A Purple Turban Is Clearly More Than Its Color

By Ines Brennan


In Sikhism, a turban is a token for their faith and dedication to the religion. How it is worn never really makes a Sikh woman or man less adherent to the standards of the faction. It is a significant part of any Sikh's life and therefore needs to be worn regardless of occasion and of style. A purple turban might not have a special implication but it is popularly worn by men and women due to how it ideally complements most outfits.

Any design or color or is generally acceptable. Realistically, what matters for a follower of Sikhism is to show how committed he is through his turban. Turbans are not mere headdresses that protect the scalp and hair from dust or something that could make an individual appear pleasing on an occasion. This customary headwear for Sikh men and women has high significance to the religion as this symbolizes many different things.

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. It is a symbol of honor and self-respect. In World War I as well as II, Sikh soldiers refused to wear head gears or helmets that could protect them from the hands of their enemies. They, instead, used their turbans while fighting for they were convinced that wearing helmets signifies one's fear of death.

Missionary courage and enthusiasm. The Sikh history evidences how missionary martyrs died protecting their religion, leaving their turbans not removed notwithstanding the orders of their enemies. Turbans are not accessories. And they died holding to their faith down to their last breath.

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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