Karmapa International Buddhist Institute is a hub for studying Buddhist philosophy as well as for learning about ancient Tibetan Buddhism, which is most precious for all of us. Therefore, we are hosting two big course per year, which are the Karmapa Public Course in March and the Public Meditation Course in December.
Thus, on the 6th of March we began the first part of our annual program for international students who would like to gain Buddhist knowledge and meet with some great scholars of Tibetan Buddhism. We are happy to welcome more than 500 Karma Kagyu devotees, joining from almost 40 different countries!
To our great fortune, this year once again His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa is the main course teacher and expounding chapter seven of The Bodhisattva’s Way of Life (Bodhicaryavatra), on the perfection of diligence. His Holiness will furthermore impart three empowerments during this week. His heart son, His Eminence Jamgön Kongtrul Rinpoche, will teach on the Middle Way School (Rangtong Madhyamaka), while Khenpo Lobsang will introduce the subject of Buddhist Epistemology (Tsema). Ven. Lama Jampa Thaye will shed light on the Middle Way School from a different angle (Shentong Madhyamaka). Thus, with the help of such authentic scholars, all participants have the precious opportunity to dive deep into the Buddhist teachings and clarify any doubt they may have.
The first day of the Karmapa Public Course commenced with a brief Welcome and general introduction to the course by Ven. Lama Jampa Thaye, followed by His Eminence Jamgön Kongtrul Rinpoche’s teaching session. Later-on, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Thaye Dorje gave a Dorje Sempa empowerment to all participants.
Rejoice!