This is a bi-weekly program with teachings and contemplations on the practices of Bodhisattvas based on the classic text of Bodhicharya-avatara (The Way of Bodhisattvas). Composed by Shantideva, a great Buddhist Master from India in the 8th Century, this text is an excellent summary of the Mahayana teachings of the Buddha. The gradual way of taming, training and transforming mind and attaining complete and perfect Buddhahood is explained in this book. This text presents practical methods of dealing with everyday life through systematically cultivating a positive state of mind through analysis, contemplation, meditation and conduct.
The foundation of Mahayana path is in the cultivation of Bodhichitta - an open and expansive state of mind, a new frame of reference, where one combines compassion and wisdom. Bodhichitta turns the mind into a wish-fulfilling gem that accomplishes the needs of self and others. Cultivation of Bodhicitta makes each and every moment of our lives meaningful and satisfying. It also turns every situation in life into an opportunity to take a step forward in our journey to awakening.During these biweekly sessions, we ponder deep into one or other aspect of the practice of Bodhisattvas and see how we can implement it in our daily lives. After an analytical study and discussion, we contemplate and meditate for developing related qualities. See for yourself how practical it is to be a Bodhisattva in this very life.
(Though it is an ongoing study from a classic text, it is possible to join in for any of these sessions and follow from there. You will find practically relevant content in any of these sessions.) Currently the teaching of this text is done as part of our biweekly spiritual program titled As the Clouds Drift by.
Suitability: This is suitable for all. It combines study and practice of dharma into a very practical approach to life. The typical participants to these sessions include people of various religious beliefs as well as non-believers. Application of these teachings in the contemporary period, both in work life and personal life, makes participants interested in this program.