Gayatri Course

By Srila Bhakti Vijnana Goswami

Certificate Course

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Course Duration

4 Hours Approx.

Videos

1 Hour/ Session

No. Of Sessions

3

Sessions per week

3

Language
English

Eligibility

Second Initiated Practitioners

Schedule of Classes

calendar

Starts on
-

calendar

3 PM - 4 PM IST

Regular classes on

Friday - Sunday

About the Teacher

teacher

Srila Bhakti Vijnana Goswami

Bhakti Vijnana Goswami was born in Tashkent, in the former Soviet Union. He took to spiritual life in 1980, during the difficult time of the communist era, when the Committee for State Security (KGB) was harassing all spiritual practitioners. Despite the obstacles, as a scientist, a Moscow State University graduate and postgraduate student at Institute of Molecular Biology, he decided to experiment with the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, which moved him profoundly.

From 1988 till 1995, known then as Vaidyanath Das, he was head of the translation department of the North European BBT translating Srila Prabhupada‘s books into Russian and other languages of the Soviet block. In 1995 he officially took the lead of the Society in Russia. He acted as a member of ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission from 1997 till 2017 when he took GBC Emeritus position. His main zonal responsibilities were Moscow and most of Russian regions. He also took responsibility in Armenia, Georgia (CIS), Israel and South Korea.

He is a disciple of Radhanath Swami. In 2001 he took Sannyas along with his present name. He travels widely throughout the world sharing Krishna Consciousness in his own unprecedented manner. Since 2005 he has been serving as one of the initiating gurus of ISKCON.

In 2010 Russian Federation awarded Bhakti Vijnana Goswami a medal “For professional and business reputation. For his contribution in strengthening Russian-Indian friendly relations, and for his contribution to the popularization of the spiritual-cultural literary heritage of India.”

Course Overview

Course Description

The "Advanced Study of Gayatri Mantras and Sadhana" program offered by ISKCON Bhagavata Mahavidyalaya is meticulously designed to elevate the quality of Brahmanas within ISKCON. This course aims to promote the long-term wellbeing of Srila Prabhupada’s Society and its members by deepening understanding and practice of Gayatri mantras. Rooted in the teachings of Srila Prabhupada and his followers, and informed by ISKCON Laws and the broader Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition, the course provides comprehensive insights into Gayatri initiations and practices.

Course Content

  • Historical context and significance in the Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition.
  • Srila Prabhupada's teachings on Gayatri
  • Current Procedures of Gayatri Initiations
  • ISKCON's protocols for Gayatri initiation
  • Practical aspects and responsibilities of Gayatri initiates
  • Purpose and Mood of Srila Prabhupada’s Instructions
  • The spiritual and practical implications of Gayatri in ISKCON
  • Techniques for effective chanting of Gayatri mantras.

Target Audience

  • Individuals seeking initiation into Gayatri mantras.
  • Devotees who have already received second initiation and wish to deepen their understanding.
  • Those in leadership positions or engaged in preaching who aim to enhance their knowledge and practice of Gayatri.

Assessment Plan

  • Essays and reports on various aspects of Gayatri mantras and practices.
  • Evaluation of Gayatri Japa practice and sadhana habits.
  • Engagement in course discussions and peer interactions.
  • Comprehensive test covering all course topics.

Important Guidelines for Students

  • Engage fully in lectures, discussions, and practical sessions.
  • Maintain a consistent practice of Gayatri Japa as guided in the course.
  • Undertake personal study and research assignments diligently.
  • Provide and receive constructive feedback to enhance learning outcomes.

What Will Students Gain from this Course?

  • A deeper comprehension of the origins, significance, and procedures related to Gayatri mantras.
  • Techniques to improve the quality of Gayatri Japa and develop robust sadhana habits.
  • Skills to study and research Gayatri in the context of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings and Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition.
  • Strengthened desire and capacity for personal and spiritual growth through the practice of Gayatri.

Why Should One Attend this Course?

Attending this course will provide invaluable insights into the practice and philosophy of Gayatri, aligning personal sadhana with Srila Prabhupada’s vision and the broader Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition. It equips devotees with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance their spiritual practice, contribute effectively to ISKCON, and foster personal and communal development.

What Problems of Students Are We Solving Through the Curriculum?

  • Addressing gaps in understanding the historical and practical aspects of Gayatri mantras.
  • Offering guidance to improve and stabilize Gayatri Japa and sadhana habits.
  • Providing a structured approach to studying and researching Gayatri.
  • Enhancing the capability of leaders and preachers to effectively guide others in the practice of Gayatri.

Frequently Asked Questions