2019 Spring Book Discussion

March 7 – April 25

Thursday evenings 7:45 – 9:00PM

The Foundations of Buddhism

By Rupert Gethin

Buddhism is a vast and complex religious and philosophical tradition with a history that stretches over 2,500 years.  In this introduction to the foundations of Buddhism, Rupert Gethin concentrates on the ideas and practices which constitute the common heritage of the different traditions of Buddhism (Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana) that exist in the world today. From the narrative of the story of the Buddha, through discussions of aspects such as textual traditions, the framework of the Four Noble Truths, the interaction between the monastic and lay ways of life, the cosmology of karma and rebirth, and the path of the bodhisattva,this book provides a stimulating introduction to Buddhism.

The discussion will be led by Robert Pryor. For more information please call 937-767-1034

Discussion Schedule

March 7:    Introduction p1-6
                    Chapter 1: The Buddha: The Story of the Awakened One

March 14:  Chapter 2: The Word of the Buddha: Buddhist Scriptures and Schools
Chapter 3: Four Truths: The Disease, The Cause, The Cure, The Medicine

March 21:  Chapter 4: The Buddhist Community:  Monks, Nuns, and Lay Followers
Chapter 5: The Buddhist Cosmos: The Thrice-Thousandfold World

March 28:  No Book Discussion – Zen Retreat in Progress.

April 4:      Chapter 6: No Self: Personal Continuity and Dependent Arising

April 11:    Chapter 7: The Buddhist Path: The Way of Calm and Insight
The Satipatthana Sutta.*

April 18:   Chapter 8: The Abhidharma: The Higher Teaching
Chapter 9: The Mahayana: The Great Vehicle
The Heart Sutra.*

April 25:   Chapter 10: Evolving Traditions of Buddhism: South, East, North, and West

*Copies of the Satipatthana Sutta and the Heart Sutra will be provided.

 The Foundations of Buddhismis widely available in bookshops and online.