Spiritual and material, i.e., Paravidya and Aparavidya are the two different types of education. Spiritual education deals with knowledge regarding God (Paramatma). This type of education will enable one to understand the unity between God and soul.
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Under the Aparavidya or material education, knowledge about practicing Dharma (one’s religion or duties) should be given. In this connection, one will also understand the nature of Adharma, i.e., unrighteous actions.
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The material education or Aparavidya pertains to the affairs of the material world. In the paravidya or spiritual education the purpose will be to enable the student (Shishya) to become merged into God Himself.
In the Aparavidya or material education one will be principally involved in mundane affairs and will try to get pleasures of the senses or Indriyabhoga according to Advaita Vedant the Aparavidya has to be hated if the realization of the essential unity between soul and God has to be the major goal.
In short, we may summaries the nature of education according to Advaita Vedant in the following manner:
1. True knowledge (Gyan) and education are mutually inclusive.
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2. Education has to be of two types, spiritual and material.
3. Paravidya and Aparavidya are the two major types of education. Education is a life-long process.
4. Education should not be regarded only as a means for material advancement. True education lies in spiritual growth of the Shishya (the student).
5. Education must remove all attachments (Rag) with the material things.
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6. Education should enable one to realize the inherent consciousness in the individual about God.
7. It is through Paravidya (spiritual education) that one may feel the presence of God within himself.
8. Education is a Tripolar system consisting of God, the students and the curriculum (Paramatma, the Shishya and the Pathyakram).
9. Education and life all mutually inclusive.
10. Life should not be considered as enjoyment of worldly pleasure, but for obtaining deliverance (Moksha).
11. Education must contribute to the development of spirituality in man.