The giving of the teachings and the giving of support to the teacher are a form of puja, or ritual reciprocity. Arising together as one gesture, they express the natural devotion of Self to Self.
How it was 
Traditionally, students offered their teachers gold, cattle or grain.
How it is
Now most of us give money and also service, or seva. But it turns out that today, the topic of supporting spiritual teachers and traditions is a rich field for both misunderstanding and growing.
Here’s the dope on paying (or not paying) for Jaya Kula teachings
- “Free” means you don’t have to give money if you don’t want to.
- “Give What You Can” means give what you are able to give. Give What You Can doesn’t mean “free.” We work with the practical and compassionate understanding that everyone is able to give something.
- For longer teachings, we usually set two donation levels: “regular” and “low-income.”
What if I can’t afford a teaching?
- We consider every donation to be equal to every other donation, no matter how large or small. If a teaching is “give what you can” our position is that everyone can give something and thus feel the benefit of participating on equal footing with all.
- If you cannot afford a teaching, please talk to Shambhavi about it. At this time, Jaya Kula has limited work-trade and scholarship opportunities, but we will do our best to make it possible for you to attend.
Our Monthly Offering Program
If you find you are coming to teachings and events regularly, you may want to join our Monthly Offering Program. Those who participate in this program, make a monthly offering to Jaya Kula rather than offering payment at individual teachings.
Please download the PDF for more details.
Monthly Offering Program description (pdf)
What else can I give?
- Your attention to the teachings
- Your dedication to practice
- Seva/ karma yoga – We have lots of opportunities! Please ask Bhairavi or Matridarshana at regular teachings how you can participate.
- Monetary donations to support Jaya Kula, our teachings, mission and community. Just use the DONATE link in the footer of every page on our website.
- Donations in-kind, aka goods. Right now, we need a few yoga mats and building materials and labor to turn our garage into a meditation space/ student guest room.
Are my donations tax deductible?
If you receive teachings or services in exchange for your money or goods, then no, your donation is not tax deductible.
If you do not receive any teachings or services in exchange for your donation, then your donation is tax deductible.
