Buddhist Studies
Fall 2022:
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching
Suffering and Its Transformation
The Buddha was not made of stone. He experienced feelings and emotions, pain, cold, hunger, and fatigue, just like all of us….Even after his enlightenment, the Buddha experienced suffering….But the key point is that he knew how to suffer. His awakening came from suffering: he knew how to make good use of his afflictions in order to experience awakening,. And because of this, he suffered much less than most of us.
—Thich Nhat Hanh, The Art of Living
Co-taught by Guiding Teachers Michael Genpo O'Neal & Joen O’Neal
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This course will be the first in a year-long series exploring Thich Nhat Hanh’s presentation of core Buddhist teachings. In his classic text, The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching, Thay devotes the first half of the book to a presentation of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. This teaching, given by the Buddha at the beginning of his teaching career, is traditionally considered to have “set in motion the wheel of the Dharma.” It explores the true nature of suffering and the path of practice that transforms it.
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Along with Thay’s teachings we will include other commentaries on these central teachings. Each class will include zazen (sitting practice), presentations by the instructors, and discussion.
Registration Information
Wednesdays, Sept. 21–Nov. 9 (eight sessions) (#B103)
7:00-9:00 P.M.
$185 (members $165) (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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$185 for non-members (fee includes book)
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$170 for non-members (if you already have the book)
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$165 for members (fee includes book)
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$150 for members (if you already have the book)
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2023 Buddhist Studies Course Dates
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Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 P.M.
Jan. 18-Mar. 8, 2023 (#B104)
Mar. 29-May 17, 2023 (#B105)
June 7-July 26, 2023 (#B106)
Sept. 20-Nov. 8, 2023 (#B107)
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