Transformation: Getting free of the prison of self by seeing causation

"Dependent Origination" is what the Buddha came to understand when he awakened. That understanding permanently erased all the defilements and brought an end to rebirth.  He very often pointed to Dependent Origination as the essence of his Teaching.  But for many students and seekers, the description of Dependent Origination in the early texts is almost impossible to understand.  Ayya Sobhana will make this rich set of teachings more accessible as a new way to understand daily life, and a set of themes for contemplation.

"Ayya Sobhana’s approach is in line with the mainstream of Theravada Buddhism, informed by Western science and philosophy.  The retreat will include Dhamma talks based on the early Suttas, guided meditation, and discussion.  She will leave you with a set of readings to practice with on your own.”

Retreat schedule.

All times in Pacific Daylight Time.

You may sit the entire retreat including small group discussions, or you may come in for the Dhamma talks.

Tuesday, March 30

2:00 pm Orientation and social time among the retreatants

3:00 pm  Mindful practice on your own

4:30 pm Welcome, opening Dhamma talk

5:15 pm Guided meditation

5:45 pm Closing blessings followed by meditation on your own.

Wednesday to Saturday, March 31, April 1, 2, 3

5:00 am  Meditation

5:30 am Morning Puja chanting

6:15 am Dhamma talk

7:00 am  Mindful practice and chores on your own

12:30 pm Dhamma talk and Q&A

1:15 pm Guided meditation

2:00 pm Small group discussions [only for those sitting the entire retreat]

3:00 pm  Mindful practice, take a walk or mindful movement on your own

4:30 pm Dhamma talk, Q&A

5:15 pm Guided meditation

5:45 pm Closing blessings followed by meditation on your own.

Sunday, April 4

5:00 am  Meditation

5:30 am Morning Puja chanting

6:15 am Closing reflection and sharing circle

7:00 am The retreat is finished, may the merits of your participation be a blessing for you!

Those who wish to continue can then join Dhammadharini’s regular Sunday Programs!

9:00 - 10:45 am. Join us for Guided Meditation and time for questions

1:00 - 2:30 pm  Read and discuss the teachings of the Buddha

For those who make reading and study part of the Dhamma practice, Ayya Sobhana will refer to these texts:  Sutta References for Dependent Origination