Shantideva’s The Way of the Bodhisattva is one of the most treasured classics of Buddhist literature. The Dalai Lama has said: “If I have any understanding of compassion and the practice of the bodhisattva path, it is entirely on the basis of this text that I possess it.” Our text is a translation by The Padmakara Translation Group,
chosen for its ability to render the original Sanskrit verse with accuracy, while retaining some of the beauty of Shantideva’s poetry. We will read and discuss topics like: cultivating bodhichitta (the heart of enlightenment), the six perfections of an aspiring bodhisattva, and the union of wisdom and compassion. We will also use these topics for brief guided meditation sessions. Join us for this exploration of the bodhisattva path. Continue reading →

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The Lam Rim is a Tibetan Buddhist textual form for presenting the teachings of the sutras in gradual stages according to the traditional three levels, or scopes, of spiritual endeavor. It begins with essential teachings on impermanence, karma, and ethics. Then, from the Hinayana standpoint, it describes the essential Buddhist teachings of the four noble truths and the twelve links of dependent arising. Moving on, finally, to the Mahayana perspective, it expounds fully the teachings on Bodhicitta and the path of the six Paramitas, and gives an unusually detailed exposition of Buddhist vows. Continue reading →

Have you always wanted to understand Buddhism? Buddhism is a 2,500 year old tradition that teach us how to end pain and suffering in ourselves and others. This 12 week course will cover: (1) Meditation instruction, (2) Life of the Buddha, (3) Basic Buddhist teachings, (4) Three schools of Buddhism and much more. Continue reading →

Meditation has been proven to: lower blood pressure, relieve stress, and help you cope with anxiety. It has also been shown to be very effective with chronic pain, insomnia, and panic disorder. The wonderful thing about meditation is that it can be used anywhere, even on the way to work and has no dangerous side effects. In this one session class you will learn this simple technique that can change your life. This class is based upon the work of Jon Kabat-Zin of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Continue reading →