Introduction to Buddhism - Monterey Peninsula Buddhist TempleNEW

Introduction to Buddhism - Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple
Course Syllabus

Course Information
Title:        Introduction to Buddhism
Location:    Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple, 1155 Noche Buena Street, Seaside
Dates:        Tuesdays, January 15- March 5, 2013
Times:        7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Instructor Information
Instructor:    Rev. Jay Shinseki, Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple
Office:        1155 Noche Buena Street, Seaside, CA 93942
Phone:        (831) 459-2374    Cell: (650) 868-9883
Email:        montereydec@gmail.com

Textbook Information
Text:        The Teachings of the Buddha
Editor:        Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai
Publisher:    Kosaido Printing Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan

Supplementary Reading
Please see attached "Suggested Reading List"

Materials
Handouts will be distributed in class

Course Description/Objectives
This course will provide for the student a basic introduction to general Buddhism.  Students will learn about the history, culture and rituals contained within the Buddhist religion.  Topics will include the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, the development of Buddhism and the eventual spread to the west.  We will examine what is known as the six paramitas, the six realms of existence and the Buddhist view of life and death.  Contained within the traditions, rituals and culture of Buddhism are wonderful life lessons and tools we will learn for everyday living.  As we examine Buddhism we will also examine its relevance in our everyday lives.

Course Calendar/Schedule
Class 1        January    15    Introduction
                    Life of Shakyamuni Buddha                

Class 2        January     22    The Dharma Four Noble Truths & 8 Fold Path
Three Treasures, Six Paramitas, Six Realms
                of Existence.  

Class 3        January    29    Transmission of the Dharma and the Practice of the
Dharma. Buddhism in India, Turkey, China, Southeast Asia

Class 4        February    5    Ritual, the Buddhist Temple altar it's meaning
                and significance.  Buddhist Robes etc.

Class 5        February    12    Buddhist View of change, life and death, good and
                    evil

Class 6    February    19    Buddhist Holidays observances and their meaning
                Triple Sutra, Conclusion

Course Policies:

Attendance and Class Participation:
This class will be dependent upon the active participation of the
students.  Questions, discussion as well as comparison of views are encouraged.  The class is ninety minutes long with a five to ten minute break in the first hour.  The course syllabus is subject to change depending on the time and discussion.  

Exams and Assignments:
There will be no exams or assignments in this class.