Overview

Uniqueness of Gurbani Grammar Volume IIGurbani-the sacred scriptural writings of Sikhism-was composed during a time when the Punjabi language was still in its developing stages. Though the script used is Gurmukhi, rooted in Punjabi phonetics, the language of Gurbani itself is a combination of many languages and dialects. It was written at a time when grammatical elements such as prepositions, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, participles, and verbs were understood through vowel symbols (lagaan maatraaṇ). Even gender, number and tense were communicated through these vowel markers which is why it is referred to as a conjunctive language. Over time, Punjabi has evolved into a fully matured and structured language whereby all connectors are distinct, sounds have changed significantly under the influence of neighboring languages. Nouns, gender, number, adjectives, adverbs, and verbs-all of these have changed. This transformation allows modern Punjabi to be referred to as a differentiated or disjunctive language. As with any language, understanding Gurbani requires understanding its rules-its grammar. No script, no matter how ancient or divine, can be grasped without an understanding of grammar within the language. Even Sanskrit remained locked in mystery until Rishi Vyasa codified its grammar, which provided an understanding of the Rigveda. The same principle applies to Gurbani. To unlock its meaning, one must first read it, then learn its grammar, and only then begin to understand it. Grammar, in this context, is not academic for the sake of academia-it is a sacred tool, a bridge between divine expression and human comprehension. There exists within our Sikh community, two main schools of thought when approaching Gurbani interpretation. One which follows traditional thought rooted in Sanatan Dharma; the other emphasizing a grammar-based interpretation which provides context and a deeper understanding of Guru Granth Sahib. This book, The Uniqueness of Gurbani Grammar, belongs to the latter approach. It offers readers the opportunity to interpret and understand Gurbani directly from the source utilizing the grammatical knowledge embedded within Guru Granth Sahib. If you wish to understand the Guru Granth Sahib in your own way-authentically and independently-this book will guide you. Even students in grades 8 to 10 with a basic understanding of Punjabi can grasp its teachings. With dedication and repetition, anyone can apply these concepts to Gurbani study. In service of the community, I will also be offering free Zoom classes to explain each chapter and subchapter. These will be accessible to all-free of subscription or cost. Like you, I was once a student, learning from various Punjabi grammar books before I could begin to understand Gurbani. If I can do it, so can you. I have no doubt. Let this book be your companion on a sacred journey into the heart of Gurbani. Dr. Chamkaur Singh Vairoke

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