Path and Practices of Liberation Program

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Description: The Path and Practices of Liberation Program is an intense immersion in Buddhist study and practice that is structured by the teachings of kaya, vacca, citta, guna and karma. The Path of Liberation classes and workshops form the core of this full-time program and provide a thorough grounding in the basic teachings and texts of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. In addition, students in this program will be trained in Nyingma Psychology, Kum Nye (Tibetan Yoga), Nyingma Meditation, Skillful Means, and Nyingma Practices. Objective: Upon completion, students will have a basic understanding of fundamental Buddhist teachings, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eight-fold Noble Path, Karma and Klesha, Interdependent Co-operation, and the Four Foundations of Mindfulness. They will be familiar with Buddhist history and important works of literature and with the living spirit of Buddhist teaching and practice. Students will also have a thorough grounding in Nyingma Psychology, Kum Nye (Tibetan Yoga), Nyingma Meditation, Skillful Means, and Nyingma Practices. Length: Minimum 2 years; maximum 8 years. Cost: $12,000.

Program Components:
There are three formats for taking this program.

Format I: Retreat Format
Students who select this format take eight 5-week retreats.

Format II is a Full-time Format
Students who select this format take 50 classes, 27 workshops, and 2 one-week retreats over a minimum of two years.

Format III is a Combined Format
Students who select this format work with an advisor to select some 5-week retreats from the Retreat Format and some classes and workshops from the Full-time Format. Total Program instruction must equal a minimum of 1200 hours.

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Format I: Retreat Format

Students selecting this format attend the following eight 5-week retreats:  
Note: the program cost includes nonresidential retreats only; residential retreats require an additional fee for room and board.

DHS501-505 Embodiment: An Awakened Vision These weeks of retreat are a journey into the Buddha's vision of what embodiment means. Students will use teachings and practices from Nyingma Psychology to integrate body and mind; will learn to release unnecessary tension and stress through Tibetan Yoga; will study the teachings of the Buddhist Abhidharma found in the mKhas-'jug by the great teacher Lama Mipham; will learn about the symbolism of the form of the Buddha as presented in traditional art and sculpture; will learn to recognize the stages on the path   and its view, result, and application; will deepen experiential knowledge of the mind through training in meditation. DHS501 Recognizing the Potential of Body and Mind, July 28-August 2, 2008 DHS502 Stages on the Path, August 4-9, 2008 DHS503 Awakening Vision , August 11-16, 2008 DHS504 Joy of Being, August 18-23, 2008 DHS505 Embodying Wisdom, August 25-30, 2008

DHS 506-510 Transmitting Insight; Penetrating Illusion At every moment we receive messages transmitted from our body, from our mind, and from the world around us. These messages form the basis of all that we know and do. The Dharma teaches us to 'watch the watcher,' to bring our attention to how the senses operate and how knowledge of ourselves and the world develops. In these weeks of retreat students will learn: how knowledge is transmitted from the outside world to the senses and from the senses to the mind and heart through study of the sense-fields and experiential exercises from Tibetan Yoga; how to attune themselves to their senses in ways that evoke insight to penetrate illusions; the teachings of the three marks of existence and the four thoughts that turn the mind to the Dharma, reversing the operation of suffering; basic teachings from mind training (Lojong) and Nyingma Psychology that help to integrate heart and mind. DHS506 Tuning the Senses, July 27-August 1, 2009 DHS507 Turning the Mind to Joy, August 3-8, 2009 DHS508 Integrating Body with Mind, August 10-15, 2009 DHS509 Discovering the Marks of Existence, August 17-22, 2009 DHS510 Listening and Lightening Mind: August 24-29, 2009

DHS 511-DHS515   Who Owns Mind? These weeks of retreat use tools of analysis and introspection to explore consciousness, looking for the source of thoughts, feelings, impulses, and actions. Using classical 'insight' meditation students will be guided in a search for an independent 'self' who controls and owns the mind and experience, glimpsing how mind, free of the confines of 'self', might function. Students will also: study teachings on karma and klesha; cultivate the 'four immeasurable' qualities of love, compassion, joy, and equanimity that expand the mind and heart; Deepen mindfulness; learn about the Bodhisattva's aspiration and the role that faith and devotion play in Dharma study. DHS511 Mind's Hall of Mirrors, July 26-31, 2010 DHS512 Base of Suffering, August 2-7, 2010 DHS513 Reversing the Direction, August 9-14, 2010 DHS514 Expanding Heart and Mind, August 16-21, 2010 DHS515 Mindfulness and Faith, August 23-28, 2010

