The Naam Karan

• What is the Sikh naming ceremony called?

  The Naam Karan Ceremony
• Why is the Naam Karan Ceremony considered a rite of passage?

  It marks a key moment in the baby's life
• When does the Sikh naming ceremony typically take place?

  About two weeks after birth
• What is the significance of the sangat during the ceremony?

  The baby is welcomed into the local Sikh community
• What do participants do when entering the diwan hall?

  Bow before The Guru Granth Sahib
• What do parents usually offer during the ceremony?

  They may pay for the langar or provide karah prashad
• What does the karah prashad symbolize?

  It symbolizes equality among participants
• What is a romalla used for in the ceremony?

  To cover The Guru Granth Sahib
• What does the baby wear during the ceremony?

  The baby may wear a kara or the 5 Ks
• Who wrote the Mool Mantra?

  Nanak
• What is the purpose of reciting the Mool Mantra?

  It reminds Sikhs of God's nature and qualities
• What does the granthi do with the amrit during the ceremony?

  Stirs it with a khanda in a bata
• What does the amrit symbolize?

  It symbolizes blessing and sweetness of teachings
• What is the significance of the hukam during the service?

  It determines the baby's name
• What is the Anand Sahib prayer about?

  It is a prayer of bliss and joy
• What surnames may be used in Sikh naming ceremonies?

  Singh or Kaur
• Why were the surnames Singh and Kaur introduced?

  To help eliminate the caste system
• What does eating in the langar hall promote?

  It promotes the belief in the oneness of humanity
• What are the key components of the Sikh naming ceremony?

  • The Naam Karan Ceremony
  • Welcoming the baby into the sangat
  • Bowing before The Guru Granth Sahib
  • Offering langar or karah prashad
  • Reciting the Mool Mantra
  • Stirring amrit with a khanda
  • Naming the baby through hukam
  • Singing Anand Sahib prayer
  • Sharing karah prashad
  • Eating in the langar hall
• What are the symbols of equality in the Sikh naming ceremony?

  • Karah prashad eaten from the same bowl
  • Langar served to all participants
  • Use of surnames Singh and Kaur
• What is the role of the granthi in the Sikh naming ceremony?

  • Recites prayers and hymns
  • Determines the baby's name through hukam
  • Conducts the amrit blessing
• What is the significance of the amrit in Sikhism?

  • Symbolizes blessing
  • Represents the sweetness of Sikh teachings
  • Used during initiation ceremonies