Hukamnama

In Sikhism, a Hukamnama (also spelled Hukamnama or Hukamnama Sahib) is a divine order or commandment obtained from the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism. Hukamnama means "royal decree" or "command of the sovereign."

The Hukamnama is obtained through a process called "taking the Hukam." It means seeking guidance from the Guru Granth Sahib. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Ardās: Sikhs begin by reciting a prayer called Ardās, seeking the blessings and guidance of the Guru Granth Sahib.
• Guru Granth Sahib: The Guru Granth Sahib, often placed on a special podium called a Palki Sahib, is opened at a random page. This is believed to be a divine act guided by Waheguru, the Sikh concept of the Supreme Being.
• Hukamnama: The page opened is called the Hukamnama. A Granthi, a Sikh priest, reads the verse or passage aloud. The Hukamnama is considered the divine order or commandment for that particular moment.
• Interpretation: The Hukamnama is then interpreted by the Granthi or other knowledgeable individuals present. They provide insights and explanations about the message conveyed in the passage.

The Hukamnama is considered a sacred and authoritative source of guidance for Sikhs. It is believed that the Hukamnama provides direction, clarity, and spiritual solace to the seekers. The message in the Hukamnama is seen as a reflection of the divine will and is believed to offer guidance in various aspects of life, including personal, moral, and social matters.

Hukamnamas are read daily in Gurdwaras as a means of seeking divine guidance and inspiration. They are often displayed on notice boards within the Gurdwara premises for all to read and reflect upon. The Hukamnama is also shared with Sikh communities worldwide through various means, including electronic media and online platforms.

Sikhs hold great reverence for the Hukamnama, considering it a direct communication from the Guru. They strive to incorporate its teachings into their lives, seeking to align their actions and thoughts with the divine will expressed through the Hukamnama.