Balwant Singh ji thanks for raising the topic.
As much as close to primary sources of information I gather the following,
Gurdwara: The Sikh temple is called a Gurdwara. The word 'Gurdwara' means 'Gateway to the Guru'. (SGPC Amritsar website)
Where Gur/Guru in this case implies (Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji)
As for as I know Gurdwara is what I have learnt myself and many times one will say, "Aaj Gurdwareh jan nu jee kardah" i.e. My mind wishes to go to the Gurdwara.
Gurughar: It literally translates to two syllables of "Guru" and "Ghar". Which is "House that Guru is in". (my interpretation)
Where Guru in this case implies (Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji)
So the distinction becomes as what is more appropriate or if both are appropriate:
Gateway: Gateway has many connotation including an entrance/exit, etc.
Ghar: I have heard the Dixie Gurdwara (Canada) also referred to by the Gyani ji there as (Dixie) Guru Ghar while in congregation.
So to me it seems that the following may be appropriate,
- While outside and referring to a location: Use Gurdwara
- While in the Gurdwara and you want to refer to where you are: Use Gurughar
- All Gurughars are the same
- There can be different Gurdwara Sahibs to identify more location or identifiers to guide
As when you enter any Gurdwara you get where the Guru (Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji) is present or Gurughar.
Note: Great caution to not call it where God lives. God is everywhere within and without Gurus and Gurdwara Sahibs as so lucidly described in mool mantar.
Just some thoughts and my opinion only so forgive any indiscretions.
Regards,
Sat Sri Akal.