DHS516-520 Compassion in Action Buddhist teachers have said that, "The depth and vastness of the Dharma restore the foundation, purpose, and direction of human life, inspiring a way of living oriented toward loving-kindness, compassion, and selflessness." In these weeks of retreat students will explore what it means to live a life dedicated to compassion and wisdom, looking at the biographies of great masters, men and women from India and Tibet. They will also continue to cultivate inner capabilities for compassionate wisdom and deepen the knowledge of cause and effect through studying interdependent coproduction (Pratitya samutpada). Finally, they will look at the way this vision is manifesting in the Western world. DHS516 Interdependent Arising, TBA, 2011 DHS517 The Compassionate Response, TBA, 2011 DHS518 How the Buddha Taught, TBA, 2011 DHS519 Stories of Liberation, TBA, 2011 DHS520 An Unending Path, TBA, 2011

DHS531-525 Cultivating the Seed of Enlightenment All living beings have the nature of a Buddha, yet this nature is obscured by veils of obscurations. Traditional teachings and practices help students develop confidence in their ability to discover Bodhicitta (the 'seed of enlightenment'). Mind training practices will help to overcome the destructive forces of anger, attachment, and ignorance in our lives. These weeks of retreat also explores: the qualities of a spiritual teacher and the qualities of a worthy student; how to practice guru yoga and go to refuge; the twelve actions of a fully enlightened Buddha; meditations from the Path of Heroes such as Tong-len; practices that heighten awareness of the 'seed of enlightenment'. DHS521 Miraculous Body of Knowledge. TBA 2011 DHS522 Working the Mind, TBA 2011 DHS523 Entering Openness, TBA 2011 DHS524 Practices from the Heart, TBA 2011 DHS525 The Sunlight of Merit and Wisdom, TBA 2011

DHS526-DHS530 Gateway to Knowledge Students deepen their search for awakened mind through an in-depth study of topics from the Gateway to Knowledge (Tib. mKhyas-'jug) by the great Tibetan teacher Lama Mipham. These will include 'what is possible and what is impossible'; time; and the arising of the system of suffering. Meditation practice will focus on analyzing the constituents of inner and outer phenomena and the sense fields. Kum Nye practice will help to deepen the analysis. DHS526 The Transmission of Insight, June 23-28, 2008 DHS527 Fields of Awareness, June 30-July 5, 2008 DHS528 Attuning to Dharma, July 7-13, 2008 DHS529 Time and the Arising of Suffering, July 14-20, 2008 DHS530 The Possible and the Impossible, July 21-26, 2008

 

DHS531-DHS535 Deluded Mind/Awakened Mind All the teachings of the Dharma are informed by knowledge of the inner workings of consciousness. As the mind is cultivated through meditation and analysis, what seems confused or difficult becomes workable. 'Deluded mind' is no longer an obstacle: all that arises can be brought onto the path of liberation. In these weeks of retreat students will learn: advanced teachings from Nyingma Psychology on how to penetrate the veils of ignorance within ordinary consciousness; Lojong teachings from the Path of Heroes with an emphasis on meditation practice; and traditional teachings from Tibetan authors on the nature of mind. DHS531 Parting the Veil of Delusion, June 22-27, 2009 DHS532 Regaining the Power of Mind, June 29-July 4, 2009 DHS533 Distinguishing Phenomena and Pure Being, July 6-11, 2009 DHS534 Refining   Mind, July 13-18, 2009 DHS535 Guidelines for Self-Mastery, July 20-25, 2009

DHS536-DHS540 The World as Sacred Space Powerful Buddhist symbols point toward a comprehensive vision in which the universe itself arises as a mandala--a sacred space in which the journey to awakening is assured. Students will explore this vision, studying accounts of what a mandala is and how experience can be transformed. This will lead to an in-depth exploration of the meaning of sacred Buddhist symbols, especially focusing on those that have been created by the Nyingma organizations. Students will also study: the form of the mandala and how it informs the operation of Buddhist organizations; the symbolic language of Tibetan art; teachings on the efficacy of Tibetan ritual projects such as prayer-wheels and prayer flags; teachings on the Buddha Fields. DHS536 Symbols of Enlightenment, June 21-26, 2010 DHS537 The Emerging Mandala of Being, June 28-July 3, 2010 DHS538 Land of Bliss, July 5-10, 2010 DHS539 The Power of Prayer, July 12-17, 2010 DHS540 Awakened Aspiration, July 19-24, 2010

