Introduction to Our Course Offerings
You are invited to realize your full potential for personal spiritual growth and leadership in society with the help of the Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training.
We offer systematic sastric study courses such as Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava, as well as professional certificates in teaching and leadership and management along with a variety of seminars and workshops.
Situated in the serene and spiritually powerful environment of Sri Mayapur Dham, we offer students an opportunity to deepen their connection to the special blessings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu while residing at His birthplace and the world headquarters of ISKCON.
In addition to our established course offerings, we provide a unique development field for piloting and refining new educational initiatives for the benefit of the Krishna consciousness movement.
Today’s world, crying for guidance in a spiritual wilderness, deserves deeply trained and educated spiritual leaders.
Financial Considerations
The Mayapur Institute’s administration accepts the Vedic principle that sastric knowledge should not be sold. In the past, we called the money we collected from students “tuition fees”, but this made it appear that we were “selling” Vedic knowledge. We now prefer the term “service charges”, as this accurately describes how we use the funds. The service charges merely cover our administrative or non-human infrastructure expenses. Our teachers and administrative staff receive basic necessities from funds derived from non-designated donations that our supporters regularly give. The main principle that Srila Prabhupada emphasized – that teachers not get paid or charge for transferring transcendental knowledge – has always been, and remains a cornerstone of the Mayapur Institute’s ethos.
We are now able to offer partial or full scholarships to qualified students who lack the financial capacity to remit the specified service charges.
Service Charges
Students remit service charges just for the courses they take. We calculate service charges per course based upon the number of class hours in the course (see the table below). Students remit these funds at the time of registration in Mayapur.
| Hours in Course | Service Charges |
|---|---|
| 6 hours or less | Rs.800 |
| 7 – 14 hours | Rs.1000 |
| 15 – 19 hours | Rs.1350 |
| 20 – 29 hours | Rs.1900 |
| 30 – 35 hours | Rs.2450 |
| 36 – 39 hours | Rs.2975 |
Service charges do not cover room and board, but do cover course materials.
Please refer to our Course Descriptions for the starting date and duration for each course. You can add or drop classes through the second day of classes. You must get teacher approval to enter a course once it has begun.
The Service Charges are Rs.9500 for the Bhakti-sastri Course and Rs.9000 for each 13-week module of the Bhaktivaibhava Course.
We do not give refunds, but students may apply their remittances to other courses, another devotee, or another semester.
Parikramas: Discovering the Dhama
Devotees who have taken the Mayapur Institute's Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava Courses over the years have found them to be deeply inspiring and an opportunity for tremendous personal growth. Still these courses can be intense and many students have felt they could use more transcendental breaks throughout the duration of their courses.
With this in mind, the Mayapur Institute has developed a Navadvipa Dhama Parikrama Program led once a week by our teachers. Of course, not only will our students get breaks that will deeply satisfy their hearts, but they will also enter more deeply into their relationships with Navadvipa Dhama and with the Vaisnavas who are revealing the Dhama.
| 2008 - 2009 Mayapur Institute Parikrama Schedule | ||
| Date | Venue | Parikrama Leader |
| November 15 | Koladvipa: Dhameshwar Mahaprabhu | Jayadvaita Swami Jayapataka Swami |
| November 29 | Modadrumadvipa: Mamgachi | Jayadvaita Swami |
| December 13
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Simantadvipa: Jagganatha Temple | Jananivasa dasa Panjakanghri dasa |
| January 12-15 | Gangar Sagar Mela | Bhakti Purusottama Swami |
| January 24 | Antardvipa: Yoga Pitha / Caitanya Math | Jananivasa dasa Panjakanghri dasa BVV Narasimha Swami |
| February 7 | Godrumadvipa: Bhaktivinoda Thakur's House | Jananivasa dasa Panjakanghri dasa BVV Narasimha Swami |
Systematic Sastric Study
On January 6, 1976, Srila Prabhupada directed the GBC to implement a graduated system of sastric examinations to ensure that his disciples were carefully studying his books. Srila Prabhupada could understand that due to insufficient sastric knowledge, some of his followers were improperly representing him, others were falling down, and many were unsteady in their service. He hoped to remedy these problems by encouraging the systematic study of his books.
In pursuance of Srila Prabhupada’s directive, the Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training now offers the Vaishnava Training and Education (VTE) Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava Courses.
Vaishnava Training and Education (VTE), a UK based developer of devotional curriculum, describes the overall purpose of systematic sastric study as follows:
To nurture the evolution of a brahminical, Krishna-conscious leadership, whose members are expert in the study and assimilation of sastric knowledge and are proficient in its application – in their own lives, in helping others, and in perpetuating the mission of Srila Prabhupada.
These courses use a personalized approach to learning. They encourage students to go beyond simply memorizing the content of Srila Prabhupada’s books by digesting the philosophy and practically applying it, as delineated in the VTE Aims of Systematic Sastric Study.
Focusing on behavior and character, these courses nurture students in appropriate Vaishnava values. Professionally designed and written, they draw on the principles of Krishna consciousness and the best of progressive education. They are thus true to ISKCON’s heritage and at the same time relevant to its mission within contemporary society.
The Mayapur Institute has implemented and enhanced the courses developed by VTE, presenting them through a highly qualified team of facilitators and staff.
Currently focusing on the Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava degrees, the Mayapur Institute will eventually provide the full range of Bhakti degree courses envisioned by Srila Prabhupada and described by Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu with penetrating realizations of the need for these courses within ISKCON in his paper, “ISKCON and Varnasrama-Dharma: A Mission Unfulfilled”.
Twelve Aims of Systematic Sastric Study
The following Aims apply to all four VTE Sastric degrees, starting with Bhakti-sastri. These Aims are weighted differently for each of the four main courses. The first three Aims relate to cognition (going respectively from memorization through intellectual understanding to full realization), the second three to application (skills) and the remaining six to values and higher skills.
To help students memorize and recall the (theoretical) knowledge which forms the foundation of their ongoing progress in Krishna Consciousness.
To deepen students’ understanding of the Krishna consciousness theology, particularly through studying it from a wide range of perspectives and through developing thoughtfulness and introspection.
