Online Community Classes
How do I register for classes?
All DRBU Extension community classes are free and open to the public. Donations are welcome. Most classes require online registration. If you're interested in DRBU's academic programs, please refer to DRBU's academic website.
Spring 2025 Class List
Shurangama Mantra Review
Bhikshuni Heng Chih Tuesday 4:15-5:45pm Class resumes on January 21 [class registration is open] |
We will continue to study the first assembly of the mantra by looking at the Qing dynasty text by Master Xu-fa and then explore in detail Master Hua’s verse and prose commentaries on each set of syllables. Questions and comments from participants are welcome as we learn the meaning and functions of the mantra syllables, define technical terms, consider the content of relevant Buddhist lists, and share pertinent experiences in practice. Each week, we will also look at a few slides from Master Hua's talks from the 98-day Chan session.
This is an online class. |
Buddhism for the Modern Mind
Douglas Powers Wednesday 6:00PM-7:30 PM Class resumes on January 22 [class registration is open] |
This semester, we will study The Lotus Sutra. The Lotus Sutra is one of the most revered sutras in Mahayana Buddhism. The sutra has many relatable yet powerful parables, such as the burning house, the illusory city, and the famous "Universal Door Chapter" descripting the practice of Bodhisattva Guan Yin. The sutra is renowned for its inspiring message that all beings can, and will, become buddhas.
This class is both online and in person at the Guest Building/Old DRBU Building (Conference Room) at the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas. |
Avatamsaka Sutra: Chapter 10
Dr. Martin Verhoeven Friday 7:30-9:00PM Class resumes on February 14 Berkeley Buddhist Monastery [Live stream on Youtube] |
We will continue with the Avatamsaka Sutra, or Flower Ornament Sutra, chapter 10: The Bodhisattva Asks for Clarifications. The Avatamsaka Sutra describes a cosmos of infinite realms upon realms, mutually containing one another. The text touches on various topics such as the Bodhisattva path, the interpenetration of phenomena (dharmas), the visionary powers of meditation and the equality of things in emptiness.
This class is both online and in person at Berkeley Buddhist Monastery. |