Guru Angad to Guru Arjan Dev Ji: Contributions & Legacy

📘 Course Title: Guru Angad to Guru Arjan Dev Ji (Contributions & Legacy)

🔢 Original Course Code: SIKH-202


📚 Course Description:

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the lives, teachings, and socio-religious contributions of the second through fifth Sikh Gurus—Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji, and Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Students will engage with primary Sikh scriptures, historical sources, and community practices to understand the evolution of Sikh identity, institutions, and spiritual legacy during this foundational era.


📖 Learning Objectives:

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

  1. Describe the key life events and teachings of Gurus Angad, Amar Das, Ram Das, and Arjan Dev Ji.
  2. Analyze the institutional developments such as the Gurmukhi script, Manji system, and Harmandir Sahib.
  3. Evaluate the spiritual, social, and political contributions of each Guru to the Sikh Panth.
  4. Reflect on the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and its long-term implications for Sikh identity and history.


🗂 Module Breakdown:

Module 1: Guru Angad Dev Ji – The Torchbearer of Gurmukhi

  • Succession from Guru Nanak Dev Ji
  • Introduction and promotion of Gurmukhi script
  • Early codification of Sikh teachings

Module 2: Guru Amar Das Ji – The Organizer of the Panth

  • Establishment of the Manji system
  • Langar reforms and the fight against caste discrimination
  • Compilation of hymns and institutional leadership

Module 3: Guru Ram Das Ji – The Architect of Amritsar

  • Founding of Ramdaspur (Amritsar)
  • Spiritual poetry and the foundation of Sikh liturgy
  • Emphasis on humility and devotion

Module 4: Guru Arjan Dev Ji – The Architect of Sikh Scripture and Martyrdom

  • Compilation of the Adi Granth (Guru Granth Sahib)
  • Construction of Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
  • Martyrdom and its historical significance


📝 Assessment Methods:

  • Weekly reflective journals
  • Midterm essay on institutional development
  • Final presentation on Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom and legacy


👥 Target Audience:

High school seniors, college students, and adult learners interested in Sikh history, South Asian studies, or religious traditions.