The Logic of Emptiness: An Introduction to the Middle Way

May 18th—June 1st (2020)

Date details +
    Price:
  • $60 Program Price
  • $108 Patron Price
Program Registration is Closed.

The Middle Way School (Madhyamaka in Sanskrit) was founded in the 2nd century C.E. by Nagarjuna. It was the most influential school of Indian Buddhism, and became the reference for understanding the Buddha's teachings on emptiness. It uses reasonings to show that our conventional understanding of reality does not hold up to scrutiny. Phenomena, although appearing, are empty of established existence. We grasp at space, believing it to be solid.

In this short course, we will use the text Opening the Door to Emptiness by Thrangu Rinpoche to examine two main Madhyamaka reasonings refuting inherent existence: things are devoid of a cause, and things are devoid of a result. The text is available for free here.

The course will include contemplation, study, and discussion, with readings to be done before each class. It will take place online, using Zoom. Please register in advance to receive the link for the class and the readings. As always, our generosity policy applies if you can't afford the full program cost. 

This course is restricted to members of the Ottawa Shambhala Centre. 

*Please note the format and timing of this course might change if the physical distancing and COVID-19 containment measures change.

 

Programs without a price are free. For those programs with a price listed, please do not let price be an obstacle. Visit our generosity policy page.

When available as an option, your generosity in offering the patron price helps cover the costs for others who are not able to pay the full price. Any amount offered above the Program Price is considered a charitable donation to the centre, and will be included in a tax receipt issued by email in February of the following year.

For programs that have a register button, it is helpful for us if you can indicate your intention to attend by registering ahead of time. In order to prevent duplicate entries in the Shambhala Database, all registrations are reviewed before you will receive a confirmation email.

Our Refund Policy:  For convenience you can pay online using a credit card via PayPal. If we cancel the program for any reason, we will give you a full refund. We understand that sometimes after you have pre-paid, you might be unable to attend.  We will be happy to refund your payment if you request it at least 24 hours before the program starts.  Due to the difference in PayPal charges for purchases and refunds, we charge a nominal amount of $5 for a refund.