Teaching

General

The teaching of the Buddha is both simple and subtle. Simple in the sense that the Four Noble Truths are sufficient as regards information, subtle in that while the structure of these Truths is quite accessible integrating it as a part of daily life is a real challenge. The logic of the teaching is quite clear but developing a complete, internal understanding requires a particular kind of investigation. Monasteries largely exist for this reason; to create a dedicated environment for this investigation. One of the best ways to deepen your understanding of the theory, in relation to meditation and daily life, is to spend time at the monastery staying as a guest

The internet offers an almost overwhelming range of material on Buddhism which can be confusing. There are many schools, lineages and traditions each with different benefits for different people. This web site, and the monastery it represents, is quite specific and to simplify your search along similar lines the Forest Sangha web site can be a good place to explore further. We don’t have a lot of written or spoken material on this site but you will find plenty via the Books and Audio link

...there are these seven kinds of wealth. What seven? The wealth of faith, ethics, conscience, prudence, learning, generosity, and wisdom. And what is the wealth of ethical conduct? It is when a noble disciple doesn't kill living creatures, steal, commit sexual misconduct, use speech that's false, divisive, harsh, or nonsensical, or consume alcoholic drinks that cause negligence. This is called the wealth of ethical conduct.
AN 7.6

Monastery Teachings

There are regular events that you might wish to join. There is no charge or need to book.

    • Pujas. Every morning at 5:15 (main dhamma hall) and evening at 7 (main hall). Chanting and silent meditation. This varies slightly on Sundays and Wednesdays.
    • Observance Days. These are related to the lunar cycle. We are generally following a solar calendar.
      For the moon dates you can see the events calendar for details.
    • Sunday Weekly. Afternoon 1:30–4:30 + Evening; 6:00–8:00
        • There is group meditation every afternoon, from 1:30 until 4:30.
        • The evening starts (6pm) with chanting in Pali and English followed by some meditation instruction and then a 35 minute meditation.
        • Those who wish can then take the Three Refuges and Five Precepts.
        • After this there is a talk on some aspect of the Buddha’s Teaching followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion.
        • The evening closes with a short chant about 8pm
    • Wednesday EveningWeekly. 7:00–8:30
        • The evening starts (7pm) with chanting in Pali followed by a 45 minute meditation.
        • Those who wish can then take the Three Refuges and Eight Precepts.
        • The evening closes with a short chant about 8.30pm
    • Meditation Workshops:
        • The 1st Saturday of each month: 1:00 to 5:00
        • You would be most welcome to come at 10:30 and share a meal with us.
        • Otherwise the afternoon starts at 1pm with a short chant.
        • The time is then spent practicing meditation and exploring an understanding of the Buddha’s teaching.
        • Varied periods of teaching, discussion, walking and sitting meditation make up the afternoon.
        • This is suitable for both beginners and experienced meditators. 
    • Retreats

Around New Zealand

There are various lay-led meditation groups that the Sangha visits from time to time but scheduling varies a lot.

Palmerston North where we try to visit for the second weekend of every month.
New Plymouth where there is an evolving group. Visits are not regular. Check the events calendar

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