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Summary of Question:	Why Have The Sikhs Chosen The Kanda Symbol?
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Sunday, 11/05/2000 1:16 PM MST

I have to do a RE homework, plse could you answer on the Sikhs symbol the kanda.

Thanks
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This is a historical question. Just as flags are used to symbolize a nation so the double edge sword was in common use as a symbol of the Sikhs from the time of Guru Hargobind Singh.

The Sikh observences and way of life was evolving with each of the 10 Guru's that succeeded. The 10th master, Guru Gobind SIngh, completed the Sikh religion with the formation of the Khalsa....a baptism into a very disciplined and devotional format of living life. It wsa in this time of Guru Gobind SIngh that the Khanda symbol was created. It ws created by Khalsa, the community, not from a Divine(God) source.

The circle represents the unending circle of life and continuity of God's creation. The 2 side swords are the protecting swords of life. The central double edged sword represents the earthly and spiritual power of God central to all life and all creation.

The Khanda is also called "Adi Shakti" or Primal Power. This Primal Power is the power of creation that is in the hands of God. The Primal power also manifests in the creative power of the women that gives birth to life.

This is the symbol of the Creative Power of the Universe.