Janam Sanskaar

Birth rights & Introducing a Sikh Infant to the Guru Granth Sahib

In the Sikh tradition a newborn infant is formally presented by the family to Guru Granth Sahib. This occasion may be used as an opportunity to conduct a Sikh baby naming ceremony. There is no set number of days following the birth of a child that the event has to occur. Once mother and child are able to bathe, an infant may be introduced to the Guru Granth as soon after childbirth as is comfortable, or a six week recovery period may be observed.

When a baby is just born it is most necessary for the birth rights to be held. Without these rights would be like denying a dead body the antim sanskar (death rights).

Janam sanskaar - the sikh birth rights

"This is the first ceremony in a Sikhs life. It is the way the baby is initiated into the sikh faith Reason: This is the first ceremony in the Sikh way of life. Janam Sanskar is also an oppotuinity for the baby to recieve Amrit at birth. This prevents the risk of the baby dying without receiving Amrit and also initiates the baby into the sikh way of life, which is obviously very important.

Administration: 1. The Amrit is prepared by any Amrit-dhari Singh – must sit in the Bir Asan wearing kachera 2. Water and Patase are stirred together by a simple Kirpan in a Sarbloh Batta (Iron Bowl) whilst the recital Japji Sahib and Anand Sahib with Ardas – preferably in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib 4. Once the Amrit is prepared it is given to the mother and newborn. 5. Five drops from the end of the Kirpan are put in the baby’s mouth from the tip of the kirpan so that it’s the first thing it drinks. 6. Recite Mool Mantar & Gurmantar in baby’s ear so that preferrably it’s the first words the baby hears. 7. The remainder of the Amrit in the sarbloh batta (iron bowl) is drank by the the infants Mother as an act of cleansing.

The Sikh Baby Naming Ceremony

The immediate family, relatives, and close friends gather together in the presence of the Guru Granth either in the home or at the gurdwara for kirtan.

The family sings or recites hymns of rejoicing and blessing for the child such as: "Parmaesar ditaa bannaa|| The Transcendent Lord has given me His support." "Satigur saachai deeaa bhaej|| The True Guru has truly given a child." "Pootaa maataa kee aasees|| O son (child), this is your mother's blessing, hope, and prayer." A Sejh or Sadharan Paath, is a non-continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib from beginning to end. If such an endeavor is underway on behalf of the new born it is read to completion at this time and the family celebrates the Bhog, or conclusion. A Hukam or random verse is read from the Guru Granth. The first letter of the verse ... (more)