A Purple Turban Is About Its Color

By Ines Brennan


In Sikhism, a turban denotes several symbols. How this is worn does not really make a Sikh man or woman a little less adherent to the religion. It is a vital part of a Sikh's life and must, therefore, be worn any time, anywhere regardless of the style and practice. A purple turban may not have a special meaning but this is worn popularly by men and women alike for this perfectly coordinates most colors of an everyday outfit or robe.

Any color or design is generally acceptable. What matters is for someone to show his commitment through the turban he wears. A turban is not a mere headdress that protects the hair and scalp from filthy dust and air or something that makes a person look pleasant and lovely. This customary Sikh men and women headwear has important value to them for this symbolizes the following:

Spirituality and holiness. In Sikhism, their initiation ceremony is the most important and this is completed through wearing of turbans. The process also referred to as an Amrit ceremony or baptism Sikhs undergo this ceremony only when fully committed to the religion. This is conducted in guru's presence.

Dedication to God. As stated in Exodus 29:6 this headdress was considered as an essential part of anointed men sent for missionary work. The anointment process is done through the pouring of oil over the head and fixing of the mark of devotion in one's headwear.

A social life. For Muslims, their turbans are only removed when they are mourning. It is a common practice of Punjabi people that anyone seen bareheaded can be directly assumed to have somebody from the family who just passed away.

Nobility and royalty. The Old Testament evidences how a turban becomes a symbol of nobility as stated in Isaiah 62:2-10. This was used in exchange for a crown. In the Islamic world, it is also used by the monarchy as a crown. In India, turbans are reserved only for rich aristocrats and the monarchs. These are said inappropriate to those in the lower class.

Military life. As a symbol of self-respect and honor, the Sikh soldiers during the World War I and II refused to wear helmets or head gears to protect them from their enemies. Instead, they used their turbans in fighting for they believed that wearing helmets only signifies their fear of death.

Missionary zeal and courage. The Sikh history provides evidence on the missionary martyrs who died protecting their religion without removing their turbans even when they were made to. For turbans are not ornamental headdresses, they died keeping their faith even to the very end.

Purity and justice. As stated in a biblical metaphor of Job's life, a purple turban or not signifies prosperity and righteousness for all the good deeds he did. The Old Testament likewise narrates several instances for which the simple cloth becomes one great sign of chastity and pureness. These are found in the Book of Zachariah recounting the story of Joshua, a high priest during that time.




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