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'''Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya''' or '''Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University''' is
considered a new religious movement<ref> According to wikipedia policies</ref>according to John Walliss, Ph.D who refers to it as "a millenarian NRM (New Religious Movement) of Indian origin."<ref> Reflexive Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity.-John Walliss, Ph.D University of Warwick, UK.</ref> It is a socio-spiritual group of which a member of any religion can belong to. '''Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya''' or '''Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University''' is considered a millenarian ]] (NRM) of Indian origin."<ref> Reflexive Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity.-John Walliss, Ph.D University of Warwick, UK.</ref> It teaches a form of meditation called ], although not classical Raja Yoga as described by ].<ref>Professor Reender Kranenborgh from Free University of Amsterdam. All citations originate from this web article unless noted differently.</ref>
The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University ('''BKWSU''') teaches a form of meditation denominated ]. According to Kranenborg:
“''The entire way of the Brahma Kumaris can be characterized as raja yoga. One should not think here in the first
''place of classical yoga, as described by ]. Central to raja yoga is that one becomes connected with the''
''Highest Soul and with the highest in oneself. It is a way to the true self, which is to be expressed in everyday life.''"''
==Origins==
The movement was founded in 1936 in Karachi by Lekh Raj Kripalani who was born in 1876.
"''When he wanted to withdraw from this life in 1936 so that he could devote himself to the spiritual life, he had a radical religious experience. He had the feeling that he had come into contact with the Supreme Soul or God;
''at the same time he experienced himself in this encounter as an eternal soul and the connectedness of that soul
with the Supreme Soul.''''” <ref>Professor Reender Kranenborgh from Free University of Amsterdam. All citations originate from this web article unless noted differently.</ref>


==History== ==History==
The story of the Brahma Kumaris begins with its founder Dada Lekhraj, a retired diamond merchant, who had frequent visions ''"most importantly the destruction of the world and its population through war, strife and natural calamities and the emergence of a post-apocalyptic paradise to be populated by the chosen few. Understandably disoriented by these visions Lekhraj decided to sell his business to his partner and retire."''<ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence: The Development of Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris. Walliss, John; Journal of Contemporary Religion; Oct99, Vol. 14 Issue 3, p375, 11p </ref> The BKWSU was founded in 1937 by Lekhraj Kripalani, 1876-1969, a wealthy ] merchant following visions of the destruction of the world and its population through war, strife and ] and the emergence of a post-apocalyptic ] to be populated by a chosen few. Kirpalani believed that he was entered by another ] and that this spirit was ] who started to talk through him.<ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence: The Development of Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris. Walliss, John; Journal of Contemporary Religion; Oct99, Vol. 14 Issue 3, p375, 11p </ref> Understandably disoriented by these visions and experiences, Lekhraj decided to sell his business to his partner in order to retire and established an informal congregation of followers called the Om Mandali, or "gathering of souls". Following social and legal opposition, the movement led by Lekhraj moved from ] to ] and then to their current location in ].
The movement led by Lekhraj moved from Hyderabad to Karachi and then to their current location in Mt.Abu.


''"it is unquestionably that from the very beginning of the life of the organization its male founder, Dada Lekhraj, gave special encouragement to women to develop their spiritual lives and take leadership positions. Not only did he devolve his fortune and the responsibilities of administering it upon a trust of nine women as the very act of foundation of the Brahma Kumaris, but when, some few years after his life transforming visions, he came to believe that celibacy was necessary to achieve salvation, he rejected the Hindu practice of restricting the elevated status of celibate seeker to men. Indeed much was made in the early life of the organization of the failure of so many Hindu men to live up to their traditional roles as "gurus" to their wives; correspondingly women enjoyed much appreciation as the ones who so often demonstrated their capacity for virtue as required by traditional family life (Chander 1981: 23). Anyone, regardless of sex, who was prepared to adopt chastity and follow purity rules concerning diet and alcohol was eligible to join Lekhraj and be a full member (a brahmin) of the organization. As it happened, a high proportion of early members were women and their children. From the beginning of the organization Kirpalani gave special encouragement to women to develop their spiritual lives and take leadership positions handing over the responsibilities of administering the organisation to a ] of nine women. He also rejected the ] practice of restricting the elevated status of ] ] to men. Anyone, regardless of sex, who was prepared to adopt ] and follow purity rules concerning diet and alcohol was eligible to join Kirpalani and become a member of the organization. A high proportion of early members were women and their children. In the 1950s when teaching centers elsewhere in India were opened, young women were chosen to spread the teachings and the leadership of the BK movement in India remains heavily female.<ref>
Gender Role Experimentation in New Religious Movements: Clarification of the Brahma Kumari Case, Howell, Julia. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion; Sep98, Vol. 37 Issue 3, p453-461, 9p. Julia Day Howell is Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Asian and International Studies, Griffith University, Australia</ref>


