This study programme is one of the most in-depth and comprehensive education programmes created by FPMT. It is suitable for those with a good foundation of Buddhist knowledge. The programme is largely online with some occasions when Venerable Gendun is at the centre too. While applications from brand new students has closed, if you have previously studied Basic Programme it may still be possible to join. Also it may also be possible to come along as a listener. If you would like to do so please contact our Basic Programme Coordinator Chrissie on bp@jamyangleeds.co.uk

The Basic Programme is taught by Venerable Gendun:

In a world that often dismisses its significance, the mind remains mysteriously at the heart of what we call life. Founded by the brothers Vasubandhu and Asanga, the Buddhist Yogācāra school focusses on the mind as ‘forerunner of all things’, the creator of our experience, and the storyteller that narrates our existence. We could therefore also innovatively call it Perception Only School. Yogācāra’s analysis of how the mind constructs our reality, can help us relieve the constraints of the ego, habitual patterns and reactive emotions, to experience greater ease, possibility, and freedom in every moment.

In this second year of FPMT In-Depth Meditation Training, we will emphasize the lived experience of meditation, both on and off the cushion. Guided by the Buddha’s third turning of the Wheel of Dharma, we will begin by training in the successive stages of shamatha, followed by a deeper journey into insight meditation.

We will explore how concepts can blind and alienate us by adding an imaginary layer to our interdependent world. Using spiritual developmental models such as the 37 Factors of Awakening (or Aids to Enlightenment), and the 10 Perfections, we will learn how to live more freely in daily life. We will also explore the role of narratives, the philosophy of language, and how to cultivate great compassion for all living beings to help heal our conflicted world.

From February onwards, we’ll focus mainly on exploring the 37 Aids to Enlightenment and some of the Jataka Tales, the impressive stories of the Buddha’s past lives. These are inspiring, extraordinary stories that give us a personal view on and understanding of the bodhisattva and the various ways of interconnecting with his companions on the Path throughout lifetimes, thus storytelling our way towards Awakening.

Programme Overview

• Text-based: Study and practice of sutra & tantra jewels from the Tibetan Buddhist canon

• Presented by a qualified Western teacher

• Including study, conduct, practice and retreat, and service and training components

• Regular tests, reading materials, online support, subject completion cards and BP full completion certificate

• 9 weekends a year, plus retreats

• Designed by Lama Zopa Rinpoche

• Suggested donation: £450 per year (£150 per term, 3 weekends per term).

Alternatively you may wish to join the Friends of Jamyang Leeds Programme for £30 per month and this course is included. No one will be turned away for financial reasons, please contact us to discuss.