To equip students with the ability to see through the eyes of sastra, and with a Krishna conscious worldview. Ultimately, to assist the students in realizing scripture, re-establishing their relationship with Krishna and remaining conscious of Him at all times and in all places.
To help students apply the Krishna Consciousness theology, with reference to:
- their external practices
- their inner development and to help them develop appropriate Vaisnava qualities and behavior.
To enhance devotees desire and ability to preach effectively.
To help create learned Vaisnava theologians who are expert in assisting the Society through application of sastric knowledge to a wide range of personal, social, moral, topical and theological issues.
- understanding and appreciating the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada
- perpetuating that understanding within the Society and its members.
To ensure that devotes develop moral and academic integrity in the interpretation, evaluation and application of sastric knowledge.
To simultaneously cultivate within devotees:
- wholehearted acceptance of the spiritual authority of shastra
- a mood of open and honest inquiry and a desire to factually understand and realize the import of Vedic knowledge.
To help build and maintain students’ faith and conviction in:
- the process of Krishna consciousness
- the sastra as its foundation
To develop students’ analytical, interpretative and evaluative skills, particularly in respect of the practical application of sastric knowledge.
To encourage students to take responsibility for their learning and develop healthy study habits by:
- enhancing their desire to study Srila Prabhupada’s books (particularly by nurturing their appreciation of shastra and sastric study, and by demonstrating sastra’s relevance to everyday life)
- equipping them with the appropriate learning skills
VTE Bhakti-Sastri Course
 | In the early 1970s after his arrival at a New York airport, a reporter asked Srila Prabhupada, 'Why have you come to the West?' 'I have come', Prabhupada replied, 'to give you a brain. Your society', he continued, 'is headless.' Using the analogy of the human body, he explained the articulation of human society into four varnas. He then asserted that modern Western society was malformed. 'There are a few vaisyas and everyone else is sudra.' In other words, those now engaged in research and education, in government and defense, are, knowingly or unknowingly, in the employ of a handful of vaisyas. (Prabhupada's perception is perhaps supported by the report that in America, five percent of the families now control ninety percent of the wealth.) There are no proper brahmanas or ksatriyas. |
| Prabhupada's intention was to re-create a class of genuine brahmanas. This would help rectify the deformities of modern society and ameliorate the spiritual, psychological, social, political and ecological problems spawned by a hypertrophy of economic development and other outgrowths of unrestrained rajo-guna. Prabhupada notes: 'Modern civilization is considered to be advanced in the standard of the mode of passion. Formerly, the advanced condition was considered to be in the mode of goodness' (Bg. 14.7, purport). Genuine brahmanas, he hoped, would help reset the priorities of advanced civilization. Yet Prabhupada's mission of creating brahmanas was in a sense derivative, a kind of automatic by-product of the primary mission of producing Vaishnavas. The word Vaishnava in the strictest sense denotes a pure devotee of God, one who is accordingly transcendental to all the modes of nature. Brahmanas, however, are conditioned by the mode of goodness, and Prabhupada wanted to produce liberated souls. Such liberated Vaishnavas are more advanced than even brahmanas. Nevertheless, in society his Vaishnavas would function primarily as brahmanas. | |
| It should be recognized that historically speaking the Vaishnava traditions in India have all propagated a socially and spiritually radical teaching. Vaishnavism fostered the spiritual enfranchisement of previously disenfranchised groups, and, in so doing, undercut the spiritual (and social) prerogatives of the hereditary brahminical caste. Hence in the Bhagavad-gita (9.32) Krsna cites groups traditionally considered unqualified for spiritual advancement — he mentions women, vaisyas and sudras — and says that by practicing devotion to Him they can 'attain the supreme destination.' In the Bhagavatam (3.33.6) it is stated that even an outcaste (svadah — a dog-eater), if engaging in devotional practices, becomes immediately qualified to perform Vedic sacrifice (traditionally, of course, the monopoly of brahmana males). |  |
Such statements reflect the conviction that bhakti-yoga, devotional service to Krsna, is so spiritually powerful that it can quickly uplift even the most morally and spiritually debased people. Thus facilitated, one does not need to spend many lifetimes transmigrating up the caste hierarchy to reach the brahminical platform. Bhakti-yoga can take sudras, and those even less qualified, and transform them into Vaishnavas and brahmanas. Prabhupada's own Bengali Vaishnava tradition, as reformed by Caitanya at the beginning of the sixteenth century, paid great respect to this spiritual egalitarianism. So schooled, Prabhupada came to try out this principle in the West — in the United States in the 1960s. It was, of necessity, a kind of experiment." The Mayapur Institute's VTE Bhakti-sastri Course is a powerful first step for anyone wanting to undergo the training and education required to begin functioning as a brahmana teacher / preacher. | |
Benefits
Why take this course?
In Chapter Thirteen of the Nectar of Devotion Srila Prabhupada describes five potent forms of devotional service:
- serving the Deity with great devotion
- recitation of the Srimad Bhagavatam among devotees
- associating with advanced devotees
- chanting the holy name of the Lord
- living in the holy dhama.
| He indicates that by engaging in these activities even a neophyte can make rapid advancement and experience transcendental ecstasy. In the Caitanya-caritamrta Krishnadasa Kaviraja Gosvami describes that even a slight performance of panca anga bhakti awakens love for Krishna.
The Mayapur Institute of Higher Education and Trainiing will provide an environment conducive for devotees to practice these five potent forms of devotional service to their hearts content. Participants will have easy access to serene places to study, potent places of pilgrimage, great association, gorgeous Deities to worship, an enlivening morning and evening program, nice accommodations, and great prasadam. We are eagerly inviting you to join us in Sri Mayapur Dhama for the upcoming VTE (Vaishnava Training and Education) Bhakti-sastri Course. Then please stay in Mayapur for the Gaura Purnima Courses, from which you can acquire powerful devotional and life skills that will help you become more effective intruments of the parampara. You may also participate in the Sat-sanga Seminars, and the Navadvipa Dhama Parikramas during both the Bhakti-sastri course and the Gaura Purnima Festival. We can assure you that you will have very memorable and deeply satisfying experiences. |
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| Based upon feedback from our former students, you can expect increases in the following after taking this Bhakti-sastri course:
Please read "Seed of a Sage Vision" to get a more in-depth look into the benefits our devotees have experienced. To understand the importance of taking this course within the context of ISKCON's development, please read Ravindra Svarupa Prabhu's "ISKCON and Varnasrama-Dharma: A Mission Unfulfilled". We hope to serve you soon in Sridhama Mayapur.
