Khanda and Nishan Sahib
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The Sikh Insignia - Khanda
The Khanda constitutes three symbols in
one. However, the name is derived from the central symbol, Khanda, a special
type of double-edged sword which confirms the Sikhs' belief in One God.
* The double-edged sword is the creative
power of God which controls the destiny of the whole creation. It is sovereign
power over life and death.
* The right edge of the double-edged sword symbolizes freedom and authority
governed by moral and spiritual values.
* The left edge of the double-edged sword symbolizes divine justice which
chastises and punishes the wicked oppressors.
* On the left side is the sword of spiritual sovereignty, Piri; on the right
side is the sword of political sovereignty, Miri.
There must always be a balance between the
two and this balance is emphasized by a inside circle. The circle is what is
called the Chakra. 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. It is the symbol of oneness, unity,
justice, humanity and morality. The Chakra was also used by the Sikhs as one of
the war weapons against injustice and oppression. Almost all Sikh warriors used
to wear it in the eighteenth century.
The Sikh Flag - Nishan Sahib
The Sikh flag is a saffron-colored
triangular-shaped cloth, usually reinforced in the middle with Sikh insignia in
blue. It is usually mounted on a long steel pole (which is also covered with
saffron-colored cloth) headed with a Khanda. The Sikh flag is often seen near
the entrance to the Gurdwara, standing firmly on the platform, overlooking the
whole building. Sikhs show great respect to their flag as it is, indeed, the
symbol of the freedom of the Khalsa.
