The word “Buddha” translates from Sanskrit to mean, the “Awakened One”. All Buddhist traditions aim to awaken and liberate us from our delusions, based on the understanding that suffering is prolonged by ignorance. Elements of practice vary among different Buddhist traditions, but awakening to the potential for greater awareness is a motivational force central to each practice.

We at Ekoji-Vipassana aspire to expand and enrich our practice by studying the Dharma in a variety of literary forms drawn primarily from Theravada Buddhism. Formal retreats and Dharma talks sponsored by the larger Buddhist Community are encouraged as well.

Theravada, which includes Vipassana Meditation, is the oldest tradition known to Buddhism. Theravada translates as “Teachings of the Elder’s” and reflects Buddhist practice based on teachings derived from the Pali Canon.

The word Vipassana means “insight” and refers to a quality of awareness arising from mental tranquility. Among some Theravada traditions Vipassana is identified as a meditation technique promoting a moment-to-moment awareness of the fleeting, impulse-driven phenomena of the mind/body. At Ekoji-Vipassana we intentionally honor the ancient meditation technique, as well as the emerging quality of awareness it’s known to yield.

Guidelines for Sitting, Walking and Metta Meditation

Ekoji-Vipassana Group

The Vipassana group meets twice weekly to meditate and study Buddhist teachings. The participants bring a wide array of experiences to the mix.

The current program meets Tuesday and Friday evenings for an hour of silent meditation. After the hour we take a moment to share personal practice insights and then proceed with Ekoji announcements and related events. On Tuesdays the gathering adjourns after the announcements; Friday’s group activities extend into a Dharma discussion for those who choose to stay.

Newcomers are always welcome. Dress comfortably and please remove your shoes upon entering the building. Chairs and floor cushions are available for meditation. If you’d like an orientation to Vipassana practice please contact Margaret or Andy, who will arrange a time to meet with you.

Visiting Teachers / Retreats

We have been fortunate to have visits from teachers such as Taraniya Ambrosia, Andrew Olendzki, and Gregory Kramer. Our goal is to bring a visiting teacher to Richmond at least twice a year.

(During bothTuesday and Friday's meditation, meditators are welcome to spend time in standing meditation at their cushion/chair or doing walking meditation in the space available at the back of the room.)

 

"Vipassana (or Insight meditation) is a systematic method of cultivating mindfulness of body, feelings, mind and Dhamma (the teaching or mental objects). Vipassana meditation leads to purification of mind, to overcoming grief and sorrow, to overcoming pain and suffering, to treading the path leading to Liberation.

-- Bhante Henepola Gunaratana

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