Foundation in Buddhism Series

This is the fourth of a series of teachings over the next 6 months, which will give an overview and understanding of the framework for the Buddhist path. It is intended for those who are new to Buddhism and will cover an explanation of the main topics, such as The Three Jewels - the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha; the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, the Four Thoughts; the meaning of Refuge, the Spiritual Friend and the importance of loving kindness and compassion. It is recommended to attend the full course, but each teaching stands on its own and it is possible to attend individual days.  Suitable for anyone wishing to gain more familiarity with the Buddhist teachings.

Entering the Buddhist Path

Taking refuge is the first formal step on the Buddhist path. This day will be an explanation of what it means to take refuge. Spiritual refuge is a protection and eventual freedom from the confusion and suffering of cyclic existence.

The sources of spiritual refuge are the Three Jewels: the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The ultimate refuge is our own mind, our Buddha nature.

It is because the Buddha Nature, or potential, is common to all beings that they are capable of attaining enlightenment.

For example: a stone doesn’t have the potential to produce oil, and so no matter how much you might press it and grind it—even if you use modern tools and machinery—you will never extract any oil. A sesame seed, on the other hand, does have the potential to produce oil, and by pressing it in the right way, sesame oil can and will be produced. Like that the potential for Buddhahood exists as part of our basic nature.

The day of teachings will also cover topics such as the importance of receiving refuge from an authentic and unbroken lineage of transmission, the role of faith and trust, and how to relate to the refuge ceremony itself, as well as the importance of taking refuge with the right motivation.

This day can be attended as a course on its own or as a part of the monthly Buddhism series. The day will also include time for Q&A and meditation.   Lunch will be available in our Tibetan Tearoom.

Please note that each day needs to be booked separately in advance.

Dates for the Foundation in Buddhism Series are :

4 April. - The Four Noble Truths

9 May - The Noble Eightfold Path

6 Jun - The Four Thoughts

12 Sep - Entering the Buddhist Path

17 Oct - The Spiritual Friend 

7 Nov - Cultivating Loving Kindness

The £5 is a non refundable registration fee, not a payment for the course. There is no charge for our courses and teachings, but donations to help cover the costs of running the centre are very welcome.