A Glimpse of Shunyata – An Introduction to Buddhist View and Practice based on the Mādhyamika Philosophy of Shunyata/Emptiness, led by Ven. Khenpo Sonam Phuntsok

This study retreat will use “Madhyamakāvatāra” as a basis for exploring the doctrine of great emptiness.

“Introduction to the Middle Way (Skt. Madhyamakāvatāra; Tib. དབུ་མ་ལ་འཇུག་པ་, Uma la Jukpa, Wyl. dbu ma la ‘jug pa) — Chandrakirti’s classic commentary on the meaning of Nagarjuna’s Mulamadhyamaka-karika. It is also a commentary on the Sutra of the Ten Bhumis (Dashabhumika-Sutra). It is included among the so-called “Thirteen great texts”, which form the core of the curriculum in most shedras and on which Khenpo Shenga provided commentaries”

Chandrakirti (Zla-ba grags-pa, Skt. Candrakīrti), a pivotal Madhyamaka master, was born, according to most sources, in the 7th century CE into a Brahmin family in South India. His early encounters with Buddhist teachings, likely with the teacher Kamalabuddhi, led him to eschew a traditional upbringing and embrace a monastic life. Tibetan texts say that his intellectual prowess led him to Nalanda, the renowned ancient university, where he immersed himself in the study of the Buddha’s teachings, mastering texts across various Buddhist schools. It is also noted that he engaged in debates with Buddhist and non-Buddhist challengers such as Chandragomin (bTSun-pa zla-ba, Skt. Candragomin) and that he eventually became the abbot of Nalanda. Tibetan sources describe him as a remarkable meditator who acquired many siddhis, for instance the ability put his hand through stone pillars and even the power to milk a picture of a cow.

Sonam Phuntshok is a student of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and has done his studies at the Dzongsar Institute.

9:30 am -11:30 am With Tea Break
12:00 – 2:00 pm Lunch and Rest
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm With Tea Break

For Registration, Please email- info@deerpark.in