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A Two-Week Vedic Chant Intensive
One of the major Upanisad-s, the Taittiriya Upanisad contains a wealth of information on several profound philosophical ideas that are presented with vivid literary imagery that serves as the basis for powerful models of meditation. Fundamental to the teachings of the Upanisad-s is a quest to realize the true nature of the Supreme Self, the Brahman, which is the very fulcrum of all creation.
A characteristic hallmark of the Upanisadic teachings are their use of simple, yet multi-layered metaphors to explain highly abstract concepts of creation and life. By this methodology of teaching, the young student takes in profound messages albeit in the form of simple models using day-to-day objects that the student can relate to. The deeper meaning of this priceless wisdom is meant to fructify as the student matures and his practice and life experiences shape his evolution into an ardent seeker of spiritual truths.
Syllabus
This programme will introduce participants to select excerpts from the following chants:
Siksavalli, which is in the form of instructions given by the teacher to the pupil, introduces the concept of the all pervading reality, Brahman, thus establishing for the student the ultimate goal of all learning and the means of attaining that Brahman
Brahmanandavalli elaborates further on this idea, presenting the concept of the Supreme Self, the Brahman that manifests as the microcosmic self in every living being, which lies deep within the complex, multi-dimensional human system, and which is the subtle doer of all one’s physical and mental functions.
Bhrguvalli, in the form of a dialogue between father and son, unravels each dimension of the human being, revealing finally the Purusa, the Self that dwells within, in all its glory. Understanding the true and permanent nature of one’s inner Self makes one truly free, no longer bound by the physical constraints of the impermanent body and mind.
Mahanarayana Upanisad, which forms a part of the Taittiriya Upanisad contains severable priceless jewels, one of which is the highly potent Gayatri Mantra. The model of meditation using the Gayatri is acclaimed as one of the most complete models of meditation that are seen in the Veda-s.
Prior knowledge of Vedic Chanting, while helpful, is not essential to participate in this programme. Prior knowledge of Sanskrit is also not essential as participants will be given practice sheets in English following standard Roman transliteration.
Programe Dates: 20th to 31st August 2012
Programme Fee:US$ 500
Programe Schedule
Classes will be held from 9am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. (The weekend will be free). The daily schedule will comprise:
- Three practical chanting sessions (total of 30 sessions across 10 days)
- One theoretical session that introduce the meaning and significance of chants taught
- One Integrated asana-pranayama and meditative practice based on the chants taught
There will be two short tea breaks, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, where participants will be served tea and biscuits. There will be a longer break given for lunch.
This is a non-residential programme. Participants will have to make their own arrangements for accommodation, transport and food.
There are limited seats available in the two-week chant intensive, so you are requested to register early to confirm your participation.
( some concepts we could use are rtam ca svadhyaya…, vedamanucyacaryonte…, concept of purva rupam-uttara rupam-sandhi and sandhanam, the panca maya model, the idea os brahmananda mimamsa, the concept of annam brahma, ha vu…, gayatri mantra etc…these are just some suggestions ma’am, am sure there are several more.)
Click here to register
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