Vajrasattva Weekend

The Vajrasattva Weekend is an in-depth spiritual workshop on Vajrasattva practice in Tibetan Buddhism, led by Lama Jigmé Namgyal at Phuntsok Chö Ling in Rotterdam, South Holland. It is a study weekend that introduces the practice and is open to anyone interested, with no prior knowledge of Buddhism required. You can attend in person or join online.

What to Expect

Vajrasattva plays a central role in almost all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The practice is a method for purifying the consciousness of negative karma accumulated in this and previous lives. The teaching starts from a simple observation: we all strive for happiness, yet we often only partly succeed, because we experience reality through the distorting lens of our own mind. That distortion can be compared to ripples on water, and meditation and Vajrasattva practice can weaken it.

The weekend takes the view that in the Buddhist tradition meditation is meant to do more than bring peace. Many techniques focus on quieting the mind through the breath, a sound or a visual object. Here the aim is to explore the deeper levels of the mind and ultimately recognize our Buddhahood.

The weekend opens on Friday evening with an introductory class from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, with room for questions. On Saturday and Sunday, teaching sessions run from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, interspersed with time for questions. Each afternoon there is a free practice period from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

About Lama Jigmé Namgyal

Lama Jigmé Namgyal guides the weekend and gives the classes. He introduces the Vajrasattva practice as it is taught across the Tibetan Buddhist schools, and he welcomes questions throughout the sessions.

The Setting

The weekend takes place at Phuntsok Chö Ling, Oostkousdijk 17B, 3024 CL Rotterdam. Coffee, tea and a snack are provided. Lunch is not included, so plan to arrange your own between the morning session and the afternoon practice.

Those who cannot travel to Rotterdam can take part online. The link is sent right after registration. People who want to watch recordings afterward should register first and then contact the centre.

Before You Go

The weekend is designed as an introduction and suits all levels. You do not need experience with Buddhism or meditation, and no particular religious background is expected. Sessions are held in English.

Included are the classes with Lama Jigmé Namgyal, the chance to ask questions, coffee, tea and a snack, the online participation link for those joining remotely, and access to recordings for registered participants who contact the centre. Lunch is the one thing to bring or plan for yourself.