Course 2 Topic - Shantideva's Way of the Bodhisattva (Chapters 7,8, 10): Joyful Exertion, Meditative Concentration, and Dedication

We are living in a time when expanding our hearts and minds to encompass and hold all beings and our interconnection is essential. More than ever, the momentum in the mainstream is one of division and an unwillingness to listen to one another.

This class series will be an opportunity to explore in-depth what it means to engage in the world in a way that is beneficial to others and that fosters lovingkindness and support for our whole human family.

Our guide will be the 8th-century Indian monk, poet, and scholar, Shantideva, whose text The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara) is as relevant today as it was when written. In this text, Shantideva details how we can develop a heart and mind that is infused with wisdom and compassion and specifically how we can engage with the world in a way that is a reflection and manifestation of a heart with wishes for the welfare of all beings without exception. Specifically, the text presents the practices of the paramitas which are the noble actions of awakened beings. We will explore how we can embody generosity, ethical conduct, patience, joyful perseverance, one-pointed concentration, and wisdom.

This is the 3rd series of a year-long course which is unfolding in three 6-week segments, each of which is followed by an Awake in the World series in which these topics will be further developed and applied to our daily lives. In this Fall Series, we will dive deep into Chapters 7, 8 & 10 which support us in developing our capacity for joyful exertion, meditative concentration, generous sharing of the benefit of our practice, and heartful aspirations for all beings.

Each class will include shamatha of mahamudra meditation instruction and sitting. After presenting teachings, Lama Döndrup will offer a contemplative exercise and class participants will have the opportunity to break out into small groups to reflect on their experience.

Basic meditation experience is helpful but not required.