Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.