Advaita Vedanta Śāstra Meetup

Namaste and Welcome to Advaita Vedanta Śāstra Meetup

Zoom Link: https://colab.blog/Zoom

The session covers key topics in the Isha Upanishad, one of the most important and concise Upanishads. It offers profound teachings on the unity of the Self with the universe and the balance between renunciation and enjoyment of the world. We will explore the Upanishad’s key verses and discuss their relevance to modern life.

Discussion Topics:

### 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝟔

• Self vs self – Ātman vs ahamkara (आत्मन् vs अहंकार)
• Realization of oneness – Advaita (अद्वैत)
• Interconnected Universal Compassion – Karuṇā (करुणा)

### 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝟏

• Personal God – Īśvara (ईश्वर)
• Discrimination – Viveka (विवेक)
• Non-attachment (Dispassion or Detachment) – Vairāgya (वैराग्य)
• Renunciation – Sannyāsa (संन्यास)

### 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝟏5

• Illusion – Māyā (माया)
• Ignorance – Avidyā (अविद्या)
• Attachments – Asakti (आसक्ति)
• Truth (Reality) – Satya (सत्य)
• Duty – Dharma (धर्म)‎

‎ __________________________________________________________________________________
𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞:

1. 7:00 PM – 7:10 PM (10 minutes)
   Welcome and Introductions

• Greet participants and allow brief introductions.

2. 7:10 PM – 7:40 PM (30 minutes)
   Isha Upanishad (3-4 verses)

• 7-8 minutes per verse, including:
• Explanation and insights.
• Brief pauses for clarifications or questions after each verse.

3. 7:40 PM – 8:10 PM (30 minutes)
   Manana (Reflection & Inquiry)

• Sections:
• AQ (Ask Questions): 5-7 minutes
• Discussion: 10 minutes
• Member Sharing: 7-8 minutes
• Takeaways and Conclusions: 5 minutes

4. 8:10 PM – 8:30 PM (20 minutes)
   After Satsang (Optional Social Time)

• Open time for casual conversation or further questions.

Please join us for a meaningful discussion and engage thoughtfully as we strive toward spiritual insight and self-realization.

Tat Tvam Asi – "You Are That."

Namaste and Welcome to Advaita Vedanta Prasthantrayi Discussions!

Our next session will focus on the Kena Upanishad, one of the most intriguing and profound Upanishads. The Kena Upanishad explores the nature of knowledge and asks the fundamental question, "By whom is the mind directed? By whom is the body impelled?" It delves into the mystery of the ultimate cause behind our perception, thoughts, and experiences, leading to the discovery of Brahman, the eternal reality.

This event will center on:

• Understanding the Core Teachings of the Kena Upanishad, particularly the relationship between the mind, senses, and the unmanifested Brahman.
• Exploring the Nature of Consciousness: Who or what is behind the workings of the mind and body?
• Practical Reflections: How the insights of the Kena Upanishad can deepen our spiritual practice and understanding of the self.
• Discussion Topics:
• The nature of Brahman as the cause behind all perception.
• The distinction between intellectual understanding and direct realization of the Self.
• How this Upanishad helps resolve the question of identity and the true nature of consciousness.

We invite you to engage thoughtfully and respectfully as we explore these ancient and powerful teachings. Whether you're new to the Kena Upanishad or looking to deepen your understanding, this discussion will offer insights and practical takeaways.

Tat Tvam Asi ("That Thou Art")