Course Summary

Discover the timeless wisdom of six great civilisations and explore how their myths, philosophies, sacred texts and traditions continue to shape our understanding of life today. From Greek heroism and Indian philosophy to Inka spirituality, Kabbalah, Egyptian teachings and the Samurai code, this course examines enduring ideas about justice, identity, purpose, harmony and personal development.

Through comparing these diverse traditions, participants will reflect on a universal question: how can wisdom become a practical way of life?

Course Sessions

Tuesday, 10th November - 6 classes


Session ID DNBB9501C
10 Nov - 15 Dec 10:00am - 12:15pm
Location CBD
Session Fees
$485 / $461 (conc)
Teacher
Ariel DRUCKMAN

Session 1: Greece – The Hero’s Journey

Main Topic: Western philosophy, ethics and the archetypal hero’s journey through the story of Theseus and the Labyrinth.

Sources: Greek mythology and heroic traditions.

Learning Objective: Explore the question of identity and discover the hero within.

Session 2: India – The Inner Battle

Main Topic: Eastern philosophy, Dharma and Karma in the Samkhya tradition, and Yoga as the path of right action.

Sources: The Bhagavad Gita.

Learning Objective: Examine how to make ethical choices when facing life’s challenges and dilemmas.

Session 3: Inka – Harmony with Nature

Main Topic: The relationship between humanity, the cosmos and the divine; Machu Picchu, sacred architecture, and the Inka concept of Pacha (space-time).

Sources: Inka cosmology and historical chronicles.

Learning Objective: Develop a deeper understanding of living in harmony with nature and the wider world.

Session 4: The Holy Land – Kabbalistic Wisdom

Main Topic: The Tree of Life, the Sefirot, and the search for balance between the human and divine.

Sources: The Zohar and key Kabbalistic teachings.

Learning Objective: Explore mystical interpretations of ancient scriptures as tools for self-reflection and personal growth.

Session 5: Egypt – Justice and Cosmic Order

Main Topic: Ancient Egyptian concepts of Maat (justice and harmony) and Neter (divine forces), explored through temples and pyramids.

Sources: The Book of the Dead.

Learning Objective: Reflect on our place, purpose and responsibilities within the world.

Session 6: Japan – The Samurai Tradition

Main Topic: Bushido and the virtues of honour, discipline, courage and self-mastery.

Sources: Hagakure, Zen teachings and Samurai philosophy.

Learning Objective: Explore how discipline, responsibility and service can transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

About Ariel

Ariel Druckman is an architect, teacher and the National Director of New Acropolis Australia. For more than 20 years, he has been dedicated to the study and teaching of philosophy as a practical path for personal growth, ethical living and inner development.

Ariel also teaches design and creative disciplines at Box Hill Institute, where he combines his professional background in architecture with his passion for education and human development. Over the years, he has organised and facilitated many workshops, courses and cultural events that invite participants to explore timeless wisdom, deepen self-knowledge and bring greater consciousness into daily life.

Last updated: August 12, 2026 05:19pm