The Significance of Ardaas Time at the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a prominent spiritual site in Amritsar, Punjab, and is considered the holiest shrine in Sikhism. Its stunning golden façade, surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar (holy pond), attracts millions of devotees and tourists annually. Founded by Guru Ram Das in the 16th century, the temple symbolizes spirituality, equality, and the unity of mankind. The sacred structure is adorned with gold, which was added later by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, giving it its iconic appearance that continues to mesmerize visitors.

The daily routine at the Golden Temple is meticulously organized to provide a spiritually enriching experience for devotees. From the early morning prayers to the closing ceremonies at night, each ritual is performed with deep reverence and devotion. Among the essential practices at the Golden Temple is the Ardaas, a Sikh prayer recited multiple times throughout the day.

What is Ardaas?

Ardaas is a significant prayer in Sikhism, involving a humble supplication to the Almighty. It is a way for Sikhs to express their gratitude, seek blessings, and request guidance. The prayer is deeply spiritual and involves the entire congregation, making it a unifying experience for everyone present. The Ardaas are performed during the main ceremonies at the Golden Temple, including the morning opening and the evening closing, among other times. This prayer not only brings peace to the minds of the devotees but also reinforces their connection to the divine.

Ardaas Time Golden Temple

The Golden Temple follows a precise daily prayers and ceremonies schedule, ensuring that spiritual activities run seamlessly. Ardaas, one of the most important rituals, occurs several times during the day. Here are the key moments when Ardaas is performed at the Golden Temple:

1. Early Morning Ardaas (Amrit Vela): The first Ardaas of the day occur around 3:00 AM, marking the beginning of the daily routine at the temple. The holy Guru Granth Sahib, the central scripture of Sikhism, is brought from the Akal Takht (a seat of power within the temple complex) to the inner sanctum. This prayer sets a spiritual tone for the day and invokes blessings for the well-being of all.
2. Morning Ardaas Golden Temple: As dawn approaches, the Asa Di Vaar (morning hymn) is recited, followed by another Ardaas. The prayer serves as a collective request for divine guidance and a prosperous day. The morning Ardaas is an ideal time for devotees to meditate and reflect, finding inner peace amid the serene surroundings of the temple.
3. Afternoon Ardaas: This prayer is performed in the afternoon after the midday hymn singing and Kirtan (devotional music). It is a moment for devotees to reaffirm their faith and seek continued blessings for the day. The afternoon Ardaas is shorter than the morning and evening prayers.
4. Ardaas Time in Golden Temple in Evening: The evening Ardaas typically starts around 9:30 PM. It is a crucial moment at the Golden Temple as it signifies the end of the day's activities. During this time, the Guru Granth Sahib is ceremoniously taken back to the Akal Takht, where it is kept overnight. The evening Ardaas is accompanied by the recitation of the Rehras Sahib, an evening prayer that invokes peace and protection for the night.

Significance of Ardaas in Sikhism

Ardaas holds immense significance in the daily lives of Sikhs. It is not merely a ceremonial prayer but a sincere and heartfelt supplication to the Almighty. It encompasses various themes, such as gratitude for the blessings received, the remembrance of Sikh martyrs and Gurus, and the well-being of all beings. The recitation of Ardaas connects devotees with the divine, reinforcing their faith and providing spiritual strength.

The communal nature of Ardaas, where everyone in the congregation participates, reflects the Sikh principles of equality and unity. Regardless of social status, gender, or background, everyone bows their heads together in prayer, seeking the same divine blessings. The act of collective prayer at the Golden Temple serves as a powerful reminder that humanity is one, and divine support is available to all.

The Daily Routine at the Golden Temple

The daily routine at the Golden Temple is carefully structured to maintain a sacred atmosphere throughout the day. The schedule follows a fixed pattern, starting before dawn and ending late at night. Here’s an outline of the temple’s daily schedule:

1. Amrit Vela (2:30 AM - 3:00 AM): The temple's day starts before dawn, with the holy Guru Granth Sahib being brought to the sanctum. This ceremony is accompanied by the early morning Ardaas and Gurbani Kirtan.
2. Morning Hours (3:00 AM—10:00 AM): At this time, Asa Di Vaar is sung, setting a spiritual tone for the rest of the day. Several prayer sessions and Kirtan performances are conducted during these hours.
3. Midday Prayers and Langar (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM): Around noon, another session of Kirtan is conducted, followed by the Ardaas. The community kitchen, or Langar, operates continuously, providing free meals to all visitors.
4. Afternoon and Evening Prayers (1:30 PM - 9:00 PM): Hymn singing and Kirtan continue throughout the afternoon. As the sun sets, Rehras Sahib is recited, leading up to the final Ardaas of the day.
5. Night Ardaas and Sukhasan (9:00 PM—10:00 PM): The final prayer session concludes with Sukhasan, during which the Guru Granth Sahib is taken back to the Akal Takht.

