- LIVE ONLINE PROGRAM
May 13 – June 17, 2021
Vedanta: Teachings from the Upanishads on the Essential Freedom of the Self
Swami Brahmananda
6 WEEKLY SESSIONS, Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm ET
Course Description:
The oneness of all existence is the message which Vedanta teaches. The Upanishads form the basis of Vedanta. It is the science that raises us above the plane of bondage and suffering and shows the path to freedom. Vedanta reveals the essential nature of the self which is ever free and blissful. The study of Vedanta frees us from all limiting ideas about oneself and the world.
This is an ongoing series, where each course contains new teachings and highlights a different portion of the Upanishads. It is meant for experienced and new students alike.
Vedanta denotes one’s identity with the rest of humanity. According to Vedanta, there is no stranger in this world. Everyone is related to one another in the kinship of the Spirit. In Vedanta, there is no ‘mine’ and ‘for me’; but ‘ours’ and ‘for us’; and ultimately, ‘His’ and ‘for Him’. If the Vedanta philosophy is rightly understood and acted up to, then it will obliterate all evils that emanate from factional and racial prejudices. Vedanta is no creed, no ceremony or form of worship. It is the science of right living. It is not the sole monopoly of the Hindus or the recluses. It is for all.
What you'll learn:
- The Vedantic teachings from the Upanishads on the inherent freedom of the self, and its identity with the supreme reality.
- The methods of Vedantic teachings such as Neti Neti (not this, not this - negation of the non-self), Drk Drishya Viveka (discrimination between the seer and the seen), resolution of appearance in reality, the entry of the Self into creation, the innermost Self etc. by which one gains deeper insight into the true nature of the self.
- Traditional commentaries on the teachings of the Upanishads.
- The Upanishads are Brahma Vidya, the knowledge of the absolute reality, the science of the Self, that, which being known, all this becomes known. The Upanishads communicate their teachings through dialogues of enlightened sages with their disciples with Vedantic analogies and mahavakyas, or proclamations of the highest truth, such as sarvam khalvidam brahma (all indeed is Brahman).
Additional Information:
Offered as 6 weekly sessions on Thursdays, May 13, 20, 27, 3, 10, 17, 6:30-8:30pm ET
This program is offered live through Zoom webinar with the availability for students to interact through Q&A with the presenter.
For enrolled students, a video recording will be available after each class in the event you miss a class or would like to review the content.
It is possible to register and take the course at any time. You can catch up on any classes you miss with the recordings.
Requirements and Recommendations:
- No experience necessary. This program is open to beginners as well as advanced practitioners.
- Viewing Device: Desktop or laptop computer will provide the best experience, although you can also connect via a tablet or smartphone.
- Internet connection: High-speed broadband wired or wireless is best.
- Video: Download Zoom to your computer, or install the Zoom app to your device. For interactive group sessions, a webcam or integrated camera will allow others to feel more connected with you.
- Audio: Headphone speakers are recommended. If you wish to participate vocally, a headset with a microphone will be ideal.
Course Includes:
- 12 hours of on-demand video
- Last 15 min of each class will be Q&A
- Downloadable course manual
- Teacher’s availability to reply to students’ questions between classes via Google classroom
Swami Brahmananda is a monk and senior teacher of the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers and is the current Manager of the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat in the Bahamas. Swami Brahmananda joined the Sivananda organization in 1999 and was initiated into Sannyasa (monasticism) in 2006.
A long-time practitioner of yoga, meditation and philosophical studies, he regularly teaches meditation and yoga philosophy for the Sivananda Yoga Teachers’ Training Courses as well as the Advanced Yoga Teachers’ Training Courses. He also teaches online courses on the Patanjali Yoga Sutras and Vedanta. Swami Brahmananda is a much-loved, inspiring, and knowledgeable teacher.