The Inner Strength of Compassion: Shantideva’s Teachings for Today Series I: Activating Bodhicitta: Opening to the Welfare of All

Sundays | January 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15, 22

Location:
In-person at Wisdom River Meditation Center or Online via Zoom.

Time:
11:30 AM - 1:45 PM Pacific

In a period when division, anxiety, and polarization are shaping so much of our collective experience, many of us are asking how to stay open-hearted and engaged without becoming overwhelmed. Shantideva’s 8th-century classic, The Way of the Bodhisattva, offers a profound and timely response. His teachings illuminate how we can cultivate a courageous, compassionate heart that remains steady even when the world feels unsettled.

This first 6-week series of our year-long exploration focuses on Chapters 1–3, where Shantideva introduces the essence of the bodhisattva path: bodhicitta, the heartfelt commitment to awaken for the benefit of all beings. These chapters describe how this intention arises, how it expands our sense of connection, and why it is considered one of the most powerful forces for good.

Throughout the series, we will explore:

• How bodhicitta helps us meet the suffering of the world without shutting down

• How cultivating a vast motivation brings clarity, resilience, and warmth into daily life

• Why Shantideva describes bodhicitta as a “jewel” that transforms everything it touches

• How these ancient teachings can support compassionate engagement in ourcomplex modern world

Each session includes meditation instruction and guided sitting, followed by teachings, contemplative exercises, and optional small-group breakouts to deepen personal reflection. These practices help us not only understand bodhicitta but begin to embody it.

This series is the first step in a three-part, year-long journey, each segment followed by a short Awake in the World module to support applying the teachings directly to our lives and relationships.

Meditation experience is welcome but not required. All who wish to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and a wider sense of belonging are invited to join.

Fee:
$240 course fee
$200 (base)
$185 (Sukhasiddhi member)
$300 (benefactor)

The deadline to register is Saturday, at 12 PM (Pacific).

**Please Note: This Dharma Deep Dive class series is included in the Bodhi Program as part of the curriculum. If you are already enrolled in Bodhi, you do not need to register separately for this series. 

**Please Note: This Dharma Deep Dive class series is NOT included in the Dharma Training Program. If you are enrolled in DTP and are interested in this series, you will need to register separately.