GURUDWARA SERVICES
Sehaj Paath
A sehaj paath is a complete recitation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, from beginning to end.
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was first compiled by the 5th Guru, and contains the sacred teachings from 36 contributors including Hindu and Muslim bhagats (wise poet-saints). In 1708, the 10th Guru conferred the scripture as the eternal ‘living’ Guru of the Sikhs.
As a body of sacred teachings, it brings to life Guru Nanak’s famous words, ‘shabad Guru, surat dhun chelā’ (Sri Guru Granth Sahib, ang 942) – that, ultimately, the Guru, or source of all wisdom, is the Divine word (shabad); the disciple, who enacts this wisdom, is one’s consciousness, as it aligns to the meaning and vibration of the message.
Listening to and engaging with the Guru’s teachings is a form of spiritual education for Sikhs.
FAQs
For bookings at Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha Birmingham (UK) please read the below FAQs.
For all other GNNSJ Gurudwaras, please contact the relevant Gurudwara directly.
What happens during a sehaj paath?
A sehaj paath is a non-continuous reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The sehaj paath is proceeded by an ardas (supplication) and hukamnama (edict) from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Parshad is also distributed to the sangat (congregation).
During the bhog (culmination) of a sehaj paath, kirtan (hymn singing) is recited prior to the completion of the reading. This is often as congregation members arrive.
When the reading is completed, another ardas (supplication) is carried out and another hukamnama (edict) is received from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
This is followed by the bestowing of a rumala sahib and haar on Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Parshad is also distributed to the congregation at this point.
What is the role of the family who is requesting the sehaj paath?
The family for whom the sehaj paath is being carried out are requested to be present at the gurudwara for the arambh and bhog.
They can also participate in langar sewa and listening to the paath.
Can GNNSJ help with arranging rumala sahibs that we wish to present to Guru Ji?
Yes. When booking, ask the sewadar to arrange for a rumala sahib to be made available on the day of the bhog.
Do we need to provide the haar to present to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji?
The gurudwara will provide the haar for the bhog of the sehaj paath sahib.
How do I book a sehaj paath?
Please contact the Gurudwara office directly and check availability.