The 5Ks or kakkars or kakke
is one of the most important aspect of Sikhism, are the five articles
of faith worn by all baptised Sikhs or practising Sikhs. Even many
non-baptised Sikhs also begin on the path of Sikhi by wearing some or all
of these Sikh symbols. The baptised Sikhs both male and female are
required to wear a uniform to unify and bind them to their commitment to the
true, universal, social and temporal principles defined and amplified by the
ten Sikh Gurus and laid down in Sri Guru Granth Sahib. This
commitment was publicly announced, made prominent and confirmed by Guru
Gobind Singh in 1699 at the Vaisakhi gathering for all to
witness.
Sikhism stands out as a unique and probably the only
faith in the world where in there is no place what so ever for clergy or
priestly class. It is self-made, self-contained, self-regulating and dedicated
to nothing but flawlessness (read Godly) in all aspects of human living. Unlike
most other faiths where only the clergy are in uniform, all Sikhs are required
to always wear their uniform of faith at all times and to adhere to the ideals
of the "Sant-Sapai" or Saint-Soldier; to practise their belief
always (rather than on just a particular day or time i.e. just Sunday or
Friday).
These 5Ks or kakkars are:
- Kesh: (Kesh is uncut hair) A Sikh is to maintain and adorn this
natural God-given gift. To work with nature and not against it. The Kesh
was covered with a turban.
- Kanga (wooden comb) for the maintenance and ongoing upkeep of
Kesh. A reminder to regularly maintain the body and mind in a clean and
healthy state.
- Kara (steel bracelet or slave bangle): Symbolises an
unbreakable bond with God. It is a constant reminder that the Sikh is a
slave of the Lord.
- Kachhera or Kachcha (cotton underwear) Standard, Naturally Comfortable,
dignified attire reflective of modesty and control.
- Kirpan (a small sword) A sign that a Sikh is a soldier in
"Akal Purakh's (God's Army)” to maintain and protect the weak and
needy and for self-defence. Never to be used in anger.
These 5Ks together forms the symbols of Sikhism
followed by every disciple.
No comments:
Post a Comment