Entering the Buddhist Path With Lama Zangmo

Sat 13 July

10am – 3:30pm

The first formal step on the Buddhist path is taking refuge. This day will be an explanation of what it means to take refuge. Spiritual refuge is a protection that eventually leads to freedom from confusion and suffering.

The genuine 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 our inner potential, Buddha Nature, is common to all beings that we 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 on its own or as a part of the monthly Introduction to Buddhism series. 

Other Dates Of This Course: 

• 14th September- The Spiritual Friend
• 19th October- Cultivating Compassion 

The course will include time for Q&A and meditation.

Lunch will be available in our Tibetan Tearoom.

Suitable for anyone wishing to gain more familiarity with the Buddhist teachings.

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.