* The India version of the group's history can be found at http://www.brahmakumaris.com/aboutus/history.htm
''In the 1950s when Dada Lekhraj (or "Brahma Baba") judged the time right to send people out from the home community (by then in Mt. Abu, India) to open teaching centers elsewhere in India, it was young women he chose to spread the Brahma Kumaris teachings (cf. Chander 1981: 156). Today the leadership of the BK movement in India remains heavily female."''''<ref>
* The international version can be found at http://www.bkwsu.org/whoweare/history.htm
Gender Role Experimentation in New Religious Movements: Clarification of the Brahma Kumari Case, Howell, Julia. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion; Sep98, Vol. 37 Issue 3, p453-461, 9p.
Julia Day Howell is Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Asian and International Studies, Griffith University, Australia</ref>

* The version from India of the group's ] can be found at http://www.brahmakumaris.com/aboutus/history.htm
* The international version can be found at http://www.bkwsu.org/whoweare/history.htm

==Global Expansion==
'''Brahma Kumaris World Outreach'''
As expressed by researchers Nesbitt and Henderson: ''"Whaling (1995) and Walliss (1999, 2002) summarise the historical development and content of BK outreach at a local and national level in terms of the development of meditation, stress reduction and self-esteem classes, and associated work in prisons, homes for the elderly, drug clinics and hospitals; and they show the Brahma Kumaris increasing internationalisation and links with the United Nations and UNICEF, through their central role in such international projects as ‘The Million Minutes for Peace’, ‘Global Co-Operation for a better World’ and ‘Living Values: An Educational Initiative’ (Walliss,1999). The meditation practice, of verbalised reflection with one’s eyes open, is supported by a disciplined way of life (Howell, 1997, p. 151) and in the West this practice is linked with opportunities for empowerment and success in life."'' (Skultans,1993, p. 58; Walliss, 1999.")<ref>Journal of Beliefs and Values, Vol.24, No.1, 2003 Religious Organisations in the UK and Values Education Programmes for Schools by Eleanor Nesbitt, Senior lecturer in Religions and Education, University of Warwick, UK and Ann Henderson, Research Fellow from The Univeristy of Warwick, UK.</ref>


==Beliefs and Practices== ==Beliefs and Practices==
{{unreferenced}}

{{Unreferenced|date=December 2006}}
{{OR}} {{OR}}
BKWSU beliefs include<ref>Reender Kranenborg, Free University of Amsterdam. "Brahma Kumaris: A New Religion?", 1999</ref>. BK Raja yogis are expected to be teetotal, follow a ] ] diet excluding onions and garlic and food not cooked by non-followers, keeping good company, morning meditation at 4 am, regular spiritual study at 6 am, recurrent moments of meditation during the day and the practice of celibacy.


====Concept of God====
It is important to recogize that Brahma Kumaris as a Spiritual University has a variety of membership
The Brahma Kumaris concept differs from ] in that God ] is an eternal and conscient being of light, the ‘all-highest ]’, ever-pure and good. Although having all knowledge and in that sense being ], he is not ]. Matter and human souls are also eternal - neither are they created by God nor do they emerge from God. Brahma Kumaris teachings provide unique understanding of God’s roles as creator, preserver and destroyer. Traditionally, Hinduism speaks of ], ], and ]. In Brahma Kumaris however, Shiva stands above the ] and the third aspect of destroyer is termed Shankar. Shiva creates by entering the world through a corporeal ], Lekhraj Kirpalani, awakening humanity and restoring human souls to their original state of harmony (creator aspect). He develops and sustains this balanced and complete human personality through the power of raja yoga and the knowledge he imparts to humanity (preserver aspect). He eliminates ] and negativity through the practice of the Brahma Kumari lifestyle (destroyer aspect)
patterns thus, there is a different type of "identity negotiation" (term coined by Walliss) beliefs and practices engaged in by individuals in relationship with the University. Walliss in his article "Reflexive Traditions New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity"<ref>Reflective Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity. Walliss, John; University of Warwick, UK.</ref>
recognizes four different types of members in Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University:<br />
1) '''Instrumental users:''' Individuals drawn to the University through what they perceive as tangible benefits through their life in the "here and now" usually emotionally or physically related issues.<br />


====Concept of human beings====
2) '''Eclectic users:'''individuals looking for "self development" or "self-spirituality", there is a spiritual quest behind their association.<br />
Each eternal human soul originally lived with God in the ] World, a world of infinite light, peace and silence known as ]. Souls take birth in a body in order to experience life and give expression to their original qualities having three components: ], intellect and ]. The intellect receives and digests knowledge, reasons, discerns and exhibits will and understanding guiding the thoughts that the conscious mind creates. The conscious mind produces thoughts and ideas; emotions, feelings and experiences that can be influenced by either the sanskars (subconscious mind) or by the guidance of the intellect. The ] mind contains impressions that form personality as a consequence of action mind,karma]].


