Effort, Intention, and Entrustment: A Sustainable Path to Realization

Instructor(s): Ayya Dhammadīpā

Course Description:

In the teachings of Buddhism, we encounter many exhortations to make great effort, be diligent, and not slack off in order to fully realize the Way. Indeed, according to the suttas, the very last words of the Buddha were about effort. Yet driving effort forward risks engendering aversion and reinforcing the very notions of self that stand in our way. How can we find a skillful relationship to effort, one that is vigorous and intentional and enables us to receive what is present now? In this retreat we will explore Pāli suttas (especially Aṅguttara Nikāya 11.1 and 11.2; Saṃyutta Nikāya 46.51; and Dīgha Nikāya 16) as guides to a nuanced understanding of effort. We will also draw on Zen koans and the practice of writing to explore this important question. For, no matter how long we have been practicing, the question of skillful effort – effort that reveals and is in accord with the truths of our lives – can enliven our practice as we make our way on the Path. 

Noble Silence:

This program includes dedicated periods of both wise speech and noble silence. Some contemplative exercises may involve mindful speaking and listening. Noble silence is to be upheld at all other times.

Experience Level:

Suitable for beginning and experienced practitioners.

Cancellation Policy:

During the pandemic, there is a cancellation fee of $50 for all residential programs longer than two nights and $25 for weekend programs. 2023: If you need to cancel your registration, please contact us as soon as possible. If you cancel two or more weeks before a program begins, cancellation fees are $50 for all programs longer than two nights and $25 for weekend programs. If you cancel less than two weeks before your program begins, your full deposit is forfeited. If you have requested financial assistance, cancellation fees are $50 for all programs longer than two nights and $25 for weekend programs. All cancellation fees support our Scholarship Funds.

Covid-19 Safety Protocol:

Please review our Covid-19 Safety Protocols here: https://www.buddhistinquiry.org/covid-19/.

DEI:

As we work to become a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive community, we invite feedback/suggestions you may have regarding ways that we can make participation in the program more accessible and welcoming. Please email us at contact@buddhistinquiry.org.

About the Instructor(s):
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  Ayya Dhammadīpā

  Ayya Dhammadīpā is the founder of Dassanāya Buddhist Community. She is a dual lineage teacher - a fully ordained bhikkhuni in the Theravāda tradition, and a Dharma transmitted teacher in the Shunryu Suzuki lineage of Sōtō Zen. The shift in her practice from Zen to the Theravāda tradition is a natural extension of her longtime metta practice and study of the Pāli suttas. Ayya has been practicing Buddhism since 1987. In addition to English, she teaches in Spanish, an expression of her Latin heritage. Ayya is also an author whose writings have been published in the "Lion's Roar" and "Buddhadharma" magazines. Her recent book is titled, “Gifts Greater Than the Oceans: Benefits of the Buddhist Practice of Giving.” She is mother to a lovely adult daughter, and she enjoys watercolor painting and sewing.