In the previous deck, we explored the core beliefs of Sikhism. In this deck, we'll look at Sikh practices. This is all about how Sikhs put their beliefs into action in their daily lives and as a community. We'll cover everything from worship in the gurdwara and major festivals, to the special ceremonies that mark key moments in a Sikh's life. Understanding these practices is crucial for your GCSE exam, as you'll be asked to explain what Sikhs do and, more importantly, why it matters to them.

The centre of community life for Sikhs is the gurdwara. The word 'gurdwara' literally means 'the door to the Guru' or 'the Guru's house'. It's a place of worship, learning, and community service. Any building that contains a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib can be a gurdwara, from a simple room in a house to a large, ornate building.

Inside the main prayer hall, or diwan hall, the focus is always on the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture. It is treated with the respect due to a living Guru. It rests on a raised platform called a takht, which means 'throne', and is covered by a canopy called a palki. Worshippers sit on the floor to show their humility before the Guru, and they cover their heads as a sign of respect.