Sehaj Paath
Sehej Paath or Sadharan Paath is a recitation of Guru Granth Sahib ji, from beginning to end, with no time-limit for completion. A person or group of persons can read the holy text according to their schedule and complete the reading of Guru Granth Sahib ji. This practice allows for a deeper, more personal connection with the Guru’s teachings and is ideal for those who wish to reflect and absorb the message gradually.
A Sehaj Paath can be held:
- To honour Sikh festivals or commemorate the lives and teachings of the Gurus
- To celebrate joyous events such as births, birthdays, anniversaries or to seek blessings for weddings
- Within 10 days during funerals or memorials to bring peace to the soul of the departed and comfort to the family.
- To come closer to the guru and develop a deeper, more personal connection by reading and reflecting on the Guru’s teachings at a comfortable pace.
- To thank the Guru for blessings received, to seek guidance or for well-being.
Venue:
The Sehaj paath can be conducted in Gurdwaras or at home. The choice of location depends on the preference of the participants. Since the Paath can take a significant amount of time to complete, it is often done at home with the Bhog, the concluding ceremony, held at the Gurdwara.
What is expected in this program:
The Guru Granth Sahib ji is recited from beginning to end, with no time-limit for completion. A person or group of persons can read the holy text according to their schedule.
To mark its completion, a concluding ceremony or “Bhog” of the Sehaj paath is held. This Diwaan usually includes Kirtan, the singing of devotional hymns. This is followed by the reading of the “Salok mahala 9” and “Raagmala”, the scriptures in the end of the Guru Granth Sahib ji. This marks the ending of the Sehaj path. Then an Ardaas is held, which is often personalised to reflect the reason the Sehaj Paath was held. Through Ardaas, the family shares their intentions and seeks the Guru’s blessings for their specific purpose. After the Ardaas, the “Hukamnama” or “Vaaq” is taken. It is a divine order or spiritual message read from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji when the scripture is opened. It is the first full Shabad on the left-hand side of the Ang. The Hukamnama is regarded as the Guru’s divine command or guidance, received in response to prayer or reflection. After Karah Prashad, a sweet offering symbolizing equality and blessings, is distributed to everyone present.
The families can also organise Langar to serve after the diwaan, which can be a full meal or light snacks depending on your preference. This Langar is prepared beforehand at the Gurdwara sahib by the hosting family and other volunteers.
