Singapore Buddhist Calendar
2004 AD ( 2548 BE ) ACTIVITIES
July 2004
| DATE | VENUE | ACTIVITIES |
Jul 01
to
Jul 15
7.30PM | Buddhist Fellowship | Sangye Khadro's Talks: Lam Rim - The Gradual Path to Enlightenment
One of the Global Conference speakers, Venerable Sangye Khadro will be giving a series of talks on "Lam Rim - The Gradual Path to Enlightenment" on the following dates:
- 1st July (Thur)
- 6th July (Tue)
- 8th July (Thur)
- 13th July (Tue)
- 15th July (Thur)
 The Speaker: Venerable Sangye Khadro is a nun from the Tibetan Vajrayana tradition. A Catholic before she became a Buddhist, she was born in California , USA. She has a best selling book "How To Meditate".
The above talks will be held at
Venue: Buddhist Fellowship Centre,
No.9 Lor 29 Geylang,
#04-02, Singapore 388065
Time: at 7:30pm.
Dana offering will commence at 7pm, everyone is encouraged to bring a small dish for this "pot-luck" gathering.
You are welcome to invite your friends along.
For further enquires please call BF centre at 68426422 or email. bfellow@singnet.com.sg
All are welcome |
| Jul 04 | Viriya Community Services | Viriya Flag Day Needs Volunteers
Viriya Community Services (VCS) is a voluntary welfare (charitable) organisation registered under The Societies Act. It is also an approved charity organisation under The Charities Act and the community service arm of Leong Hwa Monastery, a Buddhist temple.
VCS invites you to help out in our Fund Raising Event:
Viriya Flag Day 2004
Date: 3rd July 2004
Time: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Volunteers will be stationed islandwide to raise funds for the needy.
Please do your part for them; every single cent counts towards our cause.
If you are interested in volunteering for the above event, please email to
nikki@viriya.org.sg or dionne@viriya.org.sg or contact us @ 67951008.
Viriya Community Services aims to bring joy and enhance the quality of life by providing care and assistance to families and individuals in need of support regardless of race and religion.
All are welcome |
Jul 04
to
Nov 23 | Kong Meng San Monastery | Basic Buddhism Course (20 lessons)
The Basic Buddhism Course is a popular ongoing course held on Sunday mornings at the temple and Tuesday evenings at Awareness Place Meditation Centre in the town area. This course, which is designed for the busy Singaporeans, carefully integrates and balances Dharma theory and meditation practice.
Contents @ a Glance:
- Good, Evil & Purity
- Human:The 5 aggregates
- Life of The Buddha
- Four Noble Truth
- Four Sublime States
- 31 Realms of Existence
- Karma and Rebirth
- Dependent Orignation
- Laymen Codes of Conduct
- The Lion's Roar Discourse
- Theravada and Mahayana
- Intro to Vajrayana
- 7 wks after Enlightenment
- The Buddha's Daily Routine
- Females Diciples: Yasodhara
- Buddha's Ministry
- Meditation Instructions
- Pali Chanting
- Foundations of Mindfulness
Find out more details about Basic Buddhism Course.
The course is conducted by Brother Richard (Vajiro) Chia, who is an experienced Dharma teacher who had taught hundreds of students, is well known for his ability to bring the Dharma across in layman terms using everyday life examples. He is also a very skillful meditation teacher, able to give detailed meditation instructions and troubleshoot intricate meditation mistakes.
City Area:
APMC
6 Jul - 23 Nov 2004 Tue
7.30pm ~ 9.30pm
KMSPKS Monastery
4 Jul - 21 Nov 2004 Sun
9.00 -11.00am
Dharma Hall
Register for City Area
Download Form , fill in, and email us apmc@awarenessplace.com
Register for KMSPKS
Download Form, fill in, and email us web@kmspks.org
Enquiries:
web@kmspks.org
Fees:
$20 @ Kong Meng San Monastery
$60 @ Awareness Place Meditation Centre/ City Area
[Nominal fee to support printing of course materials, rent and utility expenses, Students and NS men are exempted.}
See Also:
Sutta Discussion
Meditation Appreciation Course,
All are welcome |
| Jul 04 | Kong Meng San Monastery | Meditation Appreciation Course
This is a month long meditation appreciation class (4 lessons) held at APMC (Awareness Place Meditation Centre). It is continually repeated due to overwhelming response from the public. Lessons covered include:
Lesson 1: How to Take Care of Your Mind
Lesson 2: Who are You?
