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Summary of Question:	Is A Small Kirpan Ok?
Category:	Sikh Practices
Date Posted:	Monday, 11/26/2001 5:52 PM MST

I was talking to a lady at he Gurduwara, and she said that she is amritardi, but is quite weak and ill, so she doesn't wear a kirpan, but considers the little kirpan sometimes put on a kanga (only about 2cm long) to be okay. My ques. is that, is it necessary for a kirpan to be an effective weapon ( only for a last resort regarding life and death, of course), or is it okay to wear a small kirpan ie.- arond your neck. I'm not sure about this and would appreciate your opinion. ( i think we should wear a full kirpan) Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.

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REPLY
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Sat Siri Akaal. In today's climate, a small kirpan worn around the neck is often the only thing a Sikh can wear and go in and out of secure buildings, airports, etc. This is acceptable.

Practically speaking, in today's world, a kirpan is not the weapon of choice and could well be ineffective in the face of more modern weaponry. But, the kirpan represents a Sikh's vow to honor truth, and to defend those weaker than him or herself. There are many ways such defenses manifest, mostly NOT involving bodily harm. Moreover, a Sikh who wears a real bladed kirpan/weapon needs to be properly trained in its use. The kirpan represents a CONCIOUSNESS, and this is what is important in keeping it, whether small or large.
Guru rakha,
-DKK