Kirpan (Sikh Dagger)

The Kirpan is the ceremonial dagger or sword carried by Khalsa Sikhs, as a reminder to fight for justice and against oppression. One of the five khalsas, or dress rituals. Kirpans range in size from large ceremonial swords, to tiny knives worn around the neck. It is required that all Khalsa Sikhs wear the kirpan. The kirpan is a religious symbol, it is never used as a weapon. Nevertheless, the requirement that baptized Sikhs wear the kirpan has caused problems for believers in many areas, especially where the custom clashes with local ordinances against carrying weapons. To learn more about the Khalsas, see Sikhism