Marriage in Sikhism

Marital bond according to the Sikh religion is a sacrament–a holy union and not a contract.

They are not said to be husband and wife, who merely sit together. They alone are called husband and wife, who have one light in two bodies.

– Guru Granth Sahib p. 788

Sikhism does not believe in celibacy. Married and family life is considered honourable, natural and ideal.

O mind, remain detached in the midst of your household. Practicing truth, self-discipline and good deeds, the Gurmukh is enlightened.

– Guru Granth Sahib p. 26

The marriage of a Sikh couple is solemnised by circumambulating four times around the Guru Granth Sahib. Each time, a Shabad (hymn) which is part of the marriage service is recited by a Sikh who performs the marriage ceremony. The hymns tell them to mould their conjugal relations around God as the center of their lives.

The same ceremony is performed at the remarriage of a widow or a widower.