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retreat format

full-time format

combined retreat

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Format II: Full-time Format

10 required Path of Liberation Classes:
Note: unless permission to the contrary is given by the Instructors, these classes must be taken in sequential order

DHS201 An Awakened Vision of Being (WINTER: January 8-March 13, 2008, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) This course is a journey into the Buddha's vision of what embodiment means. Students   will study the teachings of the Buddhist Abhidharma, be introduced to the life-story of the Buddha and the symbolism of the form of the Buddha as presented in traditional art and sculpture, and recognize the stages on the Buddhist path. DHS202 Transmitting Insight; Penetrating Illusion (SPRING: March 25-May 29, 2008, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) At every moment we receive messages transmitted from our body, from our mind, and from the world around us. These messages form the basis of all that we know and do. The Dharma teaches us to 'watch the watcher,' to bring our attention to how the senses operate and how knowledge of ourselves and the world develops. This course focuses on how information from the body, mind, and world is transmitted and received. The Abhidharma and Lojong (Mind Training) teachings form the textual basis of the course. Prerequisite: DHS201 or equivalent.

DHS203 Who Owns Mind? (SUMMER: June 10-August 14, 2008, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) We sensitively explore consciousness, looking for the source of thoughts, feelings, impulses, and actions. We search for an independent 'self' who controls and owns the mind and experience. Following an ancient analysis from the time of the Buddha, we glimpse how mind, free of the confines of 'self', might function. Our primary practices are mindfulness in all things and the four immeasureable states (love, compassion, joy, and equanimity). Prerequisite: DHS202 or equivalent. DHS204 Four Foundations of Mindfulness (SEPTEMBER: September 2-23, 2008, Tuesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) The Buddha taught that mindfulness--the steady and sustained contemplation of the body, feelings, mind, and phenomena--leads to wisdom. Training in these "Four Foundations of Mindfulness" leads to an unshakably present state of mind and is the foundation for further study and practice. Prerequisite: DHS203 or equivalent.

DHS205 Compassion in Action (FALL: September 30-December 4, 2008, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) What does it mean to live a life dedicated to compassion and wisdom? We look to the ways of life that the Buddha established and read biographies of great masters, men and women from India and Tibet. We also continue to cultivate our own inner capabilities for compassionate wisdom and deepen our knowledge of cause and effect. Taking steps in the direction of the path, our entire orientation begins to shift from being centered on our own benefit to being centered on the benefit of others. In this quarter we deepen understanding of interdependent coproduction (Pratitya samutpada), study the lives of great masters of the Indian and Tibetan tradition, and reflect on how the Buddhist vision could manifest in the Western world. Prerequisite: DHS204 or equivalent. DHS206 The Resolve for Ultimate Goodness (WINTER: January 6-March 12, 2009, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) All living beings have the nature of a Buddha, yet this nature is obscured by veils of obscurations. We live in ignorance of this great treasure, like a poor, blind man, unaware that a jewel of infinite value lies buried under his hearth. Traditional teachings and practices can help us develop confidence in our ability to discover the Buddha nature within. We will study teachings on Bodhicitta (the 'seed of enlightenment') and continue to work on mind training practices that overcome the destructive forces of anger, attachment, and ignorance in our lives. Prerequisite: DHS205 or equivalent.

DHS207 Gateway to Knowledge (SPRING: March 24-May 28, 2009, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) We deepen our search for awakened mind through an in-depth study of topics from the Gateway to Knowledge (Tib. mKhas-'jug and its commentary) by the great Tibetan teacher Lama Mipham. With penetrating analysis, we look again at inner and outer phenomena and the sense fields. We explore teachings on 'what is possible and what is impossible' along with teachings on time and the arising of the system of suffering. Prerequisite: DHS206 or equivalent. DHS208 Deluded Mind/Awakened Mind (SUMMER: June 9-August 13, 2009, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) All the teachings of the Dharma are informed by knowledge of the inner workings of consciousness. As the mind is further cultivated, what seemed confused or difficult becomes magically workable. 'Deluded mind' is no longer an obstacle: all that arises can be brought onto the path of liberation. Prerequisite: DHS207 or equivalent.

