Kara

Definition

Kara is a steel bracelet worn by Sikhs as a symbol of their faith and commitment to the teachings of Sikhism. This circular bracelet represents eternity, reflecting the belief in the eternal nature of God and the universe. The kara serves as a reminder to live a righteous life, adhering to the principles of justice, honesty, and self-discipline.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The kara is made from iron or steel and is one of the Five Ks that Khalsa Sikhs must wear as part of their religious identity.
2. Wearing the kara serves as a reminder to perform good deeds and refrain from wrongdoing, helping Sikhs to maintain moral integrity.
3. The circular shape of the kara symbolizes unity and the infinite nature of God, reinforcing the idea that there is no beginning or end.
4. In addition to its spiritual significance, the kara can also serve a practical purpose as a defensive tool in situations where Sikhs may need to protect themselves or others.
5. The kara is typically worn on the dominant hand and is often accompanied by other symbols of Sikh faith, emphasizing a holistic approach to religious observance.

Review Questions

• How does the kara serve as a symbol of commitment for Sikhs, and what are its key meanings?
  • The kara symbolizes a Sikh's commitment to their faith and the teachings of Sikhism. Its circular shape represents eternity and reflects the belief in God's infinite nature. Wearing the kara serves as a constant reminder for Sikhs to live righteously, focusing on justice, honesty, and self-discipline in their daily lives. This connection reinforces their spiritual identity within the broader context of Sikh beliefs.
• Discuss how the kara relates to other articles of faith within Sikhism, particularly the Five Ks.
  • The kara is one of the Five Ks, which are essential articles of faith that Khalsa Sikhs are required to wear. Each K represents specific values and commitments within Sikhism; for example, while the kara symbolizes eternal truth and moral integrity, other articles like the kirpan represent defense of justice. Together, these symbols create a cohesive framework for Sikh identity, guiding followers in their actions and spiritual growth.
• Evaluate the significance of wearing the kara in terms of its impact on individual Sikhs' lives and on the Sikh community as a whole.
  • Wearing the kara significantly impacts individual Sikhs by serving as a daily reminder of their ethical responsibilities and commitments to their faith. It promotes accountability in personal behavior while fostering a strong sense of community among Sikhs who share similar values represented by the Five Ks. This collective identity helps reinforce shared beliefs and practices within Sikh culture, ultimately strengthening community bonds and enhancing resilience against external challenges.

Related terms

Five Ks: The Five Ks are five articles of faith that Khalsa Sikhs are required to wear at all times, which include the kara, kirpan, kesh, kanga, and kacchera.

Khalsa: Khalsa refers to the community of initiated Sikhs who have undergone the Amrit ceremony, embodying the values and commitments of Sikhism.

Amrit: Amrit is a sacred nectar used in the initiation ceremony for Khalsa Sikhs, symbolizing spiritual rebirth and commitment to the faith.