Year 6 - Religious education
Kesh, Kanga, Kachera: living as a Sikh
Sikhs: What does Khalsa mean to Sikhs today?
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils focus on the Sikh community in the UK today. They learn why there is a Sikh community and its contribution historically and in terms of service and charity. They analyse how Amrit and the 5Ks remain important to Sikh identity and how there is a diversity of practices.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to describe how Sikh practices have deeper meanings.
Key Notes
- Khalsa Sikhs do not cut their hair.
- A deeper meaning of this is to be spiritually open and connect with God.
- A deeper meaning of the Kachera is cleanliness and modesty.
- We can better understand Sikh attitudes to living as a Sikh by talking to different Sikhs.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Kesh: the practice of Sikhs keeping their hair uncut, as a sign of respect for the body as a gift from God
- Kanga: a small wooden comb that Sikhs wear to keep their hair clean and tidy, showing respect for the body and their faith
- Kachera: special cotton undergarments worn by Sikhs as a symbol of modesty, cleanliness, and self-control
- modesty: dressing and acting in a way that is respectful and not showing off
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Only Sikhs who have taken Amrit wear head coverings.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the lesson in two key points.
Khalsa Sikhs do not cut their hair. A deeper meaning of this is to be spiritually open and connect with God.
2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'Kesh'
the practice of Sikhs keeping their hair uncut, as a sign of respect for the body as a gift from God.
3. Correct this common mistake.
Mistake: Only Sikhs who have taken Amrit wear head coverings. Correction: Many Sikhs, regardless of whether they have taken Amrit or not, may choose to wear a head covering like a turban or scarf to show respect for their faith and culture.
More Lessons In This Unit
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