Manjushri Dharma Center

Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2018-03-05 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-02-19 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-02-05 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-29 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-22 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-15 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-08 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Private Residence, CA, United States
Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. Join us for student-led chanted prayers of Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light, or Chenrezig/Avalokiteshvara Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Compassion. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided. Chanted prayers are always free of charge. Donations are not expected, but always welcome.

Relating to the Spiritual Teacher
2018-03-03 11:15 - 12:30
At Buddhist temples or dharma centers, there are specific ways of understanding and showing respect for the sacred. For many new students, the experience is at once beautiful and confusing, even overwhelming. This is especially true in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, with its elaborate rituals, chants, and imagery. While some quickly dismiss this as Asian custom or cultural trapping, irrelevant to Buddhists in the modern West, “dharma etiquette” and Vajrayana iconography are actually important aspects of the path, with special meaning and purpose that point to the essence of the dharma itself. Understanding these details deepens our practice and appreciation of the precious teachings of Buddha. MDC sangha member Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will offer a series of classes that provide a “guided tour” of our dharma center. Focusing on the “what” and “why” of etiquette and symbolism. The classes are for those new to Buddhism, as well as practitioners who are less familiar with the Tibetan system. Join us on Saturdays after meditation for this special series.
1) Jan 20 – Dharma Etiquette # 1 ~ Inside the Shrine-Room/Temple: An introduction to common protocols in a Tibetan Buddhist center, what they represent, and how they are important aids to spiritual practice.
2) Feb 3 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 1 ~ The Shrine: A basic overview of the arrangement and meaning of offerings and other objects commonly found on a Tibetan shrine.
3) Feb 17 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 2 ~ Thangkas and Statues: A general explanation of the symbolism of Yidams (meditational deities), with special attention to those seen in the beautiful collection of thangkas (Vajrayana scroll paintings) and statues at MDC.
4) Mar 3 – Dharma Etiquette # 2 ~ Relating to the Spiritual Teacher: The topics of the first three classes lead to an understanding of how to relate to our spiritual teacher (Tib. “lama,” Skt. “guru”) and why the teacher-disciple relationship is so central to our tradition.
About Aaron: Aaron began practicing Buddhism in 2000. While earning his BA in Religious Studies at UC Santa Barbara, he studied various traditions of Buddhism, Tibetan and Sanskrit language, and met his first Tibetan lamas. A former monk, he is fortunate to have spent several years living very close to his teachers, both in dharma centers in California and a monastery in India. He occasionally serves as an organizer, teacher of children, and chopen (shrine attendant) for Tibetan Buddhist retreats.

Saturday Morning Meditation
2018-03-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-02-24 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-02-17 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-02-10 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-02-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-27 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-20 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-13 10:00 - 11:00
Join us on Saturday mornings for meditation practice. In Rinpoche’s absence, meditation class will be student-led, with a brief reading from Rinpoche’s “Meditation 101” or brief video shown, followed by silent meditation. We will delight our teacher by putting his teachings into practice as we learn to consciously relax our bodies, calm our minds, and ultimately experience our own minds directly, naturally, and blissfully. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Chötrul Düchen Full Moon Celebration of Miracles
2018-03-01 18:30 - 20:00
Chötrul Düchen is one of four major Tibetan Buddhist holy days, celebrated on the first full moon after lunar new year. It is known as the Butter Lamp Festival, Festival of Lights, or Great Day of Miraculous Manifestations. It commemorates the day that Buddha Shakyamuni settled the question of his enlightenment with naysayers by performing many miracles. This full moon day is considered a “merit multiplier” day, with the effects of both positive and negative actions multiplied ten million times. On this auspicious day, we will gather to read the Heart Sutra, Praise of the Twelve Great Deeds, and Praise of Buddha Shakyamuni. Participants may bring flowers, electric candles or battery-operated lights to add to the alter (no real candles please). We hope to see you there!
Traditionally, artistic butter lamps are prepared in the first fifteen days after lunar new year and great displays of light are lit on the full moon celebration of Chötrul Düchen, however in Rinpoche’s absence, we have agreed to not light real candles at the center, so will substitute with electric lights. In closing our Chötrul Düchen celebration we will read a long-life prayer for Rinpoche. We hope to see you there!
Learn More: The Story of the 15 Days of Miracles, Rigpa Wiki-Brief Explanation of Chotrul Duchen

Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche Remembrance Day
2018-02-26 18:30 - 20:00
Kyabje Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche was the kind heart teacher of our own Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. On this special Monday, we will remember the great kindness of Kyabje Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche by telling his story and reciting experts from “Medicine for the Mind: On Using Suffering and Obstacles for Mental Development.” Sangye Tenzin spent 21 years in Chinese prison, yet he transformed the experience into pure spiritual food. We will recite special prayers for Sangye Tenzin composed by the Karmapa and Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, and discuss together how we can use this great example in our lives. Participants may bring flowers for the altar if they wish, but simply participating is the best offering you can make as we honor this precious lineage.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-22 18:30 - 20:00
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153) and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club commentary is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented. Using this commentary and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Understanding Thangka Symbolism
2018-02-17 11:15 - 12:30

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-15 18:30 - 20:00
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

(Canceled) Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2018-02-12 18:30 - 20:00

Understanding Shrine Symbolism
2018-02-10 11:15 - 12:30
At Buddhist temples or dharma centers, there are specific ways of understanding and showing respect for the sacred. For many new students, the experience is at once beautiful and confusing, even overwhelming. This is especially true in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, with its elaborate rituals, chants, and imagery. While some quickly dismiss this as Asian custom or cultural trapping, irrelevant to Buddhists in the modern West, “dharma etiquette” and Vajrayana iconography are actually important aspects of the path, with special meaning and purpose that point to the essence of the dharma itself. Understanding these details deepens our practice and appreciation of the precious teachings of Buddha. MDC sangha member Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will offer a series of classes that provide a “guided tour” of our dharma center. Focusing on the “what” and “why” of etiquette and symbolism. The classes are for those new to Buddhism, as well as practitioners who are less familiar with the Tibetan system. Join us on Saturdays after meditation for this special series.
1) Jan 20 – Dharma Etiquette # 1 ~ Inside the Shrine-Room/Temple: An introduction to common protocols in a Tibetan Buddhist center, what they represent, and how they are important aids to spiritual practice.
2) Feb 10 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 1 ~ The Shrine: A basic overview of the arrangement and meaning of offerings and other objects commonly found on a Tibetan shrine.
3) Feb 17 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 2 ~ Thangkas and Statues: A general explanation of the symbolism of Yidams (meditational deities), with special attention to those seen in the beautiful collection of thangkas (Vajrayana scroll paintings) and statues at MDC.
4) Mar 3 – Dharma Etiquette # 2 ~ Relating to the Spiritual Teacher: The topics of the first three classes lead to an understanding of how to relate to our spiritual teacher (Tib. “lama,” Skt. “guru”) and why the teacher-disciple relationship is so central to our tradition.
About Aaron: Aaron began practicing Buddhism in 2000. While earning his BA in Religious Studies at UC Santa Barbara, he studied various traditions of Buddhism, Tibetan and Sanskrit language, and met his first Tibetan lamas. A former monk, he is fortunate to have spent several years living very close to his teachers, both in dharma centers in California and a monastery in India. He occasionally serves as an organizer, teacher of children, and chopen (shrine attendant) for Tibetan Buddhist retreats.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-08 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-18 18:30 - 20:00
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153) and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-01 18:30 - 20:00
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club commentary is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the Thargyen. Using this simpler commentary and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation!
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Wednesday Special Lunar Eclipse Prayers
2018-01-31 19:00 - 20:30
Wednesday, January 31st is a very special day: a blue moon (second full moon in month), a super moon (closest to earth this year) and a lunar eclipse (starts at roughly 3am and reaches maximum roughly 5:30am). We learned from Rinpoche that eclipse days and special astronomical events such as this are energetically and spiritually significant. Wednesday should be considered a “merit multiplier day,” meaning that our intentions and actions are amplified by countless millions, so practitioners are encouraged to set positive intentions and to act in accordance with love and compassion with special focus on this day. Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will lead us in the prayers of Avalokiteshvara/Chenrezig, the Buddha of Infinite Compassion, wishing freedom from suffering for all sentient beings. In addition, we will recite a special prayer called the Prayer of Kuntuzangpo — a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer to be recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, or at the solstices. Join us for this very meritorious night! Free of charge, but donations are welcome.
More about the special prayers: the Prayer of Kuntuzangpo (Tib. ཀུན་བཟང་སྨོན་ལམ་, Kunzang Mönlam) — is a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer from the Gongpa Zangthal. It is to be recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, an earthquake or at the solstices. This aspiration prayer comes from the Dzogchen tantra called the Tantra of the Great Perfection which Shows the Penetrating Wisdom of Samantabhadra. In Tibetan, the short title of this tantra is Gongpa Zangthal Gyi Gyü, which means “The Tantra of Penetrating Wisdom” or “The Tantra of Transcendent Intention.”
Read the full text: Prayer of Kuntuzangpo
More about viewing the lunar eclipse in the Monterey area: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/monterey

