Buddhism Essentials Seminar: The Burning House

3-weeks / Tuesdays / 7-9.15pm

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Tuesdays 2-16 Jun | 7-9.15pm | 3 week seminar

Join us for a punchy three-week accessible and engaging seminar exploring the heart of the Buddha’s teaching. Each session begins with a period of guided meditation to help you arrive, settle, and connect more deeply with the material. In the second half, we’ll explore key Buddhist principles in a clear, practical, and down-to-earth way, with space for questions and

In one of the most striking images in discussion. the Lotus Sutra, the Buddha describes a magnificent mansion consumed by flames. Inside, children are so absorbed in their games and trinkets that they fail to notice the smoke or the heat. They refuse to leave, not because they aren't in danger, but because they don't realize they are.

This isn't just an ancient story; it is a profound mirror held up to our modern existence. We often spend our days "rearranging the furniture" of a life that cannot offer us lasting security, ignoring the existential urgency that calls us to move towards a more meaningful, deeper, richer and more fulfilling path.

Join Vajramitra for this 3 week seminar in which you will explore through discussions the parable, its meaning and how it relates to your life.

£15 deposit + £30 suggested donation

Led by Vajramitra

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Frequently Asked questions

How can I get the most out of the course?
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Consistency is key: Come every week. Motivation often follows action so you’ll usually find that once you’re here, you’re glad you came!Arrive early: Aim to get here 15 minutes before we start. This gives you time to settle in and relax before the session begins.

What if I can’t make every session? 
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Don't worry - it’s fine, and common, to miss a session or two. We’ll usually send follow-up emails recapping the content you missed. If you know you’re going to be away, just let us know and we’ll look forward to seeing you the following week.

Will there be any food and drink?
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Tea and biscuits are served during breaks. We provide a wide range of teas along with oat and soya milk. There is also tap water. If you’re attending a day-long event (a Festival day or Day retreat for example), you’re invited to bring a vegan lunch to share as part of a "pot-luck" buffet.

What should I wear?
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There is no dress code, just wear what you feel comfortable in. If you’re attending a meditation class, loose-fitting trousers are a good choice as they make it much easier to sit on a cushion or chair for longer periods.

Do I need to take my shoes off?
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We ask everyone to remove their shoes before entering our shrine rooms or yoga studio. You can leave your shoes in the designated areas. (You might want to bring a pair of socks if your feet get cold!)

What if I can’t afford it? 
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While many courses are "Give What You Can," others have a set fee. If the low-income rate is still out of reach, please get in touch. We want our courses to be accessible to all and can often offer a place for an amount that works for you. It helps if you can give us a rough idea of what you can contribute when you get in touch.

Is it ok to just come once?
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Absolutely! You are welcome to drop-in and see if it feels right for you. 

How do I get to the Buddhist Centre?
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We are a 5–10 minute walk from three stations: Highbury & Islington, Holloway Road, and Drayton Park. Bus routes 21, 43, 263, and 393 stop nearby. We are also on the C38 Cycleway, with plenty of bike racks close by on Fieldway Crescent. There is no on-site parking, and nearby streets are mostly resident-only.

Is the Buddhist Centre accessible? 
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While we have an internal lift to the shrine rooms and yoga studio, please be aware there are four steep steps at our main street-level entrance without a ramp or lift. On the ground floor, you’ll find an accessible toilet. Please get in touch if you’d like to discuss your specific access needs.