Marriage

Marriage is a very important part of Sikhism. Some marriages are still arranged by the families of the bride and groom, but both individuals have the right not to marry the partner chosen for them. Marriage is seen as a commitment before Waheguru [Waheguru: A Punjabi term used in Sikhism to refer to God. ] and the purpose is so the individual has companionship on their spiritual path, rather than sexual pleasure.

A marriage also brings two families together and Sikhs believe that it is important that the families get on. This is one of the reasons why Sikhs encourage their children to marry other Sikhs.

There may be an engagement ceremony in the gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) where Waheguru is thanked for bringing the couple together. The groom’s mother visits the bride and gives her a gold ring.