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My Understanding of the Khands

Dr Ameeta Kaur Tiwana

During my Hemkunt journey, there were many topics that
we as a family engaged with and that left an impact, but
one that stood out for me is ones journey through the

five Khands. It is based on the article “The Spiritual
Experience in Sikhism” by Nikky Guninder Kaur Singh, a
tough article to grapple with initially, but after a few
reads, one that was intriguing and compelling. Below is
an attempt not to summarize the article, but to share
my understanding of it.

The ultimate goal of Sikhs is to free oneself form
“aavaa gavan”, experience and unite with the Nirankar
during this lifetime. This goal can be achieved by
undertaking a horizontal journey through the five Khands
- Dharam Khand, Gyan Khand, Saram Khand, Karam Khand
and Sach Khand. The path to realize the Truth is not

through abandoning the world (escapism), or ritualism,
but being very much grounded in our daily lives, “turning
fully into the world,” and by loving and serving his
creations.
jYsy jl mih kmlu inrwlmu murgweI nY swxy ]

suriq sbid Bv swgru qrIAY nwnk nwmu vKwxy ]

It is by leading a truthful life, By cultivating virtues such as compassion, contentment, humility,
honesty, and forgiveness, By conquering ones Haumai and, and the 5 vices and by transforming
oneself to a Sachiara or Gurmukh . ikv sicAwrw hoeIAY ikv kUVY qutY pwil ]

All of the above is only achievable through His Grace or Nadar and by complete surrender to HIS
will.
hukim rjweI clxw nwnk iliKAw nwil ]

The first stage in our spiritual journey is Dharam Khand, the realm of duty. According to Guru
Nanak, this colorful, vibrant dharamsaal, or earth, with its innumerable species and varieties, is
not the final destination of the Jiv. It is a stage where the Nirankar can be experienced and the
desire to unite with the Ultimate is generated. Now, how do we achieve this desire? It is by
performing Karam and righteous actions towards all.

Drm KMf kw eyho Drmu ]