The Sikh Rehat Maryada

What is Sikh Rehat Maryada

Sikh Rehat Maryada is a document that contains guidance about the personal and public conduct of a Sikh. It is also useful for non-Sikhs, and those wishing to convert to Sikhism, so that they can learn about Sikhism.

The following is the link to the pdf file: SGPC Sikh Rehat Maryada

Versions and History

Sikh Rehat Maryada is not a part of the Ad Granth.

Before 1708, the Gurus were physically present to guide the Sikhs. The Sikhs lived according to the verbal directions of the Gurus.

However, after the passing away of Guru Gobind Singh in 1708, a need was felt to document the rules for the guidance of future generations of Sikhs.

In the absence of a single leader, however, various groups of Sikhs came out with their own texts, with each claiming superiority over others. No consensus existed. This confusion continued till the first half of the 20-th century.

The SGPC established a drafting committee in 1927. After 18 years of discussions, and meetings, a final text of the Sikh Rehat Maryada was produced in 1945, which continues to be the current (and widely) accepted Sikh Rehat Maryada. It's link has been provided above.

The Structure

Rehat Maryada starts with the definition of a Sikh. A Sikh is a one who believes in one God, the ten Gurus and the Guru Granth Sahib, and also believes in Sikh baptism (Amrit Sanchar).

After that it mentions rules for the public and personal conduct of a Sikh. A Sikh believes in the equality of all, irrespective of caste, creed, gender etc., A Sikh should be humble. A Sikh should undertake free Seva within Gurudwara and outside. A Sikh should dontate 10% of her wealth and time for community projects. A Sikh should start his day with Sikh Nitnem prayers - Japuji, Jaap, and the ten Srawag Sudh Swaiyaas. In the evening, a Sikh should recite Sodar Rehras followed by Ardaas.

Next it describes how a Sikh should attend a Gurudwara, and also lays down the rules for performing Keertan, Akhand Paath and Sehaj Paath, and for the ceremonies of naming a child, of marriage and funeral. It also details out the ceremony of baptism (Amrit Sanchar).

It ends with the procedure for Gurmatta (major alterations to the Sikh Way), for excommunication, punishment and appeals.