Buddhist Study Group – Introduction to Buddhism (Module 1)
Online Study Group
This series is the very beginning of our new Study Programme (Module 1 of The Buddha’s Path: Foundational Buddhist Study Programme) and delves into the foundational aspects of Buddhist teachings.
Part One of Module 1 will explore the life of the Buddha, provide an introduction to Buddhism as a whole, and explore the first teaching of the Buddha: the Four Noble Truths. Once registered below, you can access the recordings for Part One here.
Part Two delves deeper into the Fourth Noble Truth: The Path Leading to Cessation of Suffering, which is the Noble Eightfold Path, and ends with an exploration of the meaning of taking refuge in the Three Jewels, often seen as the entryway to Buddhist practice.
Part Two will take place over November 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th, 2023. The session on the 28th will end with an optional Refuge Ceremony, for those who wish to take their Refuge Vows.
This module will serve as a comprehensive overview, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Buddhist theory and practice in subsequent modules.
Everyone is welcome to join wherever you are on your journey, whether completely new or looking to re-establish your foundational understanding.
Module 1: Foundations of Buddhist Theory I: An Overview
About the Study Group Leader
Our Study Group is led by David Johnson. David is a Buddhist contemplative, meditation guide and retreat leader. He is the Co-Founder of Samadhi and author of the book A Practical Guide to Mindful Living. He has received non-monastic ordination in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and teaches workshops internationally, leads retreats across the UK and runs classes locally.
David is a follower of the rimé (non-sectarian) approach, recognising the value and benefit of multiple points-of-view, with teachers in all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism. His primary teacher is Lama Alan Wallace, who is also rooted in a non-sectarian approach, with particular close affiliation with the Gelug and Nyingma schools and the Dudjom lineage.
Dates & Format:
Our Study Group takes place on Tuesdays, 7.00pm-8.15pm (UK time – check your timezone here). There are occasional breaks when David is away hosting retreats and for term holidays. Upcoming dates can be seen when booking below. Recordings are made available to participants who would like to follow along at their own pace.
Sessions consist of a meditation, teachings on our course material, and group discussions of our experience and questions.
Participants can join the Study Group at any time and at any point in the series. There’s no need to wait until you’re caught up to join a live session, though you’re welcome to watch the recordings at your leisure.
Booking & Donation:
In the spirit of offering the dharma freely, there is no set fee for joining the course. It is customary to offer dana (a donation) to support the teacher and the activities of the dhama organisation. No one is excluded from participating.
Our online events operate on the basis of dana (generosity/giving). If you’re able to, as is tradition, please consider making an offering. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and all money raised goes directly into supporting our activities and fundraising for the Samadhi Eco Retreat Centre.
Recordings and Notes:
Once you’re registered, you’ll be able to access recordings and notes from this series here.
If you would like to support our vision of making these teachings as accessible as possible, please consider making a donation, supporting future groups, events & retreats. Interested to know why we charge for this event and what happens to profits? Read here.
Speakers
Speaker
David OromithBuddhist Contemplative, Author and Meditation GuideDavid is a Buddhist contemplative, author, meditation guide and retreat leader. He is the Co-Founder of Samadhi, an organisation based in the UK and a member of the UK’s Network of Buddhist Organisations. He teaches workshops internationally and online and leads retreats across the UK. Through his clear and practical teaching style and warm and humorous approach, David inspires people to take back control of their thoughts and feelings and discover genuine wellbeing within.
