The Sikh Insignia - Khanda :

The Khanda constitutes three symbols in one. However, the name is derived from the central symbol, Khanda, a special type of double-edged sword which confirms the Sikhs' belief in One God.

* The double-edged sword is the creative power of God which controls the destiny of the whole creation. 

* The right edge of the double-edged sword symbolizes freedom and authority governed by moral and spiritual values.

* The left edge of the double-edged sword symbolizes divine justice which chastises and punishes the wicked oppressors.

* On the left side is the sword of spiritual sovereignty, Piri; on the right side is the sword of political sovereignty, Miri. 

There must always be a balance between the two and this balance is emphasized by a inside circle. The circle is what is called the Chakra-a symbol of all-embracing divine manifestation including everything and wanting nothing, without beginning or end, neither first or last, timeless, and absolute. It is the symbol of unity, justice, humanity and morality. The Chakra was also used by the Sikhs as one of the war weapons against injustice and oppression. Almost all Sikh warriors used to wear it in the eighteenth century.

Ik Oankar :

This symbol reminds Sikhs that there is only one true God. It says "IK OANKAR", "God is One Being". These are the first two words in the Guru Granth Sahib, and are also part of the Mul Mantra. It was written by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

The Mul Mantra is as follows :
"There is but one God. Truth by name, the creator, all-pervading spirit, without fear, without enmity. Whose existence is unaffected by time, who does not take birth, self-existent, who is to be realized through his grace."


The Sikh Flag or Nishaan Sahib :

The Sikh flag is a saffron-colored triangular-shaped cloth, usually reinforced in the middle with Sikh insignia in blue. It is usually mounted on a long steel pole (which is also covered with saffron-colored cloth) headed with a Khanda. The Sikh flag is often seen near the entrance to the Gurdwara. Sikhs show great respect to their flag as it is, indeed, the symbol of the freedom of the Khalsa.

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