Simran and Gurbani

Waheguru, the Wondrous Enlightener, is the Gurmantar of the Sikh tradition. The Gurus taught that steady, sincere simran of Waheguru dissolves haumai, the ego, and fills the heart with peace.

Satnam Waheguru, the True Name, is a simran many Sikhs keep through the day, at work and while travelling.

The Mool Mantar, revealed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, opens Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It describes the One: true, the creator, without fear or enmity, timeless, beyond birth and self-existent, known by the Guru's grace.

Revealed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and recited every morning. After the Mool Mantar come 38 pauris and a closing salok, reflecting on creation, hukam and the soul's union with the One.

Composed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Jaap Sahib praises the countless qualities of the Divine in rhythmic verse drawing on Braj, Sanskrit and Persian. It is recited for courage and chardi kala.

Recited at sunset, Rehras Sahib brings together shabads of several Gurus, giving thanks and settling the mind as day turns to night.

Recited before sleep, Kirtan Sohila reminds the soul of its true home, so the devotee can rest in peace.

Composed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Sukhmani Sahib has 24 ashtpadis. Many read it regularly to ease worry, anger and grief through remembrance of the Name.

Ardas is the prayer that closes Sikh worship. It remembers the Gurus and the sacrifices of the Panth, asks for strength and humility, and ends with Sarbat da Bhala, the good of all. It is not a mantra for counting.