What is the significance of the five articles of faith?
When Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth in 1699, he ordered them to maintain the five articles of faith - Panj Kakaar. These articles of faith were not only necessary for the strength and uniformity of the organization, but also for the value they each had in their own right. Let us examine the significance of each symbol.
Hair (Kesh) is part of nature and God's system. It is a Bajjar Kurehit (unpardonable transgression) for a Sikh to dishonour his or her hair. The Khalsa becomes an apostate (Patit) if he or she shaves, trims, plucks, colours, disfigure or dishonours their hair in any form. Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, the founder of the Sikh Path, followed the ancient practice of the sages, prophets, and holy mystics of keeping the hair unshorn because keeping it in a natural state is regarded as living in harmony with the Will of Vaheguru. Guru Gobind Singh Ji blessed the Khalsa with the Keski (small turban) to respect and protect the sacred Kesh and the Dasam Duaar (the Tenth Spiritual Gate). The Keski and Dastaar also gives a Sikh a distinct & graceful identity.
In addition to the Keski (small turban), Guru Gobind Singh Ji blessed the Khalsa with the Kanga (small wooden comb) to also maintain and respect the Kesh. The Kanga is kept in the hair knot on the head. It is necessary for keeping the hair neat and tidy. The Kanga is a reminder to maintain cleanliness and keep thoughts pure.
Underwear (Kachhera) is regarded as a symbol of chastity and honourable character. It is made of cotton and has cord string much like under shorts. Practically it covers the body and ensures a Sikh is always ready and dressed modestly, and allows unembarrassed movement in times of action. It is also easy and comfortable to wear when at rest. it serves as a mark of readiness and agility. KachherÄ is cotton underwear with cord string worn much like under shorts.
Sword (Kirpan) is an emblem of truth, justice, courage and adventure. In order to have self-respect, the Khalsa should maintain the means to vindicate his honour. The sword is worn in a strap (Gatra) to be used for the defence of others and not for offence. From the possession of a sword comes the Khalsa Panth to be a brotherhood of arms.
The iron bangle (Kara) is a symbol of restraint, gentility & strength, it also reminds the Sikh that he is bonded to the Guru. When a Sikh looks at it, he will think twice before doing an evil deed.
These symbols are kept to preserve corporate unity and to foster the sentiment of brotherhood. They assist a Khalsa look exactly like Guru Gobind Singh (form wise) and thus hopefully prompt him to behave like a Guru.