Singh, Kaur as social levellers
I can explain why the names Singh and Kaur are important in Sikhi and how Princess Sophia Duleep Kaur Singh promoted equality.
Singh, Kaur as social levellers
I can explain why the names Singh and Kaur are important in Sikhi and how Princess Sophia Duleep Kaur Singh promoted equality.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Your name may impact how people perceive you and could reveal things about your heritage.
- Indian last names might reveal the 'caste' or 'varna' to which your family belong and signifies social hierarchy.
- Guru Gobind Rai established the Khalsa and Khalsa Sikhs may take 'Singh' or 'Kaur' after their name.
- The names 'Singh' and 'Kaur' come from the Sanskrit for 'lion' and 'princess'.
- By removing ties to the caste system, these new names may help to remove social hierarchy and show equality among Sikhs.
Keywords
Kaur - ‘princess’ - the name given to female members of the khalsa
Khalsa - the group of Sikhs that have a commitment to following Sikhi, including wearing the Panj Kakkars (5 Ks)
Singh - ‘lion’ - the name given to male members of the khalsa
Common misconception
You can only have the names 'Singh' or 'Kaur' if you are a Khalsa Sikh.
'Singh' and 'Kaur' have also become used as a surname.
To help you plan your year 7 religious education lesson on: Singh, Kaur as social levellers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 religious education lesson on: Singh, Kaur as social levellers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 religious education lessons from the Social justice: how might Sikhs promote equality? unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the key words to their definitions.
a group committed to living by Sikh teachings
the Sikh name for God
a ceremonial short sword symbolising Sikh values