INDIAN PHILOSOPHY

Indian philosophy aims at the spiritual liberation of man and at the same time defines the path that leads to it. The path to freedom is based on three pillars, also known as the ‘three jewels’ – right vision, right knowledge, and right practice. But its division into a multitude of schools and traditions with often contradictory and conflicting theories and practices lies in the way they interpret the concept of “right.” Each school perceives the “truth” according to the teachings of its founders, firm and unchanging over time, but the study of the Indian philosophy as a whole enables us to see the other side – the relative – that harmonizes with the subjective and the constantly changing consciousness of man. The three pillars of righteousness not only support the elevation of human consciousness to the higher states of being, but also other purposes of life – the fulfillment of the individual duty, production of wealth and values, and enjoyment of the goods of life. The truth of the transcendental unity is expressed and realized through the colorful garden of mind and human existence.

Indian philosophy courses at the Athens Center for Indian & Indo-Hellenic Studies

The Indian philosophy courses are conducted under the guidance of Indologist Professor Dimitrios Vassiliadis and invited expert teachers. The methodology used is critical and enlightening and is often accompanied by slide shows, films and documentaries.

The courses are held in the Greek language online through the ZOOM platform and are divided into two levels: a) Introduction to Indian Philosophy and b) Study of philosophical texts (Śāstrī).

Introductory courses are intended for students who wish to acquire a general knowledge of specific topics such as: “Introduction to Indian Philosophy”, “Introduction to Yoga Philosophy”, “Introduction to the Philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism”, “The Philosophy of Buddhism”, “The Great Masters of India and their Teachings”, etc. Each course consists of a series of weekly lessons that last a quarter or a semester depending on the in-depth analysis of the subject.

The philosophical texts (Śāstrī) courses focus on the study of classic works such as the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Mulamadhyamaka Karika, Sankhya Karika, Yoga Sutra, Shiva Sutra, Spanda Karika, etc. The original texts are translated and annotated by the teacher and students. Enrollment in the Śāstrī level requires knowledge of the basic principles of Indian philosophy. Knowledge of the Sanskrit language is helpful but not necessary.

For more information and registration, please send an e-mail with your contact details to indogreekstudies@gmail.com and we will contact you soon.