Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Where will the course be held?
2.  What is the weather like?
3.  What does the course include?
4.  Is it OK to audio or video tape the course?
5.  Do I have to be a Sikh to attend?
6.  Do I have to know how to read Jaap Sahib to attend the course?
7.  Do I need to know how to read Gurmukhi script?
8.  Will we be sitting on the floor?
9.  Is early morning sadhana a requirement?
10.  What is the dress code?
11.  Are there any rules?
12. How and when do I register?

If you have any questions that are not answered here, or just want to share inspiration about the Jaap Sahib, please contact Shanti Kaur at [email protected]

1.  Where will the course be held?
Under the vibrant green canopy of a cottonwood grove, and the ever-blue skies of New Mexico, the Jaap Sahib will unfold!  We will have our own little Gurdwara under a big-top tent.  We will enjoy classes at the Gurdwara in the Langar Hall, which hopefully will be air-cooled.  We will eat our meals at the Langar Kitchen, out on the lawn.
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2.  What is the weather like?
Weather in August in New Mexico is hot, with temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s.  It is the rainy season, so we usually end each day with a thunder shower.  This can make camping a challenge!  But by August, the nights are cool and morning meditations can be chilly, so it is delightful as well.
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3.  What does the course include?
The course is three full-days and two half days of classes.  There are three wholesome, vegetarian meals served daily.  Accomodation and transfers are not included, and you need to make your own arrangements.  But we are here to help, so please contact us.
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4.  Is it OK to audio or video tape the course?
No, recordings are not allowed.  But photographs are welcome and memories are free.
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5.  Do I have to be a Sikh to attend?
No, you do not have to be a Sikh (which, by the way, means a “seeker of Truth”) to benefit from Sikh Dharma wisdom.  This course is presented for people who want to delve deeply into the connection with their own soul, and who want to experience the purity and power of the spiritual warrior as taught by Guru Gobind Singh. 
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6.  Do I have to know how to read Jaap Sahib to attend the course?
No, you are welcomed to come and learn.  It is a difficult bani and we’ll help you out there.  If you are new to the Jaap Sahib, you will have the chance to really experience it  and grow in the depth of your being. 

If you have an established practice of reading Jaap Sahib, a profound sense of renewal and discovery awaits you!
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7.  Do I need to know how to read Gurmukhi script?
Although this is the very best way to read the Jaap Sahib, it is not required.  You can learn to read the Jaap Sahib in romanized form.  A transliteration is available through Ancient Healing Ways (www.a-healing.com).  Go to Books/Sikh Religion – there is an option for “Nitnem Banis – small – transliteration only”.

While you are there, you can also get a recording of someone reciting the Jaap Sahib to help your pronunciation.  There is a wonderful musical recording by Sat Nirmal Kaur Khalsa and Sangeet Kaur Khalsa, and a recitation of all the banis by Hari Dharam Kaur Khalsa.
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8.  Will we be sitting on the floor?
Yes, you bet!  Please bring sheepskins, yoga mat, or other soft things to sit on for your comfort. 
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9.  Is early morning sadhana a requirement?
No, there are no participation requirements.  You should participate as much or as little as you want to.  However, there is no experience as powerful as meditating in the morning, so we encourage you to not miss out.
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10.  What is the dress code?
Please wear graceful and modest clothing, suitable for a spiritual environment.  The bana of Guru Gobind Singh is appreciated and encouraged, but not required.  During the classes and during the recitation of the Jaap Sahib, we ask that you cover your head and bare your feet as a sign of respect.
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11.  Are there any rules?
Yes, and thank you for asking.  This course is celebrated in the Name of Guru Gobind Singh, and we ask that you observe the graceful guidelines of the rehit.  There is no drinking, smoking, indulging in intoxicants, or eating meat on the Ashram property. We ask you to behave gracefully to other participants, and always act with safety in mind.  We reserve the right to refuse entrance to anyone, for any reason, at any time.
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12. How and when do I register?
You can follow the "Registration" link to register on line. Early registration is encouraged, as it helps us plan for the course. Be sure to register by the end of June to take advantage of the early registration price! You can pay by credit card on line, or by check (but it must be in US dollars).
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