All Sikhs who have taken Amrit were commanded by Guru Gobind Singh at the Baisakhi Amrit Sanchar in 1699 to wear a small comb called a Kanga at all times. This was one of five articles of faith, collectively called Kakars that form the external visible symbols to clearly and outwardly display ones commitment and […]

All Sikhs who have taken Amrit were commanded by Guru Gobind Singh at the Baisakhi Amrit Sanchar in 1699 to wear a small comb called a Kanga at all times. This was one of five articles of faith, collectively called Kakars that form the external visible symbols to clearly and outwardly display ones commitment and dedication to the order (Hukam) of the tenth master and become a member of Khalsa.

The Kanga is an article that allows the Sikh to care for his or her unshorn long hair called Kesh. The Kanga is usually tucked in front of the “Rishi Knot” and tied under the turban to help in keeping the rishi knot firm and in place. It is to be used twice daily to comb and keep the hair in a disentangled and tidy condition. It represents the importance of discipline and cleanliness to the Sikh way of life and is used to keep the hair healthy, clean, shining and tangle-free.

The Kanga is placed at the most highest place of the body, above the dasam duar. As it is made of wood it controls the electrical impulses running through the kesh and helps the wearer refrain from being angry.

Seven reasons why a wooden comb is beneficial for hair include:

  1. Wood does not create static electricity, which prevents loss of energy in the hair.
  2. If you comb your hair and scalp front to back, back to front, and then to the right and left several times, it will refresh you, no matter how long your hair is. All the tiredness of your day will be gone.
  3. For women, it is said that using this technique to comb the hair twice a day can help maintain youth, a healthy menstrual cycle, and good eyesight.
  4.  Wooden bristles gently massage the scalp and move natural oils through the hair. This aids in blood circulation, excess sebum absorption and helps in removal of hair impurities.
  5. Massaging the scalp helps in hair growth and stimulate acupressure points.
  6. When exposed to a blow dryer, the brush stays cool because wood does not conduct heat. When hair is wet the wooden bristles glide easily through the tangles.

 

~ Source – http://www.sikh24.com/