The Thirty-Seven Practices of Bodhisattvas
Online Study Group
Our Online Study Group is currently exploring the classic 14th century Tibetan Buddhist text, The Thirty-Seven Practices of Bodhisattvas by Gyalse Tokme.
This text shows us how to train in the compassionate wisdom of a bodhisattva, one who aspires to overcome all suffering and cultivate positive qualities for the benefit of all beings.
This beautifully condensed text gives advice on how to transform our own life by following the bodhisattva path. During our study sessions, it will serve as the basis for deep discussions of our life, our priorities, and ways of handling challenge and change.
About The Thirty-Seven Practices of Bodhisattvas
One of the most revered texts of Tibetan Buddhism, the The Thirty-Seven Practices of Bodhisattvas is a concise, easy to memorise, and profound poem that has been of immense benefit to countless practitioners since the 14th century.
Gyalse Tokme Zangpo’s succinct and simple verses of advice summarise the essence of the Mahayana path to perfection. This classic text presents ways that we can work with our own hearts and minds, starting wherever we find ourselves now, to unravel our small-minded preoccupations and discover our own potential for compassion, love, and wisdom. Many generations of Buddhist practitioners have been inspired by these teachings.
We will be guided in our understanding by commentaries from H.E Garchen Rinpoche, H.H. The 14th Dalai Lama, and Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.
About Gyalse Tokme Zangpo
Gyalse Tokme Zangpo was one of the most humble and impressive figures of Tibetan Buddhism’s past. He was an extremely learned scholar, who studied a vast number of teachings from all traditions. His every instant was devoted to helping others and to Dharma which he spread through composition, teaching and debate. He could teach with total confidence on any subject or text.
Without any expectation as to the result, he was extremely generous to all, particularly the poor, the destitute and the suffering. A formidable and inspiring example of what it truly means to cherish others more than oneself, his words continue to resonate and inspire centuries later.
About the Study Group Leader
Our Study Group will be led by David Johnson. David is a Buddhist contemplative, 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 leads retreats across the UK.
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.
He has explored this particular text through the works of H.H. The 14th Dalai Lama, H.E Garchen Rinpoche, and Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. Read more.
Dates & Format:
Our Study Group takes place on Tuesdays, 7.00pm-8.15pm (UK time – check your timezone here). Recordings are made available to participants who would like to follow along at their own pace.
Sessions consist of a meditation, line-by-line study of the text, and open group discussion of our experience.
Participants can join the Study Group at any time and at any point in the text. 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. Once you’re registered, you will be able to access the recordings and materials here.
Booking & Donation:
The teachings and Study Group are offered freely. 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.
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.
