Course Duration
20 Hours
20 Hours
Videos
2 Hours/ Session
2 Hours/ Session
No. Of Sessions
10
10
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 Bhagavata Mahavidyalaya is located in Sri Govardhan dhama to systematically propagate the teachings of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and Caitanya-caritāmṛta to the society at large.
To accomplish the above mission, ISKCON Bhagavata Mahavidyalaya will facilitate philosophical training for adult residential and non-residential students through the traditional Vedic educational methods. 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
Module 1:
Our Vedic scriptures emphasize the number 18, which is prominently featured in the Mahabharata. This epic contains 18 parvas, the war lasted for 18 days, and the Bhagavad Gita, spoken by Lord Krishna, consists of 18 chapters within the Bhishma Parva. There are also 18 Puranas. The Mahabharata, the greatest epic narrated by Vyasa, explores human psychology and desires, the four purusharthas (life goals), and the glory of Sri Vishnu, the central theme. Originally called Jaya, then Bharat, and finally Mahabharata, it unfolds countless stories within stories, particularly focusing on the exploits of Bhima and Arjuna, illustrating the concept of "DHARMA." Despite their struggles, the Pandavas ruled for only 36 years, with their hardships continuing even after the war. This course delves into why such pure devotees of Lord Krishna faced so much injustice and other profound questions over 18 sessions.
Learning Objectives
- Self-awareness of Personal History: Understand the cultural and historical significance of the Mahabharata.
- Understanding Deeper Life Values: Grasp the moral and ethical teachings within the epic.
- Exploration of the Four Purusharthas: Learn about the four life goals: Dharma (duty), Artha (prosperity), Kama (pleasure), and Moksha (liberation).
- Inspiration from Notable Characters: Draw motivation from the lives and actions of central characters like Bhima, Arjuna, and Krishna.
- Determining One's Ultimate Destination: Reflect on personal desires and life goals in the light of the Mahabharata's teachings.
Course Contents
- Adi Parva (The Book of the Beginning)
- Sabha Parva (The Book of the Assembly Hall)
- Vana Parva (The Book of the Forest)
- Virata Parva (The Book of Virata)
- Udyoga Parva (The Book of the Effort)
- Bhishma Parva (The Book of Bhishma)
- Drona Parva (The Book of Drona)
- Karna Parva (The Book of Karna)
- Shalya Parva (The Book of Shalya)
- Sauptika Parva (The Book of the Night-Raid)
- Stri Parva (The Book of the Women)
- Shanti Parva (The Book of Peace)
- Anushasana Parva (The Book of Instructions)
- Ashvamedhika Parva (The Book of the Horse Sacrifice)
- Ashramavasika Parva (The Book of the Hermitage)
- Mausala Parva (The Book of the Clubs)
- Mahaprasthanika Parva (The Book of the Great Journey)
- Swargarohanika Parva (The Book of the Ascension to Heaven)
Target Audience
Primarily youth, but open to all age groups.
Course Requirements
No prerequisites required.
Study Guidelines
- Note-taking: It is encouraged to take notes on the teachings.
- Punctuality: Follow a self-disciplined schedule to complete the course on time.
- Value Class Time: Dedicate uninterrupted time for study sessions.
Course Benefits
- Cultural Awareness: Rediscover your rich history and culture.
- Understanding Dharma: Gain insights into subtle aspects of dharma.
- Ethical Living: Learn how ethical living and interactions affect spiritual growth.
- Life Perspectives: Explore various perspectives on life, politics, and administration.
- Transcendence and Transformation: Understand the journey from material world transformation to spiritual transcendence.
- Problem-Solving: Utilize the Mahabharata's wisdom to address and solve life's dilemmas.