Study Group: The Seven Points of Mind Training - A Three part series, Thursdays 8/2, 8/9, 8/23 6:30pm - 8:30pm Led by Julia King Tamang, at KCC Urban Center
August 2, 2012 6:30pm - August 23, 2012 8:30pm
Registration opens three month prior to the first session.
Since around 200-300 CE, there were many Mahayana ‘mind training’ traditions in Indian Buddhism. Each included concepts, views and practices to transform relationships through awakening loving-kindness and compassion. About 900 years ago, Serlingpa, an Indonesian spiritual master, taught mind training to the great Dharma master, Atisha, and Atisha brought the training to Tibet, where it flourishes and is revered by all the Tibetan Buddhist schools, even today.
Originally mind training methods were taught secretly, reserved for students whose capacity and sincere intention indicated a readiness to receive the teachings. But Chekawa Yeshe Dorje (1102-1176), organized the training into Seven Points, and taught them widely.
The Seven Points system is a complete path, emphasizing both relative and ultimate bodhicitta. The system includes tonglen or ‘taking and sending,’ about which much has been written in contemporary Buddhist press. The system also includes more than 50 slogans to guide daily practice. Though many of the mind training slogans are transparent; a few are somewhat cryptic, so many people find it helpful to have a formal introduction.
This study group will focus primarily on the aphorisms. (A tonglen retreat is offered each year, as well.) The Seven Points of Mind Training system is known for being excellent for busy householders, who can use the aphorisms as focal points for carrying practice throughout the day, thereby increasing practice without necessarily increasing time on the cushion. For questions on this content contact Julia King Tamang:jtamang@easystreet.net
The suggested donation for this series is: $60, no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Registration opens three months prior to the first session. If you have practical questions regarding this class or questions regarding registration please contact, Susan Gladstone: susan.gladstone@comcast.net
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