The Five Ks in Sikh Culture
Posted on April 30, 2008 in Art & Culture by Gitanjali
The five ks are an integral part of the Sikh tradition. The five ks are five things starting with the alphabet ‘k’ which have to be a mandatory accessory on the body/outfit of every Khalsa Sikh. The ‘Khalsa’ which literally means ‘pure’ and according to some sources ‘that which belongs exclusively to Guru Gobind Singh’ were originally a military order of saint-soldiers and baptized in the ‘Amrit Sanchar’ ceremony.
The Five Ks
The five sacred elements prescribed by the Guru are together known as ‘panj kakars’. They are:
Kesh: Kesh means unshorn hair. It is a symbol of saintliness. It is believed that living with the hair in its natural state is a symbol of a way of living as God pleases. Shaving off hair from any part of the body is considered sinful. The hair on the head is covered at all times by men with a clothing called ‘pagri’/’dastaan’ which means turban. Women do not plait their hair, but should keep it tied in a bun.
Kangha: The kangha is a small wooden comb which is used by Sikhs to tidy their long hair, but symbolically, it combs away impure thoughts from the mind. The Kangha is also a symbol of personal hygiene, for the Sikhs wash their hair regularly and customarily comb it twice a day with the kangha. Science has come up with the fact that using a wooden comb helps reduce the static energy build up. The kangha, if damaged in any manner, must be replaced immediately.
Kara:The kara is a steel an iron bracelet worn around the right arm. This is worn both by males and females. It signifies that God has neither a beginning nor an end-as is the case with the bracelet. It also reminds a true sikh that whatever action he does has to be in accordance with the teachings preached by the Guru. This prevents from the devout Sikh from any wrong-doing.
Kaccha: The kaccha is a cotton under-garment which traditionally was knee-lenght, but recently has been shortened a little. This is worn by every khalsa sikh. The kaccha/kachera is secured and tied using a drawstring. This is worn to overcome the five worldly desires/evils especially, lust or sexual desire. It is said that, while untying the drawstring, one gets time to think of what he is going to do and stop himself.
Kirpan: The kirpan is a ceremonial dagger or sword worn at all times by a khalsa sikh. Historically, it was the instrument of defence, but symbolises protecting the weak and the oppressed. The sword is covered with a cloth belt, known as the ‘gatra’.
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