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Maximizing Devotee Empowerment: Enhanced Bhakti-sastri Curriculum
The Mayapur Institute will be piloting a revised approach to the VTE Bhakti-sastri course on November 9, 2008 in Sridhama Mayapur. This new curriculum deals with the main subjects of Bhakti-sastri in seven distinct units. These seven units reflect the fundamental principles of learning presented in the VTE approach to education, wherein students progressively learn knowledge, skills and values in a systematic manner.
Benefits
This approach will benefit our students on the practical and educational levels and will improve the quality of their overall experience in the course:
Practical Level
The course can be taught on either a full or part-time schedule. Students have the option of completing the course over an extended period of time, if they cannot complete all the units within one semester.
Educational Level
Information is categorized, filed and accessed in our subtle bodies in terms of subjects. Learning new information is easier when it is categorized in terms of subjects. Dividing the content of Bhakti-sastri material into seven specific subjects utilizes this natural approach to learning.
Qualitative Level
Separately assessing the respective units of the course facilitates more regular assessment, thus making the assessment more relevant to the day-to-day learning experiences of our students. Assessment done in this sattvic way will reduce stress and anxiety students may feel regarding assessment that is less regular.
Overview of course structure
| Section | Unit | Topic | Content |
Understanding of Bhakti-sastras |
1 | Dharma in Bhagavad-gita | Bhagavad-gita Chapters 1-2 |
| 2 | Yoga ladder & jnana in Bhagavad-gita | Bhagavad-gita Chapters 3-6 | |
| 3 | Pure Krsna Bhakti | Nectar of Devotion Intro - Chapter 5, Bhagavad-gita Chapters 7-12 |
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Application of Bhakti-sastras |
4 | Sadhana-bhakti | Nectar of Devotion Chapters. 6-19, Nectar of instruction |
| 5 | Preaching from Bhakti-sastras | Sri Isopanisad, Various Bhakti-sastri Material |
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| 6 | Elevation through Modes of Nature | Bhagavad-gita Chapters 13-18 | |
Values in Bhakti-sastras |
7 | Qualities of a Bhakti-sastri | Various Bhakti-sastri Material |
Section 1: Understanding of the Bhakti-sastras
Facilitators in the beginning of the course will focus on subjects, such as varnasrama-dharma, yoga ladder, and pure Krsna-bhakti. In this section the students’ learning emphasis will be on understanding the Bhakti-sastras. This first section of three units draws from the Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 1 through 12, and the Nectar of Devotion, Introduction through Chapter 5.
Orientation - November 9
Unit 1 - November 10 - 21
Topic: Dharma in Bhagavad-gita
Content: Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 1-2Unit 2 - November 24 - December 5
Topic: Yoga ladder & Jnana in Bhagavad-gita
Content: Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 3-6Unit 3 - December 8 - 26
Topic: Pure Krsna Bhakti
Content: Nectar of Devotion, Introduction - Chapter 5 & Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 7-12
Section 2: Application of the Bhakti-sastras
After students have sufficiently explored and understood the basic philosophical subjects, they will progress into the units dealing with personal application with subjects such as sadhana-bhakti and elevation through the modes. Students will also study preaching applications such as defeating Mayavada philosophy and addressing inappropriate worship of the devatas. This section draws material from Bhagavad-gita, Chapters 13-18, Nectar of Devotion, Chapters 6-19, Nectar of Instruction and Sri Isopanisad.
Unit 4 - December 29 - January 9
Topic: Sadhana-bhakti
Content: Nectar of Devotion, Ch.6-19 & Nectar of InstructionBreak (Ganga Sagara Mela) - January 12 -16
Unit 5 - January 19 - 30
Topic: Preaching from Bhakti-sastras
Content: Sri Isopanisad & Various Bhakti-sastri materialsUnit 6 - February 2 - 6
Topic: Elevation through Modes of Nature
Content: Bhagavad-gita , Chapters 13 - 18
Section 3: Values in the Bhakti-sastras
In the final section of this course, facilitators will address appropriate attitudes for a Bhakti-sastri graduate. Students will thoroughly explore topics such as guru-tattva, perpetuating Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission, the mood of a Bhakti-sastri preacher, and cooperation within ISKCON. This section draws from various materials throughout the Bhakti-sastras and, in addition to exploring appropriate attitudes, consolidates the learning achieved in the previous units.
- Unit 7 - February 8 – 12
Topic: Qualities of a Bhakti-sastri
Content: Various Bhakti-sastri materials
Bhakti-sastri Assessment
Facilitators will assess students in each of the seven course units and will give students ongoing reports of their progress. This style of regular and transparent assessment will reduce students’ anxieties regarding assessment. Students who are unable to complete all seven units at once, due to other commitments, can complete the course over two or more years, as successfully completed units remain credited.
Mentoring System
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We are implementing a mentoring system for our Bhakti-sastri Course, in which 10 to 14 students, who are reasonably senior and experienced, will each look after four or six less senior devotees. The mentors will work closely with our Bhakti-sastri Course Mentoring System Coordinators, Vrajalila devi dasi and Ekavira dasa, and will help those in their charge as much as possible. We feel this Bhakti-sastri Mentoring System will add a valuable element of personal care to our students' educational experience. Mentors will support students in their sadhana, homework, sloka learning, and personal challenges. |
Testimonials from ISKCON Leaders
I have taught the ISKCON Leadership and Management course, as well the Communication Course, as part of the MIHET for almost 10 years.
