The five pillars of training and education cover: 1. Definition, 2. Disposition, 3. Delivery, 4. Design, and 5. Direction.
1. DEFINITION: Actual education means the simultaneous cultivation of jïänam (phenomenal) and vijïänam (numinous) knowledge through formal, non-formal and informal practices. [Bhagavad-gita 7.2]
2. DISPOSITION: A correct education entails that both the teacher and the student must demonstrate specific traits. A qualified teacher must display nine basic qualities: 1. peacefulness, 2. self-control, 3. austerity, 4. purity, 5. tolerance, 6. honesty, 7. knowledge, 8. wisdom and 9. religiousness. [Bhagavad-gitä18.42]
Similarly, a qualified student must have three qualities: 1) submission, 2) inquiry and 3) service. [Bhagavad-gita 4.34]
Thus, education should only be offered to individuals who demonstrate proper motivation as well as natural ability and proper inclination. In light of the above, we should understand knowledge and education to be a privilege rather than a right.
3. DELIVERY: The ideal environment which fosters lifelong education and which provides the best training and education to all individuals is the scientifically planned village social structure. Such village organization, established on the principles of Vedic architecture (Vastu-shästra), helps individuals elevate themselves to the mode of goodness and beyond. Training and education are best conducted within a boarding system where both the teacher and the student live together, as opposed to the formal modern day “schooling” system.
4. DESIGN: According to Vedic culture, by definition and purpose, the systems of varëa (aptitude-based learning) and äshrama (phased life-long education)] are in themselves complete and scientific educational institutions. [Bhagavad-gétä 16 1-3]
They provide both training and education to all their members based on methodology and Vedic curriculum corresponding to each varëa and each äçrama. This education and training encompass both the material and spiritual spheres, the foundation of which is the practice of sädhanabhakti or practical devotion to God.
5. DIRECTION: The ultimate aim of all education and knowledge is to help individuals, and society at large advance towards self-realization and God consciousness. Education and knowledge, devoid of such objective, are incomplete and imperfect. [Bhagavad-gétä 18 64.65.66]