====Concept of cyclic time====
3) '''Spiritual searchers:''' Individuals who feel belong to the spiritual path, however; their involvement with the University grew out of sense of disillusionment with conventional religiosity.<br />
Brahma Kumaris teachings are different from classical Hinduism in that they teach 5 world ages: a ], Silver Age, Copper Age and Iron Age or ] ] and a fifth "Diamond" or "Confluence Age" called Sangam Yuga. The most striking departure from Hinduism is that for Brahma Kumaris the whole of time lasts only 5,000 years, each Cycle identical and eternally repetitive without final release for human souls. The BKWSU believe that we currently are near the end of ], after which the world will be completely destroyed and then transformed a new Golden Age paradise. This Confluence was original taught to be 40 years and end in 1976, however it is current said to 100 years thought to have started in 1936.


====Raja Yoga meditation====
4) '''Interpretative drifters:''' Individuals originally involved due to instrumental reasons, however; "gradually discovered that the ideas are true." (Luhrmann, 1994:124 as quoted by Walliss.)<br />
The practice involves initial development of the awareness and experience of the inner being, or the soul in its true and peaceful form. Once that awareness exists, thought is turned towards union with their God Shiva. Meditation is practiced with open eyes and can be done in silence, with music or meditation commentaries initially under the supervision of a meditation guide. The meditation practice, of verbalised reflection with one’s eyes open, is supported by a disciplined way of life.<ref>Journal of Beliefs and Values, Vol.24, No.1, 2003 Religious Organisations in the UK and Values Education Programmes for Schools by Eleanor Nesbitt, Senior lecturer in Religions and Education, University of Warwick, UK and Ann Henderson, Research Fellow from The Univeristy of Warwick, UK.</ref>


====Methods of service====
For this topic, the outline given by Professor Kranenborg<ref>Reender Kranenborg, Free University of Amsterdam. "Brahma Kumaris: A New Religion?", 1999</ref> will be closely followed:
As a teaching and service-oriented institution, the Brahma Kumaris offer courses related to raja yoga such as ‘Positive Thinking, ‘Stress-free Living’, ‘Self-Managing Leadership’, and ‘Secrets of Self-Esteem’. At the global level, the Brahma Kumaris have supported human rights, equality and good education for all through involvement in the activities of UNO, UNESCO and UNICEF. (see achievements section)<br>
In his article "Brahma Kumaris: A new Religion?,"1999 (reproduced with author's permission) Kranenborg points out 6 different areas:<br />


====Murlis====
'''1) Concept of God:''' The Brahma Kumaris concept differs from Hinduism in that God is an eternal and conscient being of light, the ‘all-highest soul’, ever-pure and good. Although having all knowledge and in that sense being omniscient, he is not omnipresent. Matter and human souls are also eternal—neither are they created by God nor do they emerge from God. Brahma Kumaris teachings provide specific understanding of God’s roles as creator, preserver and destroyer. Kranenborg notes "Traditionally, Hinduism speaks of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and these three are seen as a unity. In Brahma Kumaris, however, Shiva stands above the trimurti and the third aspect is termed Shankar." However this is nothing new, as Shaiva Hindus also worship Shiva as representing Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh Himself. Shiva creates by entering the world through a corporeal medium, awakening humanity and restoring human souls to their original state of harmony (creator aspect). Because He is ''Mahāyogi'' (Sanskrit महायोगी) in Hindu Dharma. He develops and sustains this balanced and complete human personality through the power of raja yoga and the knowledge he imparts to humanity (preserver aspect). He gets evil and negativity eliminated through the practice and lifestyle of raja yoga (destroyer aspect ''Ekambaranatha'' ).)<br>
Brahma Kumaris teachings and spiritual study are based on the messages they believe to be imparted by the Supreme Soul entering a human medium, initially that of Dada Lekraj and currently that of Hirday Mohini, an elderly sister and speaks the ‘Murli’. Murlis are understood to be the words of God and clearly indicate that Shiva is to be understood as the ‘Supreme Soul’ and not one of many Hindu gods. The Brahma Kumaris understand God to be the Father of all souls, even though the knowledge (gyan) imparted through the Murlis is unlike that of other religious scriptures. This knowledge is considered ‘spiritual’ rather than ‘religious,’ and the movement as a whole is cast as a spiritual ‘university.’ Formally, the movement does not have a ‘holy book’ or scripture. Murlis are not available for sale and one must complete the Brahma Kumaris foundation course in order to begin listening to them, because a certain spiritual level has to be attained before they can be fully understood. Murli class is held in the early morning every day at all BK centres around the world.<br>


==Channelling and mediumship==
'''2) Concept of human beings:''' Each eternal human soul originally lived with God in the Soul World, a world of infinite light, peace and silence (otherwise known as nirvana). Souls take birth in a body in order to experience life and give expression to their original positive qualities.
The BKWSU use ] to deliver channelled messages from the spirit it beleives to be God or "the Supreme Soul" to its followers.<ref>Dr. Julia D. Howell. Changing Meanings of Religious Pluralism, 2003</ref>.
Souls have three components: intellect, conscious mind, and unconscious mind. The intellect receives and digests wisdom or Truth; reasons and discerns; and exhibits will and understanding. Depending on the intellect’s strength, it guides the thoughts that the conscious mind creates. The conscious mind produces thoughts and ideas; emotions, feelings and experiences and can be influenced by either the subconscious mind or by the guidance of the intellect. The unconscious mind contains impressions (sanskaras) that form personality as a consequence of action (karma).
The more the intellect is strengthened through the understanding of Truth as taught by God and through meditation practice, the more the soul is able to create thoughts and actions (karmas) that transform negative habits (sanskaras) into more divine and beneficial sanskaras. Then the soul leads a happier and more meaningful life.<br>


==7 Day Course==
'''3) Concept of cyclic time:''' Brahma Kumaris teachings accord with classical Hinduism with respect to four world ages (]): the golden age (sat yuga), the silver age (treta yuga), the copper age (dwapar yuga) and the iron age (]). Within this last age, however, there is a fifth diamond age or confluence age (sangam yuga). The most striking departure from Hinduism is that for Brahma Kumaris the whole cycle lasts 5000 years. They believe that we currently are near the end of kali yuga, after which the world will be completely transformed into a new golden age.<br>
After the start of "World service" in 1952, the BKSU offered seven lesson courses in the group's teachings and practice to outsiders. The practice continues.<ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999</ref>


An overview of the seven-lesson course can be found here: and here:
'''4) Raja Yoga meditation:''' The practice involves initial development of the awareness and experience of the inner being, or the soul in its true and peaceful form. Once that awareness exists, thought is turned towards union with God. The experience in this union is one of deep peace, bliss and the eternity of the soul.
Meditation is practiced with open eyes and can be done in silence, with music or meditation commentaries, but preferably under the supervision of a meditation guide.
Raja yogis also adopt a ‘spiritual lifestyle’ that entails a lacto-vegetarian diet, keeping good company, regular spiritual study, recurrent moments of meditation during the day and the practice of celibacy. The meditation makes a person internally stronger and leads to the formation of good character and service of others.<br>


==Membership and activities==
'''5) Methods of service:''' As a teaching and service-oriented institution, the Brahma Kumaris offer courses related to raja yoga such as ‘Positive Thinking, ‘Stress-free Living’, ‘Self-Managing Leadership’, and ‘Secrets of Self-Esteem’. At the global level, the Brahma Kumaris have supported human rights, equality and good education for all through involvement in the activities of UNO, UNESCO and UNICEF. (see achievements section)<br>
Brahma Kumaris are said to have a variety of membership patterns<ref>Reflective Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity. Walliss, John; University of Warwick, UK.</ref>;
1) '''Instrumental users:''' Individuals drawn to the University through what they perceive as tangible benefits through their life in the "here and now" usually emotionally or physically related issues.


