The Sikh Rehat Maryada is the official code of conduct and discipline for Sikhs, formally established by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee as the authoritative guide for religious and social life. It lays out a standardized framework for Sikh belief, worship, and daily living, encompassing definitions of who is a Sikh, core principles such as the oneness of God and the centrality of Guru Granth Sahib, and the rejection of practices like caste discrimination, superstition, and idol worship. It sets guidelines for daily prayers and scripture reading, rules for initiation and the conduct of initiated Sikhs, and regulations regarding the Five Ks. It also includes protocols for gurdwara management, kirtan, langar, and congregational life, as well as procedures for life‑cycle ceremonies such as birth, naming, marriage, and death. In this way, it translates the broad vision of Sikh teachings into concrete norms that can be lived and shared within the community.

Its importance in Sikh life lies above all in the way it safeguards unity and clarity of practice. By providing a single, Panth‑accepted standard, it reduces regional and sectarian variations, offering Sikhs across the world a common pattern of worship, ethical conduct, and communal discipline. This shared discipline helps preserve the distinct identity of the Sikh tradition, defining proper Sikh behavior and setting boundaries that protect core values and beliefs. At the same time, the Rehat Maryada functions as a bridge between scripture and everyday life, serving as an official interpretation of the Gurus’ teachings for practical application. Through its guidance on prayer, conduct, and community organization, it nurtures spiritual discipline in individuals while fostering cohesion and mutual recognition within the wider Panth.