A ten-week online sutta study discussion course led by Shaila Catherine
In this course we will study Bhikkhu Bodhi’s powerful collection of discourses from the Pali Canon that address issues relevant to our times: communication, anger, conflict resolution, friendship, social equity, and interpersonal dynamics. This ten-week course offers a discussion format for sutta study and the contemplation of Buddhist teachings that lead to social harmony, ethical clarity, and engaged wisdom. Students are expected to read about 20 pages each week (approximately one hour of reading) and engage in the discussions.
REQUIRED READING:
The Buddha’s Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon, edited and introduced by Bhikkhu Bodhi, Wisdom Publications, 2016, ISBN: 978-1-61429-355-2. The cost of the book is not included in the registration fee. Online students may purchase the text through Wisdom Publications, or any preferred bookseller.
Online Class Dates, 5:30 PM Pacific Time:
- October 18 Wednesday – Right Understanding
- October 30 Monday – Personal Training
- November 8 Wednesday – Dealing with Anger
- November 15 Wednesday – Proper Speech
- November 22 Wednesday – Good Friendship
- November 29 – No Meeting in week after Thanksgiving.
- December 6 Wednesday – One’s Own Good and the Good of Others
- December 13 Wednesday – Intentional Community
- December 20 Wednesday – Disputes with Shaila Catherine
- December 27 – No Meeting this week. Happy Holidays!
- January 3 Wednesday – Settling Disputes
- January 10 Wednesday – Establishing an Equitable Society
WHO SHOULD JOIN:
This is an intermediate level course. Previous training in sutta study and retreat experience is welcome, but not required. Previous experience with mindfulness meditation, however, is expected. The course is designed for meditators who have already developed some continuity in their meditation practice and now wish to study, discuss, and contemplate social implications of living the Buddha’s teachings.
REGISTRATION FOR ONLINE CLASS:
Registration is required for this course. Registration fees do not include the book. Registration will open two-three months prior to the start date of each course. Registration fees are non-refundable. To register select an option under the Tickets heading on this page. If you are viewing this page more than two months in advance of the course, the ticket feature may not have yet appeared, so please check back later to register, and join our mailing list to receive a reminder when registration opens.
The sliding scale fee range is from $500 to $200. The lower end of the sliding scale is intended for those with limited means. The basic rate of $200 is estimated to cover basic administrative expenses, but does not factor in compensation for teacher(s). The scholarship rate of $120 offers an even lower rate for those with very limited financial means.
By choosing to give at the mid to high range of the sliding scale your generosity supports those with limited income to attend our programs, and it supports the teachers, enabling the dhamma to thrive in our world. We encourage you to choose the highest level that is appropriate for your economic situation.
TAX DEDUCTIBILITY:
The basic registration fee is not tax deductible and non-refundable. Donations above the base rate will be considered voluntary tax deductible contributions. Each January the IMSB treasurer sends donors letters that acknowledge the accumulated deductible donations from the previous year. This annual letter will acknowledge the amount given that is above the basic rate and serve as documentation for tax deduction purposes.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
All fees and payments are non-refundable. If it becomes necessary to cancel participation in a course, and the registrar is notified prior to the start of the first class meeting, your registration fee will be converted into a voucher creditable towards the fee for a future Online Course organized by IMSB. Vouchers must be used within two years of the initial course start date. Cancellations that occur after the start of the first class are not eligible for the voucher credit. Credits vouchers can be transferred to only one future course.