Buddhist Study Group – Introduction to Buddhist Meditation: Shamatha (Module 2)
Online Study Group
This series is part of our Study Programme (The Buddha’s Path: Foundational Buddhist Study Programme) and delves into the foundational aspects of Buddhist shamatha meditation.
During these sessions, drawing on the extensive teachings of Lama Alan Wallace, we will explore both the practice and theory of shamatha.
Shamatha is the practice of developing a single-pointed concentration in order to find a calm, clear and focused mind. This practice nurtures a state of mind that is simultaneously supple, relaxed, and alert, offering us a much-needed respite from daily life. Through shamatha practice, we let go of physical and mental stress, fostering mental and emotional balance. This process is not just about temporary relaxation; it is a journey towards cultivating a deep, enduring sense of tranquillity and clarity within ourselves.
The ultimate purpose of shamatha meditation however is to achieve shamatha itself – a state of samadhi, or meditative concentration – where one is able to focus unwaveringly on a single object without distraction or tiredness. The Buddha strongly emphasised the importance of achieving shamatha in order to achieve personal liberation. Shamatha is, therefore, an indispensable practice for those seeking awakening.
This module will serve as a comprehensive exploration, giving us the tools and practices necessary to engage in shamatha training.
Everyone is welcome to join wherever you are on your journey, whether completely new or looking to re-establish your practice.
Module 2: Foundations of Buddhist Meditation I: Shamatha
• Mindfulness, Introspection and Concentration
• The Nine Stages of Shamatha: Training Our Attention
• Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, Right Concentration
About the Study Group Leader
Our Study Group is led by David Oromith. 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
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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.
