Note: we are still accepting registrations for the course, in case you would like to invite friends and family to join. Our strict cut-off is Thu 17 Oct 2024 i.e. we will still welcome newcomers who can only join us from Lesson Two on 11 Oct 2024 or Lesson Three on 18 Oct 2024 onwards, but we will not admit students after that.

Are you new to Buddhism and interested in learning about it? Or are you looking to deepen and understand your understanding and practice?

Date: 4 Oct 2024 – 4 Apr 2025 (Every Fri)
Time: 7.30 – 9PM
Venue: The Buddhist Library (BL)
Fees: $100 (BL Members), $200 only (Non-members)
Click for registration form: Word Version | PDF version

About this program

The course is a six-month study programme designed to provide a holistic learning experience as well as allow students to experience spiritual life. To achieve this, the course will cover a range of topics such as daily chanting, Dhamma in English, Buddhist history and the application of Buddhism in our day-to-day lives.  Students will be encouraged to apply Buddhist teachings in their lives, and consequently, these teachings can become a source of spiritual self-reliance.

Course objective

Our goal is for students to have confidence in their knowledge of the Dhamma–that is, the Buddha’s teachings–and their practice of Buddhism.

The Library is also looking to offer further courses for graduates of this programme e.g. an “Advanced Certificate” course in 2025.

Who should attend?

  • The course was designed for students with no previous exposure to Buddhism.
  • However, persons who already know about Buddhism are also welcome to join.

Course Modules

It is planned for the Course to comprise four parts:

  • Part 1: Daily Chanting – from 4 Oct to 25 Oct 2024
    This module focuses on the chanting of basic Pali texts. Chanting is important to the Buddhist community as we believe it brings about safety, peace and well-being. As part of this segment, we will study the texts we chant.
  • Part 2: Dhamma in English – from 1 Nov to 27 Dec 2024
    This is the primary study module that covers terms and the fundamental teachings of Buddhism.
  • Part 3: Buddhist History and Buddhist Rituals – from 3 Jan to 24 Jan 2025
    We will study key events in the life of the Buddha and the history of the Buddhist Dispensation. We will look at the significance of selected Buddhist Rituals, and look to understand their philosophical and functional value.
  • Part 4: Buddhist Practice – from 14 Feb to 7 Mar 2025
    This module introduces different ways in which we can practice Buddhism: meditation, listening to the Dhamma, and social work/charity/voluntary service. Students will then be guided to undergo “hands-on practice” on their own, and then invited to share their experiences at the very end of the course.
  • “Hands-on Practice” and Conclusion – from 8 Mar to 4 Apr 2025
    Our plan is for student to choose what type of “hands-on practice” they wish to undertake for three weeks, whether it be meditation, engaging in Dhamma talks, or voluntary service. Students will be given guida