Women's Dharma Training : First Year Mitra Study Course
Study is a gārava [worthy of reverence and respect] in as much as we cannot study Buddhism effectively unless we see it as something higher than we are, as having the power to help us to grow and develop, just as the rain and sunshine help plants and trees to grow. Sangharakshita
This course takes its name from the Pāli word sekha, meaning one who trains. It's a reminder that practising the Dharma is not simply a matter of accumulating knowledge, but of remaining genuinely open to learning how to practise. The word sikkhā, from which sekha derives, appears throughout the teachings, most familiarly in the ethical precepts, and carries with it a sense of active, ongoing engagement. To train in the Dharma is to bring that same quality of openness and commitment to every aspect of practice.
Although this course is the first year module for Mitras, we are offering it to all women+ who would like to deepen their practice in a supportive and intimate setting, including those who have not yet become a Mitra within the Triratna tradition but who feel ready to engage more fully with the Dharma.
The principal aims of the course are as follows:
1. To give you a thorough and systematic training in the principles and practice of the Dharma, particularly as taught within the Triratna Buddhist Community.
2. To create a meaningful Sangha context in which you can explore the Dharma. The group in which you will be exploring the course materials provides a great opportunity for developing both peer friendships and connections with the Order members leading the group.
3. To provide support for a deepening of your own meditation practice. Whilst the course does provide specific input on meditation, this also assumes that you will be meditating regularly through the course and attending meditation retreats from time to time.
4. To give you the skills you need to study and reflect upon the Dharma.
5. To provide, through contact with a wide range of Dharma teachings and texts, inspiration for your practice of the Dharma.
Places are limited, so please only book if you plan to attend consistently.
This course is run on a dana (generosity) basis: The team volunteer their time, but donations towards the Centre’s costs are greatly appreciated.
Book below
* for anyone who identifies as a woman.
Programme
| Date | |
|---|---|
| 28 May | 1.1 Dharma reflection as a spiritual practice |
| 4 June | 1.2 Getting to know each other more (two weeks) |
| 11 June | 1.2 Getting to know each other more |
| 18 June | 1.3 What does it mean to be a Buddhist? |
| 25 June | 1.4 The Buddha: Introducing the Buddha |
| 2 July | 1.5 The Buddha: The life story |
| 9 July | 1.6 The Buddha: The mythic Buddha |
| 16 July | 1.7 The Dharma: The basic analysis. |
| 23 July | 1.8 The Dharma: The taste of freedom |
| 30 July | 1.9 The Sangha: Stories of friendship |
| 6 August | 1.10 The Sangha: Triratna and Sangha |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay if I can't make every week?
It is best to come every week. If you'd like to come but there is one or two weeks you can't make, please contact us before booking.
What should I wear?
There are no special requirements, just whatever is comfortable to sit in.
Do I need to be a Buddhist or have practiced meditation before?
The class is most suitable for those who have attended our centre or retreats before, and have some knowledge of Buddhism and the meditations we teach.
How much does the class cost?
We don't charge a fixed price for our classes but instead invite you to make a donation to the centre to help us cover our running costs.
A donation would help us to cover our costs, but everyone is equally welcome, even if you cannot give anything at all.
The Team
