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SIKH
SYMBOLS
KHANDA
SAHIB
Every
religion in the world have their own insignia or
symbol indicating that particular religion and its
basic tenets. Thus, Khanda Sahib is insignia of Sikh
religion. Its name is derived from Khanda which stands
in the centre.
This
consists of four parts (weapons) namely a Khanda, a
Chakkar and two Swords.
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KHANDA
: This
a double edged dagger with a pointed triangular shaped upper
end. This a powerful weapon used in battle. In spiritual
interpratation, it signifies a powerful means to distinguish
truth from falsehood. Khanda was used by Guru Gobind Singh Ji
for preparing Amrit by stirring it in the sweetened water kept
in and iron Bowl (Baata).
CHAKKAR
: This
is an iron weopon circular in shape whose outer edges are
sharp. Its circular shape signifies God, who is endless having
no begining and no end. This also signifies struggle for
one’s life, liberty and rights. That is why Lord Krishna
used Sudershan Chakkar as a powerful weapon in the war of
Mahabharat.
SWORDS
: Two
swords in the outer periphery signifing two Kirpans of Miri
and Piri. This philosphy of Miri and Piri i.e. Bhakti and
Shakti was highlighted by Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji - The Sixth
Guru. He wore two Kirpans representing Miri and Piri. |
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NISHAN
SAHIB (SIKH FLAG)
Nishan
Sahib is a triangular shaped Kesri (Dark Yellow or
blue) coloured cloth with or inscribed on it in the
middle hoisted on a pole below a steel Khanda.
It is
said words "Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh" in Punjabi
script (Victory of God) was inscribed on the Nishan
Sahib of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. During Maharaja Ranjit
Singh’s times words "Akal Sahai" in
Punjabi script were unscribed on the Nishan Sahib.
During times Sikh Misals, "Nishan Walia"
Misal used to provide Sikhs for carrying Nishan Sahib
to all the Misals during battles. Nishan Sahib on Pole
of suitable height is hoisted on all Gurdwaras. This
indicates the location of the Gurdwara.
Once,
Nishan Sahib bearer named Bhai Alam Singh fell in the
hands of Mughal enemy forces during a battle. He was
told to throw the flag or else, his hand would be
chopped off. Bhai Alam Singh replied that in that case
he would keep holding the flag with his feet. Then he
was told that if his feet would also be cut off.
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Bhai Alam Singh replied that in such eventuality he would hold
it with his mouth. "In case, his head is also cut, then
what he will do?" he was asked. Bhai Alam Singh replied
with confidence, "The Guru whose flag he was carrying
well take care of it." This is the as how the Nishan
Sahib was held in great esteem by the Sikhs in those days
Ik
Onkar
There is Only One God". The first two
words in the Guru Granth Sahib & one of the cornerstones
of Sikhism. They appear at the beginning of the Mul Mantra
written by Guru Nanak describing the qualities of God in the
Japji.
THE FIVE K'S TO BE WORN BY ALL
BAPTISED SIKHS
KANGA
Comb.
A symbol of hygiene and discipline as opposed to the matted
unkept hair of ascetics. A Khalsa is expected to regularly
wash and comb their hair as a matter of self discipline.
KIRPAN
Ceremonial
Sword. A symbol of dignity and the Sikh struggle against
injustice. It is worn purely as a religious symbol and not as
a weapon. When all other means of self protection fail, the
Kirpan can be used to protect yourself or others against the
enemy.
KARA
Steel
bracelet. A symbol to remind the wearer of restraint in their
actions and remembrance of God at all times
KACHERA
Drawers.
A symbol signifying self control and chastity.
KESH
Long
unshorn hair. A symbol of spirituality. The Kesh reminds a
Khalsa to behave like the Guru's. It is a mark of dedication
and group consciousness, showing a Khalsa's acceptance of
God's will. Long hair have long been a common element of many
spiritual prophets of various religions such as Jesus, Moses
and Buddha
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