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Views of Reality
Thursdays 7.30 to 9.00pm
Led by Venerable Toby Gillies, these classes examine the conventional and ultimate nature of reality from the perspectives of the
four major schools of Buddhist philosophy and the tenets of each of those schools.
The wisdom perceiving the ultimate nature of reality (emptiness) is the only direct opponent to our negative mental states, or
delusions, without which we will be unable to completely remove the delusions and permanently eliminate suffering. Even if we
practise renunciation, compassion and bodhichitta for a great length of time, without the wisdom perceiving emptiness, we cannot
completely eliminate our delusions.
In order to perceive the ultimate nature of reality we need to penetrate its true meaning by engaging in analytical meditation.
To have success with this meditation, it is vital to have the correct intellectual understanding of this deep philosophical view.
Each of the four schools of Buddhist philosophy maintains a different view of the nature of reality, the viewpoint of the middle
way consequence school being the highest and most sophisticated. By hearing, thinking, debating and meditating on the three lower
schools of Buddhist philosophy – the great exposition school, the sutra school, and the mind only school - we can progressively
refine our understanding towards the most subtle view of the highest school, which asserts a middle way between inherent existence
and non-existence.
The effort applied to gaining even a preliminary intellectual understanding of emptiness will help to purify the mind of the
obstructions to recognising the nature of reality. This class represents an opportunity to develop our understanding of this
deep philosophical view and move closer to recognising the nature of reality.
The class commences with a guided meditation on emptiness. Toby introduces different types of emptiness meditation during the
course, including mahamudra meditation. The meditation is followed by a presentation on the views of the four major Buddhist
philosophical schools. The views of each school, and how they differ, are presented in detail during the course, with some
revision each class to assist new students, and to strengthen understanding for existing students. There is an opportunity for
questions at the conclusion of the session.
Toby’s clear presentation of subtle philosophical points, use of relevant examples, and humour, transform a potentially
challenging topic into an interesting, enlightening and entertaining session. Supper follows the class and presents an
opportunity for further discussion and debate.
These classes are at an advanced level and are more suited to people with a background in Buddhism, although those new to
Buddhism are also welcome to attend.
There is a facility charge of $10, with proceeds going to support the temple.
You should wear loose fitting comfortable and warm clothing. Seating is available in chairs or on meditation cushions.
Classes are held on Thursdays from March through to December, except for public holidays during the year. Classes are not
held during the annual retreat period in late September/early October. Please enquire at the Centre for more details.
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