Introduction to the Buddhist Path

In recent years, many people have self-identified as “probably Buddhist,” meaning, I imagine, that they appreciate (or, at least, are relieved by) the emphasis on compassion, non-violence, and non-fundamentalism.

But what does it really mean to become a Buddhist? What do Buddhists believe? What are the key teachings and who are some key teachers? Where does one go to learn more?

Please join Susan for this three-week, super-broad overview of the Buddhist path. Each week, we will examine key points of the three “yanas” or vehicles of the dharma. For each yana, we will discuss two core teachings, one or more core practices, and be introduced to one or more seminal wisdom masters. We will also practice meditation together, flavored by that week’s themes. Susan will also suggest current teachers who carry on this tradition and where to go to learn more.

Sessions will be recorded and links sent out within 24 hours. Recordings and course materials will be available for use for 90 days after the last class date. We will meet on Zoom, an online videoconferencing platform.

Curriculum

Class One (May 3)

The Foundation: The Hinayana Path

Core teachings: Four Noble Truths and the Four Reminders
Core principles: Simplicity, Renunciation, and Discipline
Core teacher: Buddha
Practice: Shamatha meditation
Current teachers and resources
Discussion
Homework and Readings

Class Two  (May 10)

Expanding Out: The Mahayana Path

Core teaching: Prajnaparamita (Heart Sutra)
Core principles: Absolute and Relative Bodhicitta (compassion)
Core teacher: Nagarjuna
Practice: Lovingkindness meditation
Current teachers and resources
Discussion
Homework and Readings

Class Three  (May 17)

Ordinary Magic: The Vajrayana Path

Core teaching: Kalacakra Tantra
Core principles: Samaya and Devotion
Core teachers: Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogyal; Chogyam Trungpa
Practice: Creativity
Current teachers and resources
Discussion
Homework and Readings

Questions? Please email Michele

No cancellations.