Sangha night online
Putting the Buddha into Buddhism: stories from the Buddha's life
While Auckland is in Covid 19 alert level 2.5, this event will be run online.
Use this link - https://zoom.us/j/8179125195 to join Sangha night online at 7pm
The Buddha's enlightenment and
a visit from Mara
Tonight with Matthew Berrigan we will explore the story of the Buddha's enlightenment and the role of Mara in it. Mara, whose name means 'destruction', is a demonic figure in Buddhist lore. Mara sends many tests, hoping to stop the Buddha in his tracks. He tries to distract, intimidate and undermine the Buddha to prevent him from achieving his goal. Yet the Buddha remains firm, calling the Earth as his witness to his steadfast effort and gains enlightenment.
Mara then becomes a symbol of our own blocks to progress: how we might be distracted, fearful or lacking in confidence to pursue with vigour our own spiritual growth.
Matthew will be exploring this story and its relevance for us today as we struggle with our own demons in our attempts to make spiritual progress
In this series of talks, we will explore stories around the life and the teachings of the Buddha. We will cover
- what is known historically about the Buddha and his life
- what are some of the key stories associated with the Buddha
- how these stories carry messages for how to approach our life today
- who it is we are going for refuge to and why
- how we can use our imagination to connect with the Buddha over time and space
Wednesday nights are a place for people who have attended our foundation courses to come together and celebrate community as well as an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the Buddha's teaching.
Each evening will include a meditation, a short teaching and a chance to reflect with others on the meaning of the teaching for our lives.