I find the opportunities to educate devotees from our international community at Mayapur are an untapped treasure. As Lord Chaitanya's movement spreads around the globe, it is mandatory that we train our new members in understanding the depth of Vaishnava philosophy and culture, as well as in practical skills to improve their service to Srila Prabhupada's movement.
Without facilitating training and education, we fail to serve our new members–and our children–properly, and we fail to capitalize on the opportunities that Lord Chaitanya gives us to serve his mission.
When education and training are given priority at our world headquarters, we are building a culture of service to the devotees, and developing a standard of excellence for ISKCON—that combined will help transform the world."
Anuttama dasa, GBC & ISKCON Communications Minister
"I see the MIHET as representing the future direction of the Krishna Consciousness Movement. It is extremely important that the devotees get a "systematic" education in the philosophy, so that they can be steady in their own spiritual life, and capable of helping others come to Srila Prabhupada's lotus feet."
Bir Krishna das Goswami, GBC
"My experience is that devotees, who attend the MIHET VTE Bhakti-shastri Course, become competent preachers of our Krishna conscious philosophy. Many are establishing centers and conducting seminars without assistance from others.
In Taiwan for example, one householder couple, who took the course, now have their own center in a large city in southern Taiwan. They are recognized by the local people as authorities on the science of yoga, and are, therefore, regularly asked to give lectures to yoga teachers and their students. They both feel confident to handle preaching engagements on their own although they get only limited association with senior devotees. They are full of appreciation for the training they received at the MIHET
We also had several Chinese devotees with good English skills take the course, and, upon their return, were able to translate the Bhakti-shastri materials into Chinese and are now offering the course to Chinese devotees."
B.V.V. Narasimha Maharaja
"Here in Mayapur, we have the Bhakti-shastri program. I have heard from so many devotees who have studied Bhakti-shastri here in the holy atmosphere of the dhama that their lives were transformed by three or four months of daily full time study of Srila Prabhupada books. They said it just turned their whole life around.
Why? Your life will become transformed one way or another when you deeply accept the principles, these sacred principles of sastra, Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam. You have to think about these things and allow your head and your heart to be challenged. That is how you experience spiritual growth. Srila Prabhupada was expert at doing that on his morning walks. He would challenge your conceptions, he would challenge your assumptions, and then he would insert the real knowledge that Lord Krishna gives."
Devamrita Swami, GBC, in Bhagavatam class on March 1, 2006 in Mayapur
"It's just a damn good program!"
Jayadvaita Swami
"I am deeply impressed and inspired by the quality of learning experiences that many devotees have undergone in taking either the Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training VTE Bhakti-sastri or Bhaktivaibhava Courses. Some devotess have described their experiences to me in these course as the most "ecstatic", "meaningful", or "wonderful" experiences of their devotional careers. I have noticed that those who have taken these courses become more serious and steady in their spiritual lives and develop a deeper understanding of Srila Prabhupada's mood and mission. Naturally, they also become much more expert at giving classes and preaching.
Of course, you can and should study Srila Prabhupada's books regularly whereever you are in the world. If, however, you could somehow or other come to Sridhama Mayapur and take the Bhakti-sastri course and then maybe some, if not all, of the Bhaktivaibhava course, you will find that your devotional learning experience would be enhanced enormously.
Srila Prabhupada often told us that devotional service performed in the holy dhama earns a thousand times more benefit than the same service rendered outside the dhama. Furthermore, the "Navadvipa-dhama Mahatmya" states, "The glories of other holy places are present hundreds and millions of times over in Navadvipa in the age of Kali. Navadvipa is filled with ever-increasing bliss. All the holy tirthas reside in Navadvipa; therefore, by serving in Navadvipa one automatically serves all the tirthas".
Srila Prabhupada's personal ecstasies, the Bhaktivedanta purports, will come alive for you in the sanctity of Sridhama Mayapur. Studying Prabhupada's books in Mayapur will be a very special and unforgettable experience, which will stimulate deep Krishna conscious realizations that will remain with you for the rest of your life."
Jayapataka Swami, GBC & Mayapur Co-director
"The MIHET provides an opportunity for young devotees, many of whom are just finishing their required, often mundane, education, to study Srila Prabhupada's books in the transcendental home of Lord Chaitanya, Sri Dhama Mayapur. The temple offers a dynamic spiritual program and the community offers an abundance of sadhu sanga. This is a perfect spritual setting for the rare jewel of systematic sastric study. In addition, the program is affordable, safe and comfortable.
The MIHET offers a well-rounded and philosophically stimulating curriculum which is especially helpful for devotees who are contemplating how to expand their service within Srila Prabhupada's movement and deepen their own Krishna Consciousness.
Srila Prabhupada wanted all the ISKCON members to be well versed in sastra and strong in their devotional practices so that they could imbibe a dynamic preaching spirit and thus inundate the whole world with prema Bhakti. The MIHET is making a significant contribution to fulfilling this mission."
Laxmimoni dasi, Ministry of Educational Development
"The MIHET is a wonderful project that has already benefited so many, however, it is but at the dawn of its development. The Hare Krsna Movement without education is no longer the Hare Krsna Movement. I look forward to the day when the MIHET is not only the centre of advanced studies in Mayapur but is at the very heart of the Mayapur project itself. The MIHET is the perfect finishing school for all the students who have come through the other schools at Mayapur, as well as a magnet for all international Vaisnavas who want to have a 3rd level devotional education. Naturally, the next step is for the MIHET to have a facility to match the wonderful service they are providing, a purpose built campus that after the temple, is the central feature of the Mayapur project would do nicely."Praghosa dasa, GBC
"It is said "If you wish to invest in a person's future, then invest in his education!" This is true! I have met many of the students who took courses in the MIHET. They all told me how important their time of study was for their spiritual life. Yes, it prepared them for a wonderful future in Krishna-Consciousness. I wish that many more devotees will benefit from this spiritual life university!"
Sacinandana Swami
"I am convinced that the MIHET will play a very significant role in shaping ISKCON's future.
I look forward to the day when it will transform into the Bhaktivedanta College and have a large campus with hundreds of students."
