So, What’s the Story with the Turbans?
(The 3-Minute Weekly Insight from Spirituality U. at Interfaith Paths to Peace)
Men
in many cultures around the world wear turbans, especially men in parts of the
Middle East, Africa and the Indian subcontinent.
But
men who practice a religion called Sikhism wear turbans as a distinctive part of
their spiritual practice.
Sikhism
began in the 16th Century in the Punjab area of northwestern India.
Among the newest of the world’s religions, it was born in the midst of conflict
between Hindus and Muslims. It offered
the world a set of distinctive beliefs and practices based upon the teachings
of a series of gurus or spiritual teachers. These teachings are enshrined in
the Sikh holy book which is called the Guru
Granth Sahib.
Key
Sikh beliefs include: there is only one God for people of all religions; the
soul goes through a series of rebirths; we should earn our living honestly
through hard work; we should avoid the practice of “blind” ritual; and people
of all races, classes and genders are equal. Each day Sikh houses of worship,
or Gurudwaras, offer a free meal called Lunger to anyone and everyone who arrives
at their door.
Sikh
men are often known for distinctive attire and appearance which together are a
reflection of their spiritual values and practices. Observant Sikh men embrace
“5 K’s”. These include Kesh (uncut long hair), a Kangha (a small wooden comb), a Kara (a steel or iron
bracelet), a Kacchera (a piece of undergarment) and a Kirpan (short dagger). Their
long hair is covered with a special type of turban, or cloth wound around the
head. This turban, called a Dastar, is made up of four to six meters of cloth
and serves as a strong symbol of the religious and ethical commitments that
Sikh men make.
The Dastar is a symbol
representing spirituality and holiness; honor and self-respect; piety and
strong moral values; courage; as well as friendship and relationship.
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