An intensive study of the first chapter of Sangharakshita’s magnum opus, A Survey of Buddhism, is a fundamental part of preparing to join the Order. The purpose of the study is to deepen one’s practical understanding of the Dharma – the basic doctrines and teachings of the Buddha, such as conditioned co-production, the three marks of conditioned existence, the four noble truths and the noble eightfold path.

According to Subhuti in the foreword to the most recent edition (published as part of the Complete Works of Sangharakshita), this study ‘usually has considerable impact since it introduces trainees so clearly and inspiringly to the transcendent dimension of the Dharma.’

We recommend that you attend this retreat later in your ordination training, having closely studied the Survey, individually or collectively, in your local context.

Event Study Preparation

Please arrive on the retreat having studied sections 1-18 of Chapter One of Sangharakshita’s A Survey of Buddhism. We recommend taking notes on each section of the chapter. Please arrive on the retreat with points of interest from each section that you wish to explore further in the study groups.

You may find Dharmadipa's talk How to Study the Survey which he gave on the Transcendental Principle Retreat in 2022 useful in your preparation.

Details and Timings

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

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