November 22, 2015 Bhaja Govindam

Hari Om,
We finally got more copies of Bhaja Govindam this week.
Today we refocused on the Guru Stotram. We chanted the entire stotram and once again looked at the background of this hymn. We discussed the meaning of verses 4-6 in depth and found parallels to tour previous discussion on Bhaja Govindam.
We had some interesting discussions on Bhaja Govindam without actually reading the textbook by elaborating on the concepts we discussed in the earlier weeks.
We talked about the BMI pyramid and how we can achieve success if only we can control our mind and make our intellect strong. We talked about a framework for achieving success discussed in the weekend's lecture using the 3 cs of concentration, consistency and cooperation.
We can remove distractions of mind using the intellect by removing worries of the past or anxieties about the future. We discussed how our vasanas affect our daily transactions and our control of the mind and the strength of our intellect. We also talked about Karma yoga what it is and how it can be a means for realization.
Have a happy Thanksgiving everyone!
See you all next month on December 6th.
Hari Om!

November 15, 2015 Bhaja Govindam

Hari Om!
Today was an interesting day! We had standing room only but no one had the book.
Since we had a huge influx of new people , I gave a slightly abridged introduction to Adi Shankara and Bhaja Govindam for the benefit of the newcomers. I also went over the meaning of the first verse which is the opening verse and more like a refrain that is repeated after each verse.

We then read and discussed the meaning of verse 2. I explained the 2 motivations for all human endeavors according to Vedanta as Dukha Nivritti and Sukha prapti. We saw how these two categories could neatly encompass all the other motivations listed by the various members such as fame, love, money, power, etc.

We talked about how Shankara is not opposed to the notion of wealth but our profound attachment to and greed for wealth. We discussed at length the meaning of attachment and love and dispassion.

The remedy offered here to to contemplate on the "Reality" of life free from all passions. I explained how most of us are not that seeker that Shankara talks about. We don't have that burning desire for liberation - mumukshutvam. In our case, we must find ways to uplift our goals to serve a higher purpose,  a nobler mission and work towards a higher desire. I explained the BMI and how we are P, F and T at the various levels.We saw how desires progress from B to M to I level and the difference it makes to the outcome. Finally we all have to transcend the desires of the body, mind and intellect and realize that we are spirits and only then we reach the level of dispassion Shankara is talking about.

The verse also talks about karma yoga and the notion of "prasada buddhi" where we cultivate contentment and are grateful for all that we have. We had a lengthy discussion about how Vedanta is not opposed to progress and invention but gives us the tools to live life intelligently.

Until next week,
Hari Om!

November 1, 2015 Bhaja Govindam

Hari Om!
In today's class we decided to start with the prayers. Upon consensus, we agreed to start with Guru Stotram even though this is not a part of our curriculum. I explained how we want all kids in BV to know Guru Stotram and Guru Paduka Stotram. We delved into the meaning of the first 3 verses.
Instead of taking the words at face value, I explained the process of arriving at the truth for ourselves.
I had to leave early due to the Sameepa Darshanam at the temple for volunteers so our class was tasked with discussing the second verse and sending me an email or taking notes on their discussion.
Until next week,
Hari Om