Bro. Tan giving a clear and detailed explanation on various Buddhist doctrines and Dhamma practice.

On Saturday 28 March, Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch held our monthly Members’ Day at the usual meeting place – Gurun Buddhist Association.  Members who attended the gathering were glad to have Bro. Tan’s presence during the meeting.  Branch Committee Member Dr. Aw shared his reflections on the “Mūlapariyāya Sutta” with the gathering.  After which, Dr. Song led an interactive discussion session on the topics from Venerable Ajahn Jayasaro’s book – “Without and Within”.

Dr. Aw sharing his humorous but deep reflections on the "Mūlapariyāya Sutta".

Bro. Tan explained that Dhamma is a ‘series of purification practised in order to be liberated from suffering’.  We ought to train ourselves to see things through the ‘lens of Dhamma’ (i.e. developing Right Views), and to live in accordance to Dhamma.

Bro. Tan also shared that a person need not know ‘everything’ to be liberated from Samsāra. ‘Essential Education’ alone is sufficient to lead us on the path to Nibbāna.  Just like the explanation given by the Buddha – the teachings which He shared was like a handful of leaves compared to what he knew, which was comparable to the thousands of leaves in the forest.  Even so, certain basic teachings are essential and sufficient to lead us towards liberation if well practised.

Dr. Song leading an interactive discussion session on Ajahn Jayasaro’s book – “Without and Within”.

We thank Bro. Tan for his insightful sharing; and to Gurun Buddhist Association for kindly extending their hospitality to Nalandians in making use of their premises for our monthly meetings.  The fruitful session concluded with dedication of merits to all beings.  Sadhu anumodana!

Members taking copious notes on the Dhamma shared at Members' Day. Sadhu!