Achariya Tan Siang Chye giving the Sunday talk on 'Learning' in conjunction with the Memorial Service.

Report by Lim Jie Sheng.

On Sunday 28 September, devotees gathered at Nalanda Centre to attend the Memorial Pūja in conjunction with the 1st anniversary of the passing of the most Venerable Prof. Kakkapalliye Anuruddha Nayaka Thero and Acharya Satya Narayan Goenka.  The late Ven. Anuruddha was one of Founder Bro. Tan’s teachers.

The day coincided with ‘Samaggi’ day, which falls on the last Sunday of every month. Nalandians wore traditional uniforms and performed their duties gracefully and harmoniously.  After offerings to the Three Jewels, Achariya Tan Siang Chye gave an uplifting Dhamma talk on one of Nalanda’s core values – “Learning”.  Achariya Siang Chye shared about the two types of knowledge, which are ‘Ñana’ and ‘Pañña’.  He quoted a verse from the Maṅgala Sutta related to learning: “Vast learning, perfect handicraft, a highly trained discipline, and pleasant speech; this is Blessing Supreme”.

Achariya Tan Siang Chye spoke about the two types of knowledge – ‘Ñana’ and ‘Pañña’.

Devotees also gained knowledge on the three types of ‘Pañña’ (wisdom) that the Buddha taught – ‘Sutta-maya Pañña’ (wisdom gained by learning from others); ‘Cinta-maya Pañña’ (wisdom gained from properly analysing and reflecting); and ‘Bhāvanā-maya Pañña’ (wisdom gained from meditative insight).  At the end of his talk, Achariya urged everyone to cultivate lifelong learning in all wholesome aspects of life.

Achariya Siang Chye and Sis. Buddhinī leading the transference of merits at the end of the Service.

The session ended with transference of merits led by Achariya Siang Chye and Hon. Secretary, Sis Buddhinī.  We thank Achariya for such an informative Dhamma session on ‘learning’.  May we strive on diligently and continue to develop this essential core value.  Sadhu!