This time around, the event was hosted at a pristine resort where the air was as crisp as that of a natural oxygen bar. Continuing with the teachings of the previous meditation retreat, we delved into The Path to Sudden Enlightenment, an enlightening discourse expounded by Chan masters that left every practitioner in awe. Despite the profound insights gained from these teachings, we were reminded to focus on our own unique journey and practice accordingly. And, in between each meditation session, the delectable snacks provided a delightful break, while the scrumptious buns in the evening left us truly satiated.
During the initiation ritual of the Seven-Day Meditation Retreat held in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China in May 2018, participants gathered in front of the Buddha statue on the central shrine table in the meditation hall. With great reverence, they prostrated themselves before the precious Three Jewels and mighty Dharma protectors, offering prayers for world peace and the success of the event. May all practitioners fulfill their practice and embark on a journey towards spiritual enlightenment.
The serene atmosphere of the Seven-Day Meditation Retreat is maintained by the diligent young men in blue shirts known as the meditation monitors. During the initiation ritual, the head of the monitoring team, positioned at the center of the frame, holds a red board adorned with two Chinese characters “起七”, meaning "commencement of the Seven-Day Meditation Retreat", and showcases it to the four directions, signifying the official commencement of the event. This ceremonial tradition holds great significance, creating a sense of unity and harmony among all participants.
Participants, led by our Dharma teacher, engage in a short walking meditation around the shrine table on which the Buddha statue is placed, following the prostration and the showcasing of the red board marking the beginning of the event.
After the initiation ritual, participants do a 20-minute session of sitting meditation led by our Dharma teacher, following the walking meditation.
During the seven-day retreat, our Dharma teacher lectures for two hours each night on The Path to Sudden Enlightenment, a well-known Chan Buddhist treatise.
During the seven-day retreat, our Dharma teacher lectures for two hours each night on The Path to Sudden Enlightenment, a well-known Chan Buddhist treatise.
Participants ask questions during the Q&A session that follows each lecture.
Participants ask questions during the Q&A session that follows each lecture.
Participants ask questions during the Q&A session that follows each lecture.
