Online Course 

Grace on a Spiritual Path

This four-part course examines the concept of "grace" in Kashmir Shaivism and features recordings of  Swami Lakshmanjoo's lectures attended by John and Denise Hughes. George Barselaar, also a close disciple of Swami Lakshmanjoo, joins the Hughes for  this fascinating course. Your confirmation email will include the link to get back to that page and a download link.

Watch the introduction

You will learn

We will analyze the philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism, which has aptly been described as ‘The Mystical Geography of Awareness’. These teachings not only give a straightforward and clear explanation of the nature of reality, but also outline the means by which any individual can have the direct experience of this reality.

Each unit is about one hour, which you can review at your own pace. Your access starts when you begin. To return to your course, simply login at the top of our website and go to your library. To access the course on your mobile device, download the Kajabi app, login and select your course. 

Kashmir Shaivism is unique in its understanding of Grace and its importance. It recognizes that in the world of spirituality there are nine levels of Grace. Grace appears in small and large ways in each of our lives. Learn how great yogis experience Grace and how to ask for and recognize Grace within your own spiritual awakening.

Each class begins with the recitation of the ancient Aghora mantra and a short meditation. This is followed by Swamiji’s lecture and a brief discussion of the different intensities of grace, including answers to select questions from students.

The study series is designed for people of all ages, and all levels of understanding.

Participants will

• Study the Kashmir Shaiva meaning of “Shaktipat"

• Listen to the oral teachings of the ancient tradition of Kashmir Shaivism and understand why “love is the answer and the key”

• Learn why there is no spiritual path without Grace

• Be guided through the 9 levels of Grace in Kashmir Shaivism

• Learn to practice the reality of these teachings through meditation and mantra

Course leaders

The discussions will be led by John Hughes, Denise Hughes and George Barselaar, all of whom studied directly with Swami Lakshmanjoo.

As a realized master Swami Lakshmanjoo (1907-1991) both understood and experienced the essence of this universal teaching. Throughout his lifetime he freely invited everyone to explore the means by which they could recognize and know the reality of their own divinity.

The course material is a combination of oral teachings in the form of audio lectures by the highly renowned scholar Saint of Kashmir Shaivism, Swami Lakshmanjoo, which is elaborated upon and broken down in easy to understand basic principles of Kashmir Shaivism by John, Denise and George.

Comments from participants

I am enjoying the classes immensely and would like to thank all concerned in making them available; I am fascinated by Abhinavagupta’s teachings and take great pleasure in hearing Swamiji’s explanations; also those of John, Denise and George. It is my deep regret that I do not live nearer to the United States so as to be able to attend your meetings, this webinar is a lovely way to feel connected. It can be spiritually rather desolate here in France at times; so nice to know that the Academy is there; I am looking forward to the next installment. I really enjoyed reading Swami Ji’s letter it touched me deeply.
Thanks again to all concerned,
Lain

Lovely weaving of the concepts of meditation on the gap, the practice of it, referencing it in the various verses with Swamiji’s commentary followed by all of the discussions. Even the discussion and presentation felt like they “strengthened” the idea as was contained in the idea of Karma Yoga via Kashmir Shaivism. The couple of stories about Swamiji’s life and experiences as a young man were very helpful. I had not heard a few of those ever before. I also appreciated that this particular meditation was initiated in our last retreat and is being continued here. When that was presented in the retreat it felt to me like I had gotten an answer regarding the best approach to meditation. Please keep it coming, it feels delightful. The breathing presented in the first two were also very good. Thanks so much.!
Jai Guru Dev,
Bruce Catalano

Dear John, It is an incredible life achievement that you and your family are undertaking to bring this extraordinary knowledge of Kashmir Shaivism to the world. You are writing a new history of this knowledge assuring that Swamiji’s vision of Kasmir Shaivism meets modern human life and serves its needs. Webinar is in this respect a step further, a historical moment that offers further opportunity to grow individual and collective consciousness. I was lucky to meet you and get immersed in Swami Lakshmanjoo’s infinite Love the embodiment of Creation.
Jai Guru Dev,
Milovan

I would like to thank you for this 1st webinar session which was very well structured and well organized. Congratulations to all of you 🙂 ! As you correctly say, the subject is vast and very interesting so i am looking forward to the next webinar and in the meantime I will read the material and do the pranayama meditation.
Have a very good week 🙂
Thomas

You are doing a really good job with the webinar course. You’ve selected the perfect excerpts from Swamiji’s talks plus your own comments to provide a good foundation for beginners and a solid review for more experienced meditators. For some months now, I’ve been very caught up in taking care of responsibilities and obligations. The course is giving me the opportunity to focus on my spiritual objective and to contemplate the answers to my questions.
Jai Guru Dev
Love, Andrea

You were so wonderful to offer the webinar. It was very well presented and truly gave everyone a flavor of the teachings of Kashmir Shaivism. Great teachers you all are!!! I can’t wait for your next webinar. Sign me up in advance! Blessings and good wishes to my friends!!
Best wishes,
Ben