Study

Study

Bodhi Path offers guidance in the study of Buddhist topics that support the development of one’s practice. Topics relate to understanding our minds, bodies, and the world we inhabit (Abhidharma); the nature of perception, knowledge, sense faculties, and consciousness (epistemology); and the nature of reality.

Topics are taught at Bodhi Path centers by highly trained resident and visiting teachers, both lay and monastic.

Trinlay Rinpoche teaching with Buddha Statue

Study

Bodhi Path offers guidance in the study of Buddhist topics as part of its Curriculum for Practice and Study. Resident and visiting teachers, both lay and monastic, provide training in these topics at Bodhi Path centers on a regular basis. Brief descriptions of these topics, along with supporting resources, are provided here for reference.

Meditation & Mind Training: The Path to Awakening

With meditation, we train our minds to rest in a calm and clear state. Based on this, we are able to realize mind’s peaceful nature and innate wisdom. The primary guidebook for meditation at Bodhi Path Centers is The Path to Awakening, a commentary on the Seven Points of Mind Training (Tibetan: Lojong) written by the 14th Shamarpa, Mipham Chokyi Lodro.

Foundation

Jewel Ornament of Liberation, by Gampopa
compiled by the 14th Shamarpa

Buddhist conduct and ethics, grounded in mindfulness, form the basis of the path to awakening. They provide guidance in understanding which of our motives and actions are conducive to development on the path and which are not. Bodhi Path Centers teach conduct and ethics based on certain chapters of The Jewel Ornament of Liberation by Gampopa.

Buddhist View: Abhidharma

Gateway to Knowledge, by Mipham Rinpoche
compiled by the 14th Shamarpa

The Buddhist View of Reality
In order to develop our meditation practice, it is helpful to study the Buddhist view of reality. Through studying and understanding the nature of phenomena and our experiences, we can begin to unlock the vast wealth of wisdom already present within us, understand the workings of mind in our day-to-day lives, and develop a profound meditation practice that can lead to realization.