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Summary of Question:	Praying
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Monday, 8/20/2001 6:55 AM MDT

SSA

I have a question about praying. After i do the Jap Ji Shaib, i usually pray to God, this may be about exam results, or about asking if to take care of a family member etc. i would just like to know is this right? i ask God for few things like this every time after i pray, is this the right way?

Also when i pray i and do the Jap Ji shaib i sit facing a picture of the ten Gurus, then i bow down after i finish. But i heard we should not bow to them. if not where should i be sitting when i pray? please tell what is right. thank you

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REPLY
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Sat Sri Akal,

About your first question. When you are in school and need help with your work you ask your teacher, right? In the same way, when you are praying and need guidance and help, you can ask the Guru. If the few things you ask for from the Guru are well being and help in school work then the Guru will provide.

About your second question. Sikhs do not bow to inanimate objects. A picture is not a Guru. The only thing we bow to is the Guru Granth Sahib because that is our Guru. So where can you pray? Anywhere. Remember, Waheguru is everywhere and is always with you. If you are riding a bus and have some free time, you can start praying right there in your mind. For JapJi Sahib, it is good to set aside the same time and place every morning where you can pray. This can be in your bedroom, at a Gurdwara, anywhere.

I hope this helps.

Gur Fateh,
HSD