CTW: Vedic Perspective on Gender Differences

Having understood in the previous sessions about gender differences at the physical and psychological level, we will attempt to understand through the philosophical world of the Vedas and the cultural world that is based upon it .At the end of this session we will be able to appreciate how the difference in the psycho-physical natures of men and women is thoroughly understood and acknowledged in the Vedic Culture. We will go through the following topics:

• What is the Vedic definition of intelligence?
• Purusha and Prakriti and its Imitation in the Material world
• Different egos, different bodies, different psychophysical natures- strengths and weaknesses
• The Breakdown of Dharma and how it impacts women
• A Woman's Spiritual Nature 

Taking into account the differences- the society is designed to engage men and women in their areas of strength in a manner in which they can complement each other.

• Varnashrama - the culture of protection and inclusion for the growth of spiritual consciousness

Also, many times we have read in the Bhagavatam and Bhagavad Gita that "Women are less intelligent" at the same time we read several examples right from the Bhagavatam about how a "Good wife means Good intelligence" and she increases the family's engagement in devotional service.Understanding the points above will also help us reconcile these opposites.