Contemplating the early Teachings: exploring the suttas from the Pali Canon

Price Options:

Basic rate: £129

Standard rate: £139

Supporter rate: £149

Theme: 

In this programme we will reflect on a selection of suttas (discourses) from the Pali Canon.

The Suttas (translated as “threads” or “discourses”) are the recorded teachings and sermons of the Buddha and some of his close disciples, preserved in the Pāli Canon.

The collections of Suttas are one of the three main divisions of the Pāli Canon (called the Tipiṭaka = the “Three Baskets”):

1. Vinaya Piṭaka – Monastic rules and discipline
2. Sutta Piṭaka – Discourses of the Buddha and his disciples
3. Abhidhamma Piṭaka – Philosophical and analytical texts

The Sutta Piṭaka is divided into five collections (Nikāyas), each with its own character and focus. In this course, over five different sessions, each teacher will explore a particular discourse and its relevance for us today - opening the session for questions and reflections from the group.

This collection can provide context for the path we are on, inspire us and engage more fully with the early teachings that offer a path to understanding and awakening.

Who is this for?

This course is for people who are interested in learning about the teachings in their original format and being able to reflect, interpret and discuss them alongside peers. It would suit people who already have some knowledge of the Buddha’s teachings and a meditation practice.

Course shedule:

Week 1: Sutta 34 of the Middle Length Discourses: The Shorter Discourse on the Cowherd
With Antonia Sumbundu

Week 2: Sutta 19 & 20 of the Middle Length Discourses: Two Kinds of Thought and The Removal of Distracting Thoughts.
With Christina Feldman

Week 3: Sutta TBD
With Jaya Rudgard

Week 4: Sutta TBD
With Antonia Sumbundu

Week 5: Sutta TBD
With Jaya Rudgard

Praise for our teachers:

“This is the best course on Buddhism I have done. Excellent content but above all Christina and Jaya were inspirational. The way they explained ideas and related them to everyday life was wonderful.” – Participant of Seven Factors of Awakening course with Christina and Jaya

“It is so nice to be exposed to teachers of their calibre and trustworthiness. Antonia Sumbundu was outstanding: it was a great pleasure to be introduced to her. I wish she was local so we could visit over tea once in a while.” – Dhammapada course participant with Christina and Antonia

“I especially appreciated listening to experienced practitioners and teachers…. With wisdom and humour, they reminded us that the practice is about life as it is lived right now, not about some far-off state we are striving towards.” – Dhammapada course participant with Christina and Antonia

“I can’t sing Jaya’s praises highly enough. For me personally I learn well from her and gravitate towards her. She’s very personable, humble, and explains things really well. I love her as a teacher.” – Stillness Flowing participant, with Jaya

Schedule: 

5 consecutive Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 pm GMT, on October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th 2026. 

Recordings:

Since this is not a progressing course and sessions don't need to be attended in the 'right' order, the recordings will be shared in a bundle at the end of the course.

Suitability:

Open to all - new and experienced practitioners alike.

 Cost:

• The price includes a fee for the teachers, no additional dana will be requested. 
• Possibility to pay a supporter rate by selecting the option available on the registration form. 
• If you are unable to afford the our basic course rate, please contact us here. We will make sure that no one is turned away because of lack of funds

Teachers:

[sc name="antonia-sumbundu"]

[sc name="christina-feldman"]

[sc name=jaya-karen-rudgard]