Guru Nanak Dwara

Welcome to Guru Nanak Dwara

Guru Nanak Dwara, meaning “Gate to Guru Nanak,” was established in 1970 as the first Gurdwara in Arizona. Since its founding, it has continued to serve as a vibrant spiritual center for the community in Phoenix. This Gurdwara was founded with the teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Guru of Sikhism, who emphasized the core belief that all humans are equal in the eyes of the One Creator, regardless of their background or beliefs. It’s a place of spiritual growth, community, and service, where individuals come together to learn, meditate, and reflect on the principles of Sikhism.

Attending Gurdwara Service for the First Time

If you’re visiting Guru Nanak Dwara for the first time, there are certain customs and practices to keep in mind. These steps will help you join the spiritual atmosphere of the Gurdwara with respect and reverence.

1. Dress Modestly

Upon entering the Gurdwara, you are entering the Guru’s royal court. Therefore, it is essential to dress modestly, reflecting an outward sign of respect for the Guru’s court and for the sacredness of the space. Modest, formal attire helps set the tone for spiritual reflection and alignment with the sacredness of the Gurdwara.

2. Remove Shoes & Socks

Before entering, it is customary to remove shoes and socks. This practice not only keeps the Gurdwara clean but symbolizes leaving the outer world behind and entering a space of purity. The act of removing shoes and socks also signifies reverence to the sacred space.

3. Cover Your Head

Covering the head is an essential part of Gurdwara etiquette. It symbolizes the importance of the head as the seat of our consciousness and spiritual awareness. By covering your head, you demonstrate respect and honor for the sacred space and the Guru’s presence.

4. Wash Your Hands & Feet

In Sikhism, cleanliness is deeply valued, and before entering the Gurdwara, we wash our hands and feet. This symbolizes purifying our physical being and preparing our hearts and minds for the spiritual practice that awaits inside. Cleanliness is not just physical but a reflection of our inner readiness to connect with the divine.

Our Daily Practice: A Way of Life Dedicated to Holiness

At Guru Nanak Dwara, we follow a daily routine that helps us maintain a spiritual, healthy, and holistic lifestyle. These practices are centered around devotion, meditation, service, and physical well-being.

Bana – Sikh Uniform

Bana represents the uniform worn by Sikhs, signifying commitment to the values and teachings of Guru Nanak. Wearing Bana is an expression of unity with the divine and a commitment to live according to the Sikh principles of equality, humility, and devotion.

Bani – Scriptures Recited Daily

Reciting Bani, the sacred scriptures, is an integral part of our daily practice. By meditating on the words of the Guru, we internalize the teachings and carry them into our daily lives. The repetition of Bani helps us focus our minds on the divine, cultivating inner peace and spiritual wisdom.

Simran – Continuous Meditation

Simran is a form of continuous meditation, where we repeat God’s name as a means of connecting with the divine. It is a practice that allows us to maintain spiritual awareness throughout the day, keeping our hearts and minds aligned with the presence of the Creator.

Start Serving: Join Our Community

At Guru Nanak Dwara, we believe that spiritual growth is not just about personal transformation but also about serving others. Serving is an opportunity to live out the teachings of the Guru and make a meaningful impact on the community. We encourage everyone to get involved in Seva, whether by volunteering at the Gurdwara, helping with community outreach, or simply lending a hand in daily tasks.