There isn’t an exact English word for Jooth, likely because this concept doesn’t exist in Western culture. Simply put, Jooth refers to the effect a person’s Karma and nature can have on the food they prepare, as well as food or drink that has already been partially eaten or sipped by someone and then shared with another person. A person’s spiritual state (Avastha) can influence the food they cook, and if someone is a non-devotee or non-Gursikh, their sins and negative actions can “contaminate” it. This type of contamination is called Jooth.

Gursikhs avoid Jooth by eating food prepared only by other Gursikhs. Food made by people who do not worship Vaheguru, or who commit sins, is avoided. Choosing to eat food prepared by Gursikhs and avoiding food prepared by non-Gursikhs is part of what is called Dietary Bibek in Sikhi.

The Saakhi of Malik Bhago and Bhai Laalo shows how a person’s good or bad Karma affects the food they cook or even buy. In Malik Bhago’s case, the food wasn’t even touched directly by him, yet his bad Karma affected it. Guru Sahib Ji showed this by squeezing blood from his roti. This teaches us that even food purchased with dishonest money or ingredients can be considered Jooth.

When preparing Guru ka Langar, there is a strict protocol. The Sewadaars must bathe properly, wear clean Gurmukhi Baana, and keep their hands clean. How exactly Jooth spreads or affects food is not something we need to worry about. What matters is that Langar is cooked by Tyaar bar Tyaar Gursikhs following Gurmat Maryada.

The concept of Jooth is not fully detailed in Gurmat literature, but it is understood through practical experience by doing Sewa alongside senior Gursikhs. Through Sewa, we learn how to prepare Langar properly, maintain cleanliness, and follow the correct procedures. Over time, as we continue in the company of experienced Gursikhs, the deeper understanding of these practices naturally becomes clear.