Sadhana of Mahamudra

November 11th (2019)

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    The Sadhana of Mahamudra is a practice written by the Vidyadhara Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, the founder of Shambhala, on retreat in Bhutan in 1968. This was at an important turning point in his presentation of the Buddhist teachings in the West. Many students seemed to be fascinated by Tibetan Buddhism but were somehow missing the point.

    According to the teachings we all as humans possess innate goodness which we can discover within. However, we can instead fall into a mistaken tendency to use spirituality to try to create a “spiritual” façade.

    This tendency, known as “spiritual materialism”, only succeeds in alienating us even further from our genuine nature. The central theme of the sadhana is to cut through spiritual materialism and discover our innate wisdom. This practice is meant for our particular time and therefore its potency is particularly strong.

    The sadhana is based on two main principles—the principle of space or ati (dzogchen) associated with the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and the principle of energy or mahamudra associated with the Kagyü school.

    The practice lasts a little over an hour and involves recitation of the sadhana text, and short periods of silent meditation and mantra recitation. The text is full of vivid imagery which may at first seem strange. As with most dharma teachings, understanding develops through patience and contemplation. So we encourage newcomers to come in and experience how the sadhana practice feels. Simply recite the words and appreciate the atmosphere created.

    This gathering will consist of the sadhana practice, followed by discussion over a simple potluck meal where food is happily shared. It will be hosted by a senior practitioner in the community and facilitated by a Shambhala Council member.

    Please register for these events and bring a small plate of food. Please avoid foods containing nuts, seeds, including hummus.

    Open to all. A suggested donation of $5 would be appreciated.