Date
- 06 May 2025
- Expired!
Time
- 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Buddhist Study Group – Being of Benefit: Aspiring Bodhisattvas in a Complex World
Online Study Group – Engaged Buddhism
This two-part series explores what it truly means to be of benefit to others while following the Bodhisattva path.
Drawing on the spirit of Engaged Buddhism and the Bodhisattva ideal, we’ll reflect on whether Buddhists should speak out or stay neutral, and how we might respond to the complexities of the modern world with wisdom and compassion, navigating the challenges of overwhelm, righteousness, and burnout.
Together, we’ll discuss the opportunities and challenges of taking action in a today’s world, and consider how to serve others in a way that is skilful, grounded, and aligned with both our deepest values and the Buddhist path.
Other Parts of This Module
This series forms part of The Buddha’s Path (our foundational study programme). Module 10, Engaged Buddhism, brings together a collection of teachings and discussions on the possible roles of a Buddhist in the world today.
While many of the Buddha’s teachings are focused on inner transformation, they naturally extend outward into how we relate to others, to society, and to the planet itself. This module explores what it means to live an ethical and compassionate life in a world facing complex social and environmental challenges.
Topics in this module include discussions around compassionate action and the Bodhisattva ideal, responding to suffering with wisdom rather than overwhelm, Buddhist perspectives on ecological and social responsibility, and the principles and spirit of Engaged Buddhism.
Rather than offering a single linear course, this module is comprised of various standalone talks and group discussions aimed at supporting reflection, dialogue, and skilful action in the world.
In signing up to this two-part series, you will also gain access to the following recordings from David, Lama Alan & Dr Eve Ekman:
- Compassion vs Despair: A Buddhist Approach to Witnessing Suffering (David Oromith)
- Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others (David Oromith)
- Compassionate Choices: Non-Harm, Vegetarianism and Veganism in Buddhism (David Oromith)
- What Can Buddhism Offer During an Eco-Crisis (Lama Alan Wallace)
- Ecological Distress, Awe, and Emotional Wellbeing (Dr Eve Ekman)
Module 10: Engaged Buddhism
• The Role of a Buddhist in the World
• Compassionate Action
• Addressing Social and Environmental Issues from a Buddhist Perspective
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-8.30pm (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.
Other Timezones: CET: 8-9.30pm
Americas 11am PST, 12pm MST, 1pm CST, 2pm EST
Australia Fridays 5am AEST • NZ Fridays 8am NZDT
Correct as of February 2025 – please click here to check the time in your region.
Booking & Donation:
This Online Study Group relies entirely on donations. Only through your honest generosity will we be able to continue offering these sessions for the benefit of all. You can make a donation using one of the options at the checkout, or by visiting this page.
We suggest a donation of £15 for this module of this programme, but you’re able to offer within your means.
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 for lack of funds, but 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.
By booking with us, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions, which can be viewed 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.