 

DHS209 Majestic Aspirations (SEPTEMBER: September 8-29, 2009, Tuesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM)We study the Pranidhana Raja , a text beloved in the Mahayana tradition that expresses the Bodhisattva's vows and commitments in poetic form. Prerequisite: DHS208 or equivalent

DHS210 The World as Sacred Space (FALL: October 6-December 10, 2009, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Powerful Buddhist symbols point toward a comprehensive vision in which the universe itself arises as a mandala--a sacred space in which the journey to awakening is assured. We explore this vision, studying how every aspect experience can be transformed. We also look at the sacred symbols that have been created by the Nyingma organizations and how the mandala structures its operations. Prerequisite: DHS209 or equivalent.

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40 required additional classes

First Year:

NPS101 Healing Mind             (WINTER & SPRING: January 7-May 26, 2008, Mondays, 8-9:30 PM) Mind can reflect immense beauty, love, and clarity, but mind can also weave an intricate web of suffering. This course is designed to increase self-understanding and to heal mind through experiential investigation into its structures and functions. Topics include: emotions as hidden knowledge, conflict and self-image, and reclaiming the heart. NPS102 Transforming Negative Emotions (SUMMER: June 9-August 11, 2008, Mondays, 8-9:30 PM) Introspective practices and insights from the Buddhist tradition can transform the destructive power of 'everyday' negative emotions. Based on Tarthang Tulku's Openness Mind, this course gives specific antidotes for anger, fear, anxiety, and attachment. NPS107 Nyingma Psychology: Key Issues (SEPTEMBER: September 1-22, 2008, Mondays, 8-9:30 PM) Course covers key teachings in Nyingma Psychology, including an analysis of current research in Western psychology that supports the Nyingma Psychology approach

NPS106 Nyingma Gateway: Love of Knowledge (FALL: September 29-December 1, 2008, 8-9:30 PM) This course was designed by Tarthang Tulku to introduce a new way of understanding love and knowledge. Unique meditation, movement, and awareness practices blend with lecture and discussion and become a gateway to understanding the Tibetan Nyingma approach to life. NPR101 The Practice of Mantra (SPRING: March 26-May 28, 2008, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM)   Mantras are deeply symbolic words that activate qualities of wisdom, compassion, and healing when they are chanted with a quiet mind and an open heart. This class gives students an opportunity to learn traditional mantras and short prayers. KNR101 Beginning Kum Nye: Promoting Spaciousness (WINTER: January 9-March 12, 2008, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Kum Nye teaches us to live spaciously as it gently moves us beyond perceived limits and boundaries. Students open the senses and then navigate the space of sensations, emotions, and perceptions, moving toward an integration of body and mind

KNR102 Beginning Kum Nye: Working with Lower Body Energy(SPRING: March 26-May 28, 2008, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) In this course, Kum Nye exercises will be presented that energize the belly, hips, legs, and spine. Bringing awareness to the lower part of the body in this way counteracts being 'stuck' in our heads and brings us in touch with the vitality of our full embodiment. KNR103 Beginning Kum Nye: Releasing Tension and Restoring Balance (SUMMER: June 11-August 13, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Kum Nye movement and awareness exercises help release physical and emotional tension. Practices will focus on giving students tools to restore balance to their lives and deepen their spiritual awareness. KNR104 Beginning Kum Nye: Kum Nye to Balance Feelings (SEPTEMBER: September 3-24, 2008, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Gentle movement practices expand and balance feelings, harmonizing body and mind. A sense of deep fulfillment arises as students connect more fully with their senses.

KNR105 Beginning Kum Nye: Expanding Enjoyment and Ease (FALL: October 1-December 3, 2008, Wednesdays, 6:15-7:45 PM) A series of Kum Nye practices that help to reduce physical and mental tension are combined with practices that expand the enjoyment of each of the senses. MED102 Beginning Meditation: Developing Inner Serenity (WINTER:   January 9-March 12, 2008, Wednesdays, 10-11:30 AM) Through meditation we tap a deep source of inner peace that can protect us from suffering and frustration. Through sitting meditation, walking meditation and mantra practice students learn to relax tension and cultivate equanimity. The focus is on reducing mental distraction. MED103 Beginning Meditation: Calm and Clear (SPRING: March 26-May 28, 2008, Wednesdays, 10-11:30 AM)Meditation both calms the mind and leads to insight. Students learn how to foster both through clear, simple instructions for beginning or revitalizing a meditation practice. The focus is on the process that leads to insight and overcomes resistance.

