CHAN AND PURELAND RETREAT
Friday 14 -Sunday 16 September 2007
(Public Talk 13 September at 7pm)
Retreat with Master Hui Re
Meditation Master from Nan Hua
Chinese Buddhism is divided into two great schools: Ch'an (Japanese: Zen) and Pure-Land. Pure-Land Buddhism is the most universal Buddhist practice of China, Vietnam and Japan. Countless aeons ago, a king developed such compassion and such great desire to address the problems of the world that he devoted his considerable powers to developing a realm in which ordinary, unhappy, struggling beings could practice in excellent conditions and unfailingly attain endless peace and joy. The realm is called Sukhavati, the Pure Land, Realm of Utmost Bliss. The king became a Buddha called Amitabha, Buddha of infinite light and life. Ordinary people can attain this realm by forging a connection with Amitabha.
Pure-Land practice assures the attainment of ultimate peace and happiness, as well as bringing joy and relief immediately, in this very life. Practitioners learn to calm themselves and are better able to handle the difficulties of life. They develop love, compassion and wisdom, and experience improvements in physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Fear and anxiety fade as faith in this practice grows. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to learn about a spiritual path that brings relief from everyday misery, greater acceptance and understanding, and a heart that can love all beings.
Spend a weekend with the famed Taiwanese Chan and Pure-Land MASTER HUI RE, resident meditation master of Nan Hua Temple's Chan Forest Meditation Centre. MASTER HUI RE is one of the few Eastern teachers to bring this practice to the West. He teaches Pure-Land practice in conjunction with Ch'an (Zen) practice. MASTER HUI RE is soon returning to continue teaching at the main Temple in Taiwan. This is a blessed opportunity to attend one of his last retreats in this country. MASTER HUI RE will explain and teach the simple practice of connecting with Amitabha Buddha, through sitting and walking meditation, bowing and chanting (mantra recitation).
WEEKEND RETREAT SCHEDULE
Retreats commence on Friday evening and finish on Sunday afternoon. They may be attended on a residential or non-residential basis. The daily programme includes inspiring and illuminating Dharma teachings, sitting and walking meditation with instruction and guidance, space for questions, sharings and practical exercises, as well as Chi gong sessions. The schedule varies according to the specific needs of each retreat. Periods of noble silence are observed.
FRIDAY:
Evening session from 19h00 - 21h00
SATURDAY:
Daily programme 09h00 - 16h00
including tea and lunch breaks
Evening session from 19h00 - 21h00
SUNDAY:
Daily programme 09h00 - 16h00
including tea and lunch breaks
COST
RESIDENTIAL :
Price includes 2 nights shared accommodation in lovely garden cottages and delicious vegetarian meals. Dana (you decide amount) for teachers is appreciated.Residential: R650
NON-RESIDENTIAL: Price excludes accommodation,
but includes tea and vegetarian lunches. Dana (you decide amount) for teachers is appreciated.Non-residential: R400
Deposit of 50% is payable upon reservation of place for residential retreats, and balance payable in cash or cheque upon arrival. Deposit to be paid into bank account, details of which will be provided. If booking is cancelled, deposit is forfeited.
Plettenberg Bay is a popular holiday destination. It is possible to come early and/or stay after the retreat. Special rates for retreatants participating in our conducted retreats, who wish to stay longer in our self-catering cottages, are R200 per cottage per night.
GENERAL
SCA is a non-smoking space. Retreatants to uphold the 5 Buddhist Precepts (see Code of Conduct). We hope you can join us on the retreat. You don't have to be a Buddhist, because anyone can benefit from the Buddha's teachings. Number of places limited, so early booking is advisable: phone (044) 533 0453 or email satchitanand@global.co.za for further enquiries and bookings.
J SAT CHIT ANAND namaste to you Buddha-to-be!
No comments:
Post a Comment