Buddhist Studies
Summer 2022: Seven Gates of Liberation
Meditation on the seven concentrations enables us to see everything in the light of interdependence, freeing us from our wrong views and breaking down the barriers of a discriminating mind….The teaching of the Buddha is very clear, effective, and simple to understand. It opens up a path of living, not just for our personal benefit, but for our whole species. We have the power to decide the destiny of our planet.
—Thich Nhat Hanh, The Art of Living
Co-taught by Michael & Joen O’Neal
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In 2014 Thay Nhat Hanh led a three-week practice period at Plum Village that turned out to be the last one he led before a debilitating stroke that ended the active phase of his teaching. The talks he gave then have been edited into a book called The Art of Living. These teachings are structured around seven deep insights into the nature of our lives that can transform the way we experience the world and ourselves, opening the way to deep peace and freedom. They are a practice of looking deeply in terms of emptiness, signlessness, aimlessness, impermanence, non-craving, letting go, and nirvana.
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In this course we will explore these seven concentrations. Along with Thay’s teachings we will include commentaries by other teachers on these classic Buddhist teachings.
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Each class will include zazen (sitting practice), presentations by the instructors, and discussion. The text will be available at the first class (and mailed to those who will be participating via Zoom).
Registration Information
Wednesdays, June 8–July 27 (eight sessions) (#B102)
7:00-9:00 P.M.
$190 (members $170) (includes course materials)
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This course will be held in-person at the Center, with an option for remote participation via Zoom if requested.
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Member rates apply to members of all local Buddhist centers. Reduced fees are offered as needed; please contact the Center at (612) 781-7640.
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Enrollment for classes is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Register
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You may register online and make a secure payment using the button below. Or contact us to request a mail-in registration form.
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$190 for non-members (fee includes book)
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$170 for non-members (if you already have the book The Art of Living by Thich Nhat Hanh)
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$170 for members (fee includes book)
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$150 for members (if you already have the book The Art of Living by Thich Nhat Hanh)
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Fall Buddhist Studies Course Dates
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Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 P.M.
Sept. 21–Nov. 9, 2022 (#B103)
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