Descriptions
Zen Meditation & Buddhism Classes
Each class meeting is for two hours, consisting of meditation practice
(inc. instruction) in the first hour, and a lecture on Buddhist
principles in the second hour.
Level I Class:
Meditation methods: Breath-counting, mindfulness of the breath,
middle way reality (a Zen practice).
Topics covered: Introduction to Buddhism and Zen, karma and causality,
the Four Noble Truths (suffering, the causes of suffering, nirvana,
the Noble Eightfold Path), Three Refuges, Five Precepts.
Level II Class:
Meditation methods: Continuation of previous methods and compassion
contemplation.
Topics covered: the bodhisattva ideal, the six paramitas: the perfection
of charity, morality, tolerance, diligence, meditation, and prajna
wisdom.
Sutra Study Class:
Meditation methods: previous methods, compassion contemplation
Topic covered: The Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters
Description: Translated in the first Century C.E., this Sutra is
the very first Buddhist scripture in the Chinese language. In the
Sutra, there are aspects of Theravada and Mahayana; expedient means
and ultimate reality; gradual cultivation and sudden enlightenment.
Spanning the full spectrum of the Buddhist path, the chapters are
terse and the various teachings are practical.
Kids’ Meditation Class:
Classes are designed for children to discover their inner wisdom
and develop positive outlook on life. The creatively designed curriculum
includes meditation instructions, Dharma talks, Zen stories, movies,
and more. Students learn to sharpen their awareness and concentration
and to appreciate the gifts of this world.
Half-Day Meditation Retreats are offered
regularly; participants can
attend 1 or more session. Each day consists of 4 sitting/walking
sessions.
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