
Buddhism in a Nutshell: Summer Series, Day 2 (What did the Buddha teach?)
June 13 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Free – £15.00
About this Course | Mondays, 6 June – 25 July, 19:00-20:30
Buddhism in a Nutshell is a structured entry-level course developed by FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition), the international Buddhist organisation to which Jamyang is affiliated. The course provides an introduction to Buddhist concepts and practice for complete beginners. Students explore the life story of the Buddha, the development of Buddhism into various traditions throughout history, essential aspects of Buddhist philosophy and practice, as well as the distinctive features of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
About this Session
This session will take a more in depth look at the basic, core teaching of the Buddha, The Four Noble Truths as taught in the Buddha’s first sermon or turning of the wheel at Sarnath, India: The First Noble Truth of Suffering as a diagnosis of the existential situation we find ourselves in as human beings; the Second Noble Truth of the origin and causes of that suffering, karma and unknowing; the Third Noble truth of the real possibility of the cessation of suffering, nirvana and the Fourth Noble Truth of the Noble Eightfold Path to the cessation of suffering, the practice of the wisdom and methods taught by the Buddha. We will discuss the overall structure and logic of The Four Noble Truths, why and how the Buddha presented them as he did and how they are often seen as a medical model.
Is this for me?
Absolutely! If you’re curious about Buddhism, or perhaps have read about it and would like to find out more, this course is a great starting point.
What can I expect?
Classes will include a combination of teaching, discussion, questions & answers, as well as meditation. Over the eight sessions, students will cover topics such as ‘Who is the Buddha?’, ‘What did the Buddha teach?’, ‘What does it mean to be Buddhist?’, ‘How can we practice?’ and ‘What is the essence of the Path?’.
About the Facilitator
John Bonell has been associated with Jamyang Buddhist Centre for about 20 years where he has led numerous meditation and other sessions. He has a lifelong interest in meditation and Buddhism having attended his first Buddhist meditation retreat in India in the early 1970s. John says his main reason for his interest in Buddhism is it’s focus on inner development through its techniques to enhance compassion and insight.
Cost
No one will be turned away because of lack of funds. If the existing tier options are not accessible for you, please email [email protected] to request additional financial support. Everyone is welcome, regardless of what you can pay. We want to help find a pricing plan that is workable for your situation.