Tibetan Buddhist Classes

Introductory Classes - 1.30 PM Sundays

When we are unhappy or dissatisfied we blame our circumstances. We thus believe that the solution to our unhappiness can be found by changing our job, our friends, our work, where we live, or even our partner. We forget that experience depends not only on our situation, but also our attitude. Ultimately, happiness and unhappiness are states of mind. With a positive attitude we can deal positively with whatever we encounter. With a negative mind, no matter what our circumstances we experience misery.

Buddhist thought investigates the nature of the mind. It explains how to cultivate positive mental states and how to remove the negative. In particular, Buddhism teaches the theory and practice of meditation. Through meditation we can subdue mental agitation, which is the root cause of stress and dissatisfaction. With a still, calm mind experience becomes positive.

During this series you will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of Buddhist thought, including cause and effect, the nature of mind, love and compassion. You will be taught a number of different meditations that include techniques for opposing stress and tension.

Path to Enlightenment 4.00 PM Sundays

The range of Buddhist thought and teachings is vast. The special feature of the Path to Enlightenment is that it presents the essence of all Buddhist teachings, and in particular explains how to apply these teachings to our daily lives. These teachings, which are presented throughout the year, are based on Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden’s book Path to Enlightenment in Tibetan Buddhism. The Path to Enlightenment covers essential subjects, including cause and effect, impermanence, the mind of enlightenment and emptiness. Through the practice of the path to enlightenment, one can progress from the stage of a beginner to complete enlightenment.

Classes are conducted by the Venerable Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden, and include guided meditation instruction.

Vajrayogini Practice - Mondays, 7.30 PM

Vajrayogini is a female deity, whose practice is part of Mother Tantra. As such Vajrayogini teachings emphasise the practice of clear light. Special features of the Vajrayogini Tantra include its straightforward explanation, the eleven generation stages, and especially the very subtle thirty-seven deity body mandala practice.

During these classes Geshe-la provides detailed instruction on the key aspects of both generation and completion stage.

Yamantaka Practice - Wednesdays, 7.30 PM

Solitary Hero Yamantaka is the wrathful manifestation of Manjushri, the Buddha of wisdom. This practice is considered especially useful for removing hindrances, including illness, short life and poor conditions. As one of the Father Tantras, Yamantaka teachings emphasise the practice of illusory body. Yamantaka practice has five extraordinary features:

1. Our practice will be successful even in the most difficult circumstances. 2. The practice includes the profound paths of the illusory body and clear light as explained in Guhyasamaja tantra. 3. The Solitary Hero Yamantaka tantra has the practices of non-dual bliss and emptiness. 4. The tantra has the methods for achieving enlightenment, even for those who have created extremely heavy negative actions, such as the five heinous crimes and so on. 5. Through this practice one becomes closer to Manjushri, and more easily receives his blessings. During these classes Geshe-la provides detailed instruction on the key aspects of both generation and completion stage.

Views of Reality - 7.30 PM Thursdays