Lesson 3: Practice in Daily Life
Lesson 4: Development of the Path
Contents @ a Glance:
Definitions of Evil,
Good & Pure
What are the Five Aggregates?
How to Practice in Daily Life
Practising the Four Sublime States
Eleven Benefits of Loving Kindness
Eight Worldly Conditions
Meditation Instructions
Meditation on Loving-Kindness
Meditation on Impurities of the Body
Concentration Meditation Insight Meditation
Find out more details about MAC
The course is conducted by Brother Richard (Vajiro) Chia, who is an experienced Dharma teacher who had taught hundreds of students. He is well known for his ability to bring the Dharma across in layman terms using everyday life examples. He is also a very skillful meditation teacher, able to give detailed meditation instructions and troubleshoot intricate meditation mistakes.
Class @ APMC
Registration
June
OPEN for July
7.30pm-9.30pm, Fri
Registration
Download Form
and email to : apmc@awarenessplace.com
Enquiries: apmc@awarenessplace.com
6336 5067
Mon,Tue,Fri
6.30pm-9.30pm only
$20 Only
[nominal fee to support printing of course materials and utility expenses, Students and NS men are exempted }
See Also:
Basic Buddhism Course,
All are welcome |
Jul 13
to
Jul 18
7.30PM | Buddhist Fellowship | Ajahn Sujato's Talks
 Ajahn Sujato will be giving several talks at Mangala Vihara (corner of Still Rd & Eunos (2 mins from Eunos MRT) and Buddhist Fellowship Centre. The program is as follows :-
Date: 13 July, Tuesday @ 7.30-9.30pm
Topic: A Swift Pair of Messengers -
Venue :- Mangala Vihara
Date: 14 July, Wednesday @ 7.30-9.30pm
Topic:A History of Mindfulness -
Venue:- BF Centre
Date: 15 July, Thursday @ 7.30 -9.30pm
Topic:The Myth of Truth -
Venue :- Mangala Vihara
Date: 16 July, Friday @ 7.30 -9.30pm
Topic:The Cross, the Lab, and the Lotus -
Venue:- BF Centre
Date: 17 July, Saturday @ 7.30 -9.30pm
Topic:Buddhism: The way of Peace? -
Venue :- BF Centre
Date: 18 July, Sunday @ 11.00 -12.30 noon
Topic:With Unconditional Love -
Venue :- BF Centre
All are Welcome ! Dana offering at Buddhist Fellowship Centre.
Breakfast (Time) : 7am - Dates : 13 to 17 & 19 July 04 (Please note : Ajahn willbe giving talk at Wat Ananda- Dana B/F 7.30am)
18 July 04 - Dana (Breakfast) - Venue :- Wat Ananda (Address : 50-B Jalan Bt Merah) - Ajahn will be giving talk @ Wat Ananda at 9.30am &
back to Buddhist Fellowship Centre for Sunday Service.
Lunch (Time) : 11am - Dates : 13, 14, 18, 19 July 04
All are welcome |
Jul 17
to
Jul 31 | Amitabha Buddhist Centre | Venerable Robina's Talk in Singapore
A native Australian, Venerable Robina Courtin has practiced as nun for twenty-six years. She is well-known worldwide for her dynamic teaching style and depth of knowledge. She's been the editorial director of both Wisdom Publications and Mandala, a Buddhist magazine. Today she runs the Liberation Prison Project, which provides support for Buddhist practitioners in prisons in the USA and Australia.
Talks at Amitabha Buddhist Centre
Jul 17 (SAT) 4 pm This Precious Human Life: What an Opportunity
Jul 18 (SUN) 2 pm Tasting Buddha's Teaching
Jul 25 (SUN) 7.30 pm It's My Karma
Jul 31 (SAT) 4 pm Enlightment A to Z
Venue: Amitabha Buddhist Centre,
No. 3 Lorong 15, Geylang Road.
