We are pleased to offer a rare opportunity for an in-depth study in Original and Humanistic Buddhism, led by a Theravada monk. Although there are no formal prerequisites and the classes are free, we extend this opportunity to serious candidates only.

The purposes of this study are:

1. To explore original teachings of the Buddha Sakyamuni;

2. To study the history of Original Buddhism and Early Buddhism in India;

3. To meditate recollection in the Buddha's meritorious virtues to relieve worry and anxiety;

4. To meditate on loving-kindness and compassion to transform anger and ill-will;

5. To do charity works and fulfill Humanistic Buddhism to benefit oneself and others.

6. to be mindful of in-and-out breathing to reduce restlessness and attain peacefulness;

7. To cultivate the Four Foundations of Mindfulness to achieve awakening;

8. To understand that the insight meditation method is the seven factors of enlightenment;

9. To understand that the stages of practice for the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment are the three rounds and twelve aspects of the Four Noble Truths;

The original teachings are based on the common Suttas (or Sutras) from the first Buddhist Council, which are mainly in the Pali Samyutta-Nikaya of Theravada Buddhism of Ven. Upali lineage, and the Chinese Samyukta-Agama of Ven. Ananda lineage;

We welcome participants regardless of experience, who are willing to make the commitment. All students will be expected to arrive on time, attend complete sessions, and while at the temple, observe Buddhist customs.

Starting mid-October, 2011, classes will be held on Saturday late afternoons at the Original Buddhism Society temple in Flushing, Queens. The temple is located steps from the number 7 train, the LIRR, and many NYC buses. A typical class will last up to two hours. As part of training, students will be encouraged to participate in occasional charity work. Depending on interest, enrollment may be limited.

In contrast to other traditions, Original Buddhism relies exclusively on the core teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. For the purpose of comparison, our closest mainstream tradition is Theravada. For more information on Original Buddhism, please visit www.arahant-usa.org, or call (718) 445-2562, (718) 666-9540.

For further details on the study, the group's organizer can be reached at 917-916-0091.