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A special feature at Ananda Ashram is the direct approach
to the ancient teachings through the in-depth study of the
Sanskrit language and its original texts.
The Rig-Veda (in Vedic Sanskrit) is widely acknowledged as
the oldest written record of mankind, and the vast body of
literature in classical Sanskrit encompasses all branches
of knowledge and culture—a legacy felt to belong to
the entire human race.
The love of Sanskrit
here at the Ashram was inspired by founder Shri Brahmananda
Sarasvati himself, a recognized master of the language. In
his teaching he preeminently used the medium of Sanskrit,
emphasizing the chanting and study of mantras, hymns and scriptural
texts as well as the study of the language itself as "science
of vibration."
Yoga-Vedanta
Studies through Original Sources
Scriptural studies at
Ananda Ashram focus on the important texts which form the
foundation of the science of Yoga and the non-dualistic Vedanta
philosophy. Included are the major Upanishads, the
Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, works by
Shankaracharya and various other classical and Vedic sources.
They are concerned with truths that are independent of time,
place, culture or society, found to be deeply connected to
the universal experiences encountered in the process of meditation.
The texts and mantras
come to life through chanting, word-by-word translation, reading
of commentary and discussion of their timeless relevance.
The combination of a meditative approach with clarification
of the philosophical context as well as grammatical explanation
helps bring out the inner meaning of the texts, including
their significance for healing and self realization.
These sessions are
scheduled most mornings between 9:45 and 10:30 or 10:45am.
Taught by Ashram teachers and open to all, tuition is by donation.
Ananda Ashram offers
ongoing Sanskrit language classes as well as special workshops,
courses and lectures, scheduled from time to time.
For
more background on our School of Sanskrit, click
here to see a sample brochure.
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