2) '''Eclectic users:'''individuals looking for "self development" or "self-spirituality", there is a spiritual quest behind their association.
'''6) Murlis:''' Brahma Kumaris teachings and spiritual study are based on the messages imparted when the Supreme Soul takes the corporeal medium (initially that of Dada Lekraj and currently that of Dadi Gulzar, an elder sister) and speaks the ‘Murli’. Murlis are understood to be the words of God and clearly indicate that Shiva is to be understood as the ‘Supreme Soul’ and not one of many Hindu gods. The Brahma Kumaris understand God to be the Father of all souls, even though the knowledge (gyan) imparted through the Murlis is unlike that of other religious scriptures. This knowledge is considered ‘spiritual’ rather than ‘religious,’ and the movement as a whole is cast as a spiritual ‘university.’
Formally, the movement does not have a ‘holy book’ or scripture. Murlis are not available for sale and one must complete the Brahma Kumaris foundation course in order to begin listening to them, because a certain spiritual level has to be attained before they can be fully understood. Murli class is held in the early morning every day at all BK centres around the world.<br>


3) '''Spiritual searchers:''' Individuals who feel belong to the spiritual path, however; their involvement with the University grew out of sense of disillusionment with conventional religiosity.
As Dr. Howell points out to underline the uniqueness of the University: ''"Through the channelled messages it became clear that Shiva was not to be understood as one of many Hindu gods, but in monotheistic terms as ‘The Supreme Soul.’ Its knowledge, gyan, the true knowledge, was thus identified as ‘spiritual’ rather than ‘religious,’ and the movement as a whole was cast as a ‘university.’''<ref>Dr. Julia D. Howell. Changing Meanings of Religious Pluralism, 2003</ref>

4) '''Interpretative drifters:''' Individuals originally involved due to instrumental reasons, however; "gradually discovered that the ideas are true." (Luhrmann, 1994:124 as quoted by Walliss.)


==7 Day Course==
Walliss when referring to "world service" which was started in 1952,
states:<ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999</ref>''"Lekhraj had from the very beginning published numerous pamphlets and written a huge amount of letters to important national and international figures in which he interpreted contemporary events with reference to his revealed knowledge. Rather, this marked an intensification of the process, with seven-lesson courses in the group's teachings being offered to outsiders."''
An overview of the seven-lesson course can be found here: under '''"Foundation Course in Raja Yoga Meditation."'''
Also, here: under '''"Foundation Courses in Meditation."'''


==Achievements== ==Achievements==
Non-governmental organisation in general consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations and UNICEF, and affiliated to the UN Department of Public Information. The Brahma Kumaris were the recipients of seven UN Peace Messenger awards for its first international campaign "The Million Minutes for Peace" project.
==Outreach Activities==
Active in interfaith' projects
Organizers of conferences promoting its beliefs and service programmes targeting various social and professional groups such as academics or prisoners and international issues based campaigns such as "Global Cooperation for a Better World", "Living Values".
Administrators of two Hospitals in India.


==Splinter group==
Professor Kranenborg also mentions some of the Brahma Kumaris activities throughout the years.
A number of splinter groups exists, the most notable of which is known as the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris or ''Advance Party''. <ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999</ref>
''"courses are given which are connected to raja yoga. One should mention here the course ‘Positive Thinking'. Related to this is the course, ‘Stress-free Living' which is also concerned with developing a proper way of thinking and a proper tuning in to one's most profound nature. Courses such as ‘Self-Managing Leadership', ‘Secrets of Self-Esteem', ‘Self-Management for Quality of Life' have a similar orientation: the emphasis continually falls on understanding who the human being is, how the human being is connected with the All-Highest and how rest, power and balance can be brought into life."''<br>
Within this framework there are a number of programs that the Brahma Kumaris spearheaded, such as the United Nations project called ‘The Million Minutes for Peace' (in which the intention is that for a few minutes every day several people think positively of world peace). They were the recipient of seven UN Peace Messenger awards from this project. They also spearheaded the projects, ‘Global Cooperation for a Better World', ‘Sharing our Values for a Better World'. The latter project inspired the creation of Living Values' which is now an independent charitable organization based in Switzerland, ALIVE, where both BK and non-BK educators participate in the development of a values-based education program. The Brahma Kumaris are also very active in ‘interfaith' projects that encourage the unity and common tie of all religions. Finally, effort is made to contribute to different sectors of social life and culture. Thus, there are programs dealing with art, academic conferences (which is appropriate since the Brahma Kumaris organization is called a Spiritual University), medical research and practice and programs for working with prisoners, etc. They are also the administrators of a fully operating Global Hospital and Research Center near their headquarters in Mt. Abu, India, which serves the village communities in the area.

==The Advance Party==
Walliss mentions<ref>From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999</ref> the advent of a movement which may be seen as an internal response to ''"the University's world ambivalence;"'' Walliss refers to them as the ''Advance Party''.


