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, 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.
Banner and thumbnail image: Photographs of Sangharakshita © Triratna Picture Library
Retreat 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 with points of interest from each section that you wish to explore further in the study groups.
Details and Timings
The retreat starts with dinner on the first day at 6:30 pm and finishes on the finalday at 10.15 am.
If you are struggling financially and need help to come on retreat please contact our Guest Master info@padmaloka.org.uk or 01508 538 112
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.