Ardas

Definition

Ardas is a Sikh prayer that is recited as an expression of devotion and gratitude to God. It holds a significant place in Sikh worship, serving as a communal act that connects the congregation with the divine and reinforces the importance of community and shared faith. The prayer is often recited at the beginning and end of various religious ceremonies and is characterized by its inclusive nature, encompassing the well-being of all humanity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ardas can be performed individually or collectively and often follows the recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib during worship services.
2. The prayer includes specific requests for the welfare of the community, guidance for individuals, and blessings for peace and harmony in the world.
3. There are two main forms of Ardas: one that is performed after the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib and another during special occasions and events.
4. Ardas serves as a reminder for Sikhs to maintain humility and remain grateful for the blessings received, reinforcing core values of Sikhism.
5. The Ardas concludes with a salutation to the ten Gurus and the Guru Granth Sahib, affirming their role as spiritual guides in the lives of Sikhs.

Review Questions

• How does Ardas function within the framework of Sikh worship and community life?
  • Ardas serves as a crucial element of Sikh worship, acting as both a prayer of gratitude and a request for guidance. It reinforces the communal aspect of Sikhism, bringing together individuals in collective devotion while fostering a sense of shared purpose. By including prayers for the welfare of others, Ardas highlights the importance of community support and interconnectedness within Sikh practices.
• In what ways does Ardas reflect key beliefs and values in Sikhism?
  • Ardas embodies several fundamental beliefs in Sikhism, such as devotion to God, the significance of community, and humility. The prayer emphasizes gratitude for divine blessings while also expressing concern for the well-being of all humanity. This reflects the Sikh principle of selflessness and reinforces their commitment to social justice and equality, as Ardas calls for peace and harmony among all people.
• Evaluate the role of Ardas in shaping individual identity among Sikhs in contemporary society.
  • Ardas plays a vital role in shaping individual identity among Sikhs by fostering a deep connection to their faith and community. As Sikhs engage with this prayer, they reinforce their values of humility, gratitude, and collective responsibility. In contemporary society, where individualism can be prevalent, reciting Ardas helps maintain a sense of belonging to a larger spiritual family while encouraging Sikhs to contribute positively to their communities and uphold their faith in daily life.

Related terms

Guru Granth Sahib: The central religious scripture of Sikhism, considered the eternal Guru, containing hymns and teachings of Sikh Gurus and other saints.

Kirtan: A form of devotional singing in Sikh worship that involves the recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, often accompanied by musical instruments.

Langar: The community kitchen in a Gurdwara where free meals are served to all visitors, emphasizing equality, sharing, and community service in Sikhism.