Mapping our inner worlds: An engaged approach to tantric Buddhism, nding certainty in making it our own.

Tantric Buddhism, or Vajrayana, is known for its colorful mandalas, rich symbolism, ritual and air of mysticism. Often regarded as exotic and captivating, it is easy to feel drawn to, and curious about, this form of Buddhism. Yet how do we create our own relationship to this presentation of Buddhism that has all too often been misinterpreted in popular culture, and at dierent times even within Tibetan and Indian culture? How can we blend aspects of tantric Buddhism into our lives that allow us to feel more embodied, present and connected to immense potential imbued with the world around us? Join us as we examine the development, growth and spread of Tantric Buddhism from medieval India, throughout various Himalayan regions to the larger world. Through combining the penetrating insight provided by modern investigative analysis, shared reading of traditional tantric Buddhist texts, meditation practice, and lively discussion we will explore how we can develop our own intimate relationship with tantric Buddhism. Meeting once a month for a weekend day-long class over the course of twelve months we will read a variety of books that touch upon the leading academic works on the development of tantric Buddhism, contemporary texts on meditation practice, and a selection of primary tantric Buddhist texts. Each class day will include time for mediation practice with instruction and discussion. Each student should nish the class with a well rounded, solid understanding of Vajrayana, with a variety of individual points of contact that they can comfortably develop in future contemplative practice. No prerequisite study of Buddhism is necessary. There will be two eld-trips. This class is limited to 20 people. Cost: $500

Register by January 15th, 2013. To register or if you have any questions please contact the instructor, Repa Dorje Odzer: dorjeodzer@goshir.org

New York Tsurphu Goshir Dharma Center 183 15th Street, Brooklyn, New York, 11215
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