A Letter to a Friend
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May 17, 2015
June 14 July 12 August 9 |
September 13
October 11 November 8 December 13 |
This letter consists of 123 verses of advice to a friend, a king, by Nagarjuna. This text is important for being a recognized work by one of the foremost Buddhist masters of ancient India, who was predicted by the Buddha to be his champion of his middle-way philosophy. More importantly, it represents practical advice on how to practice the Dharma in everyday life provided by this master. Consequently, the great Tibetan translators were sure to translate it into Tibetan and this text was taught by all four principal schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
This text has also been translated into English and is available for us to study and apply its advice in our own lives for our own and others' welfare. This lecture series by Tubten Pende provides us with an opportunity to study this text.
This text has also been translated into English and is available for us to study and apply its advice in our own lives for our own and others' welfare. This lecture series by Tubten Pende provides us with an opportunity to study this text.
Tubten Pende, a.k.a. Jim Dougherty, has been a practicing Buddhist since 1972 when he was introduced to Tibetan Buddhism in India. Pendé has studied extensively and was included in the first wave of the FPMT’s Western Buddhist teachers. He is known for his clear presentation and deep understanding of the Dharma, and is interested in the effective application of Buddhist theory and practice in the daily life of ordinary people.
Just as the wise venerate a statue of the Blissfully Gone (Buddha),
Even out of wood, regardless of how it’s been made;
Likewise, although this poetry of mine may be deficient,
please do not scorn it,
Since it’s based on expressions of the hallowed Dharma.
Although a profusion of the resonant words
of the Great Sage (Buddha)
May already have entered your heart,
Isn’t something made of limestone made even whiter
By the light of a winter’s moon?
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Suggested donation: $15 per class. Your generous donations are essential for the continuation of programs like this.
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Suggested donation: $15 per class. Your generous donations are essential for the continuation of programs like this.
No one turned away due to lack of funds - please contact us to make arrangements.