Online Sanskrit Courses for Deeper Study
Beginner Sanskrit for Seekers
Discover the beauty and richness of Sanskrit in this welcoming course for complete beginners. Whether you are interested in yoga, Indian philosophy, sacred texts or simply the language itself, Beginner Sanskrit for Seekers will give you a solid foundation from which to explore further.
We’ll begin by learning to read and write the Devanāgarī script, before gradually introducing the essential grammar and vocabulary of Sanskrit. Step by step, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to begin reading and understanding the language for yourself.
Alongside our study of the language, we’ll explore Sanskrit through chanting, giving you the opportunity to experience its sounds and rhythms and discover the close relationship between sound and meaning.
No previous knowledge of Sanskrit is required. The course is taught at a manageable pace, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and consolidate what you have learned.
Practical Information
Format: Online, with recordings available after each class.
Level: Complete beginners. No previous experience necessary.
Required textbook: ISBN 9789390064747 (ISBN-10: 9390064740).
Who Is This Longer Sanskrit Course For?
For Yoga Teachers
You use Sanskrit in your teaching, from āsana names to mantras, but perhaps you want to go beyond memorising words and pronunciations. Develop a deeper understanding of the language, its structure and its place in yoga, so you can teach with greater confidence and understanding.
For Dedicated Practitioners
You feel drawn to explore yoga beyond the physical practice, or perhaps you're returning to Sanskrit after studying it before. Whether you want to reconnect with a tradition, deepen your understanding of familiar teachings or read Sanskrit texts with fresh eyes, this course offers the time and guidance to go deeper.
For Curious Learners
You want to explore Sanskrit itself, not just learn a collection of yoga terms. Discover how the language works, build a foundation in grammar and begin to understand the words, mantras and traditional texts that have shaped yoga philosophy.
Explore Our Sanskrit Deeper Courses
Please note if no longer course dates are showing here, you can always drop me a message to find out when the next one begins.
Intermediate Sanskrit for Seekers
Continue your Sanskrit studies and build on the foundations established in the beginners' course.
We’ll develop your understanding of Sanskrit grammar and expand your vocabulary, gradually working towards reading more challenging texts. You'll begin to engage with original Sanskrit passages, including selections from the Bhagavad Gītā, with guidance and support as you develop your reading skills and confidence.
As in the beginners' course, chanting will remain an important part of our weekly lessons, giving you the opportunity to deepen your familiarity with the sounds and rhythms of Sanskrit and explore the relationship between sound and meaning.
The course offers a supportive environment in which to consolidate what you already know while taking your Sanskrit studies to the next level.
Prerequisites
A solid grounding in basic Sanskrit grammar, including the ability to read Devanāgarī and familiarity with basic noun and verb paradigms.
Format: Online, with recordings available after each class.
Level: Intermediate, for students who have completed a beginners' course or have equivalent knowledge.
Required textbooks
Stories from the Mahābhārata: A Sanskrit Coursebook for Intermediate Level, Part 1
Stories from the Mahābhārata: A Sanskrit Coursebook for Intermediate Level, Part 2
Practical information
Learn With An Experienced Sanskrit Teacher, Meet Elena!
Learning Sanskrit can seem daunting, especially if you're not sure where to start or whether you need to learn all that grammar!
I've spent over 30 years teaching Sanskrit to people with different interests and backgrounds, from complete beginners to those wanting to explore yoga, chanting, philosophy and traditional texts. I know where people tend to get stuck, how to explain tricky ideas clearly and, most importantly, how to help you enjoy learning.
Whether you're completely new to Sanskrit or returning to something you've been meaning to explore for years, there's a place for you to start.
Would you like to explore the more in-depth Sanskrit Courses?
Have a question about the course, or wondering whether it's the right fit for you? I'd love to hear from you. Whether you're a yoga teacher looking to deepen your understanding, curious about learning Sanskrit from the ground up, or returning to the language after time away, get in touch and we can explore whether this course is right for you.