Question

Describe briefly the principles of the Khalsa Panth. Also state the significance of creation of Khalsa.

Answer 1

The Principles of Khalsa Panth:

1. The person, who wanted to join the Khalsa Panth, should first receive Khande Ka Pahaul.
2. Every Sikh was to add ‘Singh’ (lion) after his name and every woman, ‘Kaur’ after her name.
3. The Sikhs were given distinguished marks. They were to wear five Ks.  Kesh (unshorn hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (Iron bangles), Kachchera (a pair of shorts), and Kirpan (dagger).
4. The Khalsa was to believe in one God and abstain from idol worship.
5. Every Khalsa was to take bath in the morning and recite the five prayers of Japji Sahib, Jap Sahib, Anand Sahib, Chaupai, and Sawaya’s.
6. Every Khalsa was to earn his livelihood by the right means. Every Khalsa would donate Daswandh for religious activities.
7. The Khalsa would not practice the Caste System.
8. Every Khalsa would sacrifice everything for the Guru and the Khalsa Panth.
9. Every Khalsa was to put on weapons and remain ready to fight for the protection of the Sikh religion.
10. The Khalsa was not to use intoxicants and tobacco.
11. The Khalsa was to lead high moral life.
12. The salutation of the Sikhs was to be Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Shri Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.’

Significance of the creation of the Khalsa:

By the creation of Khalsa, the great Guru laid the foundation of a brotherhood which produced in the fullness of time, men of uncommon bravery, unique devotion, and rare spirit of sacrifice. Men like Banda Bahadur, Bhai Mani Singh, Baba Deep Singh, Bhai Taru Singh, and Jassa Singh Ahluwalia were among those which the Khalsa produced within only fifty years of its creation. Secondly, the creation of Khalsa converted Sikhs into a race of saint-soldiers. Though the Sikhs worshipped the Supreme Being at heart, they were ready to take up arms against injustice and oppression.