The Golden Temple’s Architectural and Spiritual Significance

The Golden Temple’s architectural brilliance and spiritual atmosphere make it a unique place of worship. Here are some aspects that contribute to its significance:

• Central Shrine: The temple's inner sanctum, where the Guru Granth Sahib is placed, is surrounded by a sacred water body called the Amrit Sarovar. This pool is considered holy, and many devotees dip in its waters, believing in its spiritual healing properties.
• The Gilded Structure: The temple's exterior is covered with 24-karat gold, a sight that radiates beauty and divine brilliance. This architectural marvel represents the Sikh belief that spirituality is more precious than material wealth.
• Open to All Faiths: The Golden Temple’s doors are open to people of all religions and backgrounds. This inclusiveness is a core principle of Sikhism, which teaches that God is universal.
• The Akal Takht: Located within the Golden Temple complex, the Akal Takht is a seat of spiritual and temporal authority. It reminds Sikhism of the integration of spirituality with worldly responsibilities.

The Role of Gurbani Kirtan in the Golden Temple

Gurbani Kirtan, or the singing of Sikh hymns, is central to the daily routine at the Golden Temple. The hymns, primarily composed by the Sikh Gurus, are sung to accompany traditional instruments, creating a soothing and meditative environment. The purpose of Gurbani Kirtan is to spread the teachings of the Sikh Gurus, bringing peace and spiritual fulfillment to the devotees.

Langar Seva – A Testament to Equality

The Langar at the Golden Temple serves as the world's largest free kitchen, feeding approximately 100,000 people daily. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, initiated the practice of Langar to promote the principles of selfless service (Seva) and social equality. In the Langar hall, people from different backgrounds sit together in rows (Pangat), reflecting that everyone is equal before God.

Participating in Langar Seva, whether by cooking, serving, or cleaning, is considered a form of devotion. Many visitors find that engaging in this communal activity enriches their spiritual experience at the temple.

The Experience of Evening Ardaas and Sukhasan

The evening Ardaas at the Golden Temple is a spiritual highlight for many visitors. As the day transitions to night, the temple's golden structure, illuminated by artificial lights, creates a mesmerizing reflection in the Amrit Sarovar. The ceremony of Sukhasan, where the Guru Granth Sahib is carried back to the Akal Takht, is performed with great reverence, signifying the day's end.

The final Ardaas is a moment for devotees to reflect on their day, express gratitude, and seek blessings for a peaceful night. The calmness of the evening, combined with the spiritual atmosphere, makes this prayer a fitting conclusion to the temple's daily activities.

The Healing Waters of the Amrit Sarovar

Many devotees believe that the waters of the Amrit Sarovar have healing powers. The Sarovar is a large pool of holy water that surrounds the central shrine, and its spiritual significance is deeply rooted in Sikh history. Taking a dip in the Amrit Sarovar is considered an act of purification, where one seeks to cleanse both body and soul.

The practice is symbolic and serves as a reminder of Sikhism's teachings, emphasizing inner purity over external appearances. The Sarovar is open to all, reinforcing that divine grace is available.

Conclusion

The Golden Temple is much more than a historical or architectural marvel; it is a living embodiment of the principles of Sikhism. The structured daily routine, with its scheduled prayers and community activities, ensures that the spiritual essence of the temple is maintained. The Golden Temple is more than just a magnificent structure; it is a profound symbol of Sikh values and teachings. The daily routine, anchored by Ardaas, imbues the place with spirituality and discipline, creating a rhythm that devotees and visitors find deeply enriching. The multiple sessions of Ardaas throughout the day—morning, afternoon, and evening—connect everyone to the divine, while the practice of Langar Seva upholds the principles of service and equality