The 5 k's

Page 1

Kes/Kesh – Untrimmed Hair

Kirpan - Sword

Kara – Iron Wristlet

Kachehra – Baggy Shorts

Kangha – Wooden Comb

Kes/Kesh

Sikhs make a promise not to cut

there hair or shave there face, this is because they believe it is natural and

how God intended there bodies to be. They also think hair is a gift then God

Skihs wear a turban to cover

there hair, the turban symbolises discipline, integrity, humility and

spirituality

To tie there hair up to put on

the turban they comb there uncut hair with the kanga, then tie there hair in a

rishi knot, securing it with a comb

Kara

The Kara is a steel bracelet

worn on the wrist of the dominant hand

The steel bracelet symbolises

unity and strength, it also symbolises God as it has no beginning or end

Kangha

The kanga is a comb that

represents the importance of discipline and cleanliness

Sikhs use the kanga to keep

their hair healthy, clean, shining and tangle-free.

The kanga is tucked under the

rishi knot which is covered by the turban

Daily washing combing of hair

are ways to ensure hair is kept tidy

The comb represents how God

untangles their life

Kachehra

Meant to give a feeling of

dignity, modesty and honour to the person who wears it

Reminds the person that is

wearing it not to think of members of the opposite gender lustfully

Kirpan

The Kirpan is a sword and

symbolises dignity and self respect

Sikhs must carry this with them

at all times, but is never used to attack

Sometimes a symbolic kirpan

charm can be worn, it has the same meaning but has causes less discomfort to

others