Sesa dasa, GBC and Minister of Educational Development
"Our beloved spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, was very impressed by Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakur's commentary on Bhagavad-gita 2.41, the essence of which was exemplified by Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakur's dear most disciple, Srila Baladeva Vidyabhusana. Srila Prabhupada derived such inspiration from Srila Baladeva Vidyabhusana's vyavasayatmika buddhi mood that Srila Prabhupada dedicated his Bhagavad-gita As It Is to him.
Srila Prabhupada writes in the Bhagavad-gita 2.41 purport: "Service in Krishna Consciousness is, however, best practiced under the able guidance of a spiritual master who is a bona fide representative of Krishna, who knows the nature of the student and who can guide him to act in Krishna Consciousness. As such, to be well versed in Krishna Consciousness, one has to act firmly and obey the representative of Krishna, and one should accept the instruction of the bona fide spiritual master as one's mission in life."
The MIHET is attempting to provide and foster this understanding for serious and sincere disciples in ISKCON. By taking advantage of the wonderful facility the MIHET provides, one can fulfill the mission of life."
Vedavyasapriya Swami
Testimonials from Students
It was without a doubt the most wonderful experience of my life. I'm sure that either systematically studying Srila Prabhupada's books or residing in Sridhama Mayapur for a few months fully engaged in service would have been transcendentally enlivening, but the combination was exponentially ecstatic. I very much appreciated Atul Krishna Prabhu's enthusiasm, expertise and mood, Jayadvaita Maharaja's patience and thoughtfulness with all our questions, and Hari Sauri Prabhu's dedication and expert intertwining of his experiences with Srila Prabhupada. Although I've practically grown up reading the Bhagavad Gita As It Is, I felt like I read it for the first time at the MIHET.
Best of all was the association of the students. It seems like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Himself screens who is allowed to come (how I snuck in I don't know), because everyone was so sincere in their desire to deepen their Krishna Consciousness and better equip themselves to spread the Lord's mercy."
Navin Jani, M.A.Urban Planning & Ph.D. student at University of California - Irvine
"Although I have studied Srila Prabhupada's books for many years, taking this course has deepened my understanding and realizations in many ways. Because learning in this course focuses not only on acquiring knowledge, but also on understanding and sastra caksus, as well as personal, preaching and theological application, students undergo rapid character development.
The MIHET VTE Bhakti-shastri Course helped me to understand Srila Prabhupada, his mood and his mission as well as my personal service within that mission more deeply.
Therefore I recommend to all the members of ISKCON to follow this course at Sri Mayapura Dhama. It gave me more faith and conviction and brought me a step closer in serving Sri Sri Radha Madhava and Their servants with devotion."
Lilasuka dasa (Secretary for the Governing Body Commission)
"The course really sobered me, the way I see and deal with people. It was the teachers. They empowered and challenged me to apply what I was learning. To complete the course, I had to discipline my mind and senses more than ever. But I also tasted more love and trust with the devotees than I ever have. I want to learn more, and teach others."
Mahamantra dasa (20), Australia
"It was the way the teachers taught, – lots of group work and interactive learning, using music, art, and drama. At nineteen, I was the youngest student, and I was afraid to speak in front of so many senior devotees. But they encouraged me and gave me confidence that I could realize the truth of the Bhagavad-gita. I read it all the way through for the first time.
Bhakti-Shastri pacified my heart and gave my studies and career goals a transcendent purpose—to please Krishna. I owe a lot to my facilitators."
Vijaya Devi Dasi (19), Medical Student, Bolivia
"I must say that the Bhakti-shastri course exceeded my expectations. I thought it would be lectures with questions and answers, but it was so interactive; practically the students were involved in the teaching process from the beginning. The course materials and recordings were professionally done, the facilitators well trained and chosen, and the classes well organized. And the MIHE staff was always ready to help us with whatever inquiries or problems we had. I was astonished at how hard they worked, practically day and night, to make sure everything ran smoothly.
While taking Bhakti-shastri, I personally felt that I made some friends for life. I had the feeling that we in ISKCON are really part of a big family, and I got a deeper appreciation for the devotees from all over the world who are serving in their various capacities. I have gotten valuable gems of experience I cannot wait to take home to Trinidad and share with my friends, family, and well-wishers. I am convinced that by the mercy of my spiritual master and the devotees, I am able to remain as a servant in this unique and wonderful society of devotees founded by Prabhupada to fulfill the mission of Lord Chaitanya."
Santa-vigraha Dasa (24), Trinidad
"I'd say Bhakti-shastri revolutionized my spiritual life. I'll never be the same after taking the course. Now I feel so strong, inspired, and enriched by studying Srila Prabhupada's books, and I just want to preach Krishna consciousness all over the world."Sita dasi (19),
Vaishnava youth, Australia
"I would recommend Bhakti-shastri as increasing one's personal spiritual health and desire to preach. The essays we had to write really tested our ability to apply the knowledge in Prabhupada's books and our ability to explain it to others, thus making us think seriously about both. That was most impressive."
Krishna-kripa dasa, Krishna.com correspondent, U.S.A.
"Philosophy I did not fully understand has become clear. Now I am more determined in my spiritual practices. I saw the conviction of the teachers in Prabhupada's mission."
"Before taking the Bhakti-shastri, I never really understood what Srila Prabhupada's mood and mission was, and how everything he said was really based on sastra. So that really amazed me and gave me a lot of faith in reading Srila Prabhupada's books."
Bhaktin Shalini , Ireland
"The integrity of the facilitators, their commitment to sastric study and their living according to Vedic ideals proved to be great models for personal growth. Prabhupada's books were re-established in the center of our lives."
Santi Parayana dasa (Traveling Preacher, Laksmi Nrsimha Polish Tour)
"The presentation on Bhagavad-gita was thorough and stimulating. During these three months, I've gained a better grasp of the details of Bhagavad gita than what I'd gained in many years of trying to fathom what seemed to be enigmas and puzzling passages."
Kaliya Krishna dasa (Traveling Sankirtana, Australia and S.E. Asia)
"It is really great to study Srila Prabhupada's books in detail. Personally, the course is allowing me to be more confident when I'm preaching. I've developed a great taste to read Prabhupada's books and that taste keeps growing more and more."
