[AT HOME] Jhanas, Dependent Origination, and Metta

Applications are now closed.

This retreat will emphasize the application of both the Jhanas (Meditative Absorptions) and Metta (Lovingkindness) as part of a regular sitting practice. The Jhanas are a method of meditation taught in the Theravadan Buddhist tradition. Metta is the first and foundational practice of the four wholesome mind states known as the Brahma Viharas (Divine Abodes). The retreat will focus on teaching the Jhanas for the purpose of enhancing insight practice. Several topics for insight practice will be discussed, including Dependent Origination. The retreat also will focus on deepening Metta practice for the purpose of enhancing the practices of Compassion, Altruistic Joy, and Equanimity, the other three Brahma Viharas.

Pre-requisite: This retreat is for experienced meditators who previously have attended at least 2 one-week or longer silent meditation retreats.

This will be a virtual retreat. There will be two Zoom talks a day and everyone will have three one-on-one teacher interviews over the length of the retreat. You will be expected to spend 6 to 8 hours each day doing a combination of sitting and walking meditation. The virtual meditation hall will be available throughout the retreat, and students will be invited to meditate with their videos on as personal circumstances allow.

Noble Silence (aka Noble Non Communication): This retreat will have a large Samadhi (concentration, indistractability) component. In order for you to be able to generate sufficient Samadhi to experience the jhana states, it is important that you eliminate (or at least seriously minimize) communication with the outside world (i.e. anyone and anything not associated with this retreat). As with all retreats, you will get out of this one in proportion to what you put into it.

Tentative Retreat Schedule

All registrations are subject to our new 2024 cancellation policy. All retreatants must review and agree to this policy upon registration.

For our 2024 retreats, three fee tiers are offered. Please choose the option that best fits your ability to give in this time. Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax deductible contribution to Southern Dharma Retreat Center. Your confirmation email is your receipt for tax purposes.

We are deeply grateful for your support.

Note that registration fees do not include dana for the teacher(s). In the Buddhist tradition the teachings are offered freely and teachers are not paid for their offerings. They rely on dana contributions from students. Similarly, Southern Dharma keeps registration fees low to ensure the Dharma is accessible to all. Fees cover only a fraction of Southern Dharma’s operating expenses. We appreciate your practice of generosity to continue the dissemination of the Dharma.

Southern Dharma provides session recordings to participants who are joining from more than 3 time zones away. Please be sure to indicate that you are interested in this option during the registration process.

Southern Dharma is now offering 50% scholarship awards for BIPOC and Young Adults, in addition to those with financial need. Indicate your interest in a Southern Dharma in-house scholarship during the registration process.