The Kirpan is the ceremonial sword carried by Khalsa Sikhs, as a reminder to fight for justice and against oppression. One of the five khalsas, or dress rituals observed by baptised Sikhs. Kirpans range in size from large ceremonial swords, to tiny knives small enough to be worn about the neck. All Khalsa Sikhs are required towear the kirpan.

The kirpan is stricly a religious symbol, and it is never used as a weapon. Nevertheless, the requirement that baptised 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

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