Carudesna dasa (Temple President, Ivory Coast, West Africa)
"I am happy to be home, although I must say that attending the Bhakti-shastri course was one of the most enriching things I have ever done. I am still feeling separation from the many devotees with whom I shared that ecstatic 13 weeks.
I am aching for some Mayapur association. All glories to Sri Mayapur Dham. All glories to the MIHET!"
Kaivalya Sundari dd (New Talavan Farm, USA)
Key Verses to Memorize
Sanskrit and English translation of the following verses are required for memorization. Verses will be orally assessed at the end of each Module. All verses will be assessed for Unit 7.
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
- Nectar of Devotion (2 verses):
- Bhagavad-gita (15 verses):
Unit 4
- Nectar of Devotion (2 verses):
- Nectar of Instruction (3 verses):
Unit 5
- Sri Isopanisad (2 verses):
Unit 6
Unit 7
- All of the above verses
Total 42 Verses
Assessment
During our educational careers, many of us had an abundance of what we refer to in our VTE Teacher Training Courses as negative learning experiences. Perhaps the majority of these negative learning experiences, which are referred to as such because they don’t encourage learning, but rather impede it, revolved around assessment.
Remember those dreaded final exams.
Don’t worry, the assessments in our Bhakti-sastri course are completely different than what you have ever experienced before. Our teachers stress that when our students go through the assessment process they are simply engaging in devotion service by diving deeply into the nectar of Srila Prabhupada’s books and trying their best to understand and apply our Gaudiya Vaishnava philosophy.
We don’t publicize the results of the assessments, but rather the results are between teacher and student and are dealt with in such a way as to assist the student in learning and assimilating this transcendental knowledge. As a result, our process of assessment does not encourage students to do well on exams to achieve profit, distinction and adoration, but rather encourages them to make spiritual advancement.
Our assessment process is wholistic in that it addresses the knowledge, understanding values, and skills devotees require to be effective preachers, teachers and leaders within Srila Prabhupada’s movement.
Remember how we used to “cram for exams” filling our heads with useless knowledge, answering from rote memory on the exam, and then forgetting what we learned the next day? What a waste...
In our assessment process, only 40% of the assessment mark is based upon memory and recall which includes sloka memorization. Students undergo oral assessment on the slokas, which is how devotees will use the slokas in their preaching. In another 5% of the assessment mark, students keep track of their own sadhana practices, and, as a result, most of our students have the best sadhana of anyone in Mayapur. After experiencing deep taste from these practices, most students upon graduation continue to make these strong sadhana practices an integral part of their devotional lives.
We will save the remaining assessment details for when you are in Mayapur, but, in summary, you will be assessed on the basis of your devotional knowledge, understanding, skills and values. The assessment will be a very important and positive aspect of your devotional learning experience from which you will achieve deep happiness. You may not get straight A’s, but you certainly will get a lot of transcendental bliss.
Requirements
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The VTE designed this course for devotees who have been seriously practicing Krishna Consciousness for at least a year and have basic sastric knowledge and understanding. All students must follow the 4 regulative principles, chant 16 rounds, and attend the daily morning program. Before a prospective student comes to Mayapur, his ISKCON authority must submit to the MIHET administration a letter of recommendation indicating confidence in the prospective student's qualification to participate in this course. |
VTE Bhaktivaibhava Courses
Last year the Mayapur Institute piloted an exciting new version of the VTE Bhaktivaibhava Course, Module 1 (cantos 1 - 3). The response from students and senior educators, who sat in on the class was phenomenal. Now the Mayapur Institute Sastric Curriculum Development Team in close consultation with the VTE is fine-tuning Module 1 and is working on the curriculum for Module 2 (cantos 4 - 6). Both Modules will begin on November 9, 2008 and will have clear aims and objectives specifically designed to enliven, inspire and empower students.
The VTE has established the Overall Purpose of Systematic Sastric Study as follows: "To nurture the evolution of a brahminical, Krishna-conscious leadership, whose members are expert in the study and assimilation of sastric knowledge and are proficient in its application–in their own lives, in helping others, and in perpetuating the mission of Srila Prabhupada." The specific aims & objectives of the VTE Bhaktivaibhava Course are not only building upon the aims and objectives of the VTE Bhakti-sastri Course, but are also preparing students for further development in the future VTE Bhaktivedanta and VTE Bhakti-sarvabhauma Courses. Overview of the VTE Bhaktivaibhava Course The VTE Bhaktivaibhava Course has 4 components of 13 weeks each:
Students will study much of the material before they come to Mayapur, enabling them to spend less time away from their preaching fields and optimize their learning while in Mayapur. The Preliminary Study Units include:
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Each Unit, consisting of 5 lessons taught over a week long period, will be seperately assessed during the course. This system allows students to keep their credits for completed units even if they do not sit an entire module (i.e Module 1 Cantos 1-3 or Module 2 Cantos 4-6). When they return, at a later time, to finish their degree, completed units will not have to be reassessed.
Contact the course supervisors at Mayapur.Institute@pamho.net for more details on compleing the course in sections and part time study.
This course has a very developed system of assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the students based upon the aims and objectives of the course, thus dramatically enhancing the students' learning and growth.
Benefits of Taking the Mayapur Institute Bhaktivaibhava Course
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Atul Krsna dasa, Mayapur Institute Systematic Sastric Study Coordinator, discusses with a prospective student about the Mayapur Institute Bhaktivaibhava Course: |
Q.) Why do you think the Bhaktivaibhava course is important?
I feel that all full-time ISKCON preachers or administrators should get the opportunity to take the Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava courses at some time during their devotional careers. Prabhupada has given everything in his Bhaktivedanta purports to the first six Cantos of Srimad-Bhagavatam. We should take advantage of the legacy Prabhupada has left us through the medium of the Bhaktivaibhava course. All serious aspiring madhyama bhaktas in ISKCON should study Prabhupada books at least to the level of Bhaktivaibhava.
