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What are the functions of the 5 "K's" in Sikhism?

We know they are the following symbolic items, but what to they stand for? Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (wooden comb), Kaccha (cotton underwear) and Kirpan (steel sword).

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Answer #1
  1. Kesh - uncut hair. Sikhs believe that hair, like everything else, is a gift from God, therefore it remains uncut.
    1. Kanga - a wooden comb. Not used for combing the hair but for keeping it tidy and in place under the turban.
    2. Kara - an iron bracelet. Serves as a reminder for Sikhs to follow the morals of their faith.
    3. Kachera - a specific style of cotton underwear. Reminds Sikhs of the Guru’s message regarding the control of the Five Evils.
    4. Kirpan - a strapped curved sword. Symbolises the safety of all and the carrier’s personal duty and responsibility as a Sikh to protect the innocent in the message of peace. -wiki’ed it lol.
Answer #2

Mostly what Janice said, except that not many Sikhs here wear bracelets. They prefer their Kara to be a silver bangle instead. Also, due to more modern times, many Sikhs are beginning to cut their hair and still are considered Sikhs.

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