A 14 session study to explore Theravada Buddhism are held on a monthly basis, on Thursdays. The program starts in June 2024 and runs through July 2025.
14 Session Study – Exploring 7 Dimensions of the Theravada Buddhist Faith Tradition
The Practical and Ritual Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Jun 20 (2024)
This session explores Theravada Buddhist rituals and how communal chanting, offerings, and shared meditation cultivate emotions like awe, peace, and joy. We’ll discuss how these practices promote emotional well-being and foster a sense of belonging within the Buddhist community.
Thu Jul 11 (2024)
This session explores how Theravada Buddhist beliefs and practices like the Five Precepts and meditation directly impact daily life. We’ll discuss how ethical conduct, mindfulness, and overcoming challenges through meditation cultivate inner peace, reduce suffering, and create a deeper sense of purpose.
The Mythic and Narrative Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Aug 22 (2024)
This session explores Theravada Buddhist cosmology through core myths. We’ll examine stories explaining the universe’s creation, humanity’s cycle of rebirth, and the absence of a singular God. We’ll analyze the symbolic meaning of these narratives, uncovering themes of karma, suffering, and the path to liberation.
Thu Sep 05 (2024)
In Theravada Buddhism, Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s past lives) are open to interpretation. We’ll explore how individuals find personal meaning in these stories, drawing connections between the lessons and their own experiences. This fosters a personalized understanding of the Buddhist path.
The Doctrinal and Philosophical Dimension of of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Oct 17 (2024)
In this session we’ll examine the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. We’ll delve into the philosophy of suffering (dukkha) and its cause, craving (tanha). We’ll then examine core values like ethical conduct (sila), mental discipline (samadhi), and wisdom (panna) that guide Theravada practitioners towards liberation.
Thu Oct 31 (2024)
This session will be a guided exploration of Theravada Buddhist core beliefs. We’ll delve into how individuals integrate the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path into their personal lives. Through discussions and prompts, participants will gain insights into aligning their daily actions and thoughts with Buddhist philosophy.
The Ethical and Legal Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Dec 19 (2024)
This session will examine Theravada Buddhism’s ethical code, the Five Precepts, exploring how they translate into practical everyday choices. We’ll delve into the concept of religious law (Sila) and its influence on social behavior, examining how it fosters a more harmonious and ethical society.
Thu Jan 02 (2025) Participants will be exposed to how Theravada Buddhist principles like the Five Precepts guide ethical choices in everyday life. We’ll explore how to navigate complex situations where upholding morality might require difficult decisions.
The Social and Institutional Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Feb 20 (2025)
This session will explore the hierarchical structure of Theravada Buddhist communities, examining the roles and responsibilities of monks, nuns, and laypeople. We’ll discuss the importance of social connection through Sangha (community) practices and explore how monasteries serve as centers of learning and support, fostering the tradition’s role within society.
Thu Mar 06 (2025)
This session will delve into the supportive role of the Theravada Buddhist community. Participants will explore how the sangha (community) fosters personal growth through shared practice, mentorship from monks and nuns, and a sense of belonging within the wider Buddhist lineage.
The Ritual and Practical Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Apr 24 (2025)
This session will delve into the symbolic and practical aspects of Theravada Buddhist rituals. We’ll explore how practices like offering and chanting cultivate merit, while meditation techniques like Vipassana and Samatha will be examined for their role in achieving enlightenment.
Thu May 08 (2025) This session will explore how Theravada Buddhists weave rituals like dana (generosity) and meditation into their daily lives. We’ll delve into personal experiences, examining how these practices shape and deepen one’s Buddhist faith journey.
The Material and Artistic Dimension of Theravada Buddhism
Thu Jun 26 (2025)
This session will explore the multifaceted role of Theravada Buddhist material culture. We’ll analyze how temples, statues, and ritual objects serve as sacred spaces, fostering connection with the Dharma and deceased teachers. We’ll discuss how art and objects visually convey Buddhist teachings and inspire practitioners on their path to enlightenment.
Thu Jul 10 (2025)
This session will delve into how Theravada Buddhists interact with sacred spaces like monasteries, statues, and devotional objects. We’ll explore how these elements foster personal connection, devotion, and unique expressions of faith within individual practice.