If we want to be more compassionate and skillful in our words, thoughts and deeds, it is very helpful to have a framework that can support our deepest aspirations to flourish.
The teachings on the six paramitas, a foundation of the Mahayana Buddhist path, can act as a guide. Join Verena Pfeiffer for this immersive weekend exploration of the paramita of discipline (shila in sanskrit), the second of the six perfections. The essence of the practice of discipline is refraining from harm and the attitude of wanting to harm.
The purpose of discipline or ethical conduct is to simplify our lives and to help us to understand the attitudes and behaviour to adopt and to abandon that help us to live in a more open-hearted, compassionate and discerning way. Through awareness we learn to set appropriate boundaries and in acting accordingly we ultimately find the freedom to live in a manner that brings benefit to ourselves and others. The practice of discipline becomes a supportive framework and a form of love that protects ourselves and society.
From the Buddhist point of view, ethics or discipline is not something that is imposed from the outside but it is something that comes from seeing and understanding cause and effect.
Who is this for?
All are welcome, whether you are a beginner on the Buddhist path, or an experienced dharma practitioner.
Meals
Vegetarian lunches and light evening meals are provided. The cost is included in your fee.
Accommodation
Limited accommodation is available on-site and can be viewed and booked as you register. Early booking advised! A list of hostels, B&B’s, self-catering accommodation and hotels in the local area is available here.
Verena Pfeiffer
Verena Pfeiffer is from Germany and has been a student of Buddhism since 2005. She attended Rigpa’s 2006–2009 Three Year Retreat and has been studying at Rigpa Shedra East in Pharping, Nepal under the guidance of Khenchen Namdrol since 2007.
Verena regularly helps to lead teaching retreats. She has recently begun teaching at the Rigpa Shedra, using Khenpo Kunpal’s commentary on the Bodhicharyavatara. Verena lives in the Netherlands with her partner and their much-adored dog.