The refuge tree is a central symbol of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha within our tradition and within Vajrayana Buddhism. It represents the Three Jewels via an array of figures and texts, including teachers of past and present, Buddhas, Bodhisattvas and Arahants.

According to a talk given by Sangharakshita in 1971, the refuge tree vividly and concretely represents the refuge ‘in its historical background, in its universal perspective and its immediate practical application.’ It is, therefore, one of the richest and most complex symbols in Buddhism – one ‘that would repay the study of a lifetime’.

As well as studying it on this retreat, we will be visualising it as part of the Going for Refuge and Prostration Practice that is taught to men training for ordination.

Details and Timings

The retreat starts with dinner on the first day at 6:30pm and finishes on the final day at 10.00am.

Health and Hygiene

It is vital that you don't come on retreat if you have any symptoms of Covid-19, including a cough, loss or change of smell or taste, a temperature, or any other cold or flu-like symptoms.

If you have been in contact with somebody who has tested positive for Covid-19 within the past 7 days, please contact us on 01508538112 or email us on info@padmaloka.org.uk; we may ask you to take daily lateral flow tests if it is still appropriate for you to come on retreat.

To come on this retreat it is essential that you have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

We ask that you take two Lateral Flow Tests, one 48 hours before arrival and a second within 24 hours of the retreat starting, please also bring a few Lateral Flow Tests with you as everyone will be required to do a test halfway through the retreat.
You can order them free from the UK Government here: Lateral Flow Tests, or from most pharmacies.

For more information on our Covid policies and to see our risk assessment you can visit our Coming on Retreat Page.

Banner and thumbnail image: cropped painting by Aloka © from Padmaloka