== External links == == External links ==
====BK==== ====BKWSU websites====
* http://www.bkwsu.org/ Official International website. * http://www.bkwsu.org/ Official International website.
* http://www.brahmakumaris.com Official Indian based website * http://www.brahmakumaris.com Official Indian based website
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* http://www.livingvalues.net/ Living Values Education Program, A United Nations BKWSU program. * http://www.livingvalues.net/ Living Values Education Program, A United Nations BKWSU program.
* http://brahmakumaris.com.au/php/forum/index.php BK Discussion Forum * http://brahmakumaris.com.au/php/forum/index.php BK Discussion Forum
* http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=Brahma+Kumaris Google Video BKWSU clips including Descent of God and Destruction / Creation


====Critical==== ====B.K. teaching posters====
*
*
*
*

====Non-BKWSU websites====
* http://www.brahmakumaris.info A support group for mainly ex-BK, PBK and family of BKWSU members
* http://xbkinfo.infogami.com/ A guide to life after leaving the Brahma Kumaris
* http://www.bkwsu-critique.com/ Balanced critique of the B.K.W.S.U.
* http://www.cesnur.org/testi/bryn/br_kranenborg.htm * http://www.cesnur.org/testi/bryn/br_kranenborg.htm
* http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=Brahma+Kumaris Google Video BKWSU clips including Descent of God
* http://www.virusmyth.net/aids/books/nhbrevobser.htm Neville Hodgkinson, 'AIDS; The Failure of Contemporary Science, UK 1996
* http://ips.org/geneva/2906/meditate.htm TerraViva IPS, Meditating on Politics, ] 2000, the ] General Assembly Special Session (Copenhagen+5).

====Christian====
* http://www.reachouttrust.org/articles/othergrp/brahma.htm Reachout Trust report . * http://www.reachouttrust.org/articles/othergrp/brahma.htm Reachout Trust report .

====Islamic====
* http://www.islamicvoice.com/august.99/dialogue.htm view from "Islamic Voice" '''Islamic''' * http://www.islamicvoice.com/august.99/dialogue.htm view from "Islamic Voice" '''Islamic'''


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Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya or Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University is considered a millenarian New Religious Movement] (NRM) of Indian origin." It teaches a form of meditation called Raja Yoga, although not classical Raja Yoga as described by Patanjali.

History

The BKWSU was founded in 1937 by Lekhraj Kripalani, 1876-1969, a wealthy Sindhi merchant following visions of the destruction of the world and its population through war, strife and natural calamities and the emergence of a post-apocalyptic paradise to be populated by a chosen few. Kirpalani believed that he was entered by another soul and that this spirit was God who started to talk through him. Understandably disoriented by these visions and experiences, Lekhraj decided to sell his business to his partner in order to retire and established an informal congregation of followers called the Om Mandali, or "gathering of souls". Following social and legal opposition, the movement led by Lekhraj moved from Hyderabad to Karachi and then to their current location in Mount Abu.

From the beginning of the organization Kirpalani gave special encouragement to women to develop their spiritual lives and take leadership positions handing over the responsibilities of administering the organisation to a Trust of nine women. He also rejected the Hindu practice of restricting the elevated status of celibate seeker to men. Anyone, regardless of sex, who was prepared to adopt chastity and follow purity rules concerning diet and alcohol was eligible to join Kirpalani and become a member of the organization. A high proportion of early members were women and their children. In the 1950s when teaching centers elsewhere in India were opened, young women were chosen to spread the teachings and the leadership of the BK movement in India remains heavily female.

Beliefs and Practices

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BKWSU beliefs include. BK Raja yogis are expected to be teetotal, follow a sattvic lacto-vegetarian diet excluding onions and garlic and food not cooked by non-followers, keeping good company, morning meditation at 4 am, regular spiritual study at 6 am, recurrent moments of meditation during the day and the practice of celibacy.

Concept of God

The Brahma Kumaris concept differs from Hinduism in that God Shiva is an eternal and conscient being of light, the ‘all-highest soul’, ever-pure and good. Although having all knowledge and in that sense being omniscient, he is not omnipresent. Matter and human souls are also eternal - neither are they created by God nor do they emerge from God. Brahma Kumaris teachings provide unique understanding of God’s roles as creator, preserver and destroyer. Traditionally, Hinduism speaks of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. In Brahma Kumaris however, Shiva stands above the Trimurti and the third aspect of destroyer is termed Shankar. Shiva creates by entering the world through a corporeal medium, Lekhraj Kirpalani, awakening humanity and restoring human souls to their original state of harmony (creator aspect). He develops and sustains this balanced and complete human personality through the power of raja yoga and the knowledge he imparts to humanity (preserver aspect). He eliminates evil and negativity through the practice of the Brahma Kumari lifestyle (destroyer aspect)

