As Dharma students and Dharma teachers, we strive to:

- respect the teachings of all Buddhist traditions as our own and follow the philosophy of “84,000 doors to the Dharma.” We do not regard any Buddhist school as being inherently superior or inferior.The Pali Suttas and the Sanskrit Sutras are all regarded as valid and authentic teachings. We learn from all traditions in an effort both to draw from what each has to offer and to recognize the ultimate unity of the Buddhist schools.

- follow the bodhisattva path, which is to work for the awakening of all beings, including ourselves.

- as a manifestation of compassion, follow a vegetarian diet.

- live the five precepts and the four bodhisattva vows.

- support our learning with practice. Without practice, knowledge is hollow.

- contribute time, energy, and material resources to bring the Dharma to those who are in need.

- show gratitude, loyalty, and respect to the many generations of teachers who have passed the Dharma to us.

- treat all people equally. A person's sex, sexual orientation, race, social status, political views, and faith do not affect their Buddhanature.

- live a simple life and be a bhikkhu or bhikkhuni at heart.

- avoid arguing about either politics or religion.

- meet anger with patience and a calm mind.

Program Requirements

Tuition is $125 per year, made at the beginning of the class year. Students who are unable to afford tuition may pay reduced or no fees, at the discre- tion of the teacher.

Attendance at and participation in all meetings of the class is expected. On average, the class meets twice each month from September through April.

Each student is required to lead the discussion of one book (or part of a book) at one class during the year. Students will be provided guiding questions to assist in preparing presentations.

Attendance at three one-day retreats and one three-day retreat during the class year. Students are also encouraged to attend other retreats at Chuang Yen and other practice centers.

Participation in the Dharma Festival that ends the class year and takes place during the three-day retreat.

Students must complete homework assignments for each class.

Third year students must submit a five-page paper on an approved topic in order to graduate and receive a certificate of completion. Students finishing the fourth year must submit a ten-page paper. (Please see examples of student papers on this page.)