Speaker: Malcolm Huxter (online, joining from Lismore)
30 Jul, Aug 6, Aug 13 & Aug 20 | 7.00-8.30pm AEST
Location: In person at Western Sydney University, Parramatta City Campus (Entry at 1 Parramatta Square), Level 4 Room 1.4.33; or Online (Zoom link below)
Cost: Free
Week 1 – July 30 – “The dynamics and mutually supporting aspects of serenity and insight”
This Dharma talk will discuss the differences and dynamics between the two general aspects of early Buddhist meditation, serenity and insight. It will list the varying features of these two approaches and discuss how they work together and support each other in order to result in awakening.
Week 2 – Aug 6 – “Spiritual pleasure and cultivating joy, happiness, contentment and peace regardless of what is happening in the world”
Along the theme of serenity, this Dharma talk will mention how spiritual pleasure can lead to joy, happiness, contentment and equanimity. These wholesome states of mind also be prioritised and nourished with wise attention. In addition, with wise attention we can also de-nourish the unwholesome and the unhelpful. An example of using these principles in a daily life and in clinical settings will be described by referring to the Having Enriching Absorbing and Linking (HEAL) protocol developed by Rick Hanson, clinical neuropsychologist and meditation teacher. As an example of serenity, the H-E-A of HEAL can be used to cultivate these and other wholesome and sublime states of mind, including the four divine abodes.
Week 3 – Aug 13 – “The fetter of self-conceiving”
Along the theme of insight, this Dharma talk will mention the 10 fetters or binds blocking awakening and focus on the 8th fetter, the conceit “I am” or the process of self-conceiving. These self-conceiving processes are discussed as ego stories that we identify with and carry around with as if they are true. However, when we understand with wisdom, we realise that they are just a mental constructions and fictions. When we wake up to the illusory nature of self-conceiving, we are more able to release their burden.
Week 4 – Aug 20 – topic to be announced later, along the theme of Insight and Waking up
Registration Coming Soon
Zoom Link