Concept of human beings

Each eternal human soul originally lived with God in the Soul World, a world of infinite light, peace and silence known as Nirvana. Souls take birth in a body in order to experience life and give expression to their original qualities having three components: mind, intellect and sanskars. The intellect receives and digests knowledge, reasons, discerns and exhibits will and understanding guiding the thoughts that the conscious mind creates. The conscious mind produces thoughts and ideas; emotions, feelings and experiences that can be influenced by either the sanskars (subconscious mind) or by the guidance of the intellect. The unconscious mind contains impressions that form personality as a consequence of action mind,karma]].

Concept of cyclic time

Brahma Kumaris teachings are different from classical Hinduism in that they teach 5 world ages: a Golden Age, Silver Age, Copper Age and Iron Age or Kali Yuga and a fifth "Diamond" or "Confluence Age" called Sangam Yuga. The most striking departure from Hinduism is that for Brahma Kumaris the whole of time lasts only 5,000 years, each Cycle identical and eternally repetitive without final release for human souls. The BKWSU believe that we currently are near the end of Kali Yuga, after which the world will be completely destroyed and then transformed a new Golden Age paradise. This Confluence was original taught to be 40 years and end in 1976, however it is current said to 100 years thought to have started in 1936.

Raja Yoga meditation

The practice involves initial development of the awareness and experience of the inner being, or the soul in its true and peaceful form. Once that awareness exists, thought is turned towards union with their God Shiva. Meditation is practiced with open eyes and can be done in silence, with music or meditation commentaries initially under the supervision of a meditation guide. The meditation practice, of verbalised reflection with one’s eyes open, is supported by a disciplined way of life.

Methods of service

As a teaching and service-oriented institution, the Brahma Kumaris offer courses related to raja yoga such as ‘Positive Thinking, ‘Stress-free Living’, ‘Self-Managing Leadership’, and ‘Secrets of Self-Esteem’. At the global level, the Brahma Kumaris have supported human rights, equality and good education for all through involvement in the activities of UNO, UNESCO and UNICEF. (see achievements section)

Murlis

Brahma Kumaris teachings and spiritual study are based on the messages they believe to be imparted by the Supreme Soul entering a human medium, initially that of Dada Lekraj and currently that of Hirday Mohini, an elderly sister and speaks the ‘Murli’. Murlis are understood to be the words of God and clearly indicate that Shiva is to be understood as the ‘Supreme Soul’ and not one of many Hindu gods. The Brahma Kumaris understand God to be the Father of all souls, even though the knowledge (gyan) imparted through the Murlis is unlike that of other religious scriptures. This knowledge is considered ‘spiritual’ rather than ‘religious,’ and the movement as a whole is cast as a spiritual ‘university.’ Formally, the movement does not have a ‘holy book’ or scripture. Murlis are not available for sale and one must complete the Brahma Kumaris foundation course in order to begin listening to them, because a certain spiritual level has to be attained before they can be fully understood. Murli class is held in the early morning every day at all BK centres around the world.

Channelling and mediumship

The BKWSU use to deliver channelled messages from the spirit it beleives to be God or "the Supreme Soul" to its followers..

7 Day Course

After the start of "World service" in 1952, the BKSU offered seven lesson courses in the group's teachings and practice to outsiders. The practice continues.

An overview of the seven-lesson course can be found here: and here:

Membership and activities

Brahma Kumaris are said to have a variety of membership patterns; 1) Instrumental users: Individuals drawn to the University through what they perceive as tangible benefits through their life in the "here and now" usually emotionally or physically related issues.

2) Eclectic users:individuals looking for "self development" or "self-spirituality", there is a spiritual quest behind their association.

3) Spiritual searchers: Individuals who feel belong to the spiritual path, however; their involvement with the University grew out of sense of disillusionment with conventional religiosity.

4) Interpretative drifters: Individuals originally involved due to instrumental reasons, however; "gradually discovered that the ideas are true." (Luhrmann, 1994:124 as quoted by Walliss.)


Achievements

Non-governmental organisation in general consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations and UNICEF, and affiliated to the UN Department of Public Information. The Brahma Kumaris were the recipients of seven UN Peace Messenger awards for its first international campaign "The Million Minutes for Peace" project.

Outreach Activities

Active in interfaith' projects Organizers of conferences promoting its beliefs and service programmes targeting various social and professional groups such as academics or prisoners and international issues based campaigns such as "Global Cooperation for a Better World", "Living Values". Administrators of two Hospitals in India.

