This is the sixth session of a seven-part Introduction to Buddhism series.

Parts seven will be held on the 15th July 2023.

We all need guidance on how to change our old negative habits and how to live according to ethics and the Dharma. Therefore we need teachers and guides who can lead us along the path.

This session will cover topics such as the need for a spiritual teacher; the qualities needed in a student; the three types of Dharma person; the benefits of faith and devotion and the need for intelligent discernment on the spiritual path.

The Tibetan word for spiritual friend literally means “friend in goodness/virtue”. This is a friend who can guide us on the path of virtue and ethics. A spiritual friend can lead us on the path that will eliminate suffering and guide us onto the path of happiness and freedom from suffering.

There are five topics on a spiritual friend.

• First is the reason why we need a spiritual friend.
• Second are the different types of spiritual friends.
• Third the characteristics of each type of spiritual friend.
• Fourth, how we should relate to and rely on a spiritual friend.
• Fifth, the benefits that come from relying on a spiritual friend.

This day can be attended as a course on its own or as a part of the monthly Introduction to Buddhism series. The Series topics are as follows:

Session 1.  The Four Noble Truths

Session 2. The Noble Eightfold Path

Session 3. The Precious Human Life & Impermanence

Session 4.  Karma & Samsara

Session 5. Entering the Buddhist Path

Session 6. The Spiritual Friend

Session 7. Cultivating Boddhicitta

Each Session will also include time for Q&A and meditation.

Our Tibetan Tearoom & Shop will be serving lunch on a first come basis.

A non-refundable administration fee is needed to book a place for each session in this course. This admin fee is not a donation or payment for the course.