Introduction to Vedic Philosophical Systems
This Proposed learning Capsule is non-credit, informal, and intended for general educational and informational purposes only. They do not constitute a course or academic program.
FACILITATOR / INSTRUCTOR GUIDE
Capsule : Introduction to Vedic Philosophical Systems
Duration: 8 Hours (4 sessions × 2 hours)
Pre-requisite: Open to all
Description
A concise introduction to the six classical darśanas (Sāṃkhya, Yoga, Nyāya, Vaiśeṣika, Mīmāṃsā, Vedānta) with emphasis on Vedānta schools (Advaita, Dvaita, Viśiṣṭādvaita) and Indian epistemology (pramāṇa). Learners compare key principles and explore contemporary applications.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the scope and distinct aims of each classical darśana.
- Differentiate Advaita, Dvaita, and Viśiṣṭādvaita approaches in Vedānta.
- Explain core pramāṇas (means of valid knowledge) in Indian epistemology.
- Apply philosophical insights to ethical and personal decision-making.
Curriculum
- Session 1: Overview of Six Darshanas (Samkhya, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, etc.)
- Session 2: Vedanta Schools – Advaita, Dvaita, Vishishtadvaita
- Session 3: Sankhya vs Yoga: Evolution of Consciousness
- Session 4: Indian Epistemology (Pramana Theory)
Learning Outcomes
- Identify major Vedic philosophical systems and their founders
- Understand the differences and complementarities among the darshanas
- Apply key philosophical principles to modern ethical and personal questions
Structure Overview
Session. Title Duration Delivery Mode Key Focus
1 Survey of Six Darśanas 2 hrs Live / Recorded Foundations & aims
2 Vedānta Schools 2 hrs Live / Recorded Advaita, Dvaita, Viśiṣṭādvaita, Traita
3 Sāṃkhya & Yoga 2 hrs Live / Recorded Cosmology & practice
4. Indian Epistemology 2 hrs Live / Recorded Pramāṇa theory
Session 1: Survey of Six Darśanas
Focus: Foundations & aims
Materials Required
- Slide deck
- Comparative chart (Darśanas)
- Scriptures (Upaniṣads / Yoga Sūtra)
Session Flow (120 minutes)
Time Segment Activity Method
0-10 Opening Invocation/centering; intention setting Om/Shanti mantra
10-30 Foundation teaching Topic overview and Context Mini-lecture + Q&A
30-50 Core Theory Key distinctions; exemplars Comparative analysis
50-65 Contemplation Journaling: ‘Which view resonates and why?’ Individual writing
65-90 Practical Activity Case-study: ethical dilemma via two darśanas Small groups / debate
90–110 Group Sharing Synthesis & reflections Facilitated circle
110–120 Closing Summary & homework Homework brief
Homework / Practice
- Read provided excerpts from primary texts (e.g., Īśa Upaniṣad, Yoga Sūtra).
- Write a 250-word reflection comparing two perspectives on a life choice.
- Attempt LMS quiz (8–10 items).
Session 2: Vedānta Schools
Focus: Advaita, Dvaita, Viśiṣṭādvaita
Materials Required
- Slide deck
- Comparative chart (darśanas)
- Scripture excerpts (Upaniṣads / Yoga Sūtra)
Session Flow (120 minutes)
Time Segment Activity Method
0-10 Opening Invocation/centering; intention setting Om/Shanti mantra
10-30 Foundation teaching Topic overview and Context Mini-lecture + Q&A
30-50 Core Theory Key distinctions; exemplars Comparative analysis
50-65 Contemplation Journaling: ‘Which view resonates and why?’ Individual writing
65-90 Practical Activity Case-study: ethical dilemma via two darśanas Small groups / debate
90–110 Group Sharing Synthesis & reflections Facilitated circle
110–120 Closing Summary & homework Homework brief
Homework / Practice
- Read provided excerpts from primary texts (e.g., Īśa Upaniṣad, Yoga Sūtra).
- Write a 250-word reflection comparing two perspectives on a life choice.
