A retreat exploring how the four noble truths of the Buddha can help us live a more contemplative way of life in the midst of today's world. Each noble truth will be introduced and carefully explored, noting its presence in the teachings of Jesus and the mystical traditions of all the world's great religions. An emphasis will be given on how the four noble truths help us find true spiritual fulfillment for ourselves and others. Time will be provided for group meditation, personal reflection and discussion of the themes presented.
The topics covered in the conferences include:
Who was the Buddha? The first noble truth: Accepting and understanding the pervasive nature of suffering and discontent in our lives.
The second noble truth: Understanding that suffering arises from our desire to want life to be other than it is. By craving and aversion we perpetuate the very suffering we are trying to avoid.
The third noble truth of nirvana: Awakening to a deep, abiding peace and happiness for ourselves and others in the midst of life as it really is.
The fourth noble truth consists of the eightfold path along which we learn to awaken to the deep, abiding peace of nirvana, in which we find happiness for ourselves and others.
Suggested Readings
Tich Naht Hahn: The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching. Walpola Rahula: What The Buddha Taught. Thomas Merton: Zen and the Birds of Appetite. Thomas Merton: Mystics and Zen Masters. Marcus Borg: Jesus and Buddha.
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