12 aims of Sastric Study Kno 1. To help students memorize and recall the (theoretical) knowledge which forms the foundation of their ongoing progress in Kåñëa consciousness. Kno Und 2.To deepen students’ understanding of the Kåñëa consciousness theology, particularly through studying it from a wide range of perspectives and through developing thoughtfulness and introspection. Und

number 3 -- SC/Rea To equip students with the ability to see through the eyes of çästra, and with a Kåñëa conscious worldview. Ultimately, to assist the students in realizing scripture, reestablishing their relationship with Kåñëa and remaining conscious of Him at all times and in all places. This includes “Realization” Although çästra-cakñus ultimately means and requires full realization, this Aim is also delivered at different levels leading up to full realization of the Absolute Truth.

4. To help students apply the Kåñëa consciousness theology, with reference to: (a) their external practices PeA Personal application (b) their inner development and to help them develop appropriate Vaiñëava qualities and behavior. PeA Personal application PrA Preaching application 5. To enhance devotees’ desire and ability to preach effectively. PrA Preaching application

ThA Theological Application 6. To help create learned vaiñëava theologians who are expert in assisting the Society through application of çästric knowledge to a wide range of personal, social, moral, topical and theological issues. ThA Theological Application 7. To facilitate devotees in: (a) understanding and appreciating the mood and mission of Çréla Prabhupäda M+M (b) perpetuating that understanding within the Society and its members. M+M

8. To ensure that devotees develop moral and AMI academic integrity in the interpretation, evaluation and application of çästric knowledge. AMI 9. To simultaneously cultivate within devotees: (a) deep acceptance of the spiritual authority of çästra AUT (b) a mood of open and honest inquiry and a desire to factually understand and realize the import of Vedic knowledge. AUT

10. To help build and maintain students’ faith and conviction in: (a) the process of Kåñëa consciousness F+C (b) the çästra as its foundation. F+C 11. To develop students’ analytical, interpretative and evaluative skills, particularly in respect Eva to the practical application of çästric knowledge. Eva

12. To encourage students to take responsibility for their learning and develop healthy study habits by: (a) enhancing their desire to study Çréla Prabhupäda’s books (particularly by nurturing their appreciation of çästra and çästric study, and by demonstrating çästra’s relevance to everyday life) RfL (b) equipping them with the appropriate learning skills. RfL

Introduction to the Gita Five main topics: The Supreme Personality of Godhead-- Isvara The Jiva -- The soul within the body Prakriti nature Action Kala time karma

The Bhagavad Gita is divided into 3 sections Chapters 1-6Karma Yoga Chapters 7-12Bhakti Yoga Chapters J ñ ana Yoga

Why is Bhakti in the middle? Shhhhhhhhh! It’s a secret! (Rahasya) The goal of all sastra! Bhakti yoga gives life to both Karma and Jnana yogas! This secret is only revealed to those who have proven their sincerity Because Bhakti is so precious and important it is protected.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1

The sections of Chapter one A. Setting the scene (1.1 ‑ 13) B. Signs of Victory ( ) C. ARJUNA'S Arguments (1. 21 ‑ 46)

The significance of Dharma Ksetra Dharma= that aspect of something which is essential to it’s nature. WaterHas to be liquid The living entity has to serve Serving God according to Sastra Is real dharma

Preparations for war-- What did they do? My sons And And The Sons of Pandu Vs 1-13

Signs of victory verses Pancajanya, Devadatta, Paundra, Anantavijaya, Sughosa and Manipuspaka Kuruksetra

Krsna as Bhakta Vatsala Verses 21-27

Behold the Kurus assembled here!

Compassion—How can I kill my kinsman and guru? Compassion— How can I kill my kinsman and guru? Enjoyment--How will I enjoy the kingdom alone? Enjoyment-- How will I enjoy the kingdom alone? Saintliness and fear of sinful reactions -By killing such great men I will incur sin. They are worthy of worship. Destruction of the family-The elders of the family will be killed! Destruction of the family- The elders of the family will be killed!

Arjuna, having thus spoken on the battlefield, cast aside his bow and arrows and sat down on the chariot, his mind overwhelmed with grief. Verse 46