 

MED104 Beginning Meditation: Self-Observation (SUMMER: June 11-August 13, 2008, Wednesdays, 10-11:30 AM) The focus of this course is on observing the mind, emotions, and feelings. Students will learn how to stay mindful in a relaxed, but concentrated manner. Basic meditation practices will also be presented in a manner that helps make wholesome self-discovery a way of life.   MED105 Beginning Meditation: Meditation for Healing (SEPTEMBER: September 3-24, 2008, Wednesdays, 10-11:30 AM) Many health benefits come from regular meditation practice. This course offers ways to calm the mind and foster relaxation, stimulating natural healing. MED201 Intermediate Meditation: Sustaining Meditation (FALL: October 2-December 4, 2008, Thursdays, 8-9:30 PM) This class is for students who have begun a meditation practice and are ready for further guidance and inspiration. The goal is to sustain effortless meditative concentration.

SKM101 Mastering Successful Work (WINTER: January 7-March 10, 2008, Mondays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Students learn how to develop a regular rhythm of awareness practices in all activities to increase relaxation and accomplishment. Class practices and discussion help students engage tasks in ways that make work more enjoyable and productive. SKM102 Achieving All Goals (SPRING: March 24-May 26, 2008, Mondays, 6:15-7:45 PM) This class teaches students how to use the pressures and challenges of work as a powerful spiritual practice. Consistent with the highest Buddhist teachings, the obstacles of daily life are transformed into opportunities for change, growth and accomplishment. SKM103 Skillful Means (FALL: September 29-December 1, 2008, Mondays, 6:15-7:45 PM) The Skillful Means approach to work and human development has proven successful in the past 35 years that it has been applied in the Western world. This class highlights the methodology of working with Skillful Means. May be repeated for credit since the focus will change.

DHS211 Buddhist Studies Tutorial (ALL QUARTERS: January 8-December 2, 2008, Tuesdays, 8-9:30 PM)             In this intermediate and advanced tutorial, students closely read primary sources which can include Indian Buddhist works in translation (such as the Bodhicharyavatara) or Tibetan Buddhist works such as the Ngal-gso-skor-gsum . If a text or commentary has not been published in English translation the instructor will provide a translation of the sections of the text relevant to the class. Class may be repeated since content changes quarterly.

DHS302 Path and Practices of Liberation Tutorial (ALL QUARTERS: times tba) This tutorial is designed to help students integrate all the fields of knowledge and practice that they are receiving in the Path and Practices of Liberation Program

Second Year:

DHS302 Path and Practices of Liberation Tutorial (ALL QUARTERS: times tba) This tutorial is designed to help students integrate all the fields of knowledge and practice that they are receiving in the Path and Practices of Liberation Program DHS211 Buddhist Studies Tutorial (ALL QUARTERS: January 6-December 8, 2009, Tuesdays, 8-9:30 PM)             In this intermediate and advanced tutorial, students closely read primary sources which can include Indian Buddhist works in translation (such as the Bodhicharyavatara) or Tibetan Buddhist works such as the Ngal-gso-skor-gsum . If a text or commentary has not been published in English translation the instructor will provide a translation of the sections of the text relevant to the class. Class may be repeated since content changes quarterly. DHS101 Words of the Buddha (times tba) The Buddha expressed an enlightened wisdom that has been preserved in thirty-six Tibetan volumes known as the Kanjur . This course offers readings and reflections on selections from the Buddha's words. The particular texts studied will vary and this course may be repeated for credit with the Instructors' consent.

KNR201 Intermediate Kum Nye: Inner and Outer Massage of Feeling (WINTER: January 7-March 11, 2009, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM) This class provides a foundation for understanding the basis and development of Kum Nye, and the three levels on which its exercises can be experienced. Breathing, awareness, movement, and self-massage practices promote deep relaxation. KNR202 Intermediate Kum Nye: Balancing and Integrating Body and Mind             (SPRING: March 25-May 27, 2009, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM) Kum Nye exercises are introduced that allow feelings and sensations to flow more freely within and between body and mind. Students reach a more natural state of balance. KNR203 Intermediate Kum Nye: Stimulating Inner Energy (SUMMER: June 10-August 12, 2009, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM) When inner energy is flowing smoothly, there is health and vitality. This class works with exercises that stimulate the free flow of inner energy.

