OF PENNSYLVANIA
MEDITATION
There are countless benefits derived from the practice of meditation: peace of mind, the powerful impact of practicing compassion towards oneself and others, stress reduction, and overall spiritual growth and well-being.
Dress comfortably. You can sit on a chair or bring a cushion if that’s your preference. Anyone can participate, no previous experience is required.
There is no cost to attend meditation sessions, but donations are graciously welcome to support the charitable work of Bhante Soma. To find a class near you, visit our classes page.
THE TEACHING OF THE GAUTAMA BUDDHA
Guatama Buddha's teaching is about following the Middle Path and focusing on the eightfold path
and the Four Noble Truths.
Who was the Buddha? Siddhartha Gautama was born a prince in, what is now, Southern Nepal over 2600 years ago. He lived his life seeing how quickly pleasures faded, and thus began his search for happiness. He spent about six years in solitary practice, committed to cultivating and purifying the mind. He enjoyed and discovered the timeless truth of existence and realized enlightenment; the complete understanding of greed, hatred, and delusion, which are at the root of all discontentment deep within the mind. Now known as the Buddha, he devoted the remaining 45 years of life to teaching and to helping others attain the same happiness.
Today, two main strands of Buddhism are recognized:
Theravada and Mahayana. This is a pure Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist Temple.
MY WISH
May I become, at times both now and forever,
A protector for those without protection,
A guide for those who have lost their way,
A ship for those with an ocean to cross,
A sanctuary for those in danger,
A lamp for those without light,
A place of refuge for those who lack shelter,
And a servant to all in need.
By means of this meritorious deed,
May I never join with the unwise, only the wise,
Until the time I attain Nirvana.
