Rumala Sahib is a beautiful fabric the Sikhs use to cover Guru Granth Sahib, their main religious text. It signifies respect, reverence, and devotion towards the Gurus. Rumala plays a vital role in Sikh worship. This holy cloth is used both at Gurdwaras and during personal prayers. The fabric is used to cover the Guru Granth Sahib to protect it against dust and damage and symbolize its sanctity. The custom is centuries old and is based upon the belief that Guru Granth Sahib is more than a book. It is, therefore, a sign that you are devoted to the book.
Rumalas sahib can be made of luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet and decorated with sacred symbols and gold or silver threadwork. Some Rumalas are plain, while others can be decorated with gold or silver threadwork depending on the occasion and the preference of the person offering them.
Spiritual Significance
This is one of the most respectful gestures a Sikh follower can make. This is a symbol of gratitude, devotion, and a recognition that the Guru’s teachings have value and are sacred.
Offering can be a way to repay the Guru for all his blessings. Devotees give Rumalas sahibs to Gurdwaras as a gift during life’s important events, such as birthdays and weddings. Rumala Sahibs also show humility and dedication in maintaining the dignity and respect of Guru Granth Sahib.
Rumala Sahibs Types
Rumala Sahibs are available in different sizes, designs, and materials. Here are a few of the most popular types.
1. Daily Rumala Sahibs
These elegant and straightforward Rumalas can be used in Gurdwaras or at home for daily prayer. Often, they are made of soft fabrics like silk or cotton.
2. Festive Rumala Sahibs
The Rumala Sahibs used for festivals like Vaisakhi or Guru Nanak Gurupurab are decorated ornately with beadwork, brocade, or intricate embroidery. They are made of rich materials like velvet or satin and often feature symbols like the Khanda.
3. Customized Rumala Sahibs
Rumalas can be customized with family names or meaningful motifs. These can be customized for special occasions, such as weddings or anniversaries. They also include handwoven designs.
4. Historical or Antique Rumala Sahibs
The Rumalas are passed down from generation to generation and hold a lot of cultural significance. As part of historical collections, antique Rumalas can be found in Gurdwaras and Sikh museums. These antique Rumalas are a testament to the dedication and devotion of previous generations.
Rituals, practices, and rituals
Rumala Sahib can be used at different times of the day and for various ceremonies in a Gurdwara. The Rumala Sahib and Guru Granth Sahib are folded and stored neatly during the Parkash ceremony at dawn. The scripture is then wrapped in new Rumalas Sahibs at night during the Sukhasan ritual and respectfully placed in the designated resting spot.
On special occasions such as birthdays or to express gratitude after a life-changing event, devotees will often give new Rumala sahibs. Devotees in many Gurdwaras are proud to donate Rumalas Sahibs during these ceremonies. They believe that this brings blessings to themselves and their families.
How to choose and design a Rumala Sahib
Several factors are taken into consideration when choosing a Rumala sahib:
1. Material
Popular fabrics include silk, velvet, and satin. Silk, velvet, and satin are popular choices. These materials are soft on the Guru Granth Sahib pages and give the Rumala an elegant appearance.
2. You can also Design Your Own
Designs often include religious symbols, such as the Khanda (the symbol for “One God”) or Ik Onkar. Some Rumalas have gold or silver thread embroideries, while others keep it simple to show humility.
3. Color
Rumalas are usually decorated with vibrant colors, such as saffron or gold, maroon, blue, or black, representing spirituality and devotion. The choice of color can also be personal. Some people choose colors that are associated with certain occasions.
4. Size
The size of Rumala Sahib must correspond to the size of Guru Granth Sahib that is being covered. Some Rumalas can be used as personal prayer books, while others are designed for Gurdwaras.
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