The Words that Lead to Enlightenment

Teachings on Patrul Rinpoche’s Words of My Perfect Teacher

an online ten week course

In this course we will work our way through the 19th century text by Patrul Rinpoche: The Words of My Perfect Teacher, a "detailed guide to the methods by which an ordinary person can transform his or her consciousness and set off on the path to Buddhahood." 

Intended for those with a familiarity in Buddhism and seeking a path for deeper study, each session is one half commentary by Lodro/guided contemplations on the key points, and one half small group discussion on how to integrate these ancient teachings into our modern life. Part class, part discussion group, this is a chance for a small number of students to go deep in their studies.

THIS COURSE TAKES PLACE ON SUNDAYS FROM 12-1:30PM EST

FEBRUARY 23RD - APRIL 27TH

Curriculum

The course will meet online, covering these ten points laid out in the book:

I. Rousing Bodhichitta: How to Access the Dharma

Reading: Translator's Introduction, the brief historical introduction to Tibetan Buddhism, Chapter 1 Section I (ending where you hit Section II: The Teaching Itself/we begin to talk about "Reflecting on the Nature of Freedom")

II. What is Enlightenment, Anyway?

Reading: Chapter One, Section II (The Teaching Itself: An Explanation of How Difficult It Is To Find the Freedoms and Advantages), Chapter Five in its entirety

III. Working with Impermanence

Reading: Chapter Two

IV. The Defects of Samsara

Reading: Chapter Three

V. Karma 202

Reading: Chapter Four

VI. Liberation and the Importance of a Spiritual Friend

Reading: Chapter Six

VII. Taking Refuge in Buddhism

Reading: Part Two, Chapter One

VIII. Living through the Lens of Bodhichitta

Reading: Part Two, Chapter Two, Section I (Until “Arousing Bodhichitta”) - Note that you can read the full chapter if you want!

IX. The Bodhisattva Vow

Reading: Part Two, the rest of Chapter Two

X. Tantra: The Preliminary Vajrayana Practices

Reading: The rest of the book, to the best of your ability

All classes are recorded for anyone who is unable to attend live

Pre-requisite: Graduation from the Buddhist Immersion program and/or 2+ years of Buddhist studies

Text: Words of My Perfect Teacher by Patrul Rinpoche

Price: Sliding scale, based on what you would like to offer. If none of the options below feel right for you, please email lodrorinzler@gmail.com and we will arrange for what does.

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