Hi guys, sorry for my late post, I did not realise was a second page
Also it did not seem that I was needed, spiral was as usual absolutely spot-on
Hi Jeff, the website you have looked at is in my humble opinion incorrect, it is contradictory whilst referring to the kirpan as integral for the concept of
Sant-Sipahi (Saint-Soldier) of a (baptised) Sikh, it then vehemently denies any possible idea of it being used as a weapon, and likens it to symbolic symbols such as the Christian cross.
whatever the reasons for people putting forward this definition of the kirpan (which definitely include those given by spiral), if one looks at pictures and paintings as recent as in the last hundred years it can be clearly seen by all, how the kirpan was considered i.e. a weapon.
indeed this can be inferred as well as how it may be used from its name;
Kirpa; Mercy/compassion
Aan; honour/dignity/righteousness
A definition of mere symbolism, ignores and undermines the Sikh's military and warrior heritage, the kirpan was introduced at a time when there was great oppression on all religions in India, it seems more than a symbol was required
PS I very much appreciate your comments, Roshan, although I did not mean to prohibit free speech.
However, I'm glad you recognised the issue; a very serious one regarding right-wing extremist groups such as the RSS in India who have as part of their agenda, to align Sikhism with Hinduism.
this has been the cause of great violence and it is only as I knew you would be aware of it, that I made the point. if someone else on the forum had made such a point, I would not have expressed disapproval but as a fellow Indian (I assume
) I was certain you were aware.
thank you very much for your understanding Roshan