“Interdependence” doesn’t mean “dependence” in the sense that one is strong and another weak; rather, we are mutually dependent, relying on each other to exist, function and fulfill our potential. We are never truly isolated, alone and without support, and we in turn support others.
Video on Demand
The 28th Annual Treasury of Knowledge Retreat
Overcoming Division: Karma, Interdependence and Nondual Wisdom
With Acharya Lama Tenpa Gyaltsen
Original Broadcast on Zoom: October 28th – 30th, 2022
In this weekend retreat, Acharya Lama Tenpa Gyaltsen explains essential points of these three key concepts of Buddhist teaching – karma, interdependence and nondual wisdom – and how an understanding of the interrelationship of karma and interdependence leads to insight into the nature of our minds and a recognition of our innate qualities of wisdom. The practices for working with our karmic patterns offer clear means for cultivating our powers of intuition, reasoning and logic. As such, they are invaluable aids for training our minds and transforming the confusion that sees only a world divided into self and other, friends and enemies, my way or your way, into the clear seeing that is in harmony with the true nature of reality, our inherent nature of wakefulness, compassion and peace.
With reference to the brilliant text by the Third Karmapa Rangjung Dorje, Distinguishing Consciousness from Wisdom, Acharya Lama Tenpa guides us through an illuminating examination of the deep psychology of mind. The continual flow of “my thoughts,” “my feelings” and “my ideas” that springs from “my self” tends to dull or even sever our sense of connection with what is “other” and sets up a state of conflict both within us and with the world around us. As we gain insight into the difference between the true nature of the mind and the divided mind, consciousness alienated from itself, we begin the process of transforming the world of our confusion into the experience of oneness and the limitless expanse of enlightened wisdom.
Enroll NowWhen you register for this connective weekend experience, you will learn:
- How cultural changes can be brought about when we look internally.
- How working with one’s own personal karma benefits not only oneself, but also co-creates equity and peace.
- How to mindfully explore the current divisions as a gateway to interconnectedness.
- How a deep understanding of interdependencecan help develop the equanimity and patience to respond to others’ anger and hatred in a compassionate and skillful way.
- How to uncover your innate non-dual wisdom– the true source of happiness – and how this wisdom can sustain and guide us to a meaningful and beneficial life.
Collective Inquiry
In addition, you’ll explore questions with other retreat participants, such as:
- Why do we focus on our differences?
- How does karma help us understand our disposition to define ourselves in opposition to others?
- Are the divisions that everybody is talking about today real?
- How do we realize our interconnectedness?
- When ordinary beings see divisions and differences, what do realized beings see?
You’ll also receive guidance in understanding and recognizing karma as a personal experience, grounded in your own thoughts, emotions, and actions—in relation to the karmic actions of others. You’ll learn more about how this insight is the knowledge you need to balance your previous and present karma and increase positive energy–the actions of wisdom and compassion–to your growing karmic seeds.
Acharya Lama Tenpa Gyaltsen studied at Karma Shri Nalanda Institute at Rumtek, together with Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, under some of the greatest living masters in the Kagyu lineage. Appointed Nalandabodhi Chancellor by Ponlop Rinpoche, he teaches regularly at Nalandabodhi centers around the world. For many years, Acharya Lama Tenpa served as a professor of Buddhist Studies and Tibetan language in the Religious Studies Department at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado, and since 1998, he has been one of the main teachers at Nitartha Institute. He is known for his profound instructions on analytical meditation, his humor and everyday life examples that make even the most advanced teachings accessible to interested students.
Welcome to the Contemplative Resource Center (CRC) membership website, home to our online programs.
We are pleased to offer a flexible pricing structure for this video on demand series, all price levels include the full program and allow for 120 days of access from the date of purchase.
The dharma should be accessible for everyone regardless of funds. Because of this, scholarships are available. Click here to apply for a scholarship.
