Learning About Buddhism

Kunzang Palchen Ling offers many classes and practice sessions for those who want to learn about Buddhism and Buddhist meditation practices. You do not have to be a declared Buddhist to attend these programs. It is quite alright for you to participate at any level that you feel is suitable. Everyone is welcome.

Although some classes assume familiarity with basic Buddhist concepts, there are no pre-requisites for many of the programs at Kunzang Palchen Ling. In fact, it is a good approach to simply come to a teaching that sounds interesting and start from there.

If you’re interested in learning about Buddhism:

We invite you to any of our classes on fundamental Buddhist concepts, such as talks on the four noble truths, beginning a meditation practice, how to develop loving kindness and compassion, plus many other profound yet highly accessible topics.
Check our programs for any teachings that happen to appeal to you.
Take advantage of programs with visiting teachers. Kunzang Palchen Ling regularly hosts many eminent Buddhist masters with diverse teaching styles.
Browse our website to find a rich selection of resources, including teachings in audio format and excerpts from transcribed teachings.

The Refuge Vow

The first step on the Buddhist path is to take the vow of refuge. Of course, before doing this one should acquire a basic understanding of Buddhism and know what going for refuge means. Once a person feels confident in his or her decision, they may attend a refuge ceremony where a qualified Buddhist teacher bestows the vow.

Having taken the refuge vow, one formally enters the Buddhist path. The next step is to learn what that path consists of and how one can follow it for oneself.

It is said that the Buddha’s teachings can be summarized in three main points:

1. Practice virtue
2. Avoid non-virtue
3. Tame the mind

The Buddhist scriptures contain many methods that guide disciples in achieving this three-fold aim.
There is no single way to traverse the path, no one-size-fits-all approach. Many individuals do the same type of practice and attend the same courses in Buddhism, yet they each work with their unique set of karmic dispositions and individual propensities.

Once you have entered the Buddhist path, it is helpful to make a connection with a qualified teacher who will guide your study and practice in a manner appropriate for your needs. One’s relationship with a teacher, at least in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, is seen as extremely valuable to one’s spiritual growth.