Jhanas and Dependent Origination

Instructor(s): Leigh Brasington

Program Description:

This program, now online using Zoom, will emphasize the application of the jhanas (meditative absorptions) in a regular sitting practice and is suitable only for experienced meditators with prior retreat experience. The jhanas are a method of one-pointed concentration taught in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. The program will focus on the teaching of this technique and the application of the jhanas for enhancing insight practice. It will be held in noble silence with sitting and walking meditation as well as personal interviews.

Learning Intentions:

To recognize the distinction between altered states and altered traits: how temporary states (jhanas) can help facilitate life-changing insights; learn how to use concentrated mind to investigate what's actually happening in experience; and understand what the jhanas are and how they relate to insight practices.

Noble Silence:

Noble silence will begin with the opening talk on the first evening and continue through the closing session.

Prerequisites:

This program is for those who have completed at least two one-week or longer silent vipassana retreats.

About the Instructor(s):
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  Leigh Brasington

  Leigh Brasington has been practicing meditation since 1985 and is the senior American student of the late Ven. Ayya Khema. Leigh began assisting Ven. Ayya Khemma in 1994, and began teaching retreats on his own in 1997. He is also authorized to teach by Jack Kornfield. Leigh has taught the jhanas, along with multiple insight practices, at well over one hundred residential retreats throughout the United States and Europe. He is the author of the books Right Concentration: A Practical Guide to the Jhanas and Dependent Origination and Emptiness: Streams Of Dependently Arising Processes Interacting.