The importance of the kirpan to Sikhs
I can explain the symbolism of the kirpan and why it is important to Sikhs today.
The importance of the kirpan to Sikhs
I can explain the symbolism of the kirpan and why it is important to Sikhs today.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The kirpan is one of the 5 Ks and is worn by Khalsa Sikhs.
- It does not have a direct translation into English, but the cloest is 'dagger, knife or sword'.
- This can lead to a misunderstanding that the kirpan serves a violent purpose.
- It is used in celebrations, at festivals and is also a symbol of core Sikh beliefs, such as equality and justice.
- There are two kirpans in the Sikh symbol, called 'Miri' and 'Piri'; each has their own smbolic meaning.
Keywords
Khalsa - a group of people committed to living according to Sikh teachings
Kirpan - a short sword or knife with a curved blade, worn as one of the five signs of the Sikh Khalsa
Miri - temporal power, relationship with the world
Piri - spiritual power, relationship with Waheguru
Waheguru - God
Common misconception
The kirpan is a weapon carried for violent purposes.
The kirpan is a ceremonial and religious article carried by initiated Khalsa Sikhs as a symbol of their duty to stand up against injustice, not to harm others. It is one of the 5 Ks that represent Sikh identity and commitment to Waheguru (God).
To help you plan your year 7 religious education lesson on: The importance of the kirpan to Sikhs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 religious education lesson on: The importance of the kirpan to Sikhs, 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.
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- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
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Adult supervision required
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