KNR204 Intermediate Kum Nye: Opening the Energy Centers (SEPTEMBER: September 9-30, 2009, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM) Practices in this class stimulate awareness of the 'energy centers' of the head, throat, heart, and belly. Tension in these areas is loosened. KNR205 Intermediate Kum Nye: Transforming Inner Energy (FALL: October 7-December 9, 2009, Wednesdays, 8-9:30 PM) Intermediate practices for this Quarter activate and balance inner energy, harmonizing body, mind, and environment. Practice leads to greater mental and physical vitality. MED202 Intermediate Meditation: Overcoming Obstacles (WINTER: January 8-March 12, 2009, Thursdays, 8-9:30 PM) In this class students will learn to identify and overcome the most common obstacles to meditation: sleepiness, overactive thoughts, and 'dreaminess.' The class also includes practices and teachings that further develop concentration and awareness.

MED203 Intermediate Meditation: Meditations to Open the Heart (SPRING: March 26-May 28, 2009, Thursdays, 8-9:30 PM) Genuine satisfaction, love, and beauty are found within the heart. Silent and guided meditations open the heart to feeling in this class. Students develop new integrity and balance. MED204 Intermediate Meditation: Discovering Mind (SUMMER: June 11-August 13, 2009, Thursdays, 8-9:30 PM) Through meditation the mind is experienced as alive, sensitive, and brilliant. In this class, students will be led through contemplative practices that reveal deeper levels of mind than are ordinarily recognized. MED205 Intermediate Meditation: Knowing Mind Differently (SEPTEMBER: September 10-October 1, 2009, Thursdays, 8-9:30 PM) In this experiential philosophy class, two views of how we know ourselves are juxtaposed: reflections of the European philosopher Rene Descartes and meditations from Tarthang Tulku's Openness Mind.

 

MED301 Advanced Meditation (FALL: October 5-December 8, 2009, Mondays, 6:15-7:45 PM) Advanced meditation teachings are based on traditional Tibetan texts. Students are introduced to new techniques that increase mindfulness and insight as they deepen the meditative experience of bliss and openness. The focus this quarter is on introducing new modes of non-conceptual study. NPS202 Inner Mandala (FALL: October 5-December 8, 2009, Mondays, 8-9:30 PM) The intricate forms of the Tibetan mandala reveal a multilayered world of meaning. Each color, image, and design speaks in a symbolic language designed to lead the viewer to deeper levels of awareness, appreciation, and understanding. The message is compelling: our 'ordinary' way of being, with its attendant pain and suffering, can be totally transformed. In this class, the symbolic form of the mandala will be a lens through which we view emotions, perceptions, and actions. NPR106 Symbols in Tibetan Sacred Art (times tba) Deeply symbolic, the forms and colors found in Tibetan Buddhist art express a 'vocabulary' of the sacred. In this class, full-color slides illuminate Tibetan symbolism.

NPR105 Sacred Sites, Symbols, and Teachings (times tba) This course explores the teachings and stories connected with the major holy places of the Buddha. Students will also learn about the images and symbols that are associated with Buddhist holy places. NPR102 Devotional Chanting (times tba) Chanting Buddhist prayers calms the mind and opens it to deeper dimensions of consciousness and meaning. This course includes periods of chanting followed by sitting meditation. Students will be introduced to important prayers and mantras. SKM103 Skillful Means (FALL: times tba) The Skillful Means approach to work and human development has proven successful in the past 35 years that it has been applied in the Western world. This class highlights the methodology of working with Skillful Means. May be repeated for credit since the focus will change.

TSK102 Opening Space (times tba) Space is primordially peaceful and open. Its openness accommodates all views and all experience, gathering them together without denying their unique contributions. In this course students work with Tarthang Tulku's book Time, Space, and Knowledge to expand their experience of space and spaciousness.

TIB101 Beginning Tibetan, Level I (FALL: times tba) The alphabet is introduced along with pronunciation, basic grammar, and vocabulary.

