The Buddha's quest for enlightenment started after his encounters with the "four heavenly messengers" of old age, illness, death, and the spiritual seeker. We will explore these topics as part of the contemplative path to the liberation of the mind. An honest appraisal of the realities of human life helps to clear and settle the mind, and also arouses a sense of urgency to practice. When we completely understand the full spectrum of the human condition with acceptance, insight and kindness, the path to realization has the potential to open up.

There will be periods of sitting and walking meditation, Dhamma reflections, and time for questions and answers.

Lunch: Please bring lunch and, if you wish, food to offer the monks. As in the time of the Buddha, the Abhayagiri monks do not grow or buy food and are completely dependent on donations of food. The monastics eat one main meal a day in late morning and monastic regulations require that they finish by midday. Offering food to the monastics during the daylong provides an opportunity to participate in the tradition. Other donations are also gratefully accepted for Abhayagiri Monastery, though are by no means required. You can request a current list of needed items by contacting the monastery at (707) 485-1630.

Online Bulletin Board for Ride Sharing

Online Registration for this event is available until 12 noon one business day before the event. If you can't attend, see our Cancellation Policy.

Even if you have been to Spirit Rock before, please review information about What to Bring to a Daylong. This link has useful information about what to wear, what to bring, how to get here, and more.

No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Limited Volunteer/Work Exchange opportunities, as well as scholarships, may be available for this program. If interested, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@spiritrock.org or (415) 488-0164 x224.