The ISKCON Disciples Course is a training program which deepens devotees understanding of guru tattva and guru padasraya within the multiple guru environment of ISKCON. Designed for new devotees preparing to take initiation in ISKCON, the course is also recommended for leaders, preachers councilors and educators in ISKCON. The course was developed under the direction of the Guru Services Committee, with the combined efforts of leading educators in ISKCON. The course is based on the teachings of Srila Prabhupada and current ISKCON Law and gives reference to the writings from the broader Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition. The 14 lessons include Powerpoint presentations, interactive workshops and assessment exercises.
Topics covered in the course:
- Guru-tattva and the Guru-parampara System
- Srila Prabhupada ISKCON Founder Acarya and Preeminent Guru
- Types of Gurus
- Relationship between ISKCON Guru and ISKCON Authorities
- Gurus outside of ISKCON
- Guru-padasraya
- Selecting a Guru
- Following Initiation Vows
- Guru-puja and Vyasa-puja
- Worship of ISKCON Gurus
- Guru-vapu and vani seva
- Guru-tyaga
- Developing Cooperative Relationships in a multi Guru environment
