Foundation of Buddhist Thought

An FPMT Correspondence Course in Buddhist Studies

For the first time, students who do not live near a Dharma center are being offered the opportunity to gain a thorough and practical grounding in Tibetan Buddhism under the supervision of an FPMT Geshe. Foundation of Buddhist Thought is a new FPMT correspondence course developed by Geshe Tashi of Jamyang Buddhist Centre in London and approved by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. The course fits into the FPMT educational structure between Discovering Buddhism and the Basic Program.

Geshe Tashi Tsering is a Tibetan Lama who holds the Lharampa Geshe degree (the equivalent of a PhD) from Seramay Monastic University in South India, gaining the highest marks possible at every level of the sixteen year course. In 1991 the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama asked him to take up a three-year appointment at Nalanda Monastery in France to teach advanced level Tibetan Buddhist philosophy to Western students.

Since 1994 Geshe Tashi has been based at Jamyang Buddhist Centre in London, where he is renowned for his warmth, humour and ability to make the most profound Tibetan Buddhist philosophical teachings accessible to students.

The course is taught in English and consists of six modules studied over two years. Each module involves twelve hours of teachings, fifty pages of accompanying text written by Geshe Tashi, daily practice, reading and written assignments, a 1,500 word essay and a two hour exam. Students study from home, listening to teachings on CD or cassette. E-mail discussion groups, led by course graduates and supervised by Geshe Tashi, foster exchange and understanding amongst students.

The six modules studied on the course are as follows:

Year 1

• The Four Noble Truths
• The Two Truths (Relative and Ultimate Truth)
• Buddhist Psychology and Epistemology

Year 2

• The Mind of Enlightenment (Bodhicitta)
• Emptiness According to the Prasangika Madhyamika School
• An Overview of Tantric Paths and Grounds

It is recommended that applicants have some knowledge of Buddhist studies. Students are required to commit to completing the entire course, including coursework and exams. Students may start the course in January, May or September. Course fees are £420 per year.

For more information contact: Email: info@buddhistthought.org

Home Page: www.buddhistthought.org