The 5 K’s
The Sikh Insignia – Khanda
Nishan Sahib
The Sikh Insignia – Khanda
The Khanda constitutes three symbols in one. However, the name is derived from the central symbol, Khanda, a special type of double-edged sword which confirms the Sikhs’ belief in One God.
This consists of four parts (weapons) namely a Khanda, a Chakkar and two Swords.
KHANDA : This a double edged dagger with a pointed triangular shaped upper end. This a powerful weapon used in battle. In spiritual interpratation, it signifies a powerful means to distinguish truth from falsehood. Khanda was used by Guru Gobind Singh Ji for preparing Amrit by stirring it in the sweetened water kept in and iron Bowl (Baata).
* The double-edged sword is the creative power of God which controls the destiny of the whole creation. It is sovereign power over life and death.
* The right edge of the double-edged sword symbolises freedom and authority governed by moral and spiritual values.
* The left edge of the double-edged sword symbolises divine justice which chastises and punishes the wicked oppressors.
SWORDS : Two swords in the outer periphery signifing two Kirpans of Miri and Piri. This philosphy of Miri and Piri i.e. Bhakti and Shakti was highlighted by Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji – The Sixth Guru. He wore two Kirpans representing Miri and Piri.
* On the left side is the sword of spiritual sovereignty, Piri; on the right side is the sword of political sovereignty, Miri.
CHAKKAR : This is an iron weopon circular in shape whose outer edges are sharp. Its circular shape signifies God, who is endless having no begining and no end. This also signifies struggle for one’s life, liberty and rights. That is why Lord Krishna used Sudershan Chakkar as a powerful weapon in the war of Mahabharat.
There must always be a balance between the two and this balance is emphasised by a inside circle. The circle is what is called the Chakra. This is a symbol of all-embracing divine manifestation including everything and wanting nothing, without beginning or end, neither first or last, timeless, and absolute. It is the symbol of oneness, unity, justice, humanity and morality. The Chakra was also used by the Sikhs as one of the war weapons against injustice and oppression. Almost all Sikh warriors used to wear it in the eighteenth century.