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Sikh Code of Conduct (Rehat Maryada)

Sikh Code of Conduct (Rehat Maryada) is structured to provide comprehensive education. The curriculum is divided into 10 modules, with each module covering a core aspect of Sikh Rehat Maryada as outlined by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).


📘 Course Title: Sikh Code of Conduct (Rehat Maryada)


🎯 Course Objective:

To provide a thorough understanding of the Sikh Rehat Maryada as prescribed by the SGPC, cultivating disciplined living according to Gurmat (Guru's teachings), and enabling learners to practice Sikhi consciously and respectfully.


🗂️ Course Modules Overview:

Module 1: Introduction to Rehat Maryada

  • Definition of Rehat Maryada
  • Historical development
  • Role of SGPC and Panthic consensus
  • Importance of Rehat in Sikh identity

Module 2: Sikh Philosophy and Core Beliefs

  • Oneness of God (Ik Onkar)
  • Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru
  • The role of the Ten Gurus
  • Concepts of Miri-Piri and Naam Simran

Module 3: The Sikh Way of Life

  • Daily prayers (Nitnem)
  • Meditation on Naam
  • Honest living and sharing (Kirat Karo, Vand Chakko)
  • Community service (Seva)

Module 4: The Khalsa and Amrit Sanchar

  • The founding of the Khalsa (1699)
  • Five Ks (Kakaars) and their significance
  • Amrit ceremony: process and vows
  • Post-Amrit responsibilities

Module 5: Personal Conduct (Individual Rehat)

  • Ethical behavior (truthfulness, humility, service)
  • Dietary code (vegetarianism, intoxicants)
  • Forbidden actions (e.g., adultery, cutting hair)
  • Cleanliness and discipline

Module 6: Family and Social Life

  • Sikh marriage (Anand Karaj)
  • Roles of men and women (equality in Sikhi)
  • Raising children in Sikhi
  • Social duties: honesty, integrity, justice

Module 7: Congregational Life and Gurdwara Protocol

  • Sangat and Pangat
  • Conduct in Gurdwara
  • Maryada for Parkash, Sukhasan, and Akhand Path
  • Langar: significance and rules

Module 8: Ceremonies and Life Milestones

  • Birth and Naming ceremony (Naam Karan)
  • Initiation (Amrit Sanchar)
  • Marriage (Anand Karaj)
  • Death rituals (Antim Sanskar)

Module 9: Governance and Discipline

  • Sikh Panth structure: Akal Takht, SGPC, Jathedars
  • Role of Hukamnama
  • Excommunication (Tankhah) and reacceptance
  • Sikh calendar and historical dates

Module 10: Contemporary Challenges and Application

  • Living Rehat in the modern world
  • Youth challenges and guidance
  • Digital tools and Sikhi
  • Rehat Maryada vs. Deravaad (sectarian deviations)


📚 Course Materials:

  • SGPC Rehat Maryada (English and Punjabi)
  • Guru Granth Sahib references
  • Selected writings of Bhai Gurdas, Bhai Nand Lal
  • Videos and documentaries
  • Personal reflections and practical assignments


🎓 Assessment & Certification:

  • Quizzes at the end of each module
  • Mid-course and final reflection essay
  • Oral or written test on Nitnem and Rehat guidelines
  • Certificate of Completion after passing final assessment