Symbols 2
1. The range of religious symbolism and meaning.
2. The way that religious language is symbolic.
3. The relationship between symbol and belief.
4. How belief is expressed through symbol.
5. Symbolism in art and architecture.
The main Sikh symbol is the Khanda Referring to the Sikh double edged sword which is found on the Sikh flag or Nishan SahibThe Sikh flag flown at the Gurdwara.
Many people interpret the language of the Guru Granth Sahib JiThe most widely used name for Sikh scriptures, literally 'Teacher Book, Sir' symbolically since the Gurus have imposed layers of words on reality, demonstrating that language cannot directly approach the Real. For example, the term 'yamas' has been used for the gods of death which is found in Hinduism, but the name Azrael has also been used, who is the angel of death in IslamLiterally submission to God; one of the three great monotheistic Abrahamic religions and is also, perhaps, mentioned in the Book of Tobit. A literalist might wonder what the 'real' name and nature of these beings that gather the dead actually is.
Symbols are seen as gateways that point to Reality.
Nishan Sahib: it is made up of a blue or black Khanda on a yellow or orange background. The Khanda is made up of three weapons - a chakra (quoit used by Xena, warrior princess), a Khanda (double-edged sword) and two kirpans (swords of mercy). The Chakra (quoit) stands for God's Infinity, without beginning and without end. The Khanda (double-edged sword) stands for God's power of justice and mercy, or creation and destruction, the double edge of God's Names. The two kirpans (swords of mercy) stand for meeri-peeri (worldly and spiritualA word with many religious connotations, often used to describe a multiplicity of phenomena that would include inner, reflective or emotional experiences, and those aspects of life that give it meaning and depth or which are profoundly moving or aesthetic. power).
The Khanda is usually used on a flag. However, there is symbolism in the architecture of gurdwaras. The Harimandir Sahib (Golden TempleThe Sikh holy shrine to be found at Amritsar, literally lake of Amrit) was built at a lower level than the city of AmritsarThe Sikh holy city to be found in the Punjab that was constructed around it, symbolizing that religion should serve humanity. Also, it was surrounded by a pool which enabled people of all castes and races to drink together. Within the complex is a langarThe kitchen and dining hall within the Sikh Gurdwara where people can eat together and serve each other. There are four doors symbolizing openness to all people. Within all gurdwaras the most important rooms are the langar and the diwanA term given to the Sikh act of worship (literally, court) where the Guru Granth Sahib sits on a throne underneath a canopy and is attended by a person waving a whisk. Sikhs bow before the Ruler and make an offering that will be of practical use in supporting a republic of goodness under the guidance of the Word. They sit at a lower level and never turn their back on the Ruler. These protocols reinforce the message sent by the design of the diwan.
Websites
http://www.singhsabhacanada.com
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