Basic Abhidhamma Course (English) - 36 Lessons @ Sri Lankaramaya

Introduction

Abhidhamma is the Higher Teaching of the Buddha. The Dhamma, embodied in the Sutta Pitaka, is conventional teaching, and Abhidhamma is the ultimate teaching. The Basic Abhidhamma Course aims to provide an overview of this ultimate teaching and helps the students to build a foundation to further explore this profound teaching of the Buddha.

Overview of Abhidhamma

In the Abhidhamma, both mind and matter, which consititute this complex machinery of human, are microscopically analysed: 

• Consciousness is defined.
• Thoughts are analysed and classified chiefly from the ethical standpoint.
• All mental states are enumerated.
• The composition of each type of consciousness is set forth in detail.
• Thought processes that are arise through the five sense doors and the mind-door are described.
• Chief events connected with the process of birth and death are explained in detail.
• Intricate points of the Dhamma are clarified, and The Path of Emancipatin is set forth in clear terms.

Course Pre-Requisite

This Basic Abhidhamma Course is those who have completed the Basic Buddhism Course and preferrably also the Basic Meditation Course conducted by Vajiro (Richard) Chia.


The Course Instructor

The course instructor, Vajiro (Richard) Chia, is an experienced Dhamma teacher who has a clear and straightforward approach to Buddha's teachings. He is able to bring out dynamism of Buddhism, and its relevance in present day.  Vajiro learned Buddhism and Abhidhamma, in late 70s and early 80s, from the late Venerable Narada Thera, one of the greatest Sri Lankan Buddhist scholar of the 20th century.