Five K's | topaz

Five K's or Panj Kakar's

The Five Ks (Punjabi: ਪੰਜ ਕਕਾਰ Pañj Kakār) are five Articles of Faith that Khalsa Sikhs wear at all times as commanded by the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, who so ordered it at the Vaisakhi Amrit Sanskar in 1699. The Five Ks are: Kesh (uncut long hair), a Kangha (small wooden comb), a Kara (steel or iron bracelet), a Kacchera (undergarment) and a Kirpan (short dagger). The Five Ks are not just symbols, but articles of faith that collectively form the external identity and the Khalsa devotee's commitment to the Sikh rehni "Sikh way of life".

A Sikh who has taken Amrit dons all five Ks is known as Khalsa ("pure") or Amritdhari ("Amrit Sanskar participant"), while a Sikh who has not taken Amrit but follows all rules and keeps all five Ks is called a sahajdhari ("slow adopter").

Kesh

Uncut hair, which is kept covered by a distinctive turban.

Kesh are a traditional symbol of holiness in India, and the turban is a symbol of leadership.

Kirpan

A ceremonial sword, symbolizing readiness to protect the weak, and defend against injustice and persecution.

The kirpan is normally worn with a cloth shoulder strap called a gatra.

The kirpan exemplifies the warrior character of a Sikh.

Kangha

A small wooden comb, symbolizing cleanliness and order.

The kangha is used to keep the hair clean and is normally tucked neatly in one’s uncut hair.

As a Sikh combs their hair daily, he or she should also comb their mind with the Guru’s wisdom.

Kara

~ A steel bracelet, symbolizing strength and integrity.

~ Steel is symbolic of strength yet resilient under stress. In the same way, the human soul must become as strong and unbreakable as steel which has been tempered in the furnace.

Kachhera

Cotton boxer shorts, symbolizing self-control and chastity; prohibition of adultery.