Advanced Study of Guru Granth Sahib

The Advanced Study of Guru Granth Sahib is a higher-level exploration of the Sikh scripture, designed for students, scholars, and serious seekers who wish to gain deeper insights into the spiritual, philosophical, and linguistic dimensions of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Here's an overview of what includes:


🧭 Course Objectives

  • Develop a profound understanding of the structure, themes, and teachings of Guru Granth Sahib.
  • Examine the historical and cultural context of its compilation.
  • Analyze the poetic, linguistic, and musical aspects (Raags and Chhands).
  • Explore interpretative methodologies (exegesis/hermeneutics).
  • Cultivate the ability to apply the teachings in personal and social contexts.


📘 Course Structure

1. Introduction to Guru Granth Sahib

  • History of Compilation (Guru Arjan to Guru Gobind Singh)
  • Structure and Layout
  • Concept of Guru in Sikhism and Granth-Guru Paradigm

2. Language and Script

  • Gurmukhi Script: evolution and usage
  • Linguistic diversity: Punjabi, Sanskrit, Persian, Braj, Arabic, etc.
  • Grammar and poetic devices

3. Musical Dimension

  • Role of Raag in spiritual expression
  • Taals and their significance
  • Division and arrangement by Raags

4. Thematic Study

  • Key theological concepts: Ik Onkar, Hukam, Naam, Seva, Simran
  • Ethical and social teachings: Equality, Justice, Compassion
  • Metaphysical themes: Maya, Haumai, Mukti

5. Interpretive Approaches

  • Traditional commentaries (Teekas) – Faridkot Teeka, Professor Sahib Singh’s Darpan
  • Modern hermeneutics and comparative interpretations
  • Challenges in translation and contextualization

6. Interfaith and Comparative Study

  • References to saints of different backgrounds (e.g., Bhagat Kabir, Namdev)
  • Universalism in Guru Granth Sahib
  • Comparison with other religious texts (Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Bible)

7. Contemporary Relevance

  • Guru Granth Sahib’s message in modern issues: social justice, environmental care, gender equality
  • Role in Sikh identity and diaspora


📚 Recommended Texts and Resources

  • Guru Granth Darpan by Prof. Sahib Singh
  • Faridkot Teeka
  • Dr. Gopal Singh’s English Translation
  • Pashaura Singh and W.H. McLeod (Academic texts)
  • Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) resources


📝 Assessment Methods (If Academic)

  • Textual analysis essays
  • Oral interpretation (Paath & Vichaar)
  • Research papers
  • Comparative theological reflections