Reference no: EM133521492
Question: Sikhism, a monotheistic religion born in 15th century India, developed through its ten gurus or holy men. During a time when the Sikhs had to defend themselves from being exterminated by a hostile empire, the last of these human gurus, Gobind Singh, created the recognizable form by which we recognize the Sikhs today. This is the Khalsa ("sovereign" or "free"). The hallmark of belonging to the Khalsa is the "Five K's,"
THE "FIVE K's" OF THE SIKH KHALSA
In India and the big cities of the West, Sikhs today are often associated with turbans. Their characteristic dress reflects not one but five practices. These practices are not observed by all Sikhs, however, but only by those who have entered the Khalsa, the particular Sikh order. Members of the Khalsa initially adopted the five practices to promote strength and self-identity. Because the names of the practices each begin with the letter k, they are called the Five K's:
- Kesh: uncut hair and beard-in association with the lion and its power; the hair on the head is usually worn in a topknot and covered with a turban or cloth.
- Khanga: hair comb-to hold the long hair in place.
- Kach: special underwear-to indicate alertness and readiness to fight.
- Kirpan: sword-for defense.
- Kara: a bracelet of iron or steel-to symbolize strength.
In addition, members of the Khalsa are required to avoid all intoxicants. The Khalsa was open only to men for a long time, but now women are also admitted.
Using your own words, answer the two questions.
1. Choose at least two of these five K's that you find the most interesting and explain why.
2. Choose another concept from the Sikh religion and outline your thoughts on it. An example of a living concept you may find interesting: after the ten Gurus, the holy book of the Sikhs is treated as a living guru, a holy person.