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Introduction to Buddhism
Starts Jan. 6
Wednesdays 7 - 9 pm
Nalandabodhi New York provides a comprehensive introduction to Buddhism and deepens the understanding of the teachings in stages, by systematically leading students through a complete overview of the ground, path, and fruition of the three yana journey. After optional introductory courses, the main study curriculum is divided into three years of studies of the Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana teachings respectively. A detailed outline of the classes, modules and courses is available below and by following the links.
Courses and classes are identified by number to indicate the ideal sequence of study. It is not necessary that the sequence of courses be taken in order, but the sequence is designed to display an ideal path from foundation through advanced studies. 400 level classes do have prerequisites. The following table provides links to each of the four levels of course work.
The introductory classes explore the basic principles underlying all the different schools of Buddhism, laying the foundation for deeper studies in subsequent courses. These classes cover topics such as "What Is Buddhism", "The Life of the Buddha", "The Causes of Suffering and Its Cessation", "Karma", "Emotions", and "The Practice of Mindfulness." It also introduces students to the fundamentals of Buddhist meditative practices.
Hinayana studies are the foundation for Buddhist learning. The Four Marks of Existence --impermanence, suffering, defilement, and egolessness -- distinguish Buddhism from other religions. The Four Noble Truths explain suffering, the origin of suffering, the cessation of suffering and the path that leads to that cessation. In Hinayana, we also find a detailed analysis of ourselves, as individuals, and of the world in which we live. Furthermore, Hinayana teachings include the study of Buddhist ethics and society, as well as serving as a bridge to the Mahayana and Vajrayana teachings.
The Mahayana Teachings introduce the topics of the vast conduct of great compassion and profound view of emptiness view. We study the different views of the Mahayana schools, where the famous Madhyamaka doctrines are introduced. The classes on the Mahayana Path cover the four mindfulnesses, the bodhisattva vows and practices, and the mind training. This level of coursework concludes with a discussion of the paths, bhumis and Mahayana enlightenment.
Vajrayana Buddhism is the innermost essence of the Mahayana Teachings of the Buddha. This course is mainly focused on the view of Vajrayana and provides an introduction to the different levels of the Vajrayana path, as well as Mahamudra and Dzogchen. In order to have a proper understanding and realization in Vajrayana practice, one must rely on genuine knowledge and wisdom of the three yana view, meditation, and action. It is necessary for each individual student to learn this section of the three yana curriculum with his or her own individual Vajrayana master.
