The Five Ks
Sikhs who are members of the KhalsaThe Sikh community, literally 'the community of the pure'. Refers particularly to initiated Sikhs. will try to observe the Five Ks. These Sikhs will have undergone the Amrit Sanskar ceremonyThe rite of initiation into the Khalsa (Sikhs who commit themselves to a daily discipline). started by Guru Gobind SinghGuru Gobind Singh was the tenth and final Sikh Guru. He established the Khalsa and completed the Guru Granth Sahib, the most important Sikh holy book.. The Five Ks remind Sikhs of how to behave and the belief is that they are a reminder that God is with them.
- Kesh - uncut hair reminds Sikhs of the gifts from God and how they accept them.
- Kangha - a wooden comb used to comb the hair reminds Sikhs of how God untangles their lives and helps them to keep things ordered.
- Kara - a metal bracelet is a symbol of God’s never-ending love for Sikhs and a visual reminder of their actions.
- Kachera - cotton undergarments are similar to the ones traditionally worn by Sikh warriors, also a symbol of purity.
- Kirpan - a sword that is often worn under a Sikh's clothes, rather than outside them, serves as a reminder to help someone who is vulnerable and for Sikhs to defend their faith.