We start a new chapter of the Uddhava-gita, where Krishna will describe the varnashrama system, how society should be organized and how each individual should organize his or her life to fulfill their dharmas. In this class, He starts by explaining the changes in human society through each yuga, or age, starting with Satya Yuga.  In this class, we covered verses 11.17.1-11 .

In this class, we see the progression into Treta-yuga, and with that arises the varnas e ashramas of the varnashrama system. Here Krishna explains the qualities of each varna, PROVING that it’s certainly not meant to be a caste system, but a system based on the qualities of the individual. In this class, we covered verses 11.17.12-18.

Krishna explains the qualities of the shudras and those who are not civilized at all. He also explains the qualities that should be nurtured by all members of society. We then begin explaining the ashramas, starting with the brahmacari ashram. We discuss the meaning of twice-born, dvija. In this class, we covered verses 11.17.19-27.

Krishna explains the qualities and activities of the brahmacari in the guru’s ashram. He then goes on to explain the power of celibacy for those dedicated to the Vedas. In the end, we see a beautiful two-verse sequence with general guidelines for all of society. In this class, we covered verses 11.17.28-35.

Krishna now explains life beyond the brahmacari ashram. He explains how in marriage we should recognize the varnas for better compatibility of the couple and also the question of age differences. In this class we talk about the dangers of polygamy, which was allowed but is very troublesome. In the end we discuss the issue of how brahmanas should maintain themselves.  In this class, we covered verses 11.17.36-41.

Krishna explains that a life lived for spiritual realization is more important than any hardship one can experience, so that no one should be tempted to abandon their principles for any temporary material benefit. But, sometimes we can’t find work, can’t find a job, that matches our varna, our vocation. Here Krishna gives advice on what to do, for each varna, in this situation. In this class, we covered verses 11.17.42-49.

In powerful verses Krishna teaches us not be attached to family members, knowing that all is temporary. “The association of children, wife, relatives and friends is just like the brief meeting of travelers. With each change of body one is separated from all such associates, just as one loses the objects one possesses in a dream when the dream is over.” If we live in this mentality, we can love freely and truly be the best version of ourselves for our family. In this class, we covered verses 11.17.50-54.

Krishna finishes His explanation of the married householder life (grihastha ashrama) and begins explaining how to proceed from there, to the next ashramas, starting with vanaprastha, living a simple life in the forest, alone or as a couple. Simple living, high thinking! In this class, we covered verses 11.17.55-18.2.