Thirukkural & Sanatana Dharma
Explore the profound connection between Thirukkural and Sanatana Dharma in this enlightening course. Dive into the historical, civilizational and philosophical dimensions of Thirukkural, uncovering its deep-rooted ties to the ancient ethos of Hindu civilization. Discover how Maharishi Tiruvalluvar’s verses resonate with the principles of Dharma, and gain insights into the harmonious coexistence of Tamil culture and rituals within the broader Bharatiya heritage and Dharma Shastras.
Faculty
12 December 2023 - 2 April 2024
6:00 PM IST-7:00 PM IST
Every Tuesday
Introduction
Welcome to our Thirukkural & Sanatana Dharma course, where we embark on a profound journey to unravel the rich tapestry of wisdom woven into the verses of Thirukkural. This course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and philosophical context of Thirukkural and its deep-rooted connection to Sanatana Dharma, the eternal and universal principles of righteousness. This course will also provide deeper understanding of how the Maharishi Tiruvalluvar and other great rishis thought alike and spread the Dharma through their text to the people of this land.
Course Objectives
- Historical and Cultural Context: Gain insight into the historical and cultural milieu in which Maharishi Tiruvalluvar composed Thirukkural.
- Thirukkural’s Significance: Understand the place of Thirukkural in Tamil literature and its enduring relevance.
- Exploring Thirukkural: Explore the structure and philosophy of Thirukkural, delving into its relationship with Sanathana Dharma.
- Comparative Analysis: Compare Thirukkural with similar texts in Sanskrit, such as the Bhagavad Gita, Manu Smriti, Needhi Shathagam, and Artha Shastras.
Course Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will:
- Be able to recite Thirukkural verses that echo the principles found in Dharma Shastras.
- Understand the word-by-word meaning of select Thirukkural verses and recognize their Vedic origins.
- Grasp the profound philosophical insights embedded in Thirukkural and similar texts within the realm of Dharma Shastras.
Course Syllabus
- Selected Thirukkural verses
- Excerpts from Dharma Shastras, including Bhagavad Gita, Manu Smriti, Needhi Shathagam, and Artha Shastras
- Historical background of Dharma
- Relevance of Tirukkural to Dharma
Reading List
- “Tirukkural – Exposition” by Parimelazhagar
- “Tirukkural – Compilation of commentaries” by K.V. Jagannathan
- “Tirukkural and Dharma Shastras” by Dr. Nagaswami
Course includes
- Live sessions
- Access to class recordings (for asynchronous participation)
- Certificate of Completion upon successful course completion
Join us on this illuminating journey as we explore the timeless wisdom of Thirukkural and its deep-rooted connection to Sanatana Dharma. Gain a profound understanding of the moral and ethical principles that have guided humanity for centuries. Enroll now and embark on this enlightening quest.
Faculty
Vinoth Kumar Shanmugam
Vinoth Kumar Shanmugam is a teacher in Physics. Having graduated in Physics and with multiple post-graduations in Education, English and Education Management, he cleared his NET and presently doing research in Indic Educational system. Having 15 years of experience in teaching values and ethics through many NGOs. Has his own NGO involved in education for more than 10 years. Yoga trainer and motivational speaker for the last 15 years. Conducted various workshop in the core subject and in the ethical values and morals. Vinoth is a Trustee of Vishva Vidya Foundation which is focused on recovering Tamil Education and Bharatiya Shiksha.