Course Title: Interfaith Dialogue & Sikhism

Course Code: RELS/SIKH 307

Level: Undergraduate (Junior/Senior Level)

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Introduction to Religious Studies or equivalent

Course Description:

This course investigates the theological, historical, and contemporary dimensions of interfaith dialogue with an emphasis on the Sikh tradition. Drawing from scriptural sources, historical encounters, and current global initiatives, the course examines Sikh teachings on religious pluralism, respect for other faiths, and ethical engagement with diverse religious communities.

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Explain the theoretical foundations of interfaith dialogue.
2. Interpret Sikh teachings on religious diversity, equality, and divine unity.
3. Analyze Sikh scripture and historical texts in relation to interfaith ethics.
4. Examine Sikh interactions with other religious traditions across time.
5. Engage critically with contemporary interfaith dialogue initiatives involving Sikhs.
6. Develop and demonstrate skills for constructive religious dialogue.

Florida SCNS Justification:

• SCNS Course Prefix: REL
• SCNS Course Number: REL 3935
• Level: Upper Division (3000)
• SCNS Title Match: Special Topics in Religion
• Proposed Course Title on Transcript: Interfaith Dialogue & Sikhism
• Justification for REL Prefix: Focus on comparative and interreligious themes within a religious studies framework.

Required Texts:

1. Guru Granth Sahib (selected excerpts) – provided via course reader
2. Mandair, Arvind-Pal Singh. Religion and the Specter of the West
3. Knitter, Paul. Introducing Theologies of Religions
4. Swidler, Leonard. Dialogue for Interreligious Understanding
5. Supplementary readings provided on Canvas/Moodle

Course Schedule:

Assessment Breakdown:

• Participation & Discussion – 20%
• Reflection Papers (3) – 20%
• Midterm Exam – 20%
• Case Study Presentation – 15%
• Final Research Paper – 25%

Course Policies:

Attendance: Required unless excused for documented reasons.

Late Work: 5% deduction per day unless pre-approved.

Academic Integrity: Strictly enforced per university honor code.

Accessibility: Students requiring accommodations should contact the Disability Resource Center.

Instructor’s Note:

This course encourages curiosity, openness, and respect. Sikhism offers a unique lens on dialogue—rooted in oneness and dignity for all—providing timely wisdom for our diverse, pluralistic world.

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Seminar Syllabus

Institution: GEA University of San Marco

Department: Religion / Philosophy / Interdisciplinary Studies

Course Title: Interfaith Dialogue & Sikhism (Seminar)

SCNS Code: REL 3935 – Special Topics in Religion

Credits: 3

Level: Upper-Division Undergraduate or Graduate

Schedule: weekly seminar

Location: Zoom

Seminar Description:

This advanced seminar explores the theological and philosophical foundations of interfaith dialogue through the lens of Sikh teachings and history. Emphasizing close reading, reflective discussion, and comparative insight, the seminar investigates Sikh scriptural perspectives on religious pluralism and the lived experiences of interreligious engagement. Weekly sessions will involve structured dialogue, group facilitation, and seminar papers aimed at developing interreligious literacy and leadership.

Seminar Goals:

1. Foster deep understanding of Sikh views on the religious other.
2. Cultivate nuanced interfaith literacy through sustained dialogue and textual analysis.
3. Examine case studies of Sikh participation in religious and ethical dialogue across cultures.
4. Enhance skills in academic inquiry, peer discussion, and ethical reasoning.
5. Encourage the development of a personal philosophy of interfaith engagement.

Seminar Format:

• Weekly 3-hour seminar meetings
• Each session led by 1–2 students rotating as facilitators
• Emphasis on primary sources and slow reading
• Final roundtable symposium in last week

Core Texts:

• Primary:
  • Guru Granth Sahib (translated selections)
  • Janamsakhis (stories of Guru Nanak’s dialogues)
• Secondary:
  • Arvind-Pal Singh Mandair, Religion and the Specter of the West
  • Paul Knitter, Introducing Theologies of Religions
  • Leonard Swidler, Dialogue for Interreligious Understanding
  • Harjot Oberoi, The Construction of Religious Boundaries (excerpts)

Weekly Schedule (Sample Topics):

Assessments:

• Seminar Facilitation (1–2 times): 20%
• Weekly Reflection Journal (2 pages): 20%
• Midterm Position Paper (5–7 pages): 15%
• Final Research Paper (10–12 pages): 25%
• Participation (quality over quantity): 20%

Seminar Norms & Policies:

• Mutual Respect: Ground rules for interfaith conversation are co-created in Week 1.
• Attendance: Attendance is crucial; two or more unexcused absences may result in a lower final grade.
• Academic Integrity: Expected at all levels; plagiarism will not be tolerated.
• Accessibility: Students requiring accommodations are encouraged to reach out early.

Final Note from Instructor:

This seminar is an invitation—not only to study Sikhism and other traditions—but to practice the virtues of dialogue: patience, integrity, and courage. Your voice is essential. Let's co-create a space of sincere encounter and learning.