We invite you to take part in a new approach in Rigpa Shedra Studies: a weekly program that stretches out over 16 weeks. In this program we will study a classical dharma text, using all three wisdom tools: we will listen to the teaching; unpack the teaching with a shedra review teacher/instructor by way of recalling the main points; contemplate parts of the text; and discuss the meaning with our fellow dharma students. We’ll meditate on the meaning of the text and learn ways to bring it into our daily life and practice.
What: Chapters 1-5 of Introduction to the Middle Way – covering the first five paramitas in the cultivation of Bodhicitta: Generosity, Discipline, Patience, Diligence and Concentration.
The special approach of Chandrakirti is that he brings in the profound view in each of the paramitas, as a preparation for teaching the main chapter of his text: chapter 6 on the paramita of Wisdom.
Who: Beginners as well as more advanced students. Anyone who has experience in meditation and has preferably received teachings on compassion/bodhicitta is eligible to attend this course. It will be a wonderful addition for those who have studied for example
- The Bodhicharyavatara (The Way of the Bodhisattva) by Shantideva
- The teachings on bodhicitta in the All Encompassing Path to Enlightenment – for example AEP Seven Points of Mind Training and/or AEP Turning Suffering and Happiness into Enlightenment
But also when you haven’t studied anything on the paramitas yet, you are welcome to join.
This course is recommended for students who wish to develop their understanding and practice of the paramitas, and how to bring in the view. This teaching falls under the teachings of Sutra Mahayana which is an indispensable part of our path to Enlightenment.
This course is highly recommended for Rigpa teachers and instructors, for whom a thorough knowledge and personal experience of shunyata is essential.
This 16 week- program can be done as a stand-alone module, or it can be followed by more modules that will cover chapter 6 on the paramita of wisdom, and the remaining chapters on the 7th to the 10th paramita, culminating in chapter 11, the Ultimate Ground of Buddhahood.
It would also be good preparation for anyone who aspires to attend the (intensive) Rigpa Shedra in January – February 2024 (either online or in Nepal) where Khenpo Tashi will continue his teachings on Introduction to the Middle Way, Chapters 6-11.
When: This course will be offered from the week commencing 4 September and conclude in the week commencing 18 December 2023.
Time-investment: One 1-hour teaching session (to be watched by yourself, or in a group), and one 1,5 hour review/practice session per week with a shedra review teacher/instructor (strongly recommended to follow in a group). Days/times to be decided.
In addition, we recommend you allow study- and contemplation time during the week of about 2 hours, so in total it amounts to 4,5 hours/week. This will allow you to really immerse yourself more deeply into the topic of Shunyata, and make it an integral part of your day.
Why: The view, as presented in the Madhyamika texts, is the essential foundation of stable spiritual progress. Yet in the study of Madhyamika, the preliminary steps are often passed over too quickly. Khenpo Tashi Tseten clearly explains the meaning of Chapters 1-5 in Chandrakirti’s text, showing how it relates to our life, and gives essential advice on how to put it into action.
It will give you an experience of Shedra-like studies at a gentle pace.
A correct understanding of the view imparts confidence and independence; it is like creating a suit of armour for oneself. It helps in the development of a clear-sighted, enduring devotion towards the teacher and the teachings, immune to whatever vagaries and difficulties may occur.
Helena Blankleder and Wulstan Fletcher – Translators of Introduction to the Middle Way
About the Text – Introduction to the Middle Way (Madhyamakavatara)
An adventure into the heart of Buddhist wisdom through the Madhyamaka—or Middle Way—teachings, Chandrakirti’s classic commentary on the meaning of Nagarjuna’s Mulamadhyamaka-karika has been accepted throughout Tibetan Buddhism as the highest expression of the Buddhist view on the sutra level.
With Jamgön Mipham’s commentary, it is a definitive presentation of the wisdom of emptiness, a central theme of Buddhist teachings. This book is a core study text for both academic students and practitioners of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
“This text, the Madhyamakavatara, is an indispensable text that is widely studied both in Buddhist philosophical schools and Buddhist meditative schools, and Chandrakirti’s method of establishing the view in this work has been one of the most venerated throughout the ages. Now that Buddhism is taking root in the West, I feel it is important for at least some of us to pay attention to the study of the view and how it is to be established.”
Dzongsar Kyentse Rinpoche
The Teacher
Khenpo Tashi Tseten is a brilliant young khenpo from Namdrolling Monastery in South India. He is considered to be one of the most promising khenpos of his generation and has been teaching at the Rigpa Shedra for many years. Together with the wealth of his knowledge and the clarity of his explanations, he has a rare capacity to tune into students’ understanding and needs, which makes his teachings truly inspiring and illuminating.
The Translator
Damien Van Effenterre is a Rigpa Senior Teacher. He was the director of the Rigpa Shedra for eight years, while also studying the traditional treatises and translating for shedra classes in Pharping, Nepal.
Review Session Guides
Main review holders:
Europe – Chantal Bergers, Rigpa Shedra teacher and director
Australia – Jane Gray, Rigpa Shedra instructor
Supported by other Rigpa Shedra instructors in different countries.
Cost:
Recommended: 350 euro
Concession (for those with low income, for monastics, and for teachers/instructors/practice holders): 250 euro
Sponsors: 500 euro
For those who have followed this program already and wish to review the teachings: 150 euro
If you can’t afford the fee, please still apply, there may be different possibilities for supporting you in your studies, such as a study grant from the Tertön Sogyal Foundation.
Language:
All classes and activities are held in English
Please apply here: https://forms.gle/Apw89jZrZakgyk9g6
Note that the application is not yet a commitment on your side but will allow us to know you and contact you. The commitment to join our program only comes at the time of registration later in July/August, which is accompanied by payment.
Main review holders:
Europe – Chantal Bergers, Rigpa Shedra teacher and director
Australia – Jane Gray, Rigpa Shedra instructor
Supported by other Rigpa Shedra instructors in different countries.
Cost:
Recommended: 350 euro
Concession (for those with low income, for monastics, and for teachers/instructors/practice holders): 250 euro
Sponsors: 500 euro
For those who have followed this program already and wish to review the teachings: 150 euro
If you can’t afford the fee, please still apply, there may be different possibilities for supporting you in your studies, such as a study grant from the Tertön Sogyal Foundation.
Language:
All classes and activities are held in English
Please apply here: https://forms.gle/Apw89jZrZakgyk9g6
Note that the application is not yet a commitment on your side but will allow us to know you and contact you. The commitment to join our program only comes at the time of registration later in July/August, which is accompanied by payment.