A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life (Bodhicaryāvatara) Shantideva (8th Century)

A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life (Bodhicaryāvatara) Shantideva (8th Century)

If I have any understanding of compassion and the practice of the bodhisattva path, it is entirely on the basis of this text that I possess it. -H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso

A ten week workshop to deepen our understanding of compassion, and of the Bodhisattva’s path and its benefits, led by TBC Senior Teacher, Tony Boris.  Lama Losang will also join us periodically for questions and answers.

When:  Sundays, March 7th through May 9th   5pm - 6:15pm EST

What: Written for fellow monastics at Nalanda University in the 8th century,  Shantideva’s A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life is among the most important texts of the Mahayana tradition, and is as practical as it is profound.  We’ll explore both sides of this dharma treasure, together as a family of spiritual friends. At the conclusion of our series, Lama Losang will offer Bodhisattva Vows to those who would like to receive them.  It is not at all necessary to do this however, to benefit from these classes.

Whether you are new to Tibetan Buddhism, or a seasoned practitioner, Shantideva’s poetic verses are accessible to learners of all levels of experience.

The Materials:  There are several widely published translations of Shantideva’s text including translations by Vesna A. Wallace and B. Allan Wallace; Stephen Batchelor, and the Padmakara Translation Group.  If you have one, there’s no need to purchase another.  For our written and discussion materials we’ll be using the Padmakara Translation Group translation.

Our main commentary will be A Flash of Lightning in the Dark of Night, authored by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso.  There are also many other notable published commentaries including Pema Chodron’s No Time to Lose, and commentaries on individual chapters by Gelek Rimpoche, as well as many teachings on the text on YouTube. Most of these texts and written commentaries are available new or used for under $10.

If you are not able to purchase the text for lack of funds or other reason, don’t let money be an obstacle.  Let us know.

* Also translated as “The Way of the Bodhisattva”

Registration

Registration is requested prior to our first session via the RSVP button.  After you register, we’ll provide you with the Zoom information and other written materials.

Donation

These teachings are offered on a dana basis.  Our center abides by the generosity of our friends and members.  Please offer as you feel is appropriate in consideration of  your circumstances and the value of your time and don’t hesitate to join us if you are not able to make a donation at this time.  Don’t let lack of funds be an obstacle.  Just let us know.

Donate Here

Any questions about the series?  Just let us know. info@tibetanbuddhist.org