Gurdwara

/ɡʊrdˈwɑːrə/ noun

Definition

A Sikh temple or place of worship where the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture) is kept and worshipped.

Etymology

From Punjabi, combining 'gur' (guru/teacher) and 'dwar' (door/gateway), literally meaning 'gateway of the guru.' The term has been in English use since at least the 19th century as Sikhs and British colonizers had more contact.

Kelly Says

Gurdwara is a wonderful example of how English borrows not just objects but entire cultural concepts—the word carries within it the Sikh philosophy that the guru's presence is accessible to anyone who enters through the door.

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