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THE KHANDA - The Khanda symbol consists of three
swords. The two outer swords symbolize spiritual and temporal power. The
inner, two-edged sword represents the belief that there is only one God.
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Sikhism
Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism, was born in a Hindu family of
merchants (1469"“1539 A.D.). From a young age, he rejected many of his family's
ways. In his latter twenties, he claimed to experience a divine revelation and
calling. This spurred him to make a number of long trips to help spread this
viewpoint. One of his primary objectives was to create a completely
God-centered, egalitarian society, free of injustice. His life story shows a
high level of dedication to his ideals. Along with a Muslim musician, he
journeyed all over the Far and Middle East teaching the oneness of God (the
concept that Muslims and Hindus, as well as other religions, are all actually
worshipping the same God). He also taught that salvation or liberation was
easily accessible to all people, not just ascetics (as found in Hinduism). He
vigorously promoted the equality of men and women.
Nine gurus succeeded Guru Nanak. The tenth and last guru,
Guru Gobind Singh, decreed that at his demise there would no longer be a human
guru at the head of the Sikh religion. Rather, their holy book, the Adi Granth,
would become their "Guru" (their spiritual guide). All initiated Sikhs
(the Guru Panth) also act as guides to others who are seeking truth. Though they
have branched out worldwide, Sikhs are primarily found in the Punjab region of
Northern India.
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