Meditation & Zen Buddhism Classes

Each class meets for two hours and consists of meditation practice (inc. instruction) in the first hour, and a lecture on Buddhist principles in the second hour.

Level I: Beginning Chan Meditation and Fundamental Concepts of Buddhism

The meditation portion of the class teaches breath-counting, mindfulness of the breath, and middle way reality. The lecture topics include the introduction to Buddhism and Chan(Zen), Karma and causality, the Four Noble Truths, Three Refuges and Five Precepts.

Prerequisite: One Stick of Incense experience is recommended.

Level II：Chan Meditation & Intermediate Buddhist Contemplation and Practices

The meditation portion builds on the previous methods and includes compassion contemplation. The lecture topics include the Ten Dharma Realms, Bodhisattva ideal, the six paramitas; the perfection of charity, morality, tolerance, diligence, meditation, and prajna wisdom.

Prerequisites: Completion of Level 1 Beginning Chan Meditation Class required.

Level III：Chan Meditation & Advanced Buddhist Contemplation and Practices

The meditation portion builds on the Level 1 & 2 methods and includes the Four Foundations of Mindfulness. The lecture topics include the Ten Dharma Realms, Twelve Links of Interdependence, Four Foundations of Mindfulness, The Four Great Vows, and Four Ways of Bodhisattva Fellowship.

Prerequisites: Completion of Level 1 & Level 2 Classes required.

Chan Meditation & Sutra Study

The meditation portion includes previous and additional meditation methods. The topics are from selected Buddhist scriptures such as The Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters, The Eight Realization of Great Beings, The Sutra of Impermanence, and The Essence of Mahayana Practice, etc.

Prerequisites: Completion of Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Classes required

A.W.E.S.O.M.E.

“Ancient Wisdom-Enhancing School of Mindfulness and Enlightenment” class is designed for children/ youth ages 6-14 to discover their inner wisdom and develop a positive outlook on life. The creatively designed curriculum includes meditation instructions, Dharma talks, Zen stories, movies, character-building activities, and more. Students learn to sharpen their awareness and concentration and to appreciate the gifts of this world.

Click here for current class schedule.