What is the Mind? (Lorig)
June 17-29, 2013
with Geshe Kelsang Wangmo
Understanding the nature, characteristics, and functioning of our mind forms the basis of Buddhist philosophy and practice. The Buddha says in the Dhammapada:
All things are preceded by the mind, led by the mind, created by the mind
At present we do not have much control over our mind and thus over feeling happy and avoiding problems and difficulties. Therefore, in order to gain more control we need to transform the mind, an undertaking that is aided by an understanding of the nature of the mind, of its function, its objects, its different types, and so forth.
Obtaining knowledge of our habitual thought patterns, of the mental events that occur within specific mindsets, of how these mental events arise, etc., enables us to make changes. And even though these changes are extremely slow and gradual, they nonetheless drastically improve the quality of our present life and serve as the basis for overcoming all our shortcomings such as anger, attachment, and ignorance, and eventually for attaining liberation and Buddhahood.
Therefore, Tushita Meditation Center offers an intensive study retreat on the topic of the mind or – as it is traditionally known – of ‘Lorig’ (Awareness and Knowledge) in June 2013.
During this course we will examine the nature of the mind, its functions, divisions, objects, causes. We will discuss mind and mental factors, the nature of afflictions, and so forth.
Students will be provided with handouts and have the opportunity to participate in discussions.
For the course we will use “Mind in Tibetan Buddhism” by Lati Rinpoche, so it’s recommend to bring a copy of this book.
You can also find extra course material on “Mind and Mental Factors” here.