Discovering Buddhism Study Program

When we study Buddhism, we are studying ourselves, the nature of our own minds. Instead of focusing on some supreme being, Buddhism emphasizes more practical matters such as how to lead our lives, how to integrate our minds, and how to keep our everyday lives peaceful and healthy. In other words, Buddhism always accentuates experiential knowledge-wisdom rather than some dogmatic view

Lama Thubten Yeshe

What is Discovering Buddhism?

Discovering Buddhism is a beginner-level program in Buddhist philosophy and practice, with the aim to give you a solid footing in the practice of Mahayana Buddhism. By engaging in this program, you will gain an experiential taste of the Buddha’s teachings, meditation & retreat experience, and the skills you need to make your life most meaningful. Discovering Buddhism is designed not only as an academic study of Buddhism, but is intended to change your life. The DB Program is currently being offered in many FPMT centers around the world, including Tushita Meditation Centre. It can also be completed in your own home as a correspondence course.

Assembled under the guidance and advice of FPMT’s Spiritual Director Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Discovering Buddhism consists of 14 modules covering all the major topics of Buddhism. Within each module you will attend lectures, engage in meditations relevant to those lectures, read texts and teaching transcripts, and do short (1-3 day) retreats. The final subject area, “Special Integration Experiences”, includes longer retreats and other experiences required for graduation. Upon successful completion of all 14 modules you will receive a Discovering Buddhism Completion Certificate!

Please note: The modules do have a suggested order, but they are not required to be completed in this particular order. It is advisable to start Module 14, Special Integration Experiences, as early as possible in the program, as it takes some time to complete. Many of the practice retreats in module 14 are annually offered at Tushita as group retreats (a series of eight Nyung Nays and 3-month Vajrsattva) and Tushita can also provide support for your own individual retreat.

For general information please visit the FPMT > Education > Programs > Discovering Buddhism.