Nitnem

thumb|A typical Nitnem "Gutka", or Sikh Prayer book, extremely common in many Sikh households|209x209px

Nitnem () is a collection of Sikh hymns (Gurbani) to be read minimally 3 different times of the day. These are mandatory and to be read by every Amritdhari Sikh as expressed in the Sikh Rehat Maryada (the official Sikh Code of Conduct which acts as the ultimate "rulebook" for Amritdhari Sikhs). Optionally additional prayers may be added to a Sikh's nitnem. There are three hymns which are officially mandated by the Sikh Rehat Maryada to be recited at Amrit Vela (early hours of the morning between 2AM and 6AM), although two more are commonly recited alongside these, forming the 5 Baania (5 hymns). The Rehras Sahib hymn is also mandated in the evening, followed by Kirtan Sohila at night. The morning and evening prayers should be followed by an Ardaas.