About the Khanda symbol
WHAT IS THE KHANDA SYMBOL?
The Khanda is a symbol of infinity.
This central sacred emblem is universally recognized within Sikh tradition as the Khanda. Through my own spiritual training with Yogi Harbhajan Singh, I also came to appreciate this form as Adi Shakti—the Primal Creative Power that gives rise to life and consciousness. This understanding comes from that particular spiritual lineage and is offered as an additional contemplative perspective, not as a replacement for the traditional Sikh understanding of the Khanda.
It has three parts to its design:
The Chakra is a circle, also a symbol of infinity and a reminder that God’s infinite nature has no beginning or end. To the extent one understands the creation as a reflection of the Creator, a circle can be seen to reflect the oneness and unity of mankind in essence, regardless of apparent differences of race, religion or gender.
The central Khanda is the double-edged dagger (in center), representing the straight and narrow path of righteousness, the razor’s edge that cuts both ways – in that what you do to others you are actually doing to your Self. In yogic terms, the khanda represents neutral mind – the ability to make non-reactive decisions.
The two Kirpans are curved single-edged knives on both sides of the symbol and represent the polarities that need to be balanced by neutrality: temporal and spiritual, negative and positive, etc. In yogic terms, these two kirpans represent the negative and positive minds. Guru Hargobind (one of the founders of Sikhism) wore two swords, signifying Miri – political or temporal power, and Piri – spiritual sovereignty.
Jot Singh Khalsa ~ founder and chief designer
