Why Sikhs Keep Uncut Hair/Kesh

The Sikhs were commanded by Guru Gobind Singh at the Vaisakhi Amrit Sanchar in 1699 to wear long uncut hair called Kesh at all times. This was one of five articles of faith, collectively called Kakkars that form the external visible symbols to clearly and outwardly display ones commitment and dedication to the order (Hukam) of the tenth master and made one a member of the Khalsa. The Khalsa is the "Saint-Soldier" of Guru Gobind Singh who stated the following:

"He does not recognize anyone else except One Lord, not even the bestowal of charities, performance of merciful acts, austerities and restraint on pilgrim-stations; the perfect light of the Lord illuminates his heart, then consider him as the immaculate Khalsa." (Guru Gobind Singh in the Dasam Granth page 1350)

The Kesh is an article of faith that allows the Sikh to be clearly and quickly identified by his or her unshorn long hair, Kesh. The kanga another article of faith is usually tucked behind the knot and tied under the Turban. The uncut hair and the beard in the case of men forms the main Kakkar for the Sikhs.

To sum up, if there is anything on the head that can be compared with nails, it is dandruff!

It is also argued that hair have been lost from the body in man, because the body is kept covered. If that be the case, then the axillary and the pubic hair should have been the first to go. Also, the hair on the face, neck and hands should have remained.Nature knows best what to discard or retain. Whatever is retained is not without purpose. If we are unable to explain something, it does not mean it has no significance. We must look for an explanation, rather than deny the role or existence of something we do not see.

There are sound frequencies we do not hear; light waves, that make everything visible, we do not see; odours that we do not smell; there are animals that do not see as many colours as we do; some things we can neither see nor deny, such as emotions, the bond between mother and child, force of gravity, etc. So, if there are things we do not see, or hear, or smell, it does not imply their absence. Just as an ant cannot apprehend the size and shape of an elephant, life and its processes are beyond human apprehension in the present state of knowledge. Our vast Solar system, which is beyond reach even today, is just a speck in the universe! Even our smallness is beyond our apprehension!

Hair is a gift from God, not a burden. Guru Gobind Singh, in his infinite wisdom, commanded us to respect it and to refrain from tampering with it. This is the visible token of his affection for us, as well as our faith in him. If we have faith in our Guru who was in communion with God, how can we do anything but follow his advice?

Guru Gobind Singh said:

I will make my Sikhs stand out from millions!

Sikh Rapper: Humble The Poet

For more music by Humble The Poet go to: http://thepoetproject.blogspot.com

Singh & Kaur

Most of us have the surname Singh & Kaur in our names, what do these mean?

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji gave us the names which associated us with a Sikh Nation. Once some-one takes Amrit then they truly become a Singh and kaur. They then sign up to the khalsa army and their duty to defend the weak and poor starts officially in the eyes of Guru Ji.

Kaur means Princess:

• A princess is a reflection of purity and innocence; they are women of good character and behavior.
• They have self -respect, live in dignity and have good morals and principals.
• They dress modestly and have no nasty habits such as drinking, smoking and eating meat.
• They don’t go clubbing to look for pleasure. They don’t have abortions to cover up their misdeeds.
• They are warrior princesses who are ready to defend themselves.
• They do charity events and seva (self-less service)

Singh means Lion:

• A Singh is a brave, courageous warrior, who fights for righteousness, humanity and stands up for the innocents, oppressed, the poor and the needy.
• Never starts trouble, never bullies people
• A Singh looks out for everyone’s rights and demands justice with out fear.
• A Singh lives without fear of anyone-or anything
• Singh’s make all types of sacrifices
• Singh’s struggle until peace and humanity is restored.
• A Singh has no hate and doesn’t pick on innocent people. (a lot of our boys go around paki-bashing, this is wrong)

ARE YOU LIVING AS A SINGH OR A WHIMP!

By Tarnjeet Kaur, 13 from Bedford