August Newsletter - For What Purpose?
The August Newsletter went out this morning. See the content below.
Did you miss it? Don’t miss another one. Sign up on the Articles & Books page. Scroll to the bottom, where you’ll find a 30 second form to fill out.
_________________________________________________________________________________
For What Purpose?
Dassanāya Buddhist Community
When it came time to think about a name for the new group, I searched for something that would describe its true purpose — to be a support for the arising of wisdom. With that in mind, I considered the ways in which the Buddha described the dawning of wisdom. One of the most common ways we find in the suttas is “yathā-bhūta-ñāna-dassana“ which means “knowing and seeing things as they are.”
With that in mind, I believe I have found a name that will fit the purpose well. The name is “Dassanāya Buddhist Community.” It’s important that this endeavor is centered in the community — the people, not a city or a building or a single individual. It’s also important to be clear that this community is made up of folks who are interested in practicing Buddhism. The early Buddhist teachings, typically associated with the Theravāda, will be the primary focus of the group. Zen teachings will also play a part. And what about the word “dassanāya?” This word means “for the purpose of seeing” or “in order to see” in the Pali language. Thus, taken all together, the name means “a gathering of people for the purpose of seeing with the wisdom of Buddhism.” That truly describes my aspiration for the group. So we’re Dassanāya Buddhist Community.
New Weekly Teaching Schedule
In addition to the new name, I am happy to announce two new weekly meditation offerings:
August 25th through October 22nd
Wednesday mornings at 6:45 am Eastern US
and
Thursday mornings at 9:45 am Eastern US
There will be a 40 minute online guided meditation followed by a brief closing chant. These sits will take place on Zoom, and no reservations are necessary. The link is available on the home page.
Ways You Can Help
These are a few of the things that would be supportive at this point in the establishment of Dassanāya Buddhist Community.
1) Book Design
I have written a book titled “Gifts Greater Than the Oceans.” I wrote it because I want to share Dharma lessons I’ve learned during alms collection rounds in Japan and in the US. Now I’m in need of some help getting the book into a printable format. If you have skills in this area, and would be interested in offering your time, please let me know by replying to this email. [Update: Someone has already offered to do the book design.]
2) Meal Dana
Meal dana offerings have begun, and if you’re local to Alexandria, I’d welcome your visit. Contact me for times when dana offerings can be made by replying to this email. Many thanks to the folks who have offered meals and groceries!
3) Logo Design
Now that we have the name, we need a beautiful design to represent our community. If you are interested in collaborating to design the logo for DBC, let’s connect. [Update: Someone has already offered to do the logo design.]
With support for seeing all things with wisdom,
Ayya Dhammadīpā