Tel: 67458 8547
Free admission, all are welcome
Public Talk at DBS Auditorium
Jul 20 (TUE) 7.30 pm Emotion & Compassion: the Heart of Healing
Jul 23 (FRI) 7.30 pm Find Happiness in Turbulent Time
Venue: 3rd Floor DBS Building Tower 1,
6 Shenton Way
Free admission, all are welcome
Course at Amitabha Buddhist Centre 'All about Karma'
- Learn the essential facts about the law of cause and effect
- Generate a clear understanding about how karma works
- Discover effective tools to accumulate merit - the cause of happiness and success
- Purify mistaken actions done in the past
- Explore ways to become adept at dealing with life most effectively
- Take control of your future
The lessons will be held on Jul 19, 22, 24, 28 and 29 at 7.30 pm.
All classes will be held at Amitabha Buddhist Centre, No. 3 Lorong 15, Geylang Road.
Note that this course is for registered students only. The course fee is $40 for members and $50 for non-members. This course is now open for registration, you can call the centre or email education@fpmtabc.org.sg for more information, or you can register and pay online at http://www.fpmtabc.org.sg the course fees cover the operational costs, teachers' expenses, and project costs.
All are welcome |
Jul 22
to
Jul 25 | Kong Meng San Monastery | Talks & Metta Retreat by Ven Mahinda & Sis Sumitra
Biography of Venerable Mahinda
Born in Malaysia, Venerable Mahinda, was ordained as a Buddhist monk in the Theravada tradition 20 years ago under the tutelage of Venerable Dr. K. Sri Dhammananda Nakaya Thera . He undertook Buddhist studies and training Sri Lanka (1977-1982) and practical Buddhist meditation under several masters in Sri Lanka, India, Burma and Thailand.
The Venerable is currently the spiritual director of Aloka Meditation Centre , Peats Ridge, New South Wales, in Australia. He has given lectures and seminars on Buddhism, meditation and its application in daily life at various high schools and universities and many community organisations
All are welcome |
| Jul 31 | Full Moon in the Chinese Sixth Lunar Month | Asalha Puja or Dhamma Day.
This commemorates the Buddha's first discourse, the Dhamma-Cakka-Pavattana Sutta (the Discourse on the Turning of the Wheel of Truth) in Sarnath (Isipatana, Benares) - the Deer Park , which he gave to the group of five monks with whom he had practised in the forest for many years. Upon hearing this discourse, one of the monks -- Ven. Kondañña -- gained his first glimpse of Nibbana, thus giving birth to the Noble Sangha. The annual rains retreat (vassa) commences the following day.
Note: At the end of this first sermon, the Venerable Kondañña became a Sotapanna (a person at the first stage of enlightenment) and then, according to the Commentaries, for example, the Commentary on Vinaya, the other four disciples became Sotapannas, one on each of the four following days. On the first day after the full-moon day in July, the monk Vappa became a Sotapanna; on the second day, Bhaddiya; on the third day, Mahanama; and on the fourth day, Assaji. After they became Sotapannas, they all asked Buddha for ordination. Buddha ordained each of them by calling to them, "Come monks." On the fifth day after the full-moon day, the Buddha assembled them and preached to them this discourse Anatta-lakkhana Sutta. -The Discourse on the Not-self Characteristic (no-soul or anatta)
( Note: Try this site which is my favourite explaination for :- NO INNER CORE - ANATTA . By Sayadaw U Silananda )
The Dhamek ( Dhammacakka ) Stupa marks the exact spot where the Buddha delivered His first Discourse Dhamma-Cakka-Pavattana Sutta at Sarnath (Isipatana, Benares) - the Deer Park. Photograph was taken from http://www.geocities.com/Athens/9449/holysite.htm |
July 31
to
Aug 01 | Buddhist Library | Dharma Day
Dharma Day 2004 - July 31 & August 01
Date: 31/7/04 (Sat)
Time:
- 7.30pm Light offering
- 8pm Chanting of Dhammacakka Sutta
- 8.30pm Dhamma Talk - Buddhism and the Spread of Buddhism during the Buddha's time and after by Prof Sumanapala.
