Gurdwara Studies & Community Service

Here's the course outline for "Gurdwara Studies & Community Service", which is part of a Sikhism or religious studies program:


Course Title: Gurdwara Studies & Community Service

  • Level: Undergraduate / Certificate Program
  • Duration: One Semester (12–16 weeks)
  • Credit Hours: 3


Course Description:

This course offers students an in-depth understanding of the institution of the Gurdwara—its history, functions, architecture, and spiritual significance. It also emphasizes the importance of community service (Seva) as a core Sikh value, encouraging practical involvement in Gurdwara-based and wider community initiatives.


Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the historical development and structure of Gurdwaras.
  2. Explain the key functions and practices carried out in Gurdwaras.
  3. Appreciate the role of Seva in Sikhism and its application in daily life.
  4. Participate meaningfully in community service within and outside the Gurdwara context.
  5. Develop leadership and teamwork skills through service-learning experiences.


Key Topics:

Module 1: Introduction to the Gurdwara

  • Definition and origins
  • Historical evolution
  • Significance of Guru Granth Sahib in the Gurdwara

Module 2: Architecture & Layout

  • Common features of Gurdwara buildings
  • Langar Hall, Diwan Hall, Nishan Sahib, etc.
  • Role of design in spiritual and social life

Module 3: Daily Practices & Rituals

  • Ardas, Hukamnama, Kirtan, Paath
  • Maryada (code of conduct)
  • Seva practices within the Gurdwara

Module 4: Community Functions

  • Langar (community kitchen)
  • Gurmat classes and youth programs
  • Social support services (e.g., health clinics, shelters)

Module 5: Seva & Social Responsibility

  • Theological foundations of Seva
  • Types of Seva: physical, mental, material
  • Modern applications: disaster relief, activism, interfaith work

Module 6: Fieldwork & Community Engagement

  • Volunteering at a local Gurdwara
  • Planning and participating in a service project
  • Reflection on Seva experiences


Assessment Methods:

  • Participation & Attendance: 10%
  • Weekly Reflections / Journals: 20%
  • Midterm Exam / Essay: 20%
  • Community Service Project (Planning & Execution): 30%
  • Final Presentation / Report: 20%


Suggested Readings & Resources:

  • "Sikh Gurdwara: A Short Study" – W.H. McLeod
  • "Seva: Sikh Wisdom for Living Well by Doing Good" – Jasreen Mayal Khanna
  • Selected passages from Guru Granth Sahib (with commentary)
  • Local Gurdwara visits and interviews with Granthis / community leaders