The five K’s of Sikhism are a fundamental and crucial component of the Sikh religion and more importantly, the everyday lives of Sikhs around the world. Growing up as an Indian, I was always exposed to the practices of my fellow Sikhs, however I did not know the important role that the five Ks manifested in their lives. I chose to learn more about this important role mainly because Sikhism is a religion with deep roots in Indian history, and learning more about Sikhism will help me better understand my nation. Researching of the five K’s; kes, kangha, kirpan, kara, and kachh, we are able to better understand Sikhism and its roots. Together, the five K's represent an important aspect of Sikhism but separated, each K, has a significant impact …show more content…
The five K’s of Sikhism expose some of the religions roots and thus are a good area of practices to study. Growing up in Canada made no difference to the type of people that surrounded me, as most were Sikh or Hindu. I had many acquaintances which wore a “patka” which is a medium sized turban for Sikh boys. At my young age, I did not know why my Sikh friends would keep their hair long, and also why they would wear brightly coloured turbans which always seemed to be a different color depending on the day. After my research into the five Ks, I found out that a practicing Sikh will keep his/her hair uncut for his/her life in respect of their creator and God, who also kept his hair long and never cut it. Most of my Hindu and Sikh friends all wore a kara (steel bracelet) from a very young age and never took it off, I myself also have worn a kara since I was a baby. Before my research, I did not know the high importance that the kara has kept in Sikhism and was surprised to see the relative role it played in both Sikhism and Hinduism. As for the kangha (comb), kirpan (sword) and kachha (underwear), collectively weren't present in my life and I did not witness them as I witnessed the other symbols. However I was aware that most my Sikh friends had their own ceremonial kirpan (sword) which generally is on display in their room until they need it for religious ceremonies. Prior to my research, I was aware of the existence of each K, but I did not know that collectively they made up an important component of Sikhism. Recalling from firsthand experience, all the Sikhs in my life barely mentioned any of the five Ks and always went through their days as everyone else. The five Ks are meant to keep Sikh disciplines and followers from straying off the path that is Sikh renunciation. Reviewing the five Ks, one may be easily led to believe
The Turban is predominantly worn by women. According to the text, “To the Moslems of the west, it represents purity and is considered a crown. It is truly a symbol of modesty and respect for self”. Additionally, turban patterns or clothing determine social status.
Sikhism is free from any claims and dogmas. To attain salvation, Sikhism rejects all rites, rituals, and fasts. It rejects the claims of mortification of body, self-torture, penance or renunciation. It does not believe in worship of gods and goddesses, stones, statues, idols, pictures, tombs or crematoriums. Devotees are supposed to desist from working miracles, uttering blessings and curses, and believing in omens. They wear God's name as a necklace and try to practice Nam (remembrance of God's name), Dan (charity) and Ishnan (purity), truthfulness and openness, self-restraint in temper, labor for the purpose of mutual benefit, profitable and edifying speech, humility and forbearance.
Kuujjuaq Airport (YVP) is a small regional airport serving the community of Kuujjuaq in the far north of Quebec. This arctic destination is the largest community in Nunavik, making it the perfect home base to experience Arctic Canada without giving up too many modern amenities. Located on the banks of the Koksoak River, Kuujjuaq is one of the best places in the world for arctic char and Atlantic salmon fishing, and is surrounded by stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness.
In addition, Sikhs were sworn to wear the five symbols of their faith, also known as the “Five K’s”: “kes or kesh (uncut hair), kangha (comb), kachha (short trousers), kara (steel bracelet), and kirpan (ceremonial sword)” (Britannica, 2016), as symbols of power and equalitarianism. Also conflicting with the Muslim tradition that allows polygamy for those who can afford more than one wife, and doesn’t have strict rules against tobacco, Sikhs are required to abstain from tobacco, adultery, cutting their hair, and the meat of animals slowly bled to death specific to Islam. Influenced by the Hindu traditions, Sikhs believe in karma and reincarnation- elements not found in the Islamic
"Sikh Awareness." Sikh Awareness. © 2002-2012 THE SIKH COALITION, 12 Oct. 2001. Web. 24 Mar. 2014.
“Religion as defined by the great sages of India…it did not require belief in a set of doctrines, but rather hard, disciplined work, without which, any religious teaching remained opaque and incredible” (Armstrong 51). The profound history of Hinduism contains important fundamental elements that play a major role in the daily life of its followers. Hinduism is famously known as one of the oldest religions in the world, which is widely embraced and composed of three prominent attributes: spiritual, tradition, and the caste system. The combinations of these three attributes in the Hindu belief system add rich tradition and deepen cultural meaningfulness and experience that uniquely defines the Hindu system of beliefs
"God Willed that as a true Sikh I should look upon all religions with one eye".
This paper was written to give you a better idea of the presence and practices of Sikhism in Canada. It will also introduce you to the controversies they face being in a religion that is meant to differentiate, and how difficult that can be for them in a country with a strong western culture. First you will learn of the statistics and demographics of Sikh’s in Canada. Secondly, a bit of history will be introduced which will give a better idea of their culture. Thirdly, a better picture of their culture and religion will be painted when their common religious practices are described. Finally, the three largest controversies facing Sikh’s in Canada will be introduced and a brief description of them are given.
Canada is a country that has had the concept of multiculturalism deeply rooted within itself for decades now. Canada strives to be a society where all people are equal and can bring their values and beliefs while being welcomed with kindness and an opened mind. One aspect that is widely accepted and intertwines with culture is religion, and I witnessed this when I took an in-depth look at Buddhism. My group members and I went to the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto to see a series of observations. During my time at the temple, I was able to understand that culture plays a significant role in the religion and this is seen in some religious rituals and patterns that can be associated with Buddhism itself. In this essay, I will analyze how
Sikhs must not drink alcohol, smoke or gamble. They have one wife or husband. They must pray every morning. They must read the holy book everyday. The Ten Gurus (teachers) of the Sikh told the people what God wanted; how they should live their lives; and how peace and tranquility could be obtained. Sikhs must wear the 5Ks – Uncut Hair Kesh, Small Comb Kanga, Bangle Kara, Special Shorts Kacha and Sword Kirpan.
Equality and Human Rights Commission Guidance. Guidance on the wearing of Sikh articles of faith in the workplace and public spaces. 2010. Web. .
Religion is a big part of our world, as it dictates our beliefs and how we act towards other people. Though all religions have different beliefs, it is the core values of that religion that shape the way we act as people towards other humans, plants and animals. This essay will look at Christianity and Sikhism and how the core values of each of these religions compare to each other. Firstly, look at a brief summary of Sikhism and Christianity and a look at their beliefs. Then looking at the core values as portrayed by Christianity and Sikhism.
McLeod, W. H. (2004). Sikhs and Sikhism. Oxford India paperbacks. New Delhi: Oxford University Press.
The Mughal era, that of an empire filled with incredible wealth and prosperity. Generous patron of the arts, through its influence a huge and diverse culture sprang forth, the product of Indo-Islamic relations throughout the kingdom this culture remains the Mughals legacy. To this day the unique influence of the Mughals on North Indian culture remains present in every aspect of life, from religion, dance, music, art to science and the practices of everyday life.