Panj Kakars (THE 5 K'S)
Theses are the five sacred symbols given to the Sikh community by their tenth Guru, Gobind Singh. These symbols hold special meaning and allow Sikhs to be recognized by other Sikhs easily.
Kesh or uncut hair. Men tie their hair up and cover it with a turban, Women keep their hair loose, braided or tied in a bun at the back. The first Guru, Guru Nanak started the practice of keeping the hair unshorn. The keeping of hair in its natural state is regarded as living in harmony with the will of God, and is a symbol of the Khalsa brotherhood and the Sikh faith. A symbol of spirituality, similar to the FMNI community.
The unshorn hair is to be covered at all times by the dastar (turban) as a sign of respect for God, and also as a sign of acceptance of the belief in the equality of men and women. Sikhism preaches that the only reason one should cover one's head is out of respect for God. Since men and women are equal, both men and women must cover their heads, and since God is everywhere, they must do so at all times. The turban also serves as an outward form of recognition of Sikh men and women.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
The unshorn hair is to be covered at all times by the dastar (turban) as a sign of respect for God, and also as a sign of acceptance of the belief in the equality of men and women. Sikhism preaches that the only reason one should cover one's head is out of respect for God. Since men and women are equal, both men and women must cover their heads, and since God is everywhere, they must do so at all times. The turban also serves as an outward form of recognition of Sikh men and women.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Kara or steel bracelet. This I worn as a piece of jewelry but binds Sikhs to God and remind then of their duty to do the right thing. It is worn on the right wrist and reminds the Sikh of the vows taken by him, that is, he is a servant of the Guru and should not do anything which may bring shame or disgrace.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
The circular design of the Kara signifies the oneness and eternity of God, having no beginning and no end. Similarly, Waheguru has no beginning or end and the Kara reminds Sikhs of this.
The following three symbols may not be visible on your students in they are young because they have not taken Amrit (been baptized, this is a decision taken by the individual him/herself not by parents, elders or guardians).
Kangha or comb. A small wooden comb is worn in the hair to keep the hair neat. The Gurus wore turbans and commanded the Sikhs to wear turbans for the protection of the hair, and promotion of social identity and cohesion. It has thus become an essential part of the Sikh dress. 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.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Kirpan or a sword. This is a symbol of God’s supreme power and also remind Sikhs of their duty to defend the weak. 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( important to note this does not imply a specific race/creed/culture).(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Kachh or Shorts. It reminds the Sikh of the need for self-restrain over passions and desires. Apart from its moral significance, it ensures briskness during action and freedom of movement at all times. It is a smart dress as compared to the loose dhoti which most Indian wore at that time.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Learn More about the Ten Guru's, The Rise of the Khalsa at much more by clicking on the following link.
AllAboutSikhs
The circular design of the Kara signifies the oneness and eternity of God, having no beginning and no end. Similarly, Waheguru has no beginning or end and the Kara reminds Sikhs of this.
The following three symbols may not be visible on your students in they are young because they have not taken Amrit (been baptized, this is a decision taken by the individual him/herself not by parents, elders or guardians).
Kangha or comb. A small wooden comb is worn in the hair to keep the hair neat. The Gurus wore turbans and commanded the Sikhs to wear turbans for the protection of the hair, and promotion of social identity and cohesion. It has thus become an essential part of the Sikh dress. 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.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Kirpan or a sword. This is a symbol of God’s supreme power and also remind Sikhs of their duty to defend the weak. 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( important to note this does not imply a specific race/creed/culture).(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Kachh or Shorts. It reminds the Sikh of the need for self-restrain over passions and desires. Apart from its moral significance, it ensures briskness during action and freedom of movement at all times. It is a smart dress as compared to the loose dhoti which most Indian wore at that time.(Gateway to Sikhism, 2012)
Learn More about the Ten Guru's, The Rise of the Khalsa at much more by clicking on the following link.
AllAboutSikhs