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Summary of Question:	Significance Of 5 K’S, In Relation To The Fundamentals Of Sikhism
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Tuesday, 4/04/2006 2:04 AM MDT

Hello.

I have search through the Q & A section on this website, and found many threads explaining the significance of the 5 K’s, however I couldn’t find any explaining the relation of the 5 K’s to the fundamental beliefs of Sikhism, which if I understand correctly is, to meditate, earn an honest income and share the earnings. Not only specifically to the above mentioned, but generally, how do the symbols of Sikhism relate to the fundamentals of Sikhism?

Have the symbols always had the same significance and practical purpose throughout the history of the Sikhs?

Would appreciate your help.

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reply
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Sat nam. As you know from your research, the rehit/5 Ks were given by the 10th Guru Gobind Singh at the first baisakhi in 1699. The fundamental beliefs of Sikhi as taught in Siri Guru Granth Sahib are meditation, control of the 5 passions in all aspects of life, and service (seva) to others in guru's name. This is the SAINT aspect.
By the time of Guru Gobind Singh, we were forced to become SOLDIERS in defense of our faith and our very existence. Not soldiers of fortune, power, fame, or possession. This is an important distinction. The 10th Guru wrote a letter to the mughal emperor of the time and said in it: when all other means of persuasion have failed, it is just to take up the sword."
So the 10th Guru gave his Sikhs the guidelines -- code of conduct-- for being a saint-soldier (Sant-Sapahee). The 5 Ks reflect the discipline of the spiritual soldier, both practically and psychically. The vows of rehit are sacred and should not be taken lightly or abused. For this reason, rehit is optional for Sikhs, and not required.
guru ang sang,
-DKK