Gurdwara Sahib Petaling Jaya (PJ Sikh Temple)where our wedding was solemnized
The Sikh marriage ceremony or Anand Karaj (literal meaning: ceremony of bliss) is the holy union of two souls - they become Ek Jot Doe Murti, which translates to one spirit in two bodies.
Leading the entourage into Gurdwara Sahib PJ.Needless to say, the Bufori stole the limelight.
The Sikh marriage ceremony is solemnized in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (SGGS), the Sikh Holy Scripture. SGGS is a compilation of devotional hymns and poetry, which proclaims God, advocates the recitation of the True Name (God) and accentuates moral/ethical rules for the development of the soul, spiritual salvation and unity with Him.
The Darbar Sahib or the main hall of Gurdwara SahibPetaling Jaya. The SGGS is placed on a takhat or throne
in a prominent central position in the hall.
Composed by the founding fathers of Sikhism, SGGS is held in great reverence by Sikhs and treated with utmost respect. Sikhism rejects idol worship. Hence, SGGS is not idolized; the emphasis is on the writings that appear within.
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (SGGS), the Sikh Holy Scripture
The wedding ceremony consists of reciting four hymns or Lavan. The four marriage hymns describe the progression of marital love between husband and wife, and the longing to be spiritually united with the Supreme Lord. The hymns represent four stages of love...
In the Darbar Sahib; seated in the presence ofSGGS and Sat Sangat (holy congregation)
The first hymn explains the preparation and justification for the state of marriage. It stresses on the performance of worldly duties to the family and community.
The second hymn places importance on the discipline needed to facilitate the feeling of 'one spirit in two bodies'. This stage is that of love, yearning and enthusiasm.
The third hymn advocates detachment from the materialistic world and negative influences, and only to embrace God and each other. This is a stage of divine comprehension and the bond of souls.
The fourth hymn describes the perfect love and devotion, when no feeling of separation is possible between the two. On the purely spiritual plane, it would be as if the soul has reached complete union with God and has found perfect joy in His love.
The second hymn places importance on the discipline needed to facilitate the feeling of 'one spirit in two bodies'. This stage is that of love, yearning and enthusiasm.
The third hymn advocates detachment from the materialistic world and negative influences, and only to embrace God and each other. This is a stage of divine comprehension and the bond of souls.
The fourth hymn describes the perfect love and devotion, when no feeling of separation is possible between the two. On the purely spiritual plane, it would be as if the soul has reached complete union with God and has found perfect joy in His love.
Performing the Pherey or circumambulation
Upon completing each circumambulation, they both bow and the subsequent hymn is recited and sung. Once all four hymns are completed, the couple is officially pronounced husband & wife.
SUPERB entry... fantastic simply fantastic. I like the way you explained the wedding ceremony.