5 K's of Sikhism

Encyclopedia : 5 : 5K : 5KS : 5 K's of Sikhism

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} Sikhism originated in the Punjab region, in what is now Pakistan. Today, there are around 22.5 million Sikhs in the world; with around 90% living in India. The word 'Sikh' means 'disciple' in Hindi, and was founded by Guru Nanak Dev. (1469-1539)

All Sikhs abide by five main principles: Kesh, Kanga, Kacha, Kara, and Kirpan.

The 11 Gurus

The 11 Gurus guided the followers of Sikhism throughout their lives.

These Guru's were in chronological order:

1. Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539)
2. Guru Angad Dev (1504-1552)
3. Guru Amar Das (1479-1574)
4. Guru Ram Das (1534-1581)
5. Guru Arjan Dev (1563-1606)
6. Guru Har Gobind (1595-1644)
7. Guru Har Rai (1630-1661)
8. Guru Har Krishan (1656-1664)
9. Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621-1675)
10. Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708)

Guru Granth Sahib is the 11th Guru. However, Guru Granth Sahib is not a person. It is rather a scripture, written by the founders of Sikhism directly. Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Guru, praised Guru Granth Sahib, and proclaimed it "the eternal Guru."

Kesh

Kesh means Uncut and Unshown hair in English. Kesh is the most important principle to Sikhists, because they believe hair is a god-given gift, and that you must always accept god's will. Uncut hair refers to any and all hair on the body, while Unshown hair refers mainly to head and facial hair. The most common form used to cover this hair is called a Turban (also called a Pugree or Dastar). There are several types of wraps, colours, and sizes of Turbans. Once you decide to cover your hair, you cannot reveal it in public.

Kanga

Kanga is a small wooden comb, commonly worn in the hair. Kanga represents hygiene and discipline. Being faithful to god is very important to Sikh's, and combing your hair with the Kanga twice a day is a symbol of your devotion.

Kesh and Kanga are very closely related. You cannot follow one of these principles without following the other.

Kacha

Kacha is a pair of cotton undergarments. They represent morality, and sexual purity. Kacha can be worn on their own if necessary. Over the other K's, Kacha holds the highest LoS, according to a survey of 1,000 random Pakistanis conducted by Mytar Bin Haz-Puanit on August 14, 1947.

Kara

Karra symbolizes a Sikhist's bond to God, and the Guru's. It is a steel bracelet, worn on the right wrist. The Karra also represents restriction from violating the beliefs of Sikhism. It also represents stength in the time of weakness. Lastly, Kara also represents gentility, and kindness.

Kirpan

Kirpan is a ceremonial dagger worn by Sikh's. It stands for spirituality, and strongly represents God. The Kirpan represents the protection of the good, and the struggle against evil.

POOCHE.

See also

• Turban (Sikhism)
• Goat Roti
• Pakistani Cuisine

The 5Ks in Sikhism

Kesh | Kanga | Kara | Kaccha | Kirpan

 

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