The prison referred to here, is not a physical prison, but a mental prison created by the delusions in our mind. The Sanskrit name for this prison is Samsara.
In his teachings on the four noble truths, Buddha explained the path to complete freedom as a four-step sequence – knowing suffering, abandoning origins, practicing the path and attaining cessations. By following these instructions we can free our self from the sufferings of this life, and our countless future lives.
In this short series, we will cover how such an escape is possible, using the meditations from the intermediate scope of Lamrim – the stages of the path to enlightenment. The escape route is known, and has been accomplished by countless meditators in the past. If we are wise, we will use our precious human life to follow them out. To accomplish the supreme inner peace of Nirvana, the opposite of Samsara, we don’t need to leave our families, our work, our enjoyments or where we live. We just need to unshackle our self from our delusions and follow the inner path to freedom.
About these classes
This class is part of a 17 week series of classes this season entitled “Training in meditation – a path to a meaningful life”. The class material is based on the book “The Mirror of Dharma – with additions” by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche which explains the step-by-step stages of the path to enlightenment known as “Lamrim” in Tibetan. This structured presentation of Buddha’s teachings is proving very helpful to modern meditation practitioners.
Each class can be attended individually or as part or the series and consists of an explanation of meditation, two guided meditations, a teaching, some discussion and an opportunity to ask questions. As these teachings originate from Buddha, there will be short prayer in English during the class. However, you do not need to be a Buddhist or have any particular belief or faith to join the class and participate. Buddha taught for everyone .
Most people sit on chairs, though some meditation cushions are available. No previous experience is needed and you can “drop-in” to any class on Mondays.
Tea is served from 17.45 and everyone is welcome.
