The first seven stanzas of the astpadi explore the theme stated in the preceding sloka and the eighth sometimes sums up the astpadi but, more often, becomes a paean of praise placing the theme in the context of an overall vision of Eternal Reality. A sloka or couplet precedes each astpadi. The Sukhmani comprises twenty-four astpadis or cantos, each comprising eight stanzas. Sukh literally means peace or comfort and mani mind or heart. The site, once enclosed by a dense wood, where it was composed around AD 1602-03, is still marked on the bank of the Ramsar pool in the city of Amritsar.The word sukhmani is rendered into English as “consoler of the mind.” The entire poem has been translated into English more than once under the commonly preferred title, “Psalm of Peace” or “Song of Peace,” signifying the soothing effect it has on the nynd of the reader. Sukhmani, titled Gauri Sukhmani in the Guru Granth Sahib after the musical measure Gauri to which it belongs, is a lengthy composition by Guru Arjan which many include in their daily regimen of prayers. In those exilic, uncertain times, the practice of accomplishing a reading of the Holy Book by a continuous recital is believed to have originated. Conjecture traces it to the turbulent days of the eighteenth century when persecution had scattered the Sikhs to far off places. When and how the custom of reciting the canon in its entirety in one continuous service began is not known. The relay of reciters who take turns at saying Scripture must ensure that no break occurs.Īs they change places at given intervals, one picks the line from his predecessor’s lips and continues. This reading must go on day and night, without a moment’s intermission. The entire Holy Volume, 1430 large pages, is read through in a continuous ceremony.

Such a recital must be completed within 48 hours.

Akhand PathĪkhand Path Akand Path (akhand = uninterrupted, without break path = reading) is non-stop, continuous recital of the Guru Granth Sahib from beginning to end. Please click on “Read More” under a section to get detailed information about the services. Following religious services are provided by Gurdwara Sahib Fremont.

Sukhmani sahib path to read