Annual January All-Sangha Meeting
2018-01-25 18:30 - 20:00
Note: On Thursday, January 25th, a small group gathered to hear about the year past, nominate and elect the new MDC Board, and dream about the year to come. Click here for the Agenda for that evening. Thank you to all who were present! Welcome new Board Members! We will arrange a first meeting of the new board, then seek to share more information with the community.
Background info: Every year in January, the spiritual community of the Manjushri Dharma Center comes together to reflect on the year past, envision the year ahead, and elect new Board Members. Board Members are volunteers who serve for one or two years, attending to the day-to-day activities at the center. Join us for popcorn and snacks as we hear from current Board Members with a brief overview of the current state of center and goals for the new year. We will then move to officially elect the new Board. Nominees for the 2018 volunteer Board include:

Deirdre Means Acting President (Jan-Mar) and Permanent President: We will nominate an acting President when the first meeting of the new board convenes. We hope to nominate a permanent president after Rinpoche’s return.
Diana Slattery: Facilities Director/Co-Secretary (writer for web and newsletter): she will continue her amazing efforts with MDC facilities, and she will add the responsibility of writing the content and selecting images for the weekly newsletter and website.
Ashley Gamble: Website and Newsletter Facilitator: She will take the content that Diana gives her, and post to website, send out newsletter, and maintain the newsletter list. She will not be an official board member, but a regular volunteer.
Foster Smith: Secretary: will take board meeting minutes, keep all minutes and important documents for MDC, check phone and support email once per week, and promote events to public outlets as needed.
Cindy Lathrop: No official title-she will attend monthly Board meetings, and help out as she can.
Pam Krone: Acting Treasurer (Jan-Mar)–paying bills, depositing donations, attending board meetings to give general financial picture.
Shayna Morse: Treasurer (April onwards): will take over Pam’s duties in April once she and her spouse are resettled in the area.
Rachel Christopherson: Acting Co-Secretary (Jan-Mar): she’ll continue with website/newsletter duties through March as Diana is on retreat, and generally help with the transition to the new board.
Cate Anderson: Event/Volunteer Coordinator (temporary): point person for events, making sure volunteers are lined up as needed.

Not sure if you are a Manjushri Dharma Center member? Members are people who regularly attend or regularly contribute to Manjushri Dharma Center. Contact Rachel Christopherson (rachelmdc2016@gmail.com) to make sure you are on the official member list! Members receive special messages from Rinpoche with prayer requests or general info, and members vote each year for the new Board.

Dharma Etiquette: Inside the Shrine-Room
2018-01-20 11:15 - 12:30
At Buddhist temples or dharma center, there are specific ways of understanding and showing respect for the sacred. For many new students, the experience is at once beautiful and confusing, even overwhelming. This is especially true in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, with its elaborate rituals, chants, and imagery. While some quickly dismiss this as Asian custom or cultural trapping, irrelevant to Buddhists in the modern West, “dharma etiquette” and Vajrayana iconography are actually important aspects of the path, with special meaning and purpose that point to the essence of the dharma itself. Understanding these details deepens our practice and appreciation of the precious teachings of Buddha. MDC sangha member Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will offer a series of classes that provide a “guided tour” of our dharma center. Focusing on the “what” and “why” of etiquette and symbolism. The classes are for those new to Buddhism, as well as practitioners who are less familiar with the Tibetan system. Join us on Saturdays after meditation for this special series.
1) Jan 20 – Dharma Etiquette # 1 ~ Inside the Shrine-Room/Temple: An introduction to common protocols in a Tibetan Buddhist center, what they represent, and how they are important aids to spiritual practice.
2) Feb 3 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 1 ~ The Shrine: A basic overview of the arrangement and meaning of offerings and other objects commonly found on a Tibetan shrine.
3) Feb 17 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 2 ~ Thangkas and Statues: A general explanation of the symbolism of Yidams (meditational deities), with special attention to those seen in the beautiful collection of thangkas (Vajrayana scroll paintings) and statues at MDC.
4) Mar 3 – Dharma Etiquette # 2 ~ Relating to the Spiritual Teacher: The topics of the first three classes lead to an understanding of how to relate to our spiritual teacher (Tib. “lama,” Skt. “guru”) and why the teacher-disciple relationship is so central to our tradition.
About Aaron: Aaron began practicing Buddhism in 2000. While earning his BA in Religious Studies at UC Santa Barbara, he studied various traditions of Buddhism, Tibetan and Sanskrit language, and met his first Tibetan lamas. A former monk, he is fortunate to have spent several years living very close to his teachers, both in dharma centers in California and a monastery in India. He occasionally serves as an organizer, teacher of children, and chopen (shrine attendant) for Tibetan Buddhist retreats.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-01-11 18:30 - 20:00
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, January 25th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha
