Many of us have heard dharma teachers say “the Buddha said” or otherwise refer to the Pali Canon, but how can we discover and explore for ourselves the vast and rich collection of these discourses? And how can we incorporate this exploration into our Buddhist practice so that it is a support for greater freedom?

In this 5-day retreat we will combine meditation practice with an introduction to sutta study. We will emphasize a few suttas that highlight individuals who are having difficulties with their meditation practice, who are convinced that they already have the truth or who are not convinced that awakening is possible. Through their stories and the teachings the Buddha offers them, we will learn about different paths of practice, different supports for practice and a way to engage with the suttas to continue an exploration on our own after the retreat.

Our time together will include talks and guided meditations and be primarily in silence with the exception of interactive exercises where participants will explore sutta passages together each day.

Partial attendance is not offered on this retreat. Additionally, please consider attending this retreat only if your current life circumstances allow you to engage in an important modern renunciation practice of staying offline and off phone/text during the entire course of the retreat (some exceptions related to pressing family situations may be granted.)