The Mahayana Buddhism Study group will gather to study topics and passages from well-known Buddhist scriptures and commentaries. Participants will be encouraged to do some reading in the lead-up to each meeting. Then we have a meditation, presentation on the topic, and a discussion group.

Examples may include some readings from well-known Mahayana Sutras, including Lankavatara Sutra, Vimalakirti Sutra, and others.  Also texts such as the Buddha Nature Treatise, Awakening of Faith in the Mahayana and others will be drawn on. Sessions will concentrate on passage from one of these sources, rather than reading a large volume of material

The topics for consideration will be those associated with Mahayana Buddhism such as: prajnaparamita, bodhicitta, sunyata and the bodhisattva path. The focus will be mostly from East Asian traditions.

It won’t be too academic or technical, but some study and reflection will be expected from attendees – readings will be posted online in advance of each session at https://mahayanist.blogspot.com/ to allow time for preparation.

Bi-monthly Sunday 9am – 12pm

17th March

19th May

21st July

15th Sept

All Sessions by Dana (donation).

Dana is the traditional practice of generosity, the extending of one’s goodwill, which is fundamental to Buddhism and other spiritual traditions. The teachings flourish in an atmosphere of generosity and gratitude, and these qualities in turn support the growth of wisdom and compassion in the practitioner. The instructions and guidance for this course are offered without requesting a specified fee and it is up to individuals to determine the amount of dana they would like to offer. It can sometimes be easy to become confused when we are new to this and we wonder “how much should I give?” This is a relevant question in the material economy but an appropriate dana cannot be prescribed but requires sensitivity to its intent and awareness of the costs and expenses associated with organising a course (e.g., administrative & venue costs).

To register to attend, please see www.buddhistlibrary.org.au