The word "kesh" is often used in the context of hair and refers to the topknot worn by Sikh men. This word is spelled with the letter "k" followed by the diphthong "eɪ" and the voiceless alveolar fricative "ʃ". The IPA transcription for "kesh" is /k eɪ ʃ/. The pronunciation of this word can vary among different dialects, but its spelling remains the same. It is an important symbol of the Sikh faith and should be respected with proper pronunciation and spelling.
Kesh is a term that primarily refers to the uncut hair and unshorn beard maintained by Sikhs, as an integral part of their religious and cultural identity. It embodies one of the five key articles of faith, known as the Five Ks or "panj kakar". Kesh is derived from the Punjabi word "kes," which translates to hair.
In Sikhism, kesh signifies a commitment to maintaining a natural and untouched body, avoiding any alteration to one's appearance through hair trimming or shaving. Sikhs believe that keeping the hair intact is a sign of respect for God's creation and an essential expression of their faith. For both men and women, kesh refers to the practice of allowing hair to grow on all parts of the body.
The Sikh faith considers kesh as a symbol of spirituality, humility, and adherence to Sikh principles. It serves as a reminder to constantly strive for righteousness and purity in thoughts, actions, and intentions. The uncut hair is often tied and covered with a fabric known as a turban, which holds great cultural and religious significance for Sikhs.
As a broader term, kesh can also be used to describe uncut or long hair in general. However, within the Sikh context, kesh holds deep religious and cultural meaning, representing the constant commitment to Sikh values and the pursuit of personal enlightenment.
The exact etymology of the word "kesh" is unclear as it does not have a widely documented origin. However, "kesh" is often used as a slang term in certain communities, particularly in London, UK. It is derived from the Romani language, spoken by the Romani people, also known as Gypsies. In Romani, "kesh" means "money". The term has been adopted and popularized by British youth culture, especially in urban areas, as a euphemism for money or cash. It is commonly used in the context of flaunting wealth or referring to money in a casual and colloquial manner.