The Jhanas are states of deep, unified concentration described by the Buddha as essential to the path of liberation. These meditative experiences produce states of exuberant joy, deep calm, and transcendental peace.  

 

Whenever the Buddha formally defines Right Concentration, the final factor of the Noble Eightfold Path—he defines it precisely as the four Jhanas. Without Jhana, the path to awakening is missing one of its most important factors. On the night of his enlightenment, the Buddha used mindfulness of breathing to systematically move through the jhanas. The experience of the jhanas allowed the Buddha’s mind to be "concentrated, purified, bright, unblemished, malleable, and steady." It was from this place that the Buddha’s mind was able to pierce through delusion and realize Awakening. 

 

The class will include Dhamma talks, group discussion, practical meditation instruction in the first four Jhanas and an optional day long retreat.  Students will come away with a more advanced theoretical understanding of the Buddhist path to liberation, along with detailed instructions on how to move from a mind filled with hindrances to a mind illuminated by the factors of Jhana. 

 

The class will take place (Online Only) over 6 Wednesdays (6:30pm – 8:30pm) 1 optional Saturday, November 14th, 9 am - 9 pm

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CLASS DATES

Oct. 21st, 28th

Nov. 4th, 11th 

Saturday Nov. 14th (Daylong)

Nov. 18th

(skip Thanksgiving Week)

Dec. 2nd

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PREREQUISITES

This class is open to all levels, but because we dive quite deeply into the material, it is ideal for practitioners with a mature practice and a strong foundation in the Eightfold Path.  Experientially, we recommend having a regular daily practice of sitting for 45 to 60 minutes, the ability to anchor your attention uninterrupted on an object for 10 to 15 minutes, and previous experience with at least one five-day residential retreat.

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If you’re unsure whether this class is a good fit, please feel free to reach out to Gregory at gregory@wisespirit.org.

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DANA

Suggested Dana - $225 for the class (includes Daylong Practicum)

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In the Theravāda tradition, the Dhamma is considered priceless. The teachings are offered freely, through the generosity of teachers and practitioners, and received in that same spirit of generosity.

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We recognize that many in the West are more comfortable with a suggested dāna amount, so we offer $225 as a suggested contribution for this class. The daylong component is also included here (no need to sign up separately). This is simply an invitation, not a fee. Please don’t let financial circumstances be a barrier to participating. You are welcome regardless of your ability to contribute.

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If you are able, please offer what your heart is called to give. Your generosity helps sustain the teachings, support our teachers, and make the Dhamma available to others.

There is an option to self-select dana amount on the registration page.

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