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Summary of Question:	Second Hand Smoke
Category:	Sikh Practices
Date Posted:	Thursday, 12/07/2006 11:04 AM MST

Dear Sikhnet team,

I am an AmritDhari Sikh and usually do my Nitnem on a daily basis with Guruji's Kirpa or atleast want to complete it.

Here is the problem that I face.

Along the day as I go about my work, I accumulate a lot of second hand (cigarette) smoke around my face and body (& clothes).

I believe it is not right to pick up a Gutka or do Sehaj Patth when one is in this state. Complete washing and cleaning of yourself with soap etc. in case of such state holds a high prioirity in my opinion.

Sometimes it is not possible to achieve this external cleansing and purity owing to time of the day or the time needed for it etc. And Personally my mind doesn't totally come at peace until I'm done with the needful. Consequently I am forced to miss my Nitnem to a certain degree.

Should the Gutka still be used to do Patth when we are facing this situation? Or the Guru excuses us for it?? Any suggestions, guidance on this issue please !

Also, most people I know do not mind this kind of a thing and keep doing Patth including the (Rauls)Patth of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji.

I'm sure you will appreciate my concerns!

By the way, are we Sikhs doing our part of preaching a smoke free life to other communities, given a platform, given the fact that we are the leaders and the pioneers in the non-smoking arena, as a community?

Thanks! Guru Rakha !!

KS

Wahe Guru Ji ka Khalsa
Wahe Guru Ji ki Fateh!

First of all, second hand smoke is very unhealthy and can lead to disease in just the same way as smoking. Is it possible for you to look for a different job that does not entail such dangers? Here in the USA, smoking in the workplace is illegal in order to protect workers. Do your paath - it is the anchor of your day. Just wash your hands and say ardaas and begin. Do not worry about your clothing.

As Guru's Sikhs we do not preach. Nor do we tell others what to do. We live our lives according to our Rehit and we set an example through our actions. It is our kindness, compassion and seva that serves to let the Guru teach others through us.

Guru ka Dass .....G