This course, "Understanding Bhakti Through the Narada Bhakti Sutras: An Educational Guide," introduces learners to the foundational ideas of Bhakti (devotion) within Hindu philosophy, with a primary focus on the classic Sanskrit text, the Narada Bhakti Sutras. Rather than promoting a particular religious conclusion or personal journey, the course presents Bhakti as a significant strand in Indian spiritual and philosophical traditions, inviting participants to analyse, interpret, and reflect critically on the teachings, practices, and cultural contexts of devotional yoga.

Throughout the course, students will be guided through the main themes of the Narada Bhakti Sutras. The curriculum is structured to cover the origins and basic definitions of Bhakti, examine its different forms (including Saguna and Nirguna Bhakti), and analyse the development of devotional attitudes, challenges faced by practitioners, the importance of association (satsang), and the varied qualities attributed to an ideal devotee. Special emphasis is placed on understanding how the Sutras articulate the philosophical, ethical, and emotional dimensions of Bhakti, as well as their influence beyond the Hindu tradition.

Learners will explore the historical context of the text and the figure of Narada, considering the role of ancient aphorisms in shaping religious expression and discussion. Discussions will highlight how the Sutras comment on issues of self-surrender, detachment, and the interaction between individual effort and grace. The course encourages students to approach devotion not as an absolute or prescriptive ideal, but as a subject for critical inquiry and comparative study. You don't need any prior background in Sanskrit or Hindu philosophy. The course is open to anyone with an interest in religious studies, philosophy, or cross-cultural education, and instruction is provided by a qualified teacher with expertise in Indian spirituality and comparative philosophy.