A Bodhisattva is someone who makes the courageous decision to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. This vow is at the heart of Mahayana Buddhism.
But how exactly do you embark on the bodhisattva path? How do you avoid getting lost along the way? What methods can be used to really achieve the goal of enlightenment?
The Bodhisattva Project is a multi-year study course on the foundations, philosophy, and practices of Mahayana Buddhism. This is the third batch within the project.
Although an in depth, intensive study and practice of the teachings of great beings such as Shantideva is direly needed in our time, it is not possible for most of us due to our worldly entanglements. So here, Do Tulku Rinpoche will lead us through these classical scriptures with clear and simple words, using stories and examples from all walks of life. As per the instruction of Manjushri Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, we will only focus on Indian masters, following the root texts or self commentary of the author himself, so that people from all schools of Tibetan Buddhism can follow completely without any sectarian hesitations.
About the course
Starting December 1st 2024, this course will be mainly conducted online. In general, there will be two teachings per month, from times live and from times recorded. There will also be live sessions with Rinpoche, during which we will make "The King Of Aspiration Prayer" together, followed by questions from the participants to Rinpoche.
This program is designed to accommodate both the longing for intensive studies as well as the busy lifestyle of people in the West. Thus, with a bit of determination and discipline, it is definitely possible to participate while living a worldly life, e.g. having a job and family.
Program structure
MODULE I
Foundations (ca. 1 year)
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Introduction to Buddhism
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The History of Buddhism
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The four philosophical schools of Buddhism
MODULE II
Immersion (ca. 4 years)
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Text study and practice: The Ways of a Bodhisattva (Bodhicaryavatara) by Shantideva
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Text study and practice: Entering the Middle Way (Madhyamakavatara) by Candrakirti
The participants are divided into "trainees" and "listeners".
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Trainees are committing to more intensive studies, participation in group discussions, participation in retreats, and small presentations. You can only be a trainee if you participate in the entire program.
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Listeners, on the other hand, listen to the teachings in a more passive way but are of course also allowed to participate in the retreats and assignments if they wish to. Listeners can also participate in single modules.
Language: Rinpoche teaches in English. Translations will be based on the actual needs and interests and sponsorship for a translator.
The retreats: the retreats happen at least once a year, during the weekends, and take place both online and on-site (usually in Windeck).
Duration: The entire course is expected to last about 5 years.
Study Platform: we use Google Classroom as our study platform. For you to join, you must have a google email account.
Certificate: It is important to highlight that there won't be a certificate of graduation at the end of the course.
Monthly donation: We recommend that long-term students set up a monthly contribution of at least €10, in that way you give a great support to the project and for Do Tulku Rinpoche's activities to flourish.
*Please keep in mind when selecting your monthly donation amount that our aim is to provide options for students in different economic situations. We want to provide access to the course for as many people as possible, including those living in developing countries or facing other financial difficulties.
If you you need a full scolarship, please write to events@aryatara.net with your request. We will always find ways for you to take part. Our mission is for the teachings to be available to everyone.
Scholarship
10
Every month
You will kindly contribute to the project. For anyone facing currency discrepancies or financial constraints. For full scholarship, please write to events@aryatara.net. We want you to take part!
Includes "Bodhisattva Project III"
Standard
25
Every month
You will be kindly helping us cover the costs of offering the program.
Includes "Bodhisattva Project III"
Sponsor
50
Every month
You will contribute to other participants who need a scholarship to take part and/or sponsor a translator if necessary.
Includes "Bodhisattva Project III"