Course Duration
106 Hours
106 Hours
Videos
2 Hours each
2 Hours each
No. Of Sessions
20
20
Sessions per week
At your own pace
At your own pace
Language
English
Eligibility
Anyone
Anyone
Schedule of Classes
Starts on
-
Always open
At your own pace
About the Teacher
ISKCON BHAGAVATA MAHAVIDYALAYA
About the Teacher
ISKCON Bhagavat Mahavidyalaya aims to provide a facility for its members to study, practice, and disseminate the teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam, along with the writings of the Gaudiya Vaisnava acaryas and the branches of Vedic philosophy, culture, music and science in the context of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings.
ISKCON Bhagavat Mahavidyalaya has been inspired by the service and efforts of His Grace Gopiparanadhana Prabhu and His Holiness Gaur Krishna Gosvami Maharaja. Their dedication toward the study and the dissemination of the teachings of Srimad Bhagavatam is the torchlight guiding us forward to serve this mission.
Course Overview
Course Description:
This self-study course delves into the enthralling pastimes of Lord Chaitanya as depicted in the Chaitanya Bhagavata. Just as Vyasadeva compiled the pastimes of Lord Krishna in the Srimad-Bhagavatam, Thakura Vrndavana Dasa has beautifully narrated the life of Lord Caitanya. Immersing oneself in this sacred text has the power to dispel misfortune and enlighten the heart. Through the study of Sri Caitanya-Bhagavata, one can gain profound insights into the glories and truths of Lord Caitanya and Nityananda, ultimately leading to the conclusion of devotional service to Lord Krishna. The subject matter of this book is so sublime that it feels as if Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu himself speaks through the writings of Sri Vrndavana Dasa Thakura.
Course Materials:
The Chaitanya Bhagavata is divided into three parts: the Adi-khanda, Madhya-khanda, and Antya-khanda, each offering a unique perspective on Lord Chaitanya's life and teachings. You will have access to English translations of the Chaitanya Bhagavata to aid your self-study journey.
Adi-khanda:
- It covers the socio-religious landscape of Bengal before Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's advent.
- Describes his birth, education, and marriage to Lakshmi-priya.
- Chronicles his victories over opposing scholars and his visit to East Bengal.
- Narrates the passing of Lakshmi-priya, his marriage to Vishnupriya, and his journey to Gaya, where he received initiation from Ishvara Puri.
Madhya-khanda:
- Focuses on Chaitanya's growing external displays of devotion.
- Details the disciples who join his devotional creed.
- Highlights the conversion of the notorious Jagai and Madhai.
- Depicts Sri Chaitanya's civil disobedience movement against the Muslim Chand Kazi, who attempted to obstruct the congregational chanting of the names of Krishna.
Antya-khanda:
- Explores Chaitanya's acceptance of sannyasa (the renounced order).
- Shares the heart-wrenching lamentation of his mother, Saci-Mata.
- Describes his travels to Puri, meetings with Sarvabhauma Bhattacharya, and interactions with various devoted souls.
Target Audience:
This self-study course is open to individuals of all backgrounds who are eager to explore the life and teachings of Lord Chaitanya.
Course Requirement:
No prerequisites or special requirements are necessary. This course is open to all who are interested in delving into the profound wisdom of Lord Chaitanya's life.