Vaiṣṇavism — Foundations

Over the course of six engaging modules, we will explore the rich and living tradition of Vaiṣṇavism — the spiritual path centred on the worship of Viṣṇu as the Supreme Being.

We will trace Vaiṣṇavism from its earliest roots in the Vedic hymns and sacrificial literature, through the great narrative traditions of the Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata, and Purāṇas, and into the development of distinct sampradāyas across India — from the devotional poetry of the Āḻvārs and the philosophical schools of Rāmānuja and Madhvācārya in the South, to the bhakti movements of Caitanya, the Vārkarīs, and the rasika traditions of Vraja in the North.

Together, we will unpack the core principles that unite this diverse tradition: the nature of Viṣṇu and His avatāras, the meaning of bhakti, śaraṇāgati, and prapatti, and the daily practices — from initiation and pūjā to meditation, kīrtana, and pilgrimage — that make Vaiṣṇavism not merely a philosophy but a complete path of life. The course concludes with an exploration of living Vaiṣṇavism today, including the Hari Bhakta Sampradāya.

By the end of this course, you will have a clear and grounded understanding of Vaiṣṇavism's history, thought, and practice.