Great Faith, Great Doubt, and Great Determination
This online morning retreat will focus on three essential qualities for Zen Buddhist practice: great faith, great doubt, and great determination. It includes time for meditation, two dharma talks, and group discussion.
The path of realization in Zen Buddhism is informed by three essential pillars: Great Faith, Great Doubt, and Great Determination.
Great Faith derives from the experiential truth that all beings are intrinsically awake. This faith is deep and resolute, providing a foundation for our continued practice through changing conditions.
Great Doubt is not about intellectual skepticism; rather, it concerns a profound, immersive inquiry into self-nature and life itself. This single-pointed inquiry transforms one’s entire being, opening and deepening awareness and understanding.
Great Determination is the unwavering resolve to pursue realization, motivated by faith in our awakened nature. This determination dissolves all obstacles and illuminates all perceived barriers. The path is the goal.
Together, these three pillars create a powerful synergy. When deep faith, boundless practice, and unyielding determination coalesce, the realization of enlightenment is made manifest—one’s original nature is revealed!
Schedule
9:30AM – Welcome and Introductions
9:35AM – Meditation with Guidance
10:00AM – The Three Essentials – Dharma Talk with Q&A
10:45AM – Zen Meditation
11:10AM – Stretch break
11:15AM – The Three Essentials Continued – Dharma Talk with Q&A
12:00PM – Metta Chant and Closing
Cost
The class is being offered for $35. For LBM Sustaining Members, we are offering the class at a discounted rate of $25.
If you cannot afford the full fee, choose “Reduced Fee” on the registration form below and please let us know in the comments field what you can afford. Volunteers at our events are always appreciated.
If you can contribute additional funds, your contributions help keep our services available, compensate teachers and staff, and make classes available for those who cannot afford them.
How to Join the Retreat
Please see Long Beach Meditation’s event page to register.