THE KHALSA (PURE) " THE BROTHERHOOD OF TRUE DISCIPLES " 1699

• Representing the ultimate spiritual experience

  Sikh sitting on bed of pillows at the front of the temple

• Guru Gobind Singh invited all Sikhs to a festival of Baisakhi in Anandpur, Punjab
• He spoke of difficult times and asked if any would give their head for truth
• Many left, one Sikh came forward and in a tent, the Guru chopped off his head, 5 times he repeated this with other Sikhs
• After the last sacrifice he emerged with all five in turbans, with swords at their sides and saffron dyed clothes
• The 5 Sikhs were initiated (AMRIT) the next day and became known as the PANJ PYARE (5 beloved ones)
• Renamed all Sikhs as SINGH ( " lion " )
• Code of Sikhs established including the 5K's
• The Guru then ordered the same regimen on himself; teaching democratic traditions
• The women were to call themselves KAUR ( " Princess " )

Five Sikhs performing a ceremony

• Performed by 5 Sikhs representing the PANJ PYARE
• Sikhs joining the KHALSA family have to do everything according to the teachings of the Guru's

• To wear the 5K's (see below)
• To abstain from drugs and intoxicants
• To respect women (no adultery or rape)
• Follow teachings of the Guru's
• Serve only the Guru's, with arms if necessary, in a just cause
• To reject caste differences and regard all KHALSA members as brothers and sisters

• The taking of a number of vows at a ceremony to regulate one's life in accordance with the rules and rites in the RAHIT

Kirpan

• KES (uncut hair), DASTAR (turban) - symbolising simple life, saintliness, wisdom and devotion to God
  
• KANGA (wooden comb) keeps hair tidy - clean mind and body, clear of impure thoughts
• KIRPAN (sword) - freedom and indomitable spirits, stand up for the oppressed
• KARA (steel bracelet) - eternity of God, no beginning or end, no misuse of hands
• KACHA (short breeches) - chastity, modesty and sexual restraint