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A 5-week sutta study discussion course lead by Shaila Catherine and Sharon Allen

In this course we will study Bhikkhu Bodhi’s powerful collection of discourses from the Pali Canon that address issues relevant to our times: communication, anger, conflict resolution, friendship, social equity, and interpersonal dynamics. This 5-week course offers a discussion format for sutta study and the contemplation of Buddhist teachings that lead to social harmony, ethical clarity, and engaged wisdom. Students are expected to read about two chapters each week (approximately two hours of reading) and engage in the discussions.

REQUIRED READING:
The Buddha’s Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon, edited and introduced by Bhikkhu Bodhi, Wisdom Publications, 2016, ISBN: 978-1-61429-355-2. You may purchase the book from Wisdom Publications, any bookstore, or online bookseller.

WHO SHOULD JOIN:
This is an intermediate level course. Previous training in sutta study and retreat experience is welcome, but not required. Previous experience with mindfulness meditation, however, is expected. The course is designed for meditators who have already developed some continuity in their meditation practice and now wish to study, discuss, and contemplate social implications of the Buddha’s teachings.

REGISTRATION FOR THURSDAY CLASS IN SARATOGA, CA:
Registration is required for this course. Registration fees include the book. The books can be picked up either from the registrar or Shaila at any IMSB event, or at the first class session.

Registration will open two-three months prior to the start date of each course. Registration fees are non-refundable. To register select an option under the Tickets heading on this page. If you are viewing this page more than two months in advance of the course, the ticket feature may not have yet appeared, so please check back later to register, and join our mailing list to receive a reminder when registration opens.

The sliding scale fee range is from $500 to $200 and will be shared between IMSB and the teacher(s). The lower end of the sliding scale is intended for those with limited means. The basic rate of $200 is estimated to cover the most basic costs such as books, rent and insurance for the specific class period. It does not factor in compensation for teachers or ongoing administrative expenses for IMSB. The scholarship rate of $100 offers an even lower rate for those with very limited financial means.

By choosing to give at the mid to high range of the sliding scale your generosity supports those with limited income to attend our programs, and it supports IMSB and the teachers, enabling the dhamma to thrive in the South Bay Area. We encourage you to choose the highest level that is appropriate for your economic situation. If you need additional scholarship assistance and can volunteer to help, please inquire with the registrar about service scholarships by contacting ThursdayClass.

TAX DEDUCTIBILITY:
The basic registration fee is not tax deductible and non-refundable. Donations above the basic rate will be considered voluntary tax deductible contributions. Each January the IMSB treasurer sends donors letters that acknowledge the accumulated deductible donations from the previous year. This annual letter will acknowledge the amount given that is above the basic rate and serve as documentation for tax deduction purposes.

CANCELLATION POLICY:
All fees and payments are non-refundable. If it becomes necessary to cancel participation in a course, and the registrar is notified prior to the start of the first class meeting, your registration fee will be converted into a voucher creditable towards the fee for a future IMSB Thursday Class. Vouchers must be used within one year of the initial course start date. Cancellations that occur after the start of the first class are not eligible for the voucher credit.

To redeem a voucher, send an email to the registrar for the appropriate course and request to use your voucher credit as payment of the registration fees. If the voucher does not cover the base rate for the new class, the balance will be due to complete the registration process. Credits vouchers can be transferred to only one future course.