Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

"Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji" explores the historical, spiritual, and philosophical contributions of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Here's an overview of how such a course might be structured:


Course Title:

Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji


Course Objectives:

  • To provide a comprehensive understanding of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life and historical context.
  • To explore and analyze the core teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
  • To understand the relevance of Guru Nanak’s message in contemporary times.
  • To introduce students to key texts such as Japji Sahib and Sidh Gosht.


Course Outline:

Unit 1: Historical Background and Early Life

  • Socio-political and religious conditions of 15th-century India
  • Birth, childhood, and family background of Guru Nanak
  • Major events from his early life, including school experiences and his spiritual awakening

Unit 2: Spiritual Journeys (Udasis)

  • Four major Udasis (missionary journeys)
  • Places visited and people encountered
  • Interfaith dialogues and social reform efforts

Unit 3: Core Teachings

  • Concept of Ik Onkar (One Universal Creator)
  • Importance of Naam Japna (meditation on God’s name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others)
  • Critique of ritualism, caste, and gender inequality

Unit 4: Guru Nanak’s Bani (Sacred Hymns)

  • Introduction to Guru Granth Sahib and Guru Nanak’s hymns
  • Study of Japji Sahib: structure, themes, and significance
  • Selected verses from Asa Di Var, Sidh Gosht, and Bara Maha

Unit 5: Institutional Legacy and Relevance Today

  • Founding of Kartarpur and establishment of the Sikh community
  • Role of Bhai Mardana and Mata Sulakhni
  • Guru Nanak’s teachings in the context of modern ethics, interfaith dialogue, and social justice


Assessment:

  • Written assignments and reflective essays
  • Presentations on Guru Nanak’s travels and dialogues
  • Quizzes on key terms and teachings
  • Final exam or project


Suggested Readings:

  • Guru Nanak: His Life and Teachings by Kirpal Singh
  • The Divine Master: Guru Nanak by Harbans Singh
  • Japji Sahib – Way to God in Sikhism by Maneshwar S. Chahal
  • Selections from Guru Granth Sahib