Page 10 - PSL Gurmat Book 2

Lesson 5: Inside the Gurdwara Sahib

Literally, the word ‘Gurdwara’ is a combination of two words 'Guru' and

Dwara' and it means door to the Guru, or door that leads to Guru‘s home.
Gurdwara, Gurduara, or Guru Ghar are words that are used to define a place

of worship for the Sikhs. Gurdwara is a place where we come together as

Sadh Sangat to worship Waheguru through Gurbani Kirtan and Katha.

Gurdwara used to be called Dharamsala. The word Gurdwara became popular

since the time of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji; after Guru Arjun Dev Ji had
compiled the Bani of the Gurus and Bhagats and he called it “Pothi Sahib”.

Eternal living Guru, always present at a Gurdwara, is Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Gurdwaras are open to Sangat from early

in the morning to late at night. Langar is
served to all in a Langar Hall in Gurdwara

Sahib.

Gurdwaras are public institutions. They

run with the money collected from

Sangat. The box to collect money in front

of Guru Granth Sahib is called Guru Ki

Golak. Everyone who comes to Gurdwara
brings an offering with them. Some

people bring mithaaee to eat. Other

people bring milk. Many other people

bring atta, or daal or fruits.

Most people offer some money in Guru Ki Golak.

Every one offers $1, $5, $10 or whatever they can.

Most of the money that is collected is used to pay
for the bills for running a Gurdwara. Just like we

have to pay the rent, electricity, water and garbage

Stepping Stones Gurmat Sikhia Book 2 2023 Edition Page 8