Langar

Definition

Langar is a community meal served in Sikhism, typically held in the gurdwara, where people of all backgrounds come together to share food. This practice is rooted in the teachings of equality and community service, emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect regardless of their social status or gender. Langar serves as a powerful demonstration of the Sikh commitment to inclusivity and gender equality, reinforcing the idea that everyone is equal before God.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Langar was established by Guru Nanak to promote equality among all people, regardless of their background or status.
2. In langar, everyone eats together on the floor, symbolizing humility and unity, and eliminating any sense of hierarchy.
3. Food served in langar is vegetarian, reflecting the Sikh principle of non-violence and respect for all living beings.
4. The practice of langar not only provides nourishment but also fosters community spirit and social cohesion among participants.
5. Langar is open to all individuals, including men and women from different castes and religions, making it a significant expression of gender equality within Sikhism.

Review Questions

• How does langar embody the principles of gender equality in Sikhism?
  • Langar embodies gender equality by inviting individuals from all walks of life to share a meal together, without discrimination based on gender or social status. In the gurdwara, men and women eat side by side on the floor, demonstrating that everyone is equal in the eyes of God. This practice not only breaks down barriers between genders but also reinforces the idea that service to others transcends societal norms.
• Discuss the role of langar in promoting inclusivity within Sikh communities and its impact on social hierarchy.
  • Langar plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity within Sikh communities by serving as a communal space where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together. By breaking bread together in a setting devoid of social hierarchy, langar actively challenges societal norms that may separate individuals based on caste, class, or gender. This practice fosters a sense of belonging and unity among participants, reinforcing Sikh values of equality and respect for all.
• Evaluate how langar contributes to the larger goals of Sikhism regarding social justice and community service.
  • Langar significantly contributes to the larger goals of Sikhism by embodying the principles of social justice and community service. It serves as a practical expression of Guru Nanak's teachings that advocate for equality and shared humanity. By providing free meals to anyone who comes regardless of background, langar addresses issues such as poverty and hunger while encouraging individuals to engage in selfless service (seva). This not only helps those in need but also empowers volunteers and participants alike to actively work towards creating a more equitable society.

Related terms

Gurdwara: A gurdwara is a Sikh place of worship where congregational prayer, singing hymns, and community meals (langar) take place.

Seva: Seva refers to selfless service in Sikhism, an essential practice that involves serving others without any expectation of reward or recognition.

Guru Nanak: Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism, whose teachings emphasized equality, social justice, and the importance of community service, principles reflected in the practice of langar.