The five essential symbols of Sikhism , known as the Panj
Kakaars (literally, "five K's"), are worn at all times by devout
Sikhs , serving as a means of identification and objects of
religious pride and personal honor. The five symbols are
considered sacred gifts of the Guru and must be defended, even
unto death. The Five K's are: Kesh (unshorn hair): The Guru
teaches Sikhs that man is created in the image of God. The human
body is therefore an image of perfection and to alter it would
be to trangress against the will of God. Thus, a Sikh must never
cut, pluck, trim, shave, or wax any of the hair on his body.
Hair must be kept clean and combed at all times and properly
covered with a turban. A true Sikh would rather die than cut a
single hair. A Sikh who trims his hair is considered a fallen
one and is called a "Patit," and should be shunned by true
Sikhs. Kanga (wooden comb): The Kanga symbolizes purity and
order and is used for combing one's hair. The Kanga is to be
worn in the Sikh's hair at all times. A p