Nishaan

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A Nishaan is the Ravidasi religious symbol, it is distinct from the Sikh Nishan Sahib. Strictly speaking "Nishaan" means "symbol" and is used in Ravidasi context to mean the mantras passed down by the Sants. There is some discussion going on amongst some Ravidasias that the symbol should be Sohang or Har. Both of these words are directly or indirectly meant for mediation or in reciting of Ravidasia hymns, and are given to indivuduals by their Sant.^[1]

[edit] Meaning of the Nishaan

Chaar Janju (four sacred threads)

The Brahmins usually put these on according a few scriptures. Guru ]]Raidas]] demolished this by arguing on the basis of logic and spirituality. He explained the four different states of time relating to four disciplines and rituals of religion Dharma.

Square (The Heavy Stone)

According to legend, Raidas made the heaviest stone float on the River Ganges. The logic behind this miracle is the enlightenment and overall uplift of every individual. Lack of knowledge and wisdom one sinks to depths of darkness, knowledge makes the stone and steel float.

Sunrays (Thirty four rays of Sunlight)

As a downtrodden people, the Dalit were not allowed to be educated or could afford to be so. The Guru Raidas spoke and communicated in local dialect, and established 34 words script which later became modified by a Sikh Guru and was known as the Gurmukhi script at a later stage. This enabled the Dalit to enjoy and progress in understanding and communicating their philosophy. The Ravidassi Guru's name is Ravi, meaning sun. The universe is illuminated due to the suns otherwise it would be in darkness. The second half of his name is Dass meaning "servant," therefore the Satguru of the Ravidasi religion is the "Servant of Illumination." By following his example, Ravidassia people are striving to become enlightened, as was their Guru.

Circle

The whole universe - the sacred Kara (or bangle) and the Charanamrit (or bowl of holy water). This circle depicts the whole universe, which is contained and run in God's order. Guru Ravidas produced the holy water in a round bowl. The circle also represents the round golden bangle presented to him by Mirabai his follower.