Study Programmes
Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso has designed three special Study Programmes for the systematic study and practice of Kadampa Buddhism that are especially suited to the modern world: the general programme, Foundation Programme, and Teacher Training Programme. All classes, courses and retreats at Tara KMC are part of the three NKT Study Programmes.
why we need to study
There are three reasons why we need to study and practise the teachings of Buddha:
- To develop our wisdom
- To cultivate a good heart
- To maintain a peaceful state of mind
If we do not strive to develop our wisdom, we shall always remain ignorant of ultimate truth – the true nature of reality. Although we wish for happiness, our ignorance leads us to engage in non-virtuous actions, which are the main cause of all our suffering. If we do not cultivate a good heart, our selfish motivation destroys harmony and good relationships with others. We have no peace, and no chance to gain pure happiness. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. If we do not maintain a peaceful state of mind we are not happy even if we have ideal conditions. On the other hand, when our mind is peaceful we are happy even if our external conditions are unpleasant. Therefore, the development of these qualities is of utmost importance for our daily happiness.
General Programme
The General Programme (GP) is an ideal starting point for those interested to find out more about Buddhism and meditation. GP introduces basic Buddhist view, meditation and action, along with various other teachings and practices, all within the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, to help practitioners deepen their knowledge and experience of Buddhism. All the teachings are based on commentaries by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. The programme consists of drop-in classes, supplemented by day courses, weekend courses, and meditation retreats. All classes are open to everyone.
Regular classes are held at the Centre and at venues throughout the region (see Weekly classes in the menu to the right). There is no need to book for drop-in classes, just pay on the door as you arrive.
Foundation Programme
The Foundation Programme (FP) provides a systematic study of six texts by Venerable Geshe-la, building a firm foundation for an authentic spiritual practice, enabling practitioners to deepen their knowledge and experience of Buddhism.
The programme comprises the following five subjects, based on Buddha’s Sutra teachings and the corresponding commentaries by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso:
- The Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, based on the commentary Joyful Path of Good Fortune
- Training the Mind, based on the commentaries
Universal Compassion and Eight Steps to Happiness - The Heart Sutra, based on the commentary Heart of Wisdom
- Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life, based on the commentary Meaningful to Behold
- Types of Mind, based on the commentary Understanding the Mind
Teacher Training Programme
The Teacher Training Programme (TTP) provides an extensive study of fourteen texts by Venerable Geshe-la, and includes nine weeks of meditation retreat each year, training students as qualified NKT Teachers.
The program comprises the following twelve subjects (the first five being the same as those covered in FP), based on Buddha’s Sutra and Tantra teachings and the corresponding commentaries by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso:
- The Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, based on the commentary Joyful Path of Good Fortune
- Training the Mind, based on the commentaries
Universal Compassion and Eight Steps to Happiness - The Heart Sutra, based on the commentary Heart of Wisdom
- Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life, based on the commentary Meaningful to Behold
- Types of Mind, based on the commentary Understanding the Mind
- Guide to the Middle Way, based on the commentary
Ocean of Nectar - Vajrayana Mahamudra, based on the commentary
Clear Light of Bliss - The Bodhisattva’s Moral Discipline, based on the commentary
The Bodhisattva Vow - Offering to the Spiritual Guide, based on the commentaries
Great Treasury of Merit and Mahamudra Tantra - Vajrayogini Tantra, based on the commentary Guide to Dakini Land
- Grounds and Paths of Secret Mantra, based on the commentary Tantric Grounds and Paths
- The Practice of Heruka Body Mandala, based on the commentary Essence of Vajrayana