Thursday Evening Teaching with Q&A

Join Ajahn Brahm for an evening of guided meditation, authentic dharma instruction, and open dialogue at Empty Cloud Monastery in West Orange, NJ. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Buddhist meditation, this Thursday evening gathering offers a rare opportunity to practice alongside a respected teacher and community, with space to ask the questions that matter most to your spiritual path. The session combines formal sitting meditation with contemporary teaching that makes ancient wisdom accessible to modern seekers.

This is more than a lecture—it's a lived practice session. You'll arrive, settle into the monastery's contemplative atmosphere, and move together through structured meditation before Ajahn Brahm shares dharma instruction rooted in Theravada Buddhist tradition. The teaching is followed by a genuine Q&A segment where you can voice real questions about practice, obstacles, and the path ahead. Many participants describe leaving with both clarity and inspiration, their minds quieter and their hearts more open.

What to Expect

Arrive early to acclimate to the space. The evening begins with guided sitting meditation, settling your mind and body into presence. Ajahn Brahm then offers teaching—clear, practical, and grounded in lived experience—that illuminates Buddhist philosophy and its relevance to your life today. After the talk, you'll have space to ask questions directly. The whole gathering typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sitting meditation; the monastery creates an intentionally quiet, reflective environment. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the dharma and a renewed sense of connection to your practice and to the wider community of seekers.

About the Artist

Ajahn Brahm is a British-American Buddhist monk and respected meditation teacher who leads the Dhammakaya International Society of Australia. Known for his gift at rendering Theravada Buddhist practice accessible to Western lay audiences, Ajahn Brahm combines scholarly depth with warm, conversational teaching style. His work through both in-person instruction and written work has introduced countless practitioners to the heart of Buddhist meditation and ethics.

Venue & Logistics

Empty Cloud Monastery is located in West Orange, NJ. Sessions run Thursday evenings (note: this particular gathering is scheduled for Friday, September 4, 2026). Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle in. Wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for sitting meditation in a quiet, reverent space. The event is also livestreamed on YouTube, making it accessible if you prefer to join remotely. Check the monastery's website or contact them directly for specific start times and any accessibility accommodations.