- Attempt LMS quiz (8–10 items).
Session 3: Sāṃkhya & Yoga
Focus: Cosmology & practice
Materials Required
- Slide deck
- Comparative chart (darśanas)
- Scripture excerpts (Upaniṣads / Yoga Sūtra)
Session Flow (120 minutes)
Time Segment Activity Method
0-10 Opening Invocation/centering; intention setting Om/Shanti mantra
10-30 Foundation teaching Topic overview and Context Mini-lecture + Q&A
30-50 Core Theory Key distinctions; exemplars Comparative analysis
50-65 Contemplation Journaling: ‘Which view resonates and why?’ Individual writing
65-90 Practical Activity Case-study: ethical dilemma via two darśanas Small groups / debate
90–110 Group Sharing Synthesis & reflections Facilitated circle
110–120 Closing Summary & homework Homework brief
Homework / Practice
- Read provided excerpts from primary texts (e.g., Īśa Upaniṣad, Yoga Sūtra).
- Write a 250-word reflection comparing two perspectives on a life choice.
- Attempt LMS quiz (8–10 items).
Session 4: Indian Epistemology
Focus: Pramāṇa theory
Materials Required
- Slide deck
- Comparative chart (darśanas)
- Scripture excerpts (Upaniṣads / Yoga Sūtra)
Session Flow (120 minutes)
Time Segment Activity Method
0-10 Opening Invocation/centering; intention setting Om/Shanti mantra
10-30 Foundation teaching Topic overview and Context Mini-lecture + Q&A
30-50 Core Theory Key distinctions; exemplars Comparative analysis
50-65 Contemplation Journaling: ‘Which view resonates and why?’ Individual writing
65-90 Practical Activity Case-study: ethical dilemma via two darśanas Small groups / debate
90–110 Group Sharing Synthesis & reflections Facilitated circle
110–120 Closing Summary & homework Homework brief
Homework / Practice
- Read provided excerpts from primary texts (e.g., Īśa Upaniṣad, Yoga Sūtra).
- Write a 250-word reflection comparing two perspectives on a life choice.
- Attempt LMS quiz (8–10 items).
Suggested Readings & Resources
- Upaniṣads (selected passages) with reliable commentaries.
- Yoga Sūtra of Patañjali (introductory translations).
- Secondary: Handbooks on Indian philosophy and pramāṇa theory.
Facilitator’s Spiritual Grounding
- Invoke your lineage (Guru-parampara) or personal Ishta Devata before the session.
- Anchor the session with a brief sankalpa: ‘May this knowledge serve the welfare of all beings.’
- Maintain a compassionate, non-judgmental tone; honor śraddhā (faith) and viveka (discernment).
Learner Engagement Tips
- Begin with a short invocation or 3 rounds of Om; end with a Shanti Mantra.
- Use Sanskrit terms with clear English gloss; invite questions with humility.
- Incorporate dyads (pair-sharing) and brief journaling to deepen reflection.
- Leverage breakout rooms (for live) or forum prompts (for LMS) for peer learning.
Post-Capsule Wrap-Up
- Share slides, recordings (if any), and reading list PDFs.
- Collect feedback ; compile insights for the future improvement.
- Suggest next-step pathways (advanced capsule or full program).
Fees:
The Registration Fee is USD 25.
We support excellence by providing merit-based scholarships and fee waivers to deserving students. If you need fee waiver or scholarship, apply here. Application for Fee waiver or Scholarship
Start Dates:
All capsule sessions will be offered four times a year, scheduled in alignment with the Vedic Calendar.
1. Uttarāyaṇa Period (Winter Solstice): Dec. 21 to 20 March
2. Devayāna Period (Vernal Equinox): 21 March to 20 June
3. Dakṣiṇāyana Period (Summer Solstice): 21 June to 22 Sept.
4. Pitṛyāna period (Autumn Equinox): 23 Sept. to 20 Dec.
Note: Access will remain open only for the specified duration. Participants are advised to complete and access all learning materials within this period, as access will not be available once the window closes.