Importance of Kada in Sikhism? Health Benefits of wearing Copper Kada
- by Khanna Impex
It is in form of an unadorned bangle/bracelet and is usually made of iron. It is one of the five Kakaars or 5K which acts as five external articles of faith in Sikhism. The other four being Kesh , Kanga, Kachera and Kirpan.
A karra is, generally, worn on the right hand but left-handed people can wear it on their left hand too.
In Sikhism and to Sikhs, it has the following significance:
Worn on the wrist: Acts as a constant reminder that Our Guru acts through us so we must be careful about our actions. Whatever we do, good or bad; others will judge our Guru or religion through us. We must never bring shame or disgrace to our Guru by indulging in any evil deeds. A mere look at our hands is enough to remind us of our purpose in life, i.e. to act in service of God through service of mankind.
Made of Iron: Acts as a symbol of unbreakable attachment and commitment to God. (Iron implies actual strength while Gold and silver are valued for their appearance.)
Round in Shape: Round shape i.e. no beginning no end; symbolizes the eternal nature of God.
Does not fall out of hand: Just like a karra never goes out of hand on its own, a Sikh will never go out of his maryada.
Part of Sikh Identity: So that people may know that we are Sikhs who will always step forward to fight for the righteous cause and protect the weak.
Use as weapon: There exists battlefield variations of karra which have been used as weapons by the Sikh Soldiers.
Just like other four articles of faith, Karra, is not supposed to foster exclusiveness or superiority. They are only meant to keep the Sikhs united in the pursuit of ideal life. There is no place for superiority and pride in Sikhism. A Sikh must maintain a humble attitude and shall always strive to serve mankind.
Moreover, wearing Copper Kada has enormous health benefits due to its properties.
1. Joint stiffness and Joint pain: The anti-inflammatory properties of Kada helps you to get rid off joint pain. Many people who were earlier suffering from Joint Pain has confirmed that wearing Copper Kada has helped them to overcome health problems.
2. Healthy Immune System: Copper improves physiological balance and strengthens the body. It purifies the blood, triggers the formation of hemoglobin and boosts blood circulation in the body. It also protects the body from the ill effects of other highly toxic metals that come in contact with the body.
3. Maintains Blood Pressure: A copper Kada or Ring helps in controlling the blood pressure and keeps problems related to either low or high blood pressure at bay. A person wearing a copper Kada will start to have a more steady blood pressure than before.
4. Copper helps in maintaining better heart health. It promotes crosslink collagen, elastin and fibres in the body. Thus, wearing it helps in promoting cardiovascular health.
5. Improves Skin Health: It keeps the skin healthy and prevents common skin diseases and ailments.