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.
EK-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.
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.
