At the very center of Chinese Mahāyāna Buddhism lies the luminous philosophical and contemplative tradition of Huayan—a treasure trove of profound wisdom that has shaped the whole development of East Asian Buddhist civilization for centuries. Yet through the vicissitudes of cultural transmission, Western Buddhism has evolved in virtual isolation from these transformative teachings. For instance, while concepts like “interconnection” and “interbeing” are widely adopted in Western Buddhist discourse and popular culture, their origins in Chinese Huayan philosophy remain largely unacknowledged and unexplored.
In our time together, we will focus on the teachings of a classical Huayan text, “Contemplation on Exhausting Delusion and Returning to the Source” by Fazang (643-712). (Excerpts of the text from a new translation by Guo Gu will be provided to participants.)
This retreat-workshop offers access to Huayan teachings and a contemplative framework that explores the rich philosophical and experiential dimensions of this tradition, fostering a more profound, holistic, and kataphatic (positive) understanding of the Buddhist path that can enrich the foundation of Western Buddhism.
Program Format: This retreat-workshop will include meditation, dharma talks, times for questions and reflection, some personal time, and opportunities for morning stretching.