Khanda
The
Khanda is the symbol of the Sikhs, as the Cross is to Christians or the
Star of David is to Jews. It reflects some of the fundamental concepts
of Sikhism. The symbol derives its name from the double-edged sword
(also called a Khanda) which appears at the center of the logo. This
double-edged sword is a metaphor of Divine Knowledge, its sharp edges
cleaving Truth from Falsehood. The circle around the Khanda is the
Chakar. The Chakar being a circle without a beginning or and end
symbolizes the perfection of God who is eternal. The Chakar is
surrounded by two curved swords called Kirpans. These two swords
symbolize the twin concepts of Meeri and Peeri - Temporal and Spiritual
authority introduced by Guru Hargobind. They emphasize the equal
emphasis that a Sikh must place on spiritual aspirations as well as
obligations to society.
Nishan Sahib
Nishan
Sahib is the name given to the flag which is seen flying outside every
Sikh Gurdwara (Temple). It is a triangular piece of ochre or saffron
coloured cloth with the Khanda emblem in the middle. The flagpost also
has a khanda or spear on top and is usually covered with the same cloth
as the flag. The use of the Nishan Sahib was first introduced by Guru
Hargobind.
Ik Onkar
"There
is Only One God". The first two words in the Guru Granth Sahib
& one of the cornerstones of Sikhism. They appear at the beginning
of the Mul Mantra written by Guru Nanak describing the qualities of God
in the Japji.
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