Waheguru

Waheguru is a central name for God in Sikhism, used as both a devotional epithet and a meditation mantra. It is commonly translated as “Wonderful Lord” or “Wondrous Enlightener,” conveying the idea of a divine, all-encompassing reality who reveals truth and guides the soul.

Etymology and meaning: The term combines wahe, an exclamation of wonder or praise, with guru, meaning teacher or enlightener. In Sikh belief, Waheguru designates the supreme, formless God who sustains creation and interacts with the world through divine wisdom.

In Sikh scripture: Waheguru appears throughout the Guru Granth Sahib and other Gurbani writings. It functions as a meditational mantra and as a reverent exclamation of praise. Practitioners may chant Waheguru during Naam Simran (meditative remembrance of God) and in daily prayer, reflecting a personal, intimate relationship with the divine.

Usage and practice: Within everyday life, Sikhs may recite or sing Waheguru as part of devotional practice, worship in gurdwaras, and during ceremonial occasions. The name is often used alongside other divine names and attributes, and it underpins practices aimed at inner spiritual focus and ethical living.

See also: Sikhism; Guru Granth Sahib; Naam; Naam Simran; Ik Onkar.