A monastery typically offers a variety of courses centered around the teachings and practices of Buddhism. These programs often include:
- Buddhist Philosophy: In-depth studies of core Buddhist concepts such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, karma, emptiness, and the nature of mind. Courses might cover different schools of Buddhist thought (e.g., Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana) and include textual analysis of sutras and commentaries.
- Prayer and Liturgical Practices: Instruction on traditional Buddhist prayers, chants, and rituals. This can involve learning specific mantras, mudras (hand gestures), and the proper use of ritual objects, as well as understanding the meaning and purpose behind these practices for spiritual development and accumulating merit.
- Meditation: Comprehensive training in various meditation techniques, including shamatha (calm abiding) for developing focus and tranquility, and vipassana (insight meditation) for cultivating wisdom and understanding the nature of reality. Courses often guide practitioners through different stages of meditation, address common challenges, and explain the theoretical underpinnings of these practices.
Beyond these core areas, monasteries might also offer courses on Buddhist history, language (e.g., Sanskrit or Tibetan), art, mandala creation, and the role of ethics in daily life. The aim of these courses is to provide a holistic education in Buddhist theory and practice, fostering spiritual growth, wisdom, and compassion.