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Summary of Question:	How Should A Non Sikh Show Respect In Gurdwara
Category:	General Q's from Non-Sikhs
Date Posted:	Tuesday, 6/29/2004 10:37 AM MDT

If a non Sikh goes to an Indian wedding, what should he do to show respect when he enters the gurdwara, if he feels uncomfortable bowing before the Guru Granth Sahib.

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reply
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Wear clothes you can sit comfortably on the floor in.
1. Take off shoes (some gurdwaras request you remove socks as well.
2. Cover your head with the hat/head cover of your choice.
3. Approach Siri Guru the way the Sikh congregants do, fold your hands at your heart, and bow your head slightly, which is not equal at all to bowing your head to the floor, but shows those there that you recognize that Siri Guru is to Sikhs what the cross/altar/Holy Sacrament is to Catholics or the Torah to Jews. It is just what you are asking, a way of showing respect. If that is too much for you, then do (1) and (2) and find a place to sit on the appropriate side (per your gender).
4. Sit and stand when others do. Accept the prashad (sticky sweet food given after the final reading from Siri Guru). Leave when the others leave--follow their lead.

(You do know that Siri Guru is the scripture, not the person sitting behind it...?) Giving of $1/donation is optional. FYI the donation supports the langar (meal) provided afterwards, and also represents the energy-exchange of the blessing of Guru on those who attend. But that is optional. Hope this helps.
Blessings, -DKK