Core Concepts in Sikh Spirituality and Practice:

Here is a comprehensive course outline titled "Core Concepts in Sikh Spirituality and Practice", designed for students and seekers of Sikhism. The course blends foundational teachings with thematic exploration and practical engagement.

📘 Course Title: "Core Concepts in Sikh Spirituality and Practice: Naam, Seva, Simran, Hukam & Beyond"

🎯 Course Objectives:

• Understand foundational Sikh spiritual concepts in depth.
• Explore their interconnected roles in Sikh theology and practice.
• Apply concepts to personal life and community engagement.
• Encourage critical reflection on contemporary Sikh living.

🗂️ Course Structure:

Duration: 8–10 weeks

Mode: In-person / Online

Ideal for: Teenagers, adult learners, interfaith scholars, Sikh educators

🪔 Module Breakdown

Module 1: Introduction to Sikh Philosophy

• Origin and core teachings of Sikhism
• The role of Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru
• Key terms: Ik Onkar, Satnam, Shabad, Gurmat

Activity: Reflection on Mool Mantar and its spiritual message

Module 2: Naam (Divine Name)

• Meaning and metaphysics of Naam
• Naam as the path to liberation (Mukti)
• Naam Japna: verbal, mental, and contemplative practice

Texts: Japji Sahib, Sukhmani Sahib (selected verses)

Practice: Guided Naam Japna session

Module 3: Simran (Remembrance)

• Distinction between Simran and Naam
• Methods of Simran: silent, musical (kirtan), congregational
• Psychological and spiritual impact of Simran

Activity: Daily Simran journal

Module 4: Seva (Selfless Service)

• Philosophy of Nishkam Seva
• Seva in Gurdwaras (Langar, cleaning, community service)
• Seva as a spiritual discipline: Tan, Man, Dhan

Project: Participate in a local Seva initiative

Reflection: Group discussion on personal experiences with Seva

Module 5: Hukam (Divine Will)

• Meaning and implications of Hukam
• Ego (Haumai) and surrender
• Reading and understanding the daily Hukamnama

Texts: Japji Sahib (Pauris 1–5)

Practice: Accepting life situations through the lens of Hukam

Module 6: Sangat and Pangat

• Role of community in Sikh spiritual life
• Equality, unity, and collective spiritual growth
• Historical examples of transformative Sangats

Discussion: How Sangat and Pangat dismantle caste and hierarchy

Module 7: Shabad Guru and Gurmat

• Understanding the Shabad as Guru
• Role of Bani and Gurbani recitation
• Gurmat vs Manmukh: living by divine wisdom vs ego-driven mind

Activity: Paath study circle (group recitation and interpretation)

Module 8: Miri-Piri: Balanced Living

• The spiritual and temporal dimensions of Sikh life
• History: Guru Hargobind’s vision of sovereignty and spirituality
• Applying Miri-Piri in modern civic life

Case Study: Sikh response to social justice and activism

Module 9: Concept of Gurmukh

• Traits of a Gurmukh (God-centered being)
• Contrast with Manmukh (self-centered being)
• Becoming a Gurmukh in the modern world

Assignment: Personal action plan to embody Gurmukh traits

Module 10: Final Reflections & Integration

• Connecting Naam, Simran, Seva, and Hukam in daily life
• Inner transformation through outer practice
• Group presentations or creative projects (poem, art, essay)

Assessment Options:

• Final project
• Oral presentation
• Reflective journal

📚 Suggested Readings:

• Guru Granth Sahib (selected passages)
• Sikh Rehat Maryada (Code of Conduct)
• Japji Sahib: Way to God in Sikhism by Maneshwar S. Chahal
• The Sikh Way by G.S. Mansukhani

🧘‍♂️ Bonus Elements:

• Kirtan Lab: Learn and reflect on Gurbani through music
• Field Visit: Local Gurdwara / historical Sikh site
• Guest Speaker Series: Sikh scholars, Granthis, activists