Capsule Course: Essence of Upanishad and Self-Inquiry
FACILITATOR / INSTRUCTOR GUIDE
Capsule :Essence of Upanishad and Self-Inquiry
Duration: 6 Hours (3 sessions × 2 hours)
Audience: Those who have interest in spirituality, Yoga, and Philosophy
Course Description
This capsule explores select teachings from the Upanishads as a framework for self-inquiry, understanding the nature of reality, and discovering inner peace. Learners reflect on key concepts like Brahman, Atman, and Maya through the lens of ancient wisdom.
Learning Objectives
- Interpret Upanishadic teachings through the lens of self-inquiry.
- Understand Brahman as the ultimate reality and Atman as the individual self.
- Apply the concept of Maya to understand the illusionary nature of the world.
- Cultivate inner peace and self-awareness through contemplation and meditation.
Curriculum
- Session 1: What is Upanishadic Wisdom?
- Session 2: Mahavakyas and the Path of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga)
- Session 3: Self-Inquiry Practice – Who am I?
Learning Outcomes
- Comprehend the philosophical essence of Upanishadic teachings
- Understand the Mahavakyas and their transformative implications
- Practice guided self-inquiry as a tool for self-awareness
- Interpret core teachings of the Upanishads from the perspective of self-inquiry.
- Apply the concepts of Brahman, Atman, and Maya to understand reality.
- Cultivate inner strength and mental stability through self-awareness.
Course Structure Overview
Session. Title Duration Delivery Mode Key Focus
1 Introduction to Upanishads 2 hrs Live / Recorded Understanding Ultimate Reality
2 Understand the Mahavakyas 2 hrs Live / Recorded Path of Knoweldge
3 Self-Inquiry and Liberation 2 hrs Live / Recorded Discovering Inner Peace
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.Assessment Plan
Type Method Purpose
Reflection Short journal entry or verbal check-in Gauge insight and personal integration
Quiz MCQ (8–10 items) per course Check understanding of key concepts
Certificate Attendance + quiz ≥ 60% + assignment Eligibility for e-Certificate
Post-Course Wrap-Up
- Share slides, recordings (if any), and reading list PDFs.
- Collect feedback via LMS form; compile insights for course improvement.
- Suggest next-step pathways (advanced capsule or full program).
Course Fees:
- All live online (Zoom Class) courses are offered free of charge. Participants are welcome to make voluntary donations at our donation page during or after the course to support its continuation and delivery. For live online course, one can enroll here.
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Self-paced digital correspondence (email based) and pre-recorded video courses can be opted only by the Members . Members will be given a password to access the course/courses of their choice available during that period. If you want to opt for self-paced digital correspondence or pre-recorded video courses, you shall have to apply for any types of membership offered by the VSVV.
Commencement of Course:
- Live Online Courses: Once 60 registrations are received for a particular course, the start date of live online free course will be announced on the portal. We encourage you to regularly check the portal for updates.
- Available Digital correspondence and Pre-recorded Video course can be started at any time by the Members.