This retreat will emphasize the application of both the Jhanas (Meditative Absorptions) and Metta (Lovingkindness) as part of a regular sitting practice. The Jhanas are a method of one-pointed concentration taught in the Theravadan Buddhist tradition. Metta is the first and foundational practice of the four wholesome mind states known as the Brahma Viharas (Divine Abodes). The retreat will focus on teaching the Jhanas for the purpose of enhancing insight practice. Several topics for insight practice will be discussed, including Dependent Origination. The retreat also will focus on deepening Metta practice for the purpose of enhancing the practices of Compassion, Altruistic Joy, and Equanimity, the other three Brahma Viharas. Pre-requisite: this retreat is for experienced meditators who previously have attended at least 2 one-week or longer silent meditation retreats.

This will be a virtual retreat. There will be 2 Zoom talks a day and everyone will have 3 one-on-one teacher interviews over the length of the retreat. You will be expected to spend 6 to 8 hours each day doing a combination of sitting and walking meditation.  Southern Dharma’s meditation hall will be available virtually throughout the retreat, and students will be invited to meditate with their videos on as personal circumstances allow. 

Noble Silence (aka Noble Non Communication): This retreat will have a large Samādhi (concentration, indistractability) component. In order for you to be able to generate sufficient Samādhi to experience the jhana states, it is important that you eliminate (or at least seriously minimize) communication with the outside world (i.e. anyone and anything not associated with this retreat). As with all retreats, you will get out of this one in proportion to what you put into it.

Tentative Retreat Schedule