The Four Dignities: Tiger, Lion, Garuda, Dragon – POSTPONED

Bloom and engage as a warrior

The teachings on the dignities were centrally important to the Vidyadhara, and have been further un-packed and explored by the Sakyong : they now occupy a key place on our path. The traditional animal symbols of Tiger, Lion, Garuda and Dragon can be seen painted on farm-houses in Bhutan and the Himalayas. According to our lineage, they also evoke the four energies of Enlightened Mind itself.

Yet the dignities are never remote or abstract : they are also immediately comprehensible. As we engage with each dignity we discover an increasingly subtle obstacle, from Arrogance and Doubt to Hope and Fear. Finding and owning each obstacle is a stepping-stone to uncovering the innate wealth of each of  us. And so each dignity also constitutes a rich and vivid power that we can explore and uncover together as student warriors.

Retreat

“The four dignities” are introduced as a path and a process, which describe a warrior’s maturing and widening sphere of benevolent engagement in the world. The training in the dignities allows one to maintain awareness and delight at each stage.

The week includes meditation practice, talks and exercises, silence and discussion. You will also have time to explore and enjoy the land around Dechen Chöling and relax, read and study.

Meek

Meek is a study of the grounded, humble and gentle beginning stages of a warrior’s journey. Here one trains to overcome arrogance – the primary obstacle to learning.

Perky

As the second of the four dignities, this level focuses on cultivating sharp, vibrant and uplifted energy through natural discipline. Overcoming the trap of doubt, the warrior of perky is able to accomplish his or her activities with a sense of nobility and ease.

Outrageous and Inscrutable

These fruitional dignities refer to the extraordinary skill of a practiced warrior. No longer afraid of making mistakes, the unconventional and visionary perspective of the outrageous warrior combines with the skill of spontaneous inscrutability to create benefit for others on a large scale.

This programme is a prerequisite for Warrior Assembly, the jewel of the Shambhala path. Dechen Chöling will offer a Warriors Assembly, October 3-14.

 
Please note that there will be additional material costs (amount TBC).

Practical

Arrival day (June 1): Orientation talk at 8 pm. You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.45 pm.

End of program (June 5): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.

Departure day (June 6): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for lunch.

This programme is taught in English. Free translation into French, but other languages need to be confirmed. Important: We need 2 months notice of translation requests. If you are registering late, please contact us directly about translation.