15 required Path of Liberation workshops
which begin Friday evenings from 7-9 PM and continue on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM:

DHS401Visions of Enlightenment (WINTER: January 11-12, 2008) The form of the Buddha reflects the reality that all who live can cultivate the same wisdom and compassion. In this workshop, students study the ways that a Buddha is embodied: the Dharmakaya, the Sambhogakaya, and the Nirmanakaya; look at the process of achieving this perfect embodiment through studying the Jatakas (birth stories of the Buddha); and contemplate the form of the Buddha as it is represented in Tibetan art and sculpture. The workshop also includes a meditation evoking the presence of the Buddha written by the 19 th century Nyingma Master, Lama Mipham. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS201 or consent of the Instructors. DHS402 Faith in Dharma (WINTER: February 15-16, 2008) The awakening of faith in the Dharma means that we have surrendered our heart to truth. This workshop outlines the steps to such faith. Students will learn to distinguish belief from faith and skepticism from inquiry. Class discussion and practice will focus on how to build inner confidence in our own abilities as we seek guidance from those who are wiser. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS201 or consent of the Instructors.

DHS403 Turning the Mind to the Dharma (SPRING: April 4-5, 2008) Students will study the "four thoughts" that turn the mind to the Dharma: Contemplating Freedom and Good Fortune, Impermanence, Suffering, and Karma. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS202 or consent of the Instructors. DHS404 Training for Freedom (SPRING: May 9-10, 2008) Classic Buddhist education uses three trainings - shila (ethics), samadhi (meditation), and prajna (wisdom) - to develop wholesome knowledge and power. This workshop will introduce you to these traditional tools for clearing away the network of confusion and karmic patterns. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS202 or consent of the Instructors.

 

DHS405 Question of Identity: Ten Kinds of Self (SUMMER: June 27-28, 2008) Who creates, controls, enjoys, defiles, or purifies experience? Am 'I' substantial, or have 'I' as Tarthang Tulku writes, "entered into an illusory partnership with an entity that has no existence of its own"? Experiential exercises will shed light on these questions, while lecture will examine the ten kinds of self as described by the Bodhisattva Maitreya and the Nyingma master Lama Mipham. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS203 or consent of the Instructors. DHS406 Four Immeasurable States of Being (SUMMER: August 8-9, 2008)    Love, compassion, sympathetic joy, and impartial equanimity can be practiced in a manner that extends beyond all limits. These four ways of pure abiding mutually interact and purify each other. Practicing them, students can discover an inner wellspring of wholesome peace that goes beyond the limits of the ordinary world, for the benefit of all. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS203 or consent of the Instructors. NPR402 Finding Compassionate Love (FALL: November 28-30, 2008)                   We can learn to love ourselves and others more deeply through actively cultivating compassionate love. This kind of love heals the painful divisions between living beings, allowing us to forgive others and to cleanse ourselves of ill will. The workshop introduces gentle visualization, mantra and meditation practices given by the enlightened Buddha. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS205 or consent of the Instructors.

DHS407 Making Mind the Matter (WINTER: January 23-24, 2009)             In order to make the Dharma relevant to our lives, we explore the activity of our mind. Working specifically with the 'three trainings' of shila, samadhi, and prajna, we gain insight into how samsara is being fabricated and by whom, and what patterns of ego, personality, and identity are being put in place. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS206 or consent of the Instructors. MED413 Filled with Devotion (WINTER: March 6-7, 2009) The final chapter of the sacred text known as the Uttaratantra, titled 'Benefit', describes how one 'filled with devotion' and with certainty in the Dharma creates immense merit in the world. This advanced meditation workshop invites faith based on insight. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS206 or consent of the Instructors. DHS408 The Wheel of Life (SPRING: April 3-4, 2009) The symbolic imagery of the Tibetan wheel of life demonstrates fundamental Buddhist teachings about the chain of causality and how conscious life evolves. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS207 or consent of the Instructors.

 

MED415 Cutting Off Negative Thoughts (SPRING: May 8-9, 2009) Meditative action is the process of bringing even adverse conditions onto the path to enlightenment. The torment of negative thoughts dissolves as insight into the nature of mind and the action of karma arises. The heart's natural capacity for love and compassion awakens. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS207 or consent of the Instructors. DHS413 The Perfections of Patience and Strength (SUMMER: June, 2009, TBA) Based on the Bodhicaryavatara and its Tibetan commentaries, students will study the perfections of patience (ksanti) and strength (virya). Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS208 or consent of the Instructors. DHS414 The Perfections of Meditation and Wisdom (SUMMER: July, 2009, TBA) Through study of chapters eight and nine of the Bodhicaryavatara and its Tibetan commentaries, students will learn the types of meditation and appropriate topics of meditation. Selected verses from the chapter on Wisdom will help illuminate the depth and complexity of its study. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS208 or consent of the Instructors.

