vak

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In Sikh worship, a random reading from the Guru Granth Sahib (holy book). It is taken from the top left-hand corner of whatever page falls open. A vak both begins and ends the gurdwara service, and is regarded as guidance for the day. Sikhs may also read a vak at the beginning of their day at home. It is taken as a manifestation of the divine order of the universe.

In the naming ceremony (Nam Karan), the first letter of the child's name will be the first letter of a hymn found by making a vak.

The emblem was added to distinguish the flag from that of Italy. The design is based on the French tricolour. The colours are those of the Mexican liberation army. Effective date: 23 November 1968. >>