The
Khanda,
ਖੰਡਾ, is one
of
three and
most
important
symbols of
Sikhism.
Khanda is
commonly
called the
Sikh coat of
arms, or
"Khalsa
Crest". The
Khanda
consists
of three
items in
one, each
with a
symbolic
meaning. A
double-edged
sword called
a Khanda in
the centre,
a Chakkar
which is
circular and
two
single-edged
swords(
kirpans),
are crossed
at the
bottom and
sit on
either side
of the
Khanda and
Chakkar.
However, the
name Khanda
is derived
from the
central
symbol, a
special type
of
double-edged
sword which
confirms the
Sikhs'
belief in
One God. The
central
double edged
sword
signifies
truth,
strength,
freedom and
justice. The
circle or
chakkar
represents
the eternal.
This is a
symbol of
all-embracing
divine
manifestation
including
everything
and wanting
nothing,
without
beginning or
end, neither
first or
last,
timeless,
and
absolute.
The two
swords of
Miri and
Piri
represent
political
and
spiritual
sovereignty. As you no doubt have heard on the news, violence came to a worshiping community of Sikhs near Milwaukee yesterday, leaving a number of people dead, others wounded and hundreds in shock. The "alleged" gunman died in an exchange of fire with police, and it will take some time to sort through what led to this tragedy. Since the terrible events of 9/11, Sikhs have often been victims of violence by people mistaking them for Muslims. Though, like Muslims, Jews and Christians, they believe in One God, their religious roots lie elsewhere.
May the One God, and all those who identify as believers in One God, hasten the end of senseless violence born of ignorance and hatred.
2 comments:
May all beings, regardless of belief, hasten the end of violence.
Amen, BadgerBear, amen!
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