Ardas

In Sikh worship, a prayer said at the end of communal worship or at home. It was developed in the 18th century. Ardas is performed after morning and evening prayers, and on special occasions such as a naming ceremony (Nam Karan), Amrit Sanskar (baptism into the Khalsa), marriage (Anand Karaj), or funeral. In the gurdwara (Sikh temple) it is followed by a vak, a random reading from the scriptures. The Ardas reminds worshippers of important historical events and of the people who have founded and shaped Sikhism. It then requests God's gifts, support, and pardon.

During the saying of the Ardas, those present stand facing the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book) with their hands folded. At the end of the Ardas, the participants bend on one knee and then stand to call together on the Khalsa and God, ending with the words Sat Sri Akal (‘true is the timeless being’). During a special Ardas, only those for whom it is being said stand up.