Date: 1/8/04 (Sun)
Time:
- 10am Buddha Puja - offerings to 28 Buddhas & Chanting of Sutra of 28 Buddhas - conducted by Ven Santa of Buddhayana Society
- 11am Dhamma Talk by Ven De Yuan, Abbot of Perserverence Cottage
- 1145am Alms Offering to Maha Sangha
- 12pm Lunch will be served to participants
- 2pm Chinese Chanting & Dharma Talk
- 7.30pm Buddha Puja in English
For further details, please call TBL at 67468435 or visit Buddhist Library
All are welcome |
August 2004
| DATE | VENUE | ACTIVITIES |
| Aug 05 | Mangala Vihara | Renunciation: By Ajahn Brahmavamso
 A buddhist talk by Ajahn Brahmavamso
5 August 2004 (Thurs)
8 pm at Mangala Vihara
All are welcome
All are welcome |
Aug 08
& Aug 10 | Awareness Place Meditation Centre and 4th Floor Auditorium, Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery | Book Reading and Autograph Session and Public Talk
Book Reading + Autograph Session
Opening the Door of Your Heart
by Ajahn Brahmavamso
Join Ajahn Brahm as he reads stories from his new book & signs autographs.
In nearly thirty years as a Buddhist monk, born and educated in the West but trained in the Thai forest tradition, Ajahn Brahm has gathered many poignant, funny and profound stories. In this collection of teaching stories are many true-to-life tales, which are used to launch into a deeper exposition of mindfulness, wisdom, love and compassion. In each story the raw edge of truth is evident. Told with wit and wisdom, these tales reveal the qualities of devotion, humility and diligence. They also expose moments of insight, wisdom and compassion in the lives of ordinary people.
Sun 8th Aug 2004, 3.30-4.30pm
Awareness Place (Bras Basah)
Blk 231 Bain Street, #01-63
Bras Basah Complex, Singapore 180231
For enquiries, call Cheryl at 6553 1915 or cheryl@kmspks.org
The Idiot
Someone calls you an idiot. Then you start thinking, ‘How can they call me an idiot? They’ve got no right to call me an idiot! How rude to call me an idiot! I’ll get them back for calling me an idiot! And you suddenly realise that you have just let them call you an idiot another four times.
Every time you remember what they said, you allow them to call you an idiot. Therein lies the problem.
If someone calls you an idiot and you immediately let it go, then it doesn’t bother you. There is the solution.
Why allow other people to control your inner happiness?
- Ajahn Brahm
**********************
Ajahn Brahm will be giving a PUBLIC TALK on Opening The Door To Your Heart and launching his book at
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery
4th Floor Auditorium
Date:Tuesday 10 August.
All are welcome |
Aug 05
to
Oct 20 | Brahm Education Centre | Brahm Education Centre Courses
1. Meditation & Overcoming Negative Emotions
Saturday class - commencing 21 August 2004, 3pm -4.30pm
Friday class - commencing 10 Sept 2004, 7.30pm - 9pm
see details
2. Meditation for Beginners
Wednesday class - commencing 20 Oct 2004, 7.45pm - 9pm
see details
3. Yoga for Beginners
Monday class - commencing 4 Oct 2004, 8pm - 9.15pm
Thursday class - commencing 7 Oct 2004, 6.30pm - 7.45pm
Saturday class - commencing 2 Oct 2004, 11.30am - 12.45pm
see details
4. Yoga Intermediate
Thursday class - commencing 7 Oct 2004, 8pm - 9.15pm
Saturday class - commencing 2 Oct 2004, 9.45am - 11.00am
see details
5. Communication Through Art and Colours
Every Wednesday & Friday - commencing 15 Sept 2004, 7pm - 10pm
see details
6. Buddhist Psychology
Every Thursday - commencing 5 August 2004, 7pm - 10pm
see details
7. Who is Driving your Career
One full day - 23 August 2004, 9am - 6pm
Every Monday - commencing 23 August 2004, 7pm - 9pm
see details
Should you need any assistance, please drop us an email : brahmec@singnet.com.sg or call 6745 5007.
Brahm Education Centre
No. 9 Lorong 29 Geylang
#04-02 Singapore 388065
Tel : 6745 5007
Fax : 6842 6255
Email : brahmec@singnet.com.sg
Website : http://www.brahmec.com
All are welcome |
Aug 05
to
Aug 10 | Buddhist Fellowship | 6-DAY RETREAT IN SINGAPORE
Ajahn Brahm will be conducting a 6-day retreat at Sentosa in Singapore from 5 - 10 August 2004. Twin sharing room with attached bathroom will be $325 and triple sharing hut will be $195 with full board. We will be advising when registration opens for this.
