Exploring Buddhism
Basic
7.30 pm - 9.30 pm Thurday

There are many people who consider themselves Buddhists but know little about the actual teachings of the Buddha. Some people also believe Buddhism to be out-of-date and full of superstitions. However, Buddhism is currently gaining much popularity in western countries as being non-dogmatic, practical and compatible with science. What does Buddhism offer? What is the attraction of this ancient teaching that has inspired many, including celebrities like Richard Gere, Keanu Reeves among others?

In this 12-session course, we will explore the main principles of Buddhism and let you discover for yourself how it can help you to find peace and satisfaction in your heart.

Stages of the Path to Enlightenment
Intermediate course
9.30am – 11.30am Sunday

The Stages of the Path to Enlightenment is a comprehensive presentation of Buddhist philosophy in its practical application to the stages of mental development. It contains all the essential points of both the Hinayana and the Mahayana, and reveals systematically the steps that we need to follow in order to proceed to the state of complete enlightenment, starting from where we are now. This course is designed as an intermediate Buddhist course and is meant mainly for those who already have a basic knowledge of Buddhism. It consists of three modules, each consisting of 12 sessions.

Module 1: 7 th August – 23 rd October 2005 (CLOSED)
This human rebirth that you now have will not last forever. One day you will have to leave this body behind and move on to the next life. How can you ensure that you will have a good rebirth? The practices you need to undertake are subsumed under the small scope of the path to enlightenment.

Module 2: 8 th January – 26 th March 2006
Even though you may be reborn in a pleasant and comfortable situation by way of the practices of the small scope of the path to enlightenment, any kind of happiness you can possibly experience in cyclic existence is unstable and contaminated. The way to achieve pure everlasting peace is to be liberated from samsara completely. The methods for attaining nirvana are clearly outlined in the middle scope of the path to enlightenment.

Module 3: 4 th June – 20 th August 2006
Just like you, each and every living being wish for happiness and do not want even the slightest suffering. By following the middle scope of the path to enlightenment you will be able to attain individual liberation for yourself, but you will not be equipped with the complete means to help others become free of suffering and attain true happiness. The way to train to attain full enlightenment or Buddhahood is described in the great scope of the path to enlightenment.