Skihism Key Practices: Worship & Service (AQA GCSE Religious Studies A): Flashcards
Exam code: 8062
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Define gurdwara.
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Define gurdwara.
The Sikh place of worship — meaning 'the door of the Guru'; any building housing a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib.
What is the focus of worship in a gurdwara?
The Guru Granth Sahib, placed on a raised platform higher than the congregation as a sign of respect.
Why does a gurdwara have four entrance doors?
To show that everyone is welcome, regardless of status, gender, religion or wealth.
Define divan hall.
The main prayer hall of a gurdwara, where the sangat sit on the floor to worship.
Define Nishan Sahib.
The flag bearing the Sikh symbol (the Khanda) flown outside the gurdwara.
What is Karah Parshad, and what does it symbolise?
A sweet, blessed food served to everyone at the end of a service, symbolising equality.
Define golak.
The collection box in the gurdwara, where the community gives money for its upkeep and the langar.
True or False?
Only Sikhs are allowed to enter a gurdwara.
False.
People of all faiths are welcome, as Sikhs believe all religions are paths to the same God.
Who are the ragis in a gurdwara?
Musicians trained in classical Sikh music, who play as the kirtan (hymns) is sung.
Where is the Guru Granth Sahib kept overnight?
In the sach khand.
The Guru Granth Sahib sits in the centre, covered with a special cloth called a ______.
The Guru Granth Sahib sits in the centre, covered with a special cloth called a rumalla.
Does Sikhism have a formal priesthood?
No — the gurdwara is run by the community (sangat).
The Guru Granth Sahib sits higher than the sangat as a symbol of ______.
The Guru Granth Sahib sits higher than the sangat as a symbol of respect.
Name a charitable role many gurdwaras play.
Providing food banks, medical support or education for those in need.
Define Akhand Path.
The continuous, non-stop reading of the whole Guru Granth Sahib from beginning to end, over about 48 hours.
How is the Akhand Path performed?
Over about 48 hours, read in shifts by a team of readers, with no interruptions or pauses.
On what occasions is the Akhand Path performed?
Special occasions — festivals like Divali or Vaisakhi, and births, weddings, funerals and Gurpurbs.
Define langar.
The free kitchen in the gurdwara, serving vegetarian meals to everyone regardless of caste, gender or faith.
Who introduced the langar, and why?
Guru Nanak, because of his belief in the oneness of humanity.
Why does the langar serve only vegetarian food?
To be inclusive of all faiths.
Define Naam Simran.
Meditation focusing the mind on God (Waheguru), often by repeating 'Waheguru' ('Wonderful Lord').
Define haumai.
Ego, pride and self-centredness — which meditation helps to reduce, as it blocks spiritual progress.
What are the Three Pillars of Sikhism?
Naam Japna (meditating on God's name)
Kirat Karna (honest living)
Vand Chhakna (sharing with others)
True or False?
For Sikhs, meditation is just a way to relax.
False.
Meditation is a form of devotion to God, not just relaxation or mindfulness.
The Akhand Path is a continuous reading of all ______ pages of the Guru Granth Sahib.
The Akhand Path is a continuous reading of all 1,430 pages of the Guru Granth Sahib.
How does the langar show equality?
It reminds Sikhs that all people belong to the same human family and rejects the caste system.
Sikhs believe meditation frees the mind from ______ (ego) and helps them achieve mukti.
Sikhs believe meditation frees the mind from haumai (ego) and helps them achieve mukti.
Can meditation only be done in a gurdwara?
No — it can be performed anywhere and fits into daily life.
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