The Akal Takht has again issued a stern warning to 'granthis' (priests) and others concerned against taking the Guru Granth Sahib to cremation grounds, graveyards, tombs or any such place where the dead have been buried or cremated, as this is against the 'maryada' (traditional code) of the scripture.
Issuing the warning here on Thursday, Akal Takht jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh reminded all Sikhs in general and the 'granthis' in particular that an order in this regard had been passed last year by the 'Panj Piaras' (five beloved ones of the Guru). The order was issued after the Takht received reports of 'akhand path' (recitation of Gurbani) being held in cremation grounds and other such places following any death.
The jathedar reiterated that 'akhand path' could only be held in houses or gurdwaras. He pointed out that this order by the clergy was issued following discussions with Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) members of Jalandhar district, led by Shingara Singh Lohiana.
Pointing out that one of the duties of the 'granthis' was to spread the message of Gurbani among the masses, the jathedar said they should ensure that due respect was accorded to the Sikh scripture.
"You are the 'wazirs' (ministers) of the Guru. So, it becomes your duty to ensure that the 'maryada' of the scripture is not violated. You must ensure that the 'saroop' of the Guru Granth Sahib is not carried to cremation grounds or any such places," he added.
{{/usCountry}}"You are the 'wazirs' (ministers) of the Guru. So, it becomes your duty to ensure that the 'maryada' of the scripture is not violated. You must ensure that the 'saroop' of the Guru Granth Sahib is not carried to cremation grounds or any such places," he added.
{{/usCountry}}The jathedar told the 'granthis' that many Sikhs were still not aware of the Takht order.