Today marks Jeth Sangrand, the first day of Jeth, the second month in the Nanakshahi (Sikh) calendar. Sangrand—literally “stone cusp”—is a time-honored occasion for Sikhs to pause, reflect, and invoke blessings for the month ahead.
What Is Sangrand?
- Monthly New Moon: In Sikh tradition, Sangrand corresponds roughly with the new moon, signaling the start of each lunar month.
- Spiritual Reset: Much like a “monthly New Year,” it offers an opportunity to set fresh intentions, renew our commitment to Naam Simran (meditation on God’s Name), and practice seva (selfless service).
Why Jeth Is Special
- Season of Growth: Jeth (mid‑May to mid‑June) ushers in the height of spring in Punjab—fields turn lush green, flowers burst into bloom, and the promise of summer warmth arrives.
- Historical Remembrances: Several key events in Sikh history occurred during Jeth, including visits by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Guru Har Rai Ji to Sikh congregations.
How to Observe Jeth Sangrand
1. Prayers & Ardas : Begin your day with Japji Sahib and recite the Ardas (Sikh prayer), asking for strength, wisdom, and peace in the coming month.
2. Gurdwara Visit: Offer karah prasad, listen to kirtan, and reflect on the meaning of new beginnings in the langar hall.
3. Seva (Selfless Service) : Volunteer at your local gurdwara kitchen, help clean the grounds, or assist an elder in your community. Small acts of kindness compound into great blessings.
4. Family & Community Meal : Gather loved ones for a simple, home‑cooked Punjabi meal—dal, roti, and fresh vegetables—to share gratitude and strengthen bonds.
5. Reflect & Set Goals : Take a moment to journal or meditate on one quality you’d like to cultivate in Jeth—patience, generosity, or daily simran—and plan concrete steps to achieve it.
A Sangrand Greeting
“ਪ੍ਰਭਾਤ ਉੱਜਲੇ, ਮਹੀਨੇ ਨਵੇਂ—ਮੇਰੇ ਦਿਲ ’ਚ ਦੇਵੇ ਹਰ ਪਲ ਖੁਸ਼ੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਨਵੇਂ ਜ਼ਵੇਲੇ।”
May the dawn of this new month fill our hearts with fresh joys and bright blessings.
As the sun climbs higher and the fields flourish, let Jeth Sangrand remind us that every day is a gift—an invitation to grow, serve, and live in Chardi Kala, the eternal spirit of optimism.