Splinter group

A number of splinter groups exists, the most notable of which is known as the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris or Advance Party.

External links

BKWSU websites

B.K. teaching posters

Non-BKWSU websites

References

  1. Reflexive Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity.-John Walliss, Ph.D University of Warwick, UK.
  2. Professor Reender Kranenborgh from Free University of Amsterdam. All citations originate from this web article unless noted differently.
  3. From World Rejection to Ambivalence: The Development of Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris. Walliss, John; Journal of Contemporary Religion; Oct99, Vol. 14 Issue 3, p375, 11p
  4. Gender Role Experimentation in New Religious Movements: Clarification of the Brahma Kumari Case, Howell, Julia. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion; Sep98, Vol. 37 Issue 3, p453-461, 9p. Julia Day Howell is Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Asian and International Studies, Griffith University, Australia
  5. Reender Kranenborg, Free University of Amsterdam. "Brahma Kumaris: A New Religion?", 1999
  6. Journal of Beliefs and Values, Vol.24, No.1, 2003 Religious Organisations in the UK and Values Education Programmes for Schools by Eleanor Nesbitt, Senior lecturer in Religions and Education, University of Warwick, UK and Ann Henderson, Research Fellow from The Univeristy of Warwick, UK.
  7. Dr. Julia D. Howell. Changing Meanings of Religious Pluralism, 2003
  8. From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999
  9. Reflective Traditions: New Religious Movements and the 'Negotiation' of Identity. Walliss, John; University of Warwick, UK.
  10. From World Rejection to Ambivalence:The development in Millenarianism in the Brahma Kumaris." by John Walliss. Journal of Contemporary Religion, Vol.14,N 3, 1999

Bibliography

  • Dr Julia D. Howell, Asian and International Studies, Griffith University, Australia & Dr Peter L. Nelson, Nelson Center for Humanities and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Australia. "Surviving Transplantation: The Brahma Kumaris in the Western World".
  • Dr. Julia D. Howel. Changing Meanings of Religious Pluralism, , 2003.
  • John Walliss, Ashgate New Critical Thinking in Religion, Theology and Biblical Studies, Aldershot. "The Brahma Kumaris as a ‘reflexive Tradition’: Responding to late modernity ", 2002 ISBN 0-7546-0951-0
  • Reender Kranenborg, Free University of Amsterdam. "Brahma Kumaris: A New Religion? ", 1999.
  • Peter Clarke, "Dada Lekhraj" & "Brahma Kumaris." Encyclopedia of New Religious Movements. Routledge 2005.
  • William Shaw , "Spying in Guruland: Inside Britain’s Cults", Fourth Estate, London, England 1994.
  • Lawrence A. Babb, "Amnesia and Remembrance in a Hindu Theory of History", Asian Folklore Studies, Vol. 41, No. 1 (1982), pp. 49-66.
  • Lawrence A. Babb "Indigenous Feminism in a Modern Hindu Sect", Signs, Vol. 9, No. 3 (Spring, 1984), pp. 399-416.
  • Mayer, Jean-François et Reender Kranenborg, Geneve, Suisse. "La Naissance des Nouvelles Religions". 2004 ISBN 2-8257-0877-1
  • Frank Whaling, Emeritus Professor of the Study of Religion, University of Edinburgh. "Understanding the Brahma Kumaris", 2006. ISBN 1-903765-51-X.
  • Suma Varughese. "Satyug is as Sure as Death". 1998
  • BK Jayanti. "Valuing the Future : Education for Spiritual Development", 1999
  • Interreligious Insight. "Brahma Kumaris, World Spiritual University",
  • Ken O'Donnell. "Raja Yoga for beginners", 1987.
  • Jagdish Chander, Translated from original Hinu by Shanta Trivedi, PhD , Edited by Robert Shubow, J.D. "Adi Dev: The First Man", 1981.
  • Dadi Janki, "Companion of God", 2003 ISBN 0-340-82915-X
  • BKWSU. "World Drama", unknown date.
  • BKWSU. "Easy RajYoga", unknown date.
  • BKWSU. "The Seven Day Course" Pamphlet series, unknown date.
  • Near-Death Experience/Heide Fittkau-Garthe, 1998.
  • A Critique of the BK Philosophy as presented in the 7 Day Course,By Andy Harangozo
  • Report on Child Abuse,Beliefs and Lifestyle
  • Pamphlets Take a Closer Look,The Successful Subtle Soft-sell of Raja Yoga By CCG Training Insititue, Australia March 1989

See also

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