Prajñāpāramitā, the “perfection of wisdom,” is one of the key philosophies and practices of the Mahāyāna teachings of Buddhism. Prajñāpāramitā is also revered as the female embodiment of wisdom (Skt. prajñā) known as the Great Mother or Yum Chenmo in Tibetan. She is luminous clarity ceaselessly radiating as compassion to all beings. Ultimately, she is our own true nature, the source of awakening within ourselves, our buddha nature. 

Prajñāpāramitā is also a primary “nature of mind” meditation practice that requires live oral transmission. It is an important part of the Kapala Training program within the Mother Lineage (Magyü) at Tara Mandala. The oral transmission will be given by Lopön Debra Quayle following teachings on Prajñāpāramitā and a detailed explanation of the practice itself.

This retreat is open to beginners as well as those who would like to refresh their Prajñāpāramitā meditation practice. It will include:

• Teachings on the history and philosophy of Prajñāpāramitā, the Heart Sūtra, and aspects of the Sacred Feminine within the context of the Buddhist path.
• Oral transmission and guided meditations.
• Time to ask clarifying questions so that you feel well supported to continue the practice on your own. 

For students who have completed Feeding Your Demons® Level I – Secular Track (Online Course) and are interested in transitioning to the Feeding Your Demons® Level II – Buddhist Track (Online Course) or are interested in joining the Magyu: The Mother Lineage Program, this program helps with fulfilling the requirement of completing Feeding Your Demons®: Kapala Level I.

Who Should Attend? 
This program is open to everyone.

How Should I Prepare?

• The e-friendly version of the sadhana will be available for participants through the program content page.  
• The following material is recommended, though not required, as practice support:
  • Mother of the Buddhas: Meditation on the Prajnaparamita Sutra by Lex Hixon
  • The Heart Attack Sutra by Karl Brunnhölzl.

Recording Access: 
All participants will have a 1-year access period to the recordings.

What is a Tara Mandala Online Program?
Tara Mandala offers online programming via live and pre-recorded curriculum that give you the opportunity to access dharma teachings, engage in guided practice, experience personal retreat and hands-on learning, while connecting with other participants through easy-to-use online platforms and an engaged community network. When needed, the program description and schedule will inform you in advance if and when a specific online session must be attended live if a direct transmission (Tib. lung) may be given. Access to recordings of all sessions will be available for additional viewing for one year. 

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we work to become an equitable, diverse and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate appropriate to your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page. 

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration
During registration, students can either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment option. If choosing the installment payment option, students will pay a 50% deposit upon registering and subsequent equal payments will be processed automatically every two-weeks. The final balance is due 14 days before the start of the program.

Deferred Payment Plans and Financial Assistance
Tara Mandala offers two types of financial assistance: Deferred Payment Plans and Scholarships. You may apply for one or both of these types of assistance. Read the terms carefully as outlined on the financial aid application. Please see this page for further information.

Offering dana to the teacher: The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here. 

Sustaining Sangha:
If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Online Program discount to this course. To learn more about Sustaining Sangha membership, benefits, and discounts, click here. 

Click Here for Our Online Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

PROGRAM SCHEDULE
The live sessions of the program are listed below. All times are Mountain Standard Time.  Please use this link to see how this daily schedule translates into your timezone.

Saturday, November 9, 2024 
9:00am-11:30am (MST)(15 min break included): Opening Gathering
12:30pm-3:00pm (MST)(15 min break included): Teachings & Oral Transmission (Tib. lung – students must attend live to receive the oral transmission)

Sunday, November 10, 2024 
9:00am-11:30am (MST)(15 min break included): Teachings
12:30pm-3:00pm (MST)(15 min break included): Closing Session