Just as the cross is Christian symbol, and the Star of David a Jewish symbol, the “Khanda” shown above symbolizes the Sikh faith. The symbol is rooted in Sikh history, and reflects certain fundamental concepts of the faith.
The symbol derives its name from the double-edged sword (the Khanda) at the heart of the logo. The Khanda remains a potent metaphor of Divine Knowledge its sharp edges cleaving Truth from Falsehood.
The circle around the Khanda is the “Chakra”. The circle, traditionally regarded as a perfect figure, symbolizes God who is Eternal, without beginning or end. The Sikh thus seeks Divine Knowledge so as to achieve union with God.
The two swords are the traditional “Kirpans” and they symbolize the twin concepts of “Miri” and “Piri” temporal and spiritual responsibility. These dual concepts occupy a central place in Sikh theology, which places equal emphasis on the spiritual aspirations of the individual, and the duty of the individual to society.
The kirpans in the logo, therefore, represent the balance between personal spiritual salvation and one’s obligation to society. Individual action is governed by godliness, but the practice of religion must revolve around service to society, to its poor and oppressed.
Article extracted from this publication >> March 13, 1987
