Practice Library

Module 1: Foundations of Buddhist Theory I: An Overview · The Buddha’s Path

An overview of the foundational aspects of Buddhist teachings, setting the stage for the modules that follow.

Part One of this module explores the life of the Buddha, provides an introduction to Buddhism as a whole, and explores the first teaching of the Buddha: the Four Noble Truths. Part Two then explores the Noble Eightfold Path and the significance of Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels. This module serves as a comprehensive overview, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Buddhist theory and practice in subsequent modules. Module #1 is part of The Buddha’s Path, our multi-year foundational study programme, designed to guide us step by step from the foundational teachings and practices of Buddhism to the more advanced meditative techniques and philosophical concepts.

What this course covers

• The life of the Buddha
• An introduction to Buddhism as a whole
• The Four Noble Truths
• The Noble Eightfold Path
• Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels

Sessions

1. Introduction & The Life Story of the Buddha 72 minutes
2. The Spread Of Buddhism: Three Main Branches of Practice 69 minutes
3. The Four Noble Truths: The Truth of Suffering 80 minutes
4. The Four Noble Truths: The Causes (Origin) of Suffering 78 minutes
5. The Four Noble Truths: The Cessation and the Path Leading to the Cessation of Suffering 84 minutes
6. The Noble Eightfold Path: Sīla - Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood 77 minutes
7. The Noble Eightfold Path: Samadhi - Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, Right Concentration 75 minutes
8. The Noble Eightfold Path: Prajñā - Right View, Right Resolve 84 minutes
9. Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels 79 minutes