5-Week Vajrayana Foundations Discussion Series: Entering the Vajrayana Path

# 5-Week Vajrayana Foundations Discussion Series: A Path to Transformation

Session Overview

In this class, we will explore key concepts such as renunciation, refuge, bodhicitta, emptiness, and tantra. This course is based on the 5-day program offered in the pop-up window on the DW website. It is suitable for new DW members and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of these essential topics. Each session will include a short meditation and small discussion groups.

Course Structure

This 5-week discussion series provides a guided space to digest, reflect on, and integrate the key Vajrayana teachings presented by KL in the free mini-course. Designed for both new and long-term students, each session focuses on one essential pillar of entering the Vajrayana path. We emphasize lived experience rather than theory alone. The original mini-course this discussion series is based on can be found here.

This series offers a supportive, conversational environment to deepen understanding, ask questions, and connect Vajrayana foundational teachings to your own spiritual journey. Please register by January 8. After registering, we will send you the course material. Before each session, we request that you read the material, watch the video, and contemplate the questions for reflection.

Facilitators and Schedule

Facilitators: Danadasa & Cameron

Schedule: Thursdays, 5:00–6:30 pm PST

Dates: Jan 15, 22, 29; Feb 5, 12, 19

Open to: All students (new & long-term)

Prerequisites: None

Registration: Click here to register.

Week 1 — Renunciation: Seeing Through the Illusion

In our first week, we explore the meaning of renunciation. It is not about withdrawing from life but recognizing impermanence and dissatisfaction. Our discussion will focus on what genuinely motivates spiritual practice. We will see how renunciation opens the door to freedom.

Week 2 — Refuge: Entering the Gateway

This session examines refuge as an inner orientation rather than a belief system. Participants will reflect on what it means to trust the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha as living supports on the path. This exploration will help participants understand the significance of these elements in their spiritual journey.

Week 3 — Bodhicitta: Cultivating the Heart of Compassion

In week three, we will discuss bodhicitta as the heart of Vajrayana practice. This concept involves awakening for the benefit of all beings. The session will explore how we can cultivate compassion and wisdom in our daily lives. Participants will engage in discussions that connect these ideas to their personal experiences.

Week 4 — Emptiness: Seeing Through the Illusion of Self and Other

This session introduces emptiness as a liberating insight rather than an abstract philosophy. We will focus on how loosening fixed identities can reduce suffering and open spacious awareness. Participants will engage in exercises that help them experience this concept in their lives.

Week 5 — Tantra: The Lightning Path to Awakening

We conclude with an introduction to Tantra as a method of transformation. This week, we will work directly with energy, perception, and devotion to recognize awakening within ordinary experience. Participants will learn practical ways to integrate these teachings into their daily lives.

Conclusion

This 5-week Vajrayana Foundations Discussion Series offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of essential teachings. By engaging with these concepts, you can enhance your spiritual journey and cultivate a more profound sense of connection to yourself and others. Don't miss this chance to explore these transformative ideas in a supportive environment.