FAQs about weekly classes
Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from meditation?
No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the great benefits. Buddhism is a non-evangelical religion. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith, or to none.
Do I need to have experience in meditation or Buddhism to attend the classes?
No. All you need is the wish to improve yourself and the quality of your life.
What do I need to bring to class?
If you wish to take notes, please bring a pen and notepad. Just wear comfortable clothing.
What is the cost of the classes?
R25.00 per class. As a nonprofit organization, fees for classes are our only source of income.
What if I don't have money and I want to go to a class?
Everyone can participate in the classes regardless of ability to pay. Noone is ever turned away for lack of funds.How should I dress for class?
Dress casual and comfortably.
Do I need to register?
There is no need to pre-register. Simply drop in to any class. Although the classes are designed as a series, each class is self-contained, so you can start at any time. You don’t need to wait until the beginning of a series.
What relevance does Buddhism have in modern times and to my life?
Although Buddhism first appeared in India over two and a half thousand years ago, it has a timeless and universal relevance. In a nutshell, Buddha explained that all our problems arise from confused and negative states of mind. He taught perfect methods for gaining control over our mind and ridding it of these destructive states, thereby enabling us to realize true inner peace, happiness and fulfillment. These methods work for any mind, in any country, at any age.
Who do Buddhists worship, and why?
Buddhists regard all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas as perfect guides and role models, and as such naturally develop faith in them and rely upon them as Spiritual Guides. As a meditator approaches and eventually attains enlightenment, he or she develops extraordinary mental powers. These include the ability to bless receptive minds with powerful transforming energy that greatly accelerates the process of mental development. For this reason, Buddhists try through meditation, prayer, and various ritual practices to communicate with enlightened beings and receive their transforming blessings.
What/Who is the New Kadampa Tradition?
The New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union is a global network of Buddhist Centres founded by meditation master and scholar Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Classes and different study programmes are offered so that people from all backgrounds can learn about the timeless wisdom and compassion taught by Buddha and put it into practice in a way that suits their particular culture and needs.