New Class - The Eight Great Awakenings Sutra (in Chinese)

As one of the earlier translation of Chinese sutras, the Eight Great Awakenings Sutra has only 372 words and is one of the shortest and most concise Buddhist sutras. This sutra has been dedicated to lay followers before Buddha’s attainment of Nirvana. Many regard this Sutra to encompass Buddha’s fundamental teachings preached during his lifetime. It has similar characters as the Sutra of Forty-two Sections and the Testament Sutra, which are particularly sacred to monastic disciples. This sutra is entirely in accord with both the Mahayana and Theravada traditions where the texts address both the way to self realization as well as the path of Bodhisattva.

If Buddhist disciples recite this Sutra on the Eight Awakenings, and constantly ponder its meaning, they will certainly eradicate boundless offenses, advance towards Bodhihood, and will quickly realize Proper Enlightenment. They will always be free of birth and death, and will abide in eternal bliss – The Eight Great Awakenings Sutra

The above excerpt is the conclusion of the Sutra. It emphasizes the importance of putting the eight awakenings into practice in order to attain the benefit of Enlightenment. Only reciting the Sutra is just like a parrot that imitates human speaking, without knowing the real meaning. In this new five-week class, through recitation, discussion, and dharma talk given by Master Jian Dan, participants will gain deep understanding of the eight awakenings practiced by all Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Buddhist followers.

Date: Sundays (June 1 – June 29)

Time: 1:00 – 3:00pm

Location: Meeting room @ Jade Buddha Temple

Registration: Contact temple office