Glossary of Sikhism - K

K

Kakke

Panj (5) K's that must be worn by Sikhs.

Kachha/kachchhera

Short undergarments – one of the Five Ks that a Khalsa Sikh must wear. It is a symbol of self-control.

Kam

Lust, one of the 5 vices.

Kanga

Comb – one of the Five Ks that a Khalsa Sikh must west. It is a symbol of discipline.

Kara

A loose steel bracelet – one of the Five Ks that Sikhs must wear. It is a symbol of restraint.

Kaur

Princess. Female Sikh middle name or surname.

Kesh

Unshorn hair – one of the Five Ks that Sikhs must wear.

Khanda

Emblem of Sikh faith that symbolizes the four pillars of Sikh belief. It consists of four symbolic weapons.

Khalsa

Pure – must carry panj kakkar.

Kirpan

Short sword – one of the Five Ks that a Khalsa Sikh must wear. It is a symbol of the fight against injustice and religious oppression.

Kirat karō (kirat karni)

One of the three primary pillars of Sikhism, the others being Naam Japo and Wand kay Shako. The term means to earn an honest, pure and dedicated living.

Krodh

Anger. One of the 5 vices.

Kurahit kurahat

The cardinal sins for the Sikhs. These are cutting, trimming, shaving or removing hairs from one’s body, eating kuttha meat, using tobacco or any other intoxicant in any form or committing adultery.

Kuttha

Meat killed in a sacrificial manner, such as Halal or Kosher.