Shanti Kaur Khalsa
In 2019, we celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the founder of Sikhism. Over the centuries, people have been drawn to the egalitarian philosophies of Sikhism, and the teachings of Sikh Gurus, who welcome all people on the spiritual path. Many thousands of people across the world have incorporated these teachings into their lives. One of the key concepts of the Sikh path is to be distinct and recognizable, niara, and by doing so to obligate the devotee to maintain their grace, dignity, and attitude of service through all the pressure of time and circumstance.
One of the distinguishing features of Sikhism are the Punj Kakaar, or Five Ks- Kesh, long and uncut hair; Kara, an iron bangle; Kanga, a wooden comb; Kachhera, long cotton undershorts; and Kirpan, a tradition dagger or sword.
The Five Ks have their roots in the very foundation of the Sikh path and lifestyle. People across the world follow this discipline and adhere to the principles and values that the Five Ks represent. The practice of wearing the Five Ks dates back to 1699 when the Khalsa came into existence. These five items of faith represent the Khalsa discipline, and to wear them declares the bearer to be Khalsa. Each of these items of faith have a unique significance and together they represent a dedication to the Guru.
Kesh: A Sikh is to maintain their hair uncut, as given by the Creator. To keep the hair uncut represents the Sikh’s acceptance of the Will of God, and the recognition of God’s Wisdom in creating the human in the form in which they were created.
Kanga: A Sikh is to keep their hair clean and combed, and so this wooden comb is to be worn in the hair at all times. The Kanga reminds the Sikh to keep the body and mind clean and healthy.
Kara: A Sikh is a servant of the One Creator and the Kara is a demonstration of this servitude. The Kara reminds the Sikh to live life dedicated to the service of God.
Kachhera: A Sikh wears Kachhera as sign of chastity and purity. The Kachhera sets the standard for the Sikh to dress with dignity and with an attitude of simplicity and discretion.
Kirpan: As Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs, explained to the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah, the Kirpan is an emblem of dignity, power, and self-respect. It is not just a “sword,” but a combination of kirpa (kindness) and aan (dignity). The Kirpan reminds the Sikh to protect the weak and defend the defenceless, and always act with righteousness and honour.
The teachings of the Sikh Gurus lead one on a path of dignity and righteousness. They inculcate in the seeker the virtues of strength and selflessness, helping guide the devotee to find a way to live in the modern world that is fulfilling and uplifting.
By the example of the Sikh Gurus, the Sikh finds the courage to stand for what is right and protect others without the thought of self. The Sikh community has always been the one to come forward and lend a helping hand and this strength comes from values rooted from the very genesis of the Sikh faith. It is those who fearlessly carry the banner of Sikhism, under the most dire circumstances, who inspire us in this world.
