What is Sikhism?

Sikhism is the fifth largest world religion, with over 25
million followers. Sikhism was founded in Punjab, India
in 1469 by Guru Nanak, who rejected the caste system
and declared all human beings equal. The Sikh religion
is monotheistic, believing in one God that is all eternal,
all pervading, and all equal. Sikhs maintain five articles
of faith to bind them to the beliefs of the religion, which
include advocating for equality and justice, engaging
in selfless seva (community service), and remembering
God at all times

What are the Sikh Articles of Faith?

Initiated Sikhs are required to carry/maintain at all times: kesh (unshorn hair
covered by a turban), kara (steel bracelet), kanga (small wooden comb), kacchera
(undershorts), and a kirpan (resembles a knife/sword). Taken together, the five
articles of faith signify an individual’s commitment to the Sikh faith and to the highest
ideals of love and service to humanity. They are an external uniform that unifies and
binds Sikhs to the beliefs of the religion, and are a daily reminder that Sikhs must live
an honest, moral, kind, brave, and loving life.

What is a Kirpan?

1. • A kirpan is a mandatory Sikh article of faith. It is carried by
   Amritdhari (initiated) Sikhs at all times. The word “kirpan” comes
   from two Punjabi words: ‘Kirpa’ means an act of kindness, a favor;
   and ‘Aan’ means honor and self- respect.
   • A kirpan resembles a knife or sword. There is no prescribed length
   or sharpness for a kirpan in Sikhism; they are determined by the
   individual religious convictions of the wearer. Kirpans are typically
   sheathed and worn with a gatra (a strap) underneath clothing.
   • The kirpan obligates a Sikh to the ideals of generosity, compassion
   and service to humanity. It acts as a reminder to its bearer of a Sikh’s
   solemn duty to protect the weak and promote justice for all.
   • The kirpan also plays an important role in Sikh practices. Kirpans
   are used prominently in ceremonies marking major life events,
   including religious initiation (amrit sanchar), marriage (anand
   karaj), and death (antim sanskar). In congregational settings, a
   kirpan is touched to parshad (blessed sweet pudding) to indicate the
   grace of the Guru and then distributed for consumption

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