"The Guru Granth Sahib: Structure and Selections" typically aims to introduce students to the structure, themes, and selected hymns (shabads) from the Guru Granth Sahib, the central scripture of Sikhism. Here's a structured outline:

Course Title:

The Guru Granth Sahib: Structure and Selections

Course Description:

This course explores the composition, structure, and selected passages of the Guru Granth Sahib, the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. Students will study the historical compilation, linguistic diversity, key authors (Bhagats and Gurus), poetic forms, and thematic content. The course emphasizes understanding core Sikh teachings through selected hymns.

Course Objectives:

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

1. Understand the historical context and compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib.
2. Identify the structural components and organization of the scripture.
3. Interpret selected hymns in terms of their spiritual, ethical, and philosophical meanings.
4. Recognize the linguistic and poetic richness of the Guru Granth Sahib.
5. Appreciate the interfaith inclusiveness reflected in the writings of various contributors.

Course Units / Modules:

Unit 1: Introduction to the Guru Granth Sahib

• Historical background
• Compilation by Guru Arjan Dev and later by Guru Gobind Singh
• Role of Bhai Gurdas and Bhai Mani Singh

Unit 2: Structure and Organization

• Raag structure (musical framework)
• Contributors: Sikh Gurus, Bhagats, Bhatts, and others
• Script and language: Gurmukhi, Braj, Persian, Sindhi, etc.
• Mul Mantar and Japji Sahib as foundational texts

Unit 3: Literary and Poetic Devices

• Poetic forms: Shabad, Pauri, Salok, Ashtpadi
• Use of metaphors and allegories
• The role of music and raag in conveying spiritual messages

Unit 4: Themes and Philosophy

• Naam (Divine Name), Shabad (Word), Hukam (Divine Order)
• Equality, justice, and service (Seva)
• Rejection of ritualism and emphasis on inner devotion
• Concept of liberation (Mukti)

Unit 5: Selected Hymns (Shabad Vichar)

• Japji Sahib (Guru Nanak Dev Ji)
• Asa di Var (Guru Nanak & Guru Angad)
• Shabads on social equality and devotion (by Kabir, Ravidas, Namdev)
• Shabads on Hukam and ego (haumai)

Unit 6: Reverence and Daily Practice

• Living with Guru Granth Sahib: Maryada and reading protocols
• Role in Gurdwara and Sikh ceremonies
• Relevance in modern life

Assessment Methods:

• Quizzes and reading comprehension tests
• Shabad interpretation assignments
• Reflective essays on themes
• Final project: Interpretation and presentation of a selected hymn

Recommended Readings:

• Guru Granth Sahib (translated versions with commentary)
• Pashaura Singh, The Guru Granth Sahib: Canon, Meaning and Authority
• Nikky-Guninder Kaur Singh, The Name of My Beloved
• W.H. McLeod, Sikhism