The Gimhāna Retreat saw many people putting earnest effort in meditation practice.

For seven weeks after the Buddha’s Enlightenment on Wesak full-moon in May, He contemplated on the Dhamma with His perfectly clear faculty of comprehension.  Then, He travelled for seven days from Uruvela to Sarnath where He preached the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta on Asalha Day, the full-moon in July.

It is during this period that Nalanda members observe the Gimhāna Retreat annually with relatively intensive Dhamma learning and practice at Nalanda Centre.  Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings were dedicated to both communal and personal practice such as chanting, meditation, listening to Dhamma teachings, studying the scriptures, performing acts of generosity, and daily reflection.

A new addition to the Gimhāna Retreat this year was the weekly handouts that directed devotees towards developing certain qualities.  These practical “tasks” were: (1) donating towards a wholesome cause; (2) not complaining about anything throughout the day; (3) expressing gratitude to someone; (4) refraining from unwholesome speech; (5) maintaining serenity in all situations; (6) forgiving someone deeply; and (7) developing mettā towards the people and beings around us.

Devotees had many opportunities to meet with wise teachers and to be inspired by their teachings.

“Opportune hearing of the Dhamma; this is Blessing Supreme.” – the Mangala Sutta.

Bro. Benny Liow giving a Dhamma talk on cultivating compassion in daily life.

Every Sunday, Mandarin talks were conducted concurrently with English talks and the Youth Service.

Devotees formed groups after the Sunday talks to discuss and reflect on what they have learnt.

We are grateful to all Dhamma teachers who inspired the community with their simple and pragmatic teachings.  We also thank all devotees for supporting the programmes and providing spiritual friendship to motivate each other in our Dhamma cultivation. Sādhu ānumodāna!