A group photo at NEO KL together with the Dhamma speaker for the first session, Sis. Sandy Lim.

Last Saturday 16 March, over 100 participants, facilitators and volunteers commenced the first session of the Sigalovada Sutta’ (Digha Nikaya 31) Study Course in Mandarin.  Held concurrently across all three Nalanda Branches in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Sungai Petani, this course is organised by Nalanda Institute Malaysia and provides an insight into the Buddha’s teachings about the laity’s duties and moral conduct.

Sis. Sandy Lim gave an overview of how the Buddha had encountered a youth called Sigala and gave him a more thorough understanding of how we should direct our intentions and conduct appropriately with those around us, as well as to avoid unwholesome actions.  If we are able to embed this comprehensive teaching by the Buddha, we will find ourselves much closer to happiness and peace of mind.

Friends attending the course at NEO Centre in Sungai Petani.

Friends attending the course at NEO Centre in Johor Bahru.

Sis. Sandy also shared a brief overview of the history of Buddhism.

Participants rejoice in the engaging session.

Group discussions to deepen learning

Listening intently in NEO SP.

The subsequent discussions on their learning and reflections, enabled participants to deepen their understanding and share their experience for the benefit of the group.  We rejoice in their strong learning spirit and may their coming sessions be reflective and fruitful with the support of good spiritual friends.

Sis. Sandy also gives an overview of basic Buddhist principles for participants who are new.

Facilitators help to guide the discussions.

Facilitators help to guide the discussions.

Happy smiles after a good discussion.