Morning Ritual: Taking Hukams

During my time spent living in an ashram many years ago, I learned about taking "hukams" (which means "divine order") from the Siri Guru Granth Sahib which are the compilation of writings that the Sikhs consider their living guru. I have expanded my taking of hukams to included any inspirational book. Many mornings I have started my day by taking a hukam as a part of my daily sadhana or spiritual practice. A hukam is taken by choosing an inspirational book of your choice, such as The Dhammapada, the Tao te Ching, the Bible, The Art of Peace or the Siri Guru Granth Sahib and then randomly opening the book up to whatever page to which you are guided . After selecting your book, sit quietly for a few moments in reverence, opening yourself up to receiving whatever passage you are shown, and then ask a question to which you would like guidance, then open the book and read until you feel you have received your message. Many times the passages are connected to what I may be experiencing in my life at the time and are always a source of inspiration and "divine" guidance. This ceremonial ritual has never failed to bring upliftment to my day. May you be inspired, Gayle