Syllabus
Unit 1
Introduction to the Bhagavad Gita: What is the Gita? Unique Characteristics of the Gita, Meeting Life’s Challenges, The Relevance of the Gita in Our Daily Life, Historical Context of the Mahabharata Conflict. Arjuna Vishada Yoga: The Decisive Juncture, Arjuna’s Emotional State and Seeking Guidance, Shreyas – The Ultimate Welfare, Arjuna’s Reflections on Duty, The Core Teaching of the Gita.
Unit 2
Sankhya Yoga: Arjuna’s Inner Conflict, The Common Human Challenge and Its Resolution, Core Message of the Gita, Wisdom-Based Approach: Path of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga), The Eternal Self (Atman), The Individual Soul in Transition (Jivatma), Foundation for the Concept of Reincarnation.
Unit 3
Karma Yoga: Understanding the Path of Selfless Action, Performing One’s Responsibility and Serving Humanity, Skill in Action as a Form of Yoga – Yogah Karmasu Kaushalam, Mental Balance as Yoga – Samatvam Yoga Uchyate, Purpose of Human Existence, The Enlightened Individual, Traits of the Spiritually Established Person (Sthita-prajna), Control and Transformation of Desires, The Ladder of fall, Avoiding the Fall, Cultivating Inner Calm.
Unit 4
Bhakti Yoga: Arjuna’s Timeless Inquiry, Lord Krishna’s Response, The Focus of Loving Worship, The Unmanifest Absolute – Nirguna Brahman, The Personal Divine – Saguna Brahman, Understanding Devotion, Worship of the Formless and the Form, Deep Dispassion, How the Divine Guides the Devotee, The Essence of the Gita’s Message. Pathways to Devotion, Balancing Discipline and Letting Go, Qualities of a True Devotee, Practical Need for Developing Devotional Virtues, The Lord’s Beloved Seekers.
Unit 5
Daivasura Sampad Vibhaga Yoga: Noble Qualities, Negative Tendencies, Outcome of Righteous and Unrighteous Paths, The Mixed Nature in Humans, Chains of Bondage and the Path to Freedom, Doors to Ruin, Mastering Desire, Anger, and Greed, Scriptural Wisdom as a Tool for Inner Discipline.
Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga: Arjuna’s Fundamental Question, Innate Universal Faith, The Reason Behind Diverse Beliefs, The Threefold Nature of Faith, Three-Toned Values, Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic Modes, Core Practices for All: Yajna – The Three Approaches to Worship, Tapas – The Three Forms of Discipline, Dana – Selfless Giving in its Three Aspects.
Reference
- Swami Chinmayananda, “The Holy Geeta”, Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, 2002.
- Swami Chinmayananda, “A Manual of Self Unfoldment”, Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, 2001.
Evaluation Pattern
Component |
Weightage |
Remarks |
Mid-Term Examination (Unit1, 2,3) |
25 |
Mid-Term Examination:25% |
Continuous Assessment |
35 |
Continuous Evaluation: 35% (Assignments and Quiz) Continuous Evaluation can be an assignment which validates how the learnt philosophical truths can be applied in life practically. |
End semester exam (70% Covering unit 4 and unit 5) |
40 |
End Semester: 40% |
TOTAL |
100 |
Objectives
This course offers students a profound understanding of the Bhagavad Gita as a timeless guide for inner strength and purposeful living. It covers five key themes: self-knowledge, selfless action, devotion, values, and inner transformation. Students will explore the psychological, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of life through these teachings. The course helps identify the roots of inner conflict and provides tools to respond with clarity and wisdom. Core concepts such as the Self, Dharma, Gunas, and Bhakti will lead learners toward mental balance. Emphasis is placed on applying Gita’s insights into everyday challenges like stress and ethical decisions. The Gita is presented as a practical guide rather than a religious text. Reflective practices encourage equanimity, resilience, and moral strength. The course promotes lifelong learning and inner stability. Ultimately, it seeks to turn knowledge into experience.