaur, representing

Stepping Stones Gurmat Sikhia Book 5G 2023 Edition Page 30