Fri
3
Apr
2026
-
Fri
17
Apr
2026
The Ten Pillars

The ten Dharmachari precepts are what an Order member lives by; they are what Bhante has called ‘the Mula Pratimoksha’ – the basic ethical code. Each of the precepts is so precious that they can be likened to ten pillars made of precious substances – diamond, gold, crystal, pearl, etc. – which provide the essential foundation for the cultivation of higher states of consciousness and the development of transcendental insight. There is no spiritual life without them.

On this retreat, we will study and practise these ‘ten pillars’ of Buddhism and life in the Order, reflecting on and discussing them in the context of our own spiritual lives.

In particular, we will be studying Bhante's book The Ten Pillars of Buddhism. This is found in volume 2 of Sangharakshita's Complete Works; you can also buy the ebook here.

Banner and thumbnail image: image created by Sebastion ©

Details and Timings

The retreat starts with dinner on the first day at 6:30pm and finishes on the final day at 10.15am.

This retreat is directly followed by the Going for Refuge Weekend Consider making the most of your visit by booking onto both retreats

Led by
The Ordination Team
Retreat Open To:
Men training for ordination & Dharmacharis
Retreat Type
GFR Retreat
Booking Availability
Spaces left
Spaces left
Spaces left
Coming on retreat

Coming on a retreat at Padmaloka is a step into another way of being, where we temporarily take up a way of life that is more supportive of Buddhist Practice. We go forth from our ordinary circumstances, our comforts and distractions so that we can discern and move towards our ideals and help others to do so as well.When booking a retreat at Padmaloka it is important to get a sense of how you will be living here - what our customs, etiquettes and requirements for being on retreat are.

Frequently asked questions

Upcoming Retreats
5 Dec
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14 Dec
2025
5 Dec
2025
The Bodhisattva Ideal
19 Dec
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2 Jan
2026
19 Dec
2025
The Padmaloka Winter Retreat 2025/26: Teachings from the Lotus Born
9 Jan
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11 Jan
2026
9 Jan
2026
Freedom to Grow: A Weekend Retreat for Fathers
25 Jan
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1 Feb
2026
25 Jan
2026
Ritual and Devotion