The 5 K's

The 5Ks are 5 Articles of Faith worn by Khalsa Sikhs. They were created by Guru Gobind Singh back in 1699. Those 5 Ks not only have a religious meaning, but they also help Khalsa Sikhs identify each other and they bound the community together. The 5 Ks are:

1. Kesh (uncut hair): there are several reasons why Sikhs have long hair. They consider hair a symbol of holiness and strength. Hair is created by God, and by not cutting it the Sikhs show that they want to accept that gift given to them by God. It also shows that they are living a simple lifestyle, worrying less about their physical appearance and more about spiritual maturity. By having long hair the Sikhs also follow the appearance of Guru Gobind Singh. Head hair is covered by a turban, which is a symbol of leadership. However, kesh pertains not only to head hair, but any body hair. Women, just like men, are forbidden to cut or trim any body hair.


2. Kara (a steel bracelet): kara is a only made of steel, and never of gold or silver or any other expensive metal, because it is a symbol, not jewelry. Kara symbolizes restraint and gentility. It is a constant reminder for the Sikh not to do anything that the Guru would not approve. It is also one link the in the chain, meaning the person wearing it is a connected to everyone else in his or her community.


3. Kanga (a wooden comb): the kanga keeps the uncut hair neat and tidy, which symbolized a clean mind and body. This is important, because they believe their body is a gift from God, and they should take proper care of it.


4. Kaccha (cotton underwear): symbol of modesty and chastity. It is a symbol of the porhibition of adultery in Sikhism

5. Kirpan (steel sword): this is a ceremonial sword kept in a sheath and worn either under of over clothing. It symbolizes spirituality, courage, readiness to defend the weak, and exemplifies the warrior character of Sikhs. It is worn with a cloth shoulder strap called gatra.


5 Ks


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