DHS415 The Power of Buddhist Symbols (FALL: October 2-3, 2009) Even the colors and landscape elements in a Tibetan painting have symbolic meaning. This workshop introduces Buddhist symbols that are found worldwide, such as the Stupa, and other symbols found only in the Tibetan tradition. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS210 or consent of the Instructors. DHS416 Path of Prayer to the Land of Bliss (FALL: October 30-31, 2009) We study texts and teachings about the Buddhafield of Sukhavati and about the Buddha Amithaba. Students will learn what a Buddhafield is. They will also hear examples of rituals that are used to connect human consciousness with Buddhafields. Prerequisite: concurrent registration in DHS210 or consent of the Instructors.

12 required additional workshops
which begin Friday evenings from 7-9 PM and continue on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM:

7 in the first year:

NPS401 Transforming Negative Emotions (WINTER: January 19, 2008) Potent meditations and analysis pacify unwanted emotions without suppressing them.   First, students learn to balance and clear the mind; then they develop insight into how emotions arise.   Finally, students learn techniques that help transform the negative aspect of emotional energy. KNR403 Opening the Heart (WINTER: February 9, 2008) The heart holds the key to leading a happy life in harmonious and loving accord with others. Kum Nye practices open the heart to deep levels of feeling and appreciation. This workshop includes exercises that loosen physical tension in the chest and upper back. KNR404 Balancing Emotions through Tibetan Yoga (WINTER: March 8, 2008) Kum Nye exercises relax and heal both body and mind. Movement, breathing, and awareness exercises transform tension and restore emotional balance, easing the stress of everyday life. Students will master exercises that can be used both in formal practice and in the midst of activities. NPS405 The Self-Image (SPRING: April 19, 2008) False expectations, judgments, and negative emotions are based on complex images that we hold of ourselves and the world. This workshop looks directly at how self-images develop and how students can free themselves from their compulsive power.

NPS403 Fear and Illusion (SUMMER: time to be announced) Fear can obstruct the best intentions and paralyze the ability to act. Using experiential exercises and discussion, students examine how fear takes hold and manifest within body and mind. Then they work with meditations that challenge fear's hold. KNR405 Tasting Relaxation (SEPTEMBER: September 6, 2008) The relaxation that comes through Kum Nye (Tibetan Yoga) practice is like a rich nectar that flows through the body and feelings. This workshop presents practices that allow participants to 'taste' this deep relaxation. MED406 Visualization in the Tibetan Tradition (FALL: October 4, 2008) Precise instructions for how to develop visualization will be accompanied by an overview of how these practices are used as part of the Tibetan path of mental development. Workshop will include meditation exercises that contact a higher awareness.

5 in the second year:

TSK402 Names and Namelessness (time to be announced) The active naming and identifying capacities of mind can cover over the source of meaning. TSK teachings probe the workings of the mind and help students uncover a space before and beyond labels and projections. TSK401 Healing and Pain (SPRING: time to be announced) Four specific meditation and visualization exercises will be presented that can touch and transform emotional and physical pain. Discussion will challenge commonly held assumptions about pain. KNR411 Revitalizing Inner Energy (SUMMER: time to be announced) In Kum Nye there are various ways, including both movement and stillness, that stimulate the flow of feeling and energy in the body/mind. Gentle movement and breath exercises lessen chronic physical and mental tightness sensitizing the student to subtle qualities of feeling that restore our inner vitality.

MED410 Ground of Being (FALL: December 5, 2009) Advanced meditation contacts states of mind free from desires and conflicting emotions.   'Mind' is directly experienced as a process emerging from the ground of being. Workshop includes Kunzhi practices and a brief introduction to the Yogachara school of Buddhist thought. MED411 Nectar for Refining the Mind      (time to be announced) Advanced meditation techniques combine with discussion of the "great armor" of emptiness, freedom, and openness as it is described in the Prajnaparamita.

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retreat format

full-time format

combined retreat

 

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Format III: Combined Format

Students selecting this format work with an advisor to select some retreat segments from the Retreat Format
and some classes and workshops from the Full-time Format.
Total instruction hours must be a minimum of 1200.

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