The Manjushri Shedra and Introductory Courses

Many people find the process of gaining an understanding of the basic principles of Tibetan Buddhism a daunting challenge. While many titles on Buddhism are now available in bookshops, it can be difficult to identify the core teachings, and to know in what order they are most rewardingly tackled. It is also difficult to know what is pure teaching, and what is westernised, simplified and superficial.

Khenpo's response to this at our Centre has been to establish a structured Tibetan Buddhist studies programme designed to guide students in Buddhist philosophy studies. The teachings concentrate not only on core Buddhist texts, but also place great emphasis on the integration of Buddhist principles into one's everyday life and interactions with others. The Manjushri Shedra provides a disciplined framework for learning combined with great purity of teaching from the Sakya lineage, and the opportunity to share experiences with other students. This programme has been in place since 2002, and even advanced students have commented on how beneficial the Shedra programme has been for them. Many new students have appreciated the speed at which their knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism has advanced and the beneficial changes they have noted in their own levels of peace and equanimity.

• The Manjushri Shedra - an interview with His Eminence Ratna Vajra Rinpoche

In addition to the Manjushri Shedra Programme, the Centre also offers short introductory courses on both Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhist Meditation on a regular basis each year. These are designed to be of particular benefit to those who are new to Buddhism.

The Manjushri Shedra

This five year graduated course of study will provide students with a focused systematic programme of study and solid training. Through practical, logical methods, the student will develop an authentic practice, mental clarity, wisdom and the ability to benefit others. It provides a rare opportunity in the west to undertake a traditional course of study of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and practices under the guidance of a fully qualified Tibetan teacher. A Certificate will be awarded for those completing assignments each term and each year of study. This will enable students to continue their study overseas or in other Buddhist Centres.

• Level One: The Beautiful Ornament of the Three Visions
  
  This is the entry level for the study program, however, students should have completed an Introduction to Buddhism course. This course uses the text The Beautiful Ornament of the Three Visions by Ngorchen Konchog Lhundrub and provides students with a clear overview of the path and an introduction to the practices. Examining the foundational teachings of the Buddha, the emphasis will be on using them to add meaning and clarity to our life beliefs, choices and actions. Students will be prepared to take refuge at the end of Term 1.

• Level Two: Sage's Intent
  
  For students who have been studying Buddhism for 1-3 years. The text for this course, Sage's Intent by Sakya Pandita, is one of the most practical summaries of Mahayana teachings. It provides the student with a knowledge of how to develop the six Paramitas (Perfections) and other qualities necessary for overcoming our self-created suffering and for progression on the path. Students will be encouraged to take up the purification practice of Vajrasattva to support their study.

• Level Three: The Three Vows
  
  For students who have been studying Buddhism for 2-4 years. The text for this course is The Three Vows by Sakya Pandita. It covers the Pratimoksha, Bodhisattva and Vajrayana vows, deepening the student's understanding of the Hinayana, Mahayana and Tantric paths. Students will be encouraged to make the purification practice of Vajrasattva a daily practice.

• Level Four: Abhidharmakosha
  
  Students must have completed the previous three years of study at the Shedra. The text for this course is Abhidharmakosha by Vasubandhu. After Buddha passed away the Arhats assembled and collated his teachings into this detailed study of the laws and nature of all phenomena and beings. The first chapter, the study of dhatus, will provide a deeper insight into the nature of our minds and assist with the development of wisdom and understanding of reality. Participants in this level will be expected to undertake and maintain Ngondro (Preliminary) practices, accumulating 200 prostrations or Vajrasattva practices per week.

• Level Five: Madyamika
  
  Students must have completed the previous four years of study at the Shedra. This course covers the Madyamika by Chandrakirti. Participants at this level will be expected to attend a combined Shamatha and Vajrasattva retreat as an individual or in a group as well as strengthening and expanding their Ngondro and Vajrasattva practices.

Manjushri Shedra Course Format

Each level consists of three 10-week terms per year, with one 2-hour session per week. Each session includes a balance of theory, practice and methods designed to integrate session understanding into your own life. There is a 1-day joint seminar each term, and a 1-week retreat at the end of the year. The 1-day seminar (and others) go more deeply into the practices for developing skilful methods of overcoming difficulties. Topics covered include Shamatha (calm-abiding meditation practice) and Lojong (mind training).

Certificates will be issued at various levels based on the student's:

• course participation (minimum 70%)
• attendance at two 1-day seminars
• attendance at a 1-week retreat
• completion of two assignments
• completion of a presentation.

Introductory Courses

Regular Introduction to Buddhism courses are scheduled on weekends throughout the year. Please contact the centre for details.