Class Description
Instructor: Philip Goldberg
Hindu tradition identifies four intersecting pathways to union with the Supreme: Raja Yoga, a pragmatic path emphasizing techniques such as meditation; Bhakti Yoga, the way of devotion; Jnana Yoga, the path of enquiry and discernment; and Karma Yoga, focusing on action and selfless service. Each path contains a repertoire of principles and practices, but they are mutually enhancing and so universal as to enhance anyone’s spiritual life regardless of beliefs or affiliation. The course devotes one lesson to each pathway, emphasizing their smooth interaction and their integration and application to everyday life with specific instructions, guidelines, and shared practices. Each lesson incorporates opportunities for spiritual practice.
Class Details
Instructor Bio
Philip Goldberg
Philip Goldberg has been studying the world’s spiritual traditions for more than 50 years, as a practitioner, teacher, and writer. He is the author or co-author of more than 20 books, published in more than a dozen languages, including American Veda: From Emerson and the Beatles to Yoga and Meditation, How Indian Spirituality Changed the West and his most recent book, Spiritual Practice for Crazy Times. A screenwriter and published novelist, Phil is a member of the Writers Guild of America and the Authors Guild.
An ordained interfaith minister, spiritual counselor, and meditation teacher trained in 1970 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Phil has presented at yoga centers and festivals, universities, retreat centers, religious and spiritual institutions, and other venues throughout the United States and India. He leads workshops on Indian sacred texts, meditation, and related topics, both in person and online. He blogs, mainly about religion and spirituality, in Elephant Journal and contributes regularly to Spirituality & Health online about the intersection of spirituality and social issues.
Phil has been interviewed by a variety of newspapers, magazines, and radio and television outlets. He also conducts journeys to sacred India through his company, American Veda Tours, and co-hosts the popular Spirit Matters podcast, which features interviews with a diverse array of spiritual teachers and leaders. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he now lives in Los Angeles with his wife, acupuncturist Lori Deutsch. His website is www.PhilipGoldberg.com.
Testimonials
"I knew very little about Hinduism. The instructor was very skillful in discussing it while also comparing it to other spiritual practices."
"I appreciated that Phil emphasized the coexistence and non-exclusivity of these four paths and that a person can be drawn to each of them in different proportions throughout life, as this has been my experience. I felt that Phil chose some great examples to demonstrate the fundamentals of each path."
"Mr. Goldberg's rich personal experience on the Hindu Path is presented within the context of his extreme depth of knowledge of all the major religious traditions."