Q.) Why shouldn’t we just study Srila Prabhupada’s books on our own? Why do we need to come to Mayapur to take a course?
It is a rare soul who can all alone maintain a systematic thorough study of the first six Cantos of Bhagavatam. Most devotees find the course curriculum, the support of the facilitators, the association of fellow students and the mercy of Sri Dhama Mayapur essential components contributing to success in their studies. Srila Prabhupada specifically mentioned in various letters that he wanted his books to be studied in a systematic way and degrees awarded.
Q.) What could I expect if I participated in the Mayapur Institute Bhaktivaibhava course?
As with our VTE Bhakti-sastri course, we have designed our Bhaktivaibhava course with clear aims and objectives, and we facilitate the course in a very interactive manner. The weekly schedule involves trained VTE facilitators conducting Structured Learning Classes and senior ISKCON leaders and preachers facilitating Thematic Discussions. Facilitators will assign various types of project work during the course concluding with individual student presentations before final graduation.
Q.) What is special about the Mayapur Institute Bhaktivaibhava course which may not be there in other Bhaktivaibhava courses?
Here in Mayapur, we are currently developing a standard Bhaktivaibhava curriculum.
In particular, we are preparing:
- Supportive material for facilitators to conduct an effective course.
- Resources for the students to guide them in their private reading, such as chapter overviews and short answer study questions.
We are also:
- Organizing the content of the Bhagavatam into assessable modules and study units with clear learning objectives, and we are delineating what students will achieve at various stages throughout the course.
- Establishing standards for accrediting a Bhaktivaibhava degree.
Q.) What could a student expect to achieve by completing the Mayapur Institute Bhaktivaibhava course?
- Enhanced knowledge and understanding of the content of the first six Cantos of Srimad Bhagavatam.
- Improvement in one’s personal application of the practices of bhakti.
- Development of preaching skills with reference to the first six Cantos of Srimad Bhagavatam.
- Deepened appreciation of Srila Prabhupäda’s mood and mission as revealed in his purports to the first six Cantos of Srimad Bhagavatam.
- Increased taste from and appreciation for the basic practices of hearing and discussing Srimad Bhagavatam in the association of devotees.
- Enhanced appreciation of Sri Dhama Mayapur.
In summary, devotees will experience a guaranteed improvement in their devotional lives. 
Leaders Testimonials
”I see the MIHET as representing the future direction of the Krishna Consciousness Movement. It is extremely important that the devotees get a "systematic" education in the philosophy, so that they can be steady in their own spiritual life, and capable of helping others come to Srila Prabhupada's lotus feet.”
“It's just a damn good program!”
Jayadvaita Swami
"I am deeply impressed and inspired by the quality of learning experiences that many devotees have undergone in taking either the Mayapur Institute for Higher Education and Training VTE Bhakti-sastri or Bhaktivaibhava Courses. Some devotess have described their experiences to me in these course as the most "ecstatic", "meaningful", or "wonderful" experiences of their devotional careers. I have noticed that those who have taken these courses become more serious and steady in their spiritual lives and develop a deeper understanding of Srila Prabhupada's mood and mission. Naturally, they also become much more expert at giving classes and preaching.
Of course, you can and should study Srila Prabhupada's books regularly wherever you are in the world. If, however, you could somehow or other come to Sridhama Mayapur and take the Bhakti-sastri course and then maybe some, if not all, of the Bhaktivaibhava course, you will find that your devotional learning experience would be enhanced enormously.
Srila Prabhupada often told us that devotional service performed in the holy dhama earns a thousand times more benefit than the same service rendered outside the dhama. Furthermore, the "Navadvipa-dhama Mahatmya" states, "The glories of other holy places are present hundreds and millions of times over in Navadvipa in the age of Kali. Navadvipa is filled with ever-increasing bliss. All the holy tirthas reside in Navadvipa; therefore, by serving in Navadvipa one automatically serves all the tirthas".
Srila Prabhupada's personal ecstasies, the Bhaktivedanta purports, will come alive for you in the sanctity of Sridhama Mayapur. Studying Prabhupada's books in Mayapur will be a very special and unforgettable experience, which will stimulate deep Krishna conscious realizations that will remain with you for the rest of your life."
Jayapataka Swami, GBC & Mayapur Co-director
”The MIHET provides an opportunity for young devotees, many of whom are just finishing their required, often mundane, education, to study Srila Prabhupada's books in the transcendental home of Lord Chaitanya, Sri Dhama Mayapur. The temple offers a dynamic spiritual program and the community offers an abundance of sadhu sanga. This is a perfect spritual setting for the rare jewel of systematic sastric study. In addition, the program is affordable, safe and comfortable.
The MIHET offers a well-rounded and philosophically stimulating curriculum which is especially helpful for devotees who are contemplating how to expand their service within Srila Prabhupada's movement and deepen their own Krishna Consciousness.
Srila Prabhupada wanted all the ISKCON members to be well versed in sastra and strong in their devotional practices so that they could imbibe a dynamic preaching spirit and thus inundate the whole world with prema Bhakti. The MIHET is making a significant contribution to fulfilling this mission.”
Students Testimonials
“Philosophy I did not fully understand has become clear. Now I am more determined in my spiritual practices. I saw the conviction of the teachers in Prabhupada's mission.”
Bhakta Kevin, Ireland
”The integrity of the facilitators, their commitment to sastric study and their living according to Vedic ideals proved to be great models for personal growth. Prabhupada's books were re-established in the center of our lives.”
“It is really great to study Srila Prabhupada's books in detail. Personally, the course is allowing me to be more confident when I'm preaching. I've developed a great taste to read Prabhupada's books and that taste keeps growing more and more.”
