Essence of the Mahayana

This eight-month course offers an experiential exploration of The Essence of the Mahayana Buddhist teachings.

During the course, you will clarify your understanding and deepen your experience of the View, Meditation, Conduct and Fruition of the Mahayana path. Supported by recorded teachings by Khenpo Sonam Tsewang and a vibrant weekly study group, this course will support you to bring bodhicitta more vividly alive in your daily life.

The course will be guided by beautifully comprehensive teachings given by Khenpo Sonam Tsewang in 2021.

COURSE DATES

Starting Thursday 26 May 2022- January 2023

Weekly classes from 7-9pm AEST, Online via Zoom

WHO CAN TAKE THIS COURSE?

This practical guide to the bodhisattva path is suitable for anyone who has completed a foundation year of study in Rigpa or equivalent elsewhere. It is highly recommended for Rigpa Ngöndro and Dzogchen Mandala students.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Guided by beautifully comprehensive recorded teachings by Khenpo Sonam Tsewang, this exploration of the Mahayana includes:

• The view, meditation, conduct and fruition of Mahayana
• Differences between the foundation vehicle, Mahayana and Vajrayana
• Understanding Bodhichitta, the entrance to Mahayana path
• Bodhicitta and the Bodhisattva vow
• Mahayana ground: The two truths
• Mind is devoid of mind, the nature of mind is clear light
• Two truths according to philosophical traditions
• The view of the Cittamatra or Mind Only School
• The view of the Madhyamaka
• Establishing emptiness according to the Middle Way – the four/five logical arguments
• Six paramitas – the essence of Mahayana practice
• The importance of Lojong
• The two obscurations and the two kayas.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS COURSE?

This course includes:

• Weekly 2 hour study and practice class led by experienced Rigpa teachers and instructors, including Jane Gray, Catherine Paul and Walter Kaan
• Curated resources to support your study
• Weekly questions for personal reflection and contemplation
• The opportunity to deepen your practice by joining Rigpa’s community of online meditators.

COURSE TEXTS

The Bodhisattva Path of Wisdom and Compassion – Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche

The Way of the Bodhisattva – Shantideva

Nectar of Manjushri’s Speech – Commentary to the Bodhicharyavatara – Khenpo Kunpel

Ascertaining the Three Vows – Ngari Panchen and Commentary by Dudjom Rinpoche

Vast as the Heavens, Deep as the Sea: Verses in Praise of Bodhicitta – Khunu Lama Tenzin Gyaltsen

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Rigpa Subscribers

• Standard $120
• Concession $60

For non-subscribers, participation in Essence of the Mahayana costs:

• Standard $300
• Concession $150
• Benefactor $400

Rigpa Subscribers receive a 60% discount. Subscribers will receive an email containing the discount code to use when registering.

Once you register, you will receive further information and a link for weekly classes.