Why is khanda important in the Sikh
faith?
Learning objective – to be able to explain
the meaning and significance of a key
symbol in a religious faith.
I can describe the
different features of
khanda.
Level 3
I can explain the
meaning of khanda.
Level 5
I can apply the Sikh ideas
of duties to my own life
and explain them.
Level 6
Starter – What communities do you belong
to? What role do you play in them?
What does khanda mean?
The circle in the middle is called
the Chakkar and represents the
eternal love and nature of God.
The left hand sword is called
Miri and reminds Sikhs that they
must fight for what is right in
the world.
The middle sword is called a
Khanda and is doubled edged.
This unites the two other swords
and reminds Sikhs that there is
one God.
The right hand sword is called
Piri and represents spirituality.
What duties does Miri refer to?
Miri refers to the worldly role that
Sikhs must lead. This can include –
• Having a job.
• Taking part in political protests.
• Standing for Parliament.
The left hand sword is called
Miri and reminds Sikhs that they
must fight for what is right in
the world.
What duties does Piri refer to?
Piri refers to the spiritual role that
Sikhs must lead. This can include –
The right hand sword is called
Piri and represents spirituality.
• Praying.
• Going to the Gurdwara.
• Clearing your mind and focusing
on the here and now.
What is the idea of saint-soldier?
The khanda reminds Sikhs of the
idea of behaving like a saintsoldier, who follows God’s word.
The key point is that the saint
comes first with the love of God
flowing through them. The
soldier aspect follows with a
sense of discipline and prepared
to fight injustice.
Sikhs believe that violence is
sometimes noble act, such as
fighting against evil or fighting to
prevent suffering.
How does the Reht Maryada encourage
Sikhs to behave?
The Reht Marayada is the Sikh code of conduct. It focuses
around three duties which have both earthly and spiritual
goals.
Tasks
Make two lists of the following –
- All the ‘worldly’ things that are important to you.
- The more spiritual things that are important to you.
Write a definition of the symbolism of the khanda. Then
design a logo with three things that summarise and are
significant to you.
Can you be both a saint and a soldier? Design a business
card for each role expressing your opinion on this question.
Plenary – look at the words
in the word cloud and
choose the two most
important words that
summarise your learning in
this lesson. Explain why
your chosen words are
important.