SIMS at University Friends Meeting House | Jan 2020
This year we will explore the topic of Dependent Origination, one of the most important teachings of the Buddha. Pratītyasamutpāda, commonly translated as dependent origination, or dependent arising, states that all dharmas arise in dependence upon other dharmas: "if this exists, that exists; if this ceases to exist, that also ceases to exist". It describes the factors that create an independant, isolated sense of self, tying us to suffering.
Each month, Tuere and Tim will explore one of the twelve links of Dependent Origination.
Offered by Lyndal Johnson at SIMS on 2020 January 13
Offered by Tuere Sala at SIMS on 2020 January 20
Reflections and Practices: Dhamma is the undefended fact, and facing facts is fundamental to Dhamma growth. Many times, it is more convenient to pretend the facts do not exist. Turning away does not eliminate the fact; it sustains its damaging effects through repression. Look at your life and see which facts you allow in and which facts are denied. Notice the fear that turns you away from the fact and how this fear competes with your Dhamma understanding. Is it fear of change, fear of insecurity, or fear of mortality? Consider contemplating the phrases, When this exists, this naturally exists; due to the arising of this, this consequently arises; when this does not exist, this naturally does not exist; due to the quenching of this, this consequently is quenced. Throughout the month, check to see if you notice this understanding. Can you see how certain occurrences are conditioned by the existence of other conditions? Be adventurous in your practice. There is no right or wrong way to understand this. All that is needed is a willingness to listen to your body and heart this month.
Offered by Tuere Sala at SIMS at University Friends Meeting House, Feb 3 2020
Practice and Reflection: Dependent Origination, Sankharas
Sankharas are Volitional Impulses that express Ignorance. To explore this in practice, bring attention to your daily life choice points, areas where you decide to do one course of action instead of another. This can be as simple as following a train of thought or responding to an email or text. Reflecting either at that decision point or afterward, can you sense the intention behind that action? Can you discern if that choice flows from ignorance or wisdom? Broaden the definition of action to include thinking, speaking, communicating or moving your body.