Readings in Theravada Texts

Catalog description

Taught by IBS. Subtitle: Liberation and the Goal of Practice This course is co-taught by Diana Clark and Gil Fronsdal. The ultimate goal of early Indian Buddhist practice is variably called Awakening, Liberation and Nirvana (Nibbana). It is a goal described as the end of suffering and attainment of a profound form of peace and happiness. The Buddha taught a detailed path of practice that provides important personal transformations and insights on the way to attaining this goal. In this class we will explore the earliest texts of Theravada Buddhism to understand the Buddha's teachings on the path of practice, the crucial liberating insights and Awakening itself. Some basic knowledge about Buddhism is recommended. [Auditors with faculty permission]