The Rain’s Retreat comes to us from the Theravada Tradition and its practice goes back to the time of the Buddha. The rainy season in the country side of India and through out Asian countries was so overwhelming, travel was impossible, that the Buddha decided it was a perfect time to practice and give teachings. Every year, since 400 BC, monks and nuns go into retreat from July to October. The working lay communities take this opportunity to intensify their established meditation practice during this time, while maintaining their work-schedules.
It is a time when monastic and lay practitioners intensify their practice of Sikkha (the higher training), emphasizing conduct, concentration, and wisdom, which are included in the cultivation of the Eightfold Path: right view, resolve or thinking; and right speech, action, livelihood; and right effort, mindfulness, concentration.
That which wishes to turn----is Nãma, (mind object)
That which turns---- is Rûpa, (Body)
not Him, Her, You, I, or Me,
Turning – are the Nãma and Rûpa.
Two groups called Nãma-Rûpa,
With that clear comprehension,
I work while turning.
From the unseen,
They appear,
Then return to the unseen.
Like flashes of lightning,
Nãma, Rûpa appear,
And then cease to exist.
***Burmese Monk – U’ Kundalãbhivamsa Sayãdaw
This year’s practice theme is The Six Primary Temperaments (hatred, intelligence, greed, faith, delusion, and speculation). The group will discuss this topic. In addition to instructional sitting practice, there will be chanting in Pali, and visualizations. You are invited to work with the body postures of walking, standing, and sitting.
The retreat begins on Tuesdays, July 22nd, 6:00 pm until 8:00pm; and concludes on the full moon of October 14th. This practice period is open to all, no commitment needed.
Life Transition Meditation Center (a non-profit organization) will cover the facility use expense.
Information: 982-4183
