GURU NANAK FREE KITCHEN
In Sikhism, only lacto-vegetarian food is served in the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) but Sikhs are not bound to be meat-free.[1][2] The general consensus is that Sikhs are free to choose whether to adopt a meat diet or not.[2][3] Sikhs, once they become Amritdhari (baptised) via the Amrit Sanskar (baptism ceremony), are forbidden from eating Kutha or ritually-slaughtered (Halal, Kosher)[2] meat.
Commentary from Sikh.Org
In the first stanza Guru Nanak establishes the fact that we are a creation of flesh, being composed of flesh and being born out of the flesh of our parents. At the beginning of the second stanza Guru Nanak decries the duality of vegetarians who expound against eating meat. Guru Nanak says that these people have their priorities mixed up, they fight about the virtues of not eating meat, yet they do not instead spend their time contemplating God. He says that everything is a living thing, whether one is killing an animal or a plant, he says that can the vegetarian please tell him where the sin lies? If he is killing living things whether they are plants or animals.
Langer
The Langar concept was an innovative charity and symbol of equality introduced by the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji in about 1481.
The purpose of this was to eliminate world poverty, uphold the principle of equality amongst all and encourage a sense of care in local communities. The principle was very simple a meal that would be open to all people of the world regardless of religion, caste, colour, creed, age, gender or social status. The tradition of Langer expresses ethics of sharing, community, inclusiveness and oneness of all humankind.
The Guru Nanak Gurdwara Edinburgh is actively providing its local community with support and is promoting the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji .
They are preparing Langer that is served on the streets of Edinburgh, in an aid to help the local community.
All our Sewadars (volunteers) take part in this process:
- Purchasing local fresh produce
- Prepare and cooking the Langer at our Gurdwara
- Transport it to the town centre designated stalls
- On street serving in the City of Edinburgh
The Sewadars diligently serve the meals every wednesday evening undeterred by the weather.
All work is done by Sewadars (volunteers). If you want to take part or donate for this noble cause please contact the Guru Nanak Gurdwara on 0131 553 7207