Memorization Verses
Selected verses for memorization from Srimad-Bhagavatam and Brahma-samhita:
| Canto 1 | Canto 2 | Canto 3 | Canto 4 | Canto 5 | Canto 6 | Brahma-samhita |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1.1.1 1.1.2 1.1.10 1.2.4 1.2.6 1.2.7 1.2.8 1.2.11 1.2.13 1.2.17 1.2.18 1.2.19 1.2.20 1.3.28 1.3.43 1.5.10 1.5.11 1.5.17 1.7.10 1.8.25 1.8.26 1.13.10 |
2.1.2 2.1.3 2.1.4 2.3.10 2.3.17 2.3.19 2.4.18 2.10.1 |
3.15.43 3.25.21 3.25.22 3.25.25 3.29.13 3.31.1 3.33.6 3.33.7 |
4.3.23 4.22.39 4.30.35 4.31.14 |
5.5.1 5.5.2 5.5.4 5.5.8 5.5.18 5.12.12 5.18.12 |
6.1.15 6.3.19 6.3.20 6.3.31 6.14.5 6.17.28 |
5.1 5.29 5.30 5.31 5.32 5.33 5.34 5.38 5.39 5.40 5.43 5.44 5.45 5.47 5.48 5.49 5.50 5.52 |
Bhaktivaibhava assessment overview
Closed Book Assessment
Closed book tests will be given at the end of each unit assessing student’s knowledge and memory of that unit. No additional summative closed book tests will be given. Closed book tests will comprise of approximately ten questions drawn from Purva-svadhyaya (Preliminary Self Study questions & analogies) and Adhyaya-katha-sara (Chapter Overviews) for each unit.
Memorization slokas will be assessed orally on an individual basis. Sloka assessment must be completed prior to two weeks before the end of the module. Discuss with the facilitator for a suitable time to have your sloka assessment.
Open Book Assessment
Approximately 10 open book questions, assessing student’s educational achievements for each unit, will be given at beginning of each Unit. These open book questions will be based upon the Pathana-prayojanam (educational goals or learning objectives) for each unit, which are provided in the Student Handbook. Student’s answers to the open book questions must be submitted before the commencement of the subsequent unit. Late submissions may incur a penalty of 5% at the discretion of the facilitator. There are no essays required for assessment of Bhaktivaibhava.
Presentations
Students will make two Presentations, a Group Presentation and an Individual Presentation during the Module
Grades
Your overall grade for the module will be the aggregate of the following:
- Closed Book Tests & slokas 35%
- Closed Book Tests 20%
- Slokas 15%
- Open Book Questions 30%
- Presentations 35%
- Individual Presentation 25%
- Group Presentation 10%
Students complete all 12 units, and achieving an overall grade of over 65%, will be credited with a pass in the Module. Students achieving a pass in both Modules 1 & 2 will be awarded an ISKCON Examinations Board Bhaktivaibhava Degree.
Requirements
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The VTE designed this course for devotees who have been seriously practicing Krishna Consciousness for at least a year and have basic sastric knowledge and understanding. All students must follow the 4 regulative principles, chant 16 rounds, and attend the daily morning program. Before a prospective student comes to Mayapur, his ISKCON authority must submit to the MIHET administration a letter of recommendation indicating confidence in the prospective student's qualification to participate in this course. |
Preliminary Self Study
The files below are in PDF format, to read it you will need Adobe Reader or any other program capable to handle PDF files. If you can’t open dowloaded files you can get Adobe Reader here.
Bhakti-sastri Student Handbook
The VTE Bhakti-sastri Course has been designed to enable devotees to complete a major portion of the study on their own before coming to participate in classes on the MIHET campus in Sridhama Mayapur. This approach allows students to spend less time away from their preaching fields and optimize their learning while in Sridhama Mayapur. The Preliminary Self Study Section includes:
- Study questions and selected analogies for each chapter.
- Selected verses for memorization.
- Selected quotes from Srila Prabhupada’s lectures on Bhakti-sastras.
The Mayapur Institute’s Bhakti-sastri facilitation team humbly suggests that all devotees planning to attend the 2008 - 2009 VTE Bhakti-sastri Course download the first three units of the Bhakti-sastri Student Handbook here:
Students can then begin preparing for the course by learning slokas and answering the homework questions. All of the Bhakti-sastri facilitators agree that getting an early start on their studies will enable students to get the most out of the course.
After registering and remitting their service charges online students will be prompted to download the complete student handbook.
Bhaktivaibhava Pūrva-svādhyāya-vibhāga
Please download preliminary study guides for the module you are going to attend:
- Bhaktvaibhava preliminary self study guide for Module 1
- Bhaktvaibhava preliminary self study guide for Module 2
Or you can download both modules guides combined in one file:
How to use the preliminary self study materials
Svadhyaya (Self Study)
Read each Chapter of the Srimad-Bhagavatam and answer the preliminary study questions. These questions will be used to form closed book tests at the end of each Unit during the classes. Some of the analogies listed will also appear on the closed book tests at the end of each Unit.
Srila Prabhupada lecture quotes
Prabhupada lecture quotes have been drawn from Srila Prabhupada’s lectures on Srimad-Bhagavatam and can be read along with the Srimad-Bhagavatam texts. These quotes will also be discussed in class.
Verses for Memorization
Verses can be memorized before your arrival in Sridhama Mayapur. See the accompanying list of Memorization Verses for Bhaktivaibhava
Free Lunch Prasadam
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Each week Monday through Friday during the Bhakti-sastri and Bhaktivaibhava courses, all students and teachers may honor free, delicious lunch prasadam, which we have arranged through a sponsorship program. This prasadam will be specifically prepared for our students and teachers so that they will stay in the best of health while they are studying. |
Online Enrollment
To register online first you have to fill an application form and have your ISKCON authority fill out the reference form and email it to mayapur.institute@pamho.net.
After that just select a course below to remit service fees:
*Directions on completing downloadable Application forms:
Click on and save the application PDF file to your computer when the prompt comes. Then fill out the form, and to save the changes, click file>save as> and title the form with your name. The application file saved and titled as the students name should be sent by email attachment to Mayapur.Institute@pamho.net.
The application and reference forms are in PDF format, to read and fill it you will need Adobe Reader or any other program capable to handle PDF files. If you can’t open downloaded files you can download Adobe Reader from herePlease email Mayapur.Institute@pamho.net if you have any questions or difficulties with the online enrollment and application procedure. Thank you!