Bhakti-śāstrī with Deity Worship Module

For who?

This course is suitable for those who have been practicing Krishna consciousness seriously for about a year or more and have a basic śāstric knowledge and understanding.

Pre-requisites:

· Must be over 18, unless an exception is granted by the IM Board of Education.

· Must have been chanting 16 rounds of the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahāmantra daily and following the four regulative principles for at least 1 year.

· Must be recommended by an ISKCON authority who knows them well.

· Must have completed the Founder-Ācārya Course, ISKCON Disciple Course, and Śrīla Prabhupāda-līlāmṛta.

Content:

This course comprises an in-depth study of Bhagavad-Gītā, Śrī Īśopanisad, Nectar of Devotion, and Nectar of Instruction.

Is it Mandatory?

Yes, this course is required for anyone who wants to progress in their śāstric study and preaching activities. Śrīla Prabhupāda wanted all brahmanas to have the Bhakti-śāstrī degree.

What’s the outcome?

Participants will:

· Gather scriptural knowledge

· Deepen their understanding

· Enhance their ability to preach

· Build and maintain faith and conviction

Upon completion of this course:

· There is no requirement to take the second initiation exam.

· Participants are eligible to enroll in the next course, Bhakti-Vaibhava.

Content:

Imparts a basic understanding and values of the temple deity worship and equips you with preliminary skills in worshipping the deity in the temple. The main topics of the course include:

· Philosophy of deity worship

· Mood of worship

· Bhoga offering – theory and practice

· Rituals for purification

· Mantras and meditation

· Standards of worship

· Rituals and culture

· Arati

· Acamana practical