Page 39 - Gurmat Book 5

4. Kirpan: A Kirpan is sword. It is a symbol of strength but also of mercy. Only

brave and strong people can carry it and be ready to use when needed. We are
supposed to be strong in body and spirit. We are supposed to take care of people

around us. We may not really need to use a sword to protect others. Sometimes,

it might be that we need to speak up for someone if we see they are being
teased or bullied. It is a reminder that we need to be courageous. Guru Ji said it

is okay to use sword only after all peaceful methods of stopping a bully have

failed. It is an article of faith for the Khalsa.

5. Kachhehra: A Kachhehra is special underwear that Sikhs are supposed to wear.

It looks like boxer shorts. A Kachhehra is a practical article of clothing. Sikhs in

old days wore it along with their kurta or chola and they were ready to fight. A
Kachhehra also reminds us that we need to be ethical in our actions. We should

never get involved in wrong relationships that can hurt us or others.

If we can follow these high principles of Kakkaars, we will live a life that we can
be proud of and Guru Ji will be happy for us. The goal for all Sikhs is to

transform into the Khalsa.

Chapter questions

1. If you had to tell your friends about the Panj Kakkaars, what would you say?

I would tell them that ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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Stepping Stones Gurmat Sikhia Book 5G 2023 Edition Page 37