Buddhism In The West
Buddhism in the West is founded on the traditions
of kindness and insight that have developed in the East
over the past 2500 years. The Buddha always emphasized that
the teachings are evolving and must be made suitable for
different times, places and personalities. The present Dalai
Lama encourages this.
Lion's Roar Dharma Center uses the insights gained
by contemporary science and psychology to enhance our practice.
Particular attention is given to working within enlightened
western social structures which recognize the equality of
men and women, the need to question authority, and the importance
of the Buddhist teachings as a practical approach to living
in the modern world.
Historically in Asia, Buddhism has been interested
in promoting the monastic ideal - monks and nuns leaving
their families or communities in order to pursue meditation
without the distractions and temptations of work and relationships.
In the West, however, the search for fulfilling relationships
and meaningful work starts and sustains many persons' Dharma
practice. Lion's Roar Dharma Center is interested in exploring
how relationships themselves, with all their problems, can
be a wonderful vehicle for the training and practice of
Buddhism. Intimate relationships bring out the fundamental
joys and pains of living vividly and thereby are the Dharma
themselves.
Meditation Instruction at Lion’s Roar Dharma Center
The Process of Developing a Warm Heart
Meditation is one of the essential disciplines in the
Buddhist path of self-transformation. Developing the core
skills of mindfulness, emotional receptivity and positive
energy takes place in the structured setting of formal meditation
practice. With the skills we have developed, we cultivate
our Buddha nature and learn to manifest ourselves genuinely
in our daily lives.
Teachers, mentors and instructors are essential
supports. Lion’s Roar offers students qualified meditation
instructors as guides to begin and maintain a practice.
Meditation instructors teach the technique of mindful awareness
meditation in a way that is personally adapted for each
student. Instructors help by sharing their own experience,
strength and hope. The instructor can address all problems
in learning the technique and applying it in your own life.
Lama Yeshe Jinpa
personally trains meditation instructors. As members of
Lion’s Roar Mandala, they are fully involved in the
self-transformation practices of Buddhism, which include
their own meditation practice, service at Lion’s Roar
as well as in their family and community and a direct learning
relationship with Lama Yeshe Jinpa.
For more information on requesting personal
meditation instruction, please visit our Meditation
Instructors page.
Five Paths
The Five Paths taught at Lion's Roar Dharma Center are for people
who have different focuses or interests, but who still
are interested in a path of self transformation. These
curriculums are designed to be undertaken under the guidance
of the Lama or authorized practice leader, and will consist
of group classes and meditations, individual study and
meditation, fieldwork, and personal interviews with the
Lama or practice leaders. A strong emphasis is placed on
personal discipline and motivation.
The Five Paths are:
Buddhist Yoga
This is a traditional Vajrayana (Diamond Way) Buddhist
path as handed down in the Indian and Tibetan traditions.
It is a religious and spiritual path with an emphasis on
meditation and yoga. The goal is the complete liberation
of oneself and others.
Buddhist Studies
Primary emphasis is on study of Buddhist texts and Buddhist
history, both from a traditional and Western academic point
of view. The training of the intellect, the ability to
be logical, and its application to yoga and daily life
is stressed. The goal of scholarship is both Wisdom and
Kindness.
Contemplative Path
People who wish to learn Buddhist meditation techniques
who come from a humanist or other faith backgrounds. This
is also a path for those who are searching or evaluating
various Buddhist approaches. The study and training in
contemplative psychotherapy is addressed in this path.
A critical and comparative approach is encouraged.
Artist's Way
Artistic expression is both a traditional path of self
transformation, and a constantly evolving one. Artists,
aspiring artists, and people who appreciate art will learn
how to integrate their art with their spiritual practice
and their daily lives. The ability to manifest ourselves
creatively, so that both ourselves and others are liberated
and enriched is the basis of the Artist's Way.
Karma Yoga, the Path of Service
Our work, family and community are the focus of this path.
What is Skillful Means and Right Livelihood? How can we
truly help others? What is true Devotion and Unconditional
Love? These are the ongoing questions addressed in this
Path. Many great saints and yogis have celebrated Service
as the true Raja (Royal) Yoga, and as the Quick Path. |
