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TheArdās (Punjabi:ਅਰਦਾਸ, pronunciation:[ǝɾd̪äːs]) is a setprayer inSikhism.[1][2] It is a part of worship service in aGurdwara (Sikh temple), daily rituals such as the opening theGuru Granth Sahib forprakash (morning light) or closing it forsukhasan (night bedroom) in larger Gurdwaras, closing of congregational worship in smaller Gurdwaras, rites-of-passages such as with the naming of child or the cremation of a loved one,daily prayer by devout Sikhs and any significant Sikh ceremonies.[3]
An Ardas consists of three parts. The first part recites the virtues of the ten Gurus of Sikhism from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh, starting with lines fromChandi di Var from theDasam Granth.[1][2][3] The second part recites the trials and triumphs of theKhalsa and petition.[2][3] The third salutes the divine name.[2][3] The first and the third part are set and cannot be changed, while the second part may vary, be shortened and include a supplication such as seeking divine help or blessing in dealing with daily problems, but is usually in agreed form. While it is sung, the audience or the Sikh devotee typically stands, with folded hands, many with bowed headed, with some typically saying "Waheguru" after certain sections.[1][3][2][4]
Ardas is attributed toGuru Gobind Singh, the founder of the Khalsa and the 10th Guru of Sikhism.[1][3]
The root of the word Ardas is related to the Sanskrit wordard (अर्द) which means "request, ask, beg". It is also related to the Persian wordarzdasht which means a written "petition made by an inferior to a superior".[5]
The Ardās is usually always done standing up with folded hands and is commonly preceded by the eighth stanza of the fourthashtapadi of the baniSukhmani, beginningTu Thakur Tum Peh Ardaas. It consists of three parts:
The end of the Ardaas (Nanak Nam Chardi Kala, Tere Bhane Sarbat Da Bala, "O Nanak, may the Nam (Holy) be ever in ascendance! in Thy will may the good of all prevail!") is also set and may not be altered or omitted.[7]
The "Ardās" of Sikhism was first composed by Guru Gobind Singh. He fixed the first eight lines and the last section, and these are considered unalterable in Sikhism. The second section has been fluid, revised extensively and particularly by Tat Khalsa in the 20th century. The Sikh Rahit Maryada has published an approved version of the entire Ardas.[1][3]
