Gurunanak Darbar, Ireland facts for kids

The Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar is a special place of worship for Sikhs in Dublin, Ireland. Think of it like a temple or church for Sikhs. It has two main areas: the Divan Hall and the Langar Hall. The Divan Hall is the most important part, where the holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, is kept. This Gurdwara was built on the site of an old cinema in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. The Sikh community in Ireland bought the land in 1987.

What is a Gurdwara?

A Gurdwara is a place where Sikhs gather to worship. The word "Gurdwara" means "the door to the Guru." It's a community center where people can learn, pray, and share meals together. Everyone is welcome, no matter their background or beliefs.

The Sikh Flag: Nishan Sahib

Near the entrance of the Gurdwara, you'll see a tall flagpole with a large flag called the Nishan Sahib. This flag is a very important symbol for Sikhs. The word Nishan comes from Persian and means "flag." Sahib is an Arabic word meaning "master" or "lord," used here to show respect. So, Nishan Sahib means "the holy flag."

The flag is usually saffron (orange) and shaped like a triangle. On it, you'll often see the Sikh emblem. This emblem includes a Khanda (a two-edged sword), a Chakra (a circular weapon), and two Kirpans (small swords). These symbols represent Sikh values like justice and protection. The flag's orange cloth is changed every year in April for the Vaisakhi festival.

The Main Prayer Hall: Divan Hall

The Divan Hall is the main prayer hall in the Gurdwara. When people enter, they walk to the front and bow to the Guru Granth Sahib. This shows their deep respect for the holy book.

Respecting the Guru Granth Sahib

Anyone can enter the Divan Hall. You just need to cover your head with a scarf or cloth. These are usually available at the entrance. The Guru Granth Sahib is the 11th and eternal Guru (teacher) of the Sikhs. The word guru means "light that removes darkness." Granth means "holy book." Sahib is added to show great respect.

The Guru Granth Sahib has 1430 pages filled with shabads (hymns). These hymns were written by Sikh Gurus and saints from different backgrounds. They are arranged in 31 ragas, which are classical Indian musical styles.

The Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a raised platform called the Manji Sahib. It is covered by a beautiful canopy called a palki and special cloths called Romala. Both men and women can read from the Guru Granth Sahib during services.

Donations and Seating

People often make donations in front of the Guru Granth Sahib. These can be groceries for the kitchen, money, or both. After donating, people sit on the carpeted floor. It's important not to turn your back or point your feet towards the Guru Granth Sahib. This shows respect.

Women usually sit on one side of the hall, and men on the other. Sitting on the floor shows humility and that everyone is equal. Children sit with their parents.

Worship and Prayer

Worship in the Gurdwara involves singing hymns and listening to explanations of the holy texts.

Singing Hymns: Kirtan

Kirtan is the singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib. Katha is when someone reads from the Guru Granth Sahib and explains its meaning. Musicians often play instruments like the harmonium and tabla while singing hymns. Both men and women can lead the singing and prayers.

The Ardaas Prayer

Ardaas is a special prayer where Sikhs thank Waheguru (God) for everything. They also pray for the well-being of everyone in the world. During the Ardaas, one person recites the prayer while everyone stands. They hold their hands together in a prayer pose and face the Guru Granth Sahib.

Sometimes, everyone repeats "Waheguru" together. This reminds them that God is powerful and wonderful. At the end, everyone bows down and touches their forehead to the floor. This shows their full support for Waheguru. Then, the sangat (congregation) says special phrases like "Waheguru Ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki Fateh" (the Khalsa belongs to the Lord, to whom belongs the Victory).

Sharing Prashad

After the Ardaas, a sweet treat called prashad is served. It's made from flour, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter). You should accept it with cupped hands. This food is seen as blessed by the Guru and should not be refused. If you can't eat much, you can ask for a very small portion. Prashad should never be thrown away.

The Community Kitchen: Langar

The Langar is a free kitchen at the Gurdwara. It's a place where everyone can eat together, no matter their religion, background, or social status. The Langar shows that everyone is equal and that sharing is important.

A free vegetarian meal is prepared and served to all who visit the Gurdwara. After prayers, Sikhs and visitors go to the Langar hall. Everyone sits on the carpeted floor and shares a meal. The work of preparing food, serving it, and cleaning up is called Seva. Seva means voluntary, selfless service. This practice reminds Sikhs that everyone is equal and that they should share what they have with others.