All are welcome |
Aug 05
to
Oct 07 | Brahm Education Centre | Buddhist Psychology
Dates (Thursdays)
Aug 5, 12, 19,26 Sept 2,9,16,23,30 Oct 7 (2004)
Class Times
7pm - 10pm
Course Fee
$450
To Register
Please call or email Annah Lee @ annahlee@brahmec.com.sg
Website :
http://www.brahmec.com
What Is In The Course?
This course will provide an understanding of the self-healing process to regain and maintain emotional health. A growing number of modern-day psychotherapists are incorporating Buddhist Psychology into their techniques, practice and lives. We will examine the reasons for this.
This course is based on Buddhist psychology found in early Buddhism and meditation methods. It will cover the mind-body framework; the nature of blocked emotions; origin of sexuality; emotions and emotional self-defence, mindfulness, problems of religious cults and essential interpersonal skills to succeed in life.
A wide range of background readings and notes on Early Buddhist Suttas on mind-healing will be provided. This is the first course of its kind in the region.
Course Syllabus
- Healing Yourself. Buddhist psychotherapy as a way of life. Psychological aspects of Buddhism.
- Minding the Body. The psycho-physical aggregates: the nature of the body-mind interaction.
- Blocked Emotions. Overcoming mental hindrances: clearing mental clutter through self-examination.
- Master-Minding. Overcoming distracting thoughts and thinking straight.
- Dealing with Sexuality. suffering of men and the suffering of women.
- The Art of Loving. Dealing with one's negative emotions and learning to love oneself.
- Emotional Self-defence. Dealing with negative emotions. Psychological defence mechanisms
- Just Looking. Dealing with one's deeper emotions through focus of mindfulness.
- The Shadow of Religion. The problem of cults & cult figures. Charisma and self-empowerment.
- The Middle of the Middle Way. Dealing with problems vs. people. Change as a healing process.
Who Should Attend This Course?
Teachers, supervisors, managers, care-givers, counsellors and anyone interested in healing one-self as well offering help to others in need of emotional support and counselling.
Office:
9 Lor 29 Geylang #04-02 Singapore 388065
Training Facility:
15 Lor 29 #05-01,
Singapore 388069
Phang Clan Association Building
Phone 6745 5007
Fax: 6842 6255
Email: brahmec@singnet.com.sg
Lecturer:
 Piya Tan is a full time lecturer and researcher in early Buddhism. He spent many years practicing as a Therevada monk before returning to lay life. He has run numerous Buddhist and meditation courses and retreats since 1980's. In 1992 he taught meditation at the University of Berkeley USA. Currently he is working on a translation of the Pali Sutras. He conducts courses at the Buddhist Fellowship, Brahm Education Centre, the Singapore Buddhist Federation and local tertiary institutions.
All are welcome |
| Aug 07 | Lecture Theatre LTQ-7, Nanyang Polytechnic Buddhist Society | Dharma Talk by Venerable Dhammaratana - What is Buddhism?
Date: Saturday, August 7, 2004
Time: 9:45AM
Venue:LTQ-7
Guest-Of-Honor:Ven Dhammaratana
Born in Sri Lanka,Venerable B Dhammaratana arrived in Singapore
in 1971 at the invitation of a Buddhist Society.Ever since he
become well known for his effort to promote Buddhism.
So join him for an exciting talk on this Saturday
All are welcome |
Aug 07
to
Aug 08 | | Dharma Talks by Dharma Master Heng Tsung
Dharma Talks by Dharma Master Heng Tsung
from DRBA - The Sagely City of Ten Thousand Buddhas, U.S.A.
Venue: Buddhist Books Distribution Center
203B Lavender Street, Singapore 338763
Tel: 62930928 / 90284757
Time: 7pm to 9pm
All are welcome |
| Aug 08 | Singapore Buddhist Federation | Blood Donation Drive
Singapore Buddhist Federation Celebrates Singapore's 39 Years of Nation Building
Blood Donation Drive
Date: Sun 8 Aug 2004
Time: 10am to 3pm
Venue: Singapore Buddhist Federation
(in compound of Maha Bodhi Primary School),
12 Ubi Avenue
Enquiries: 6744 4635 / 6744 4159
Do a good deed this National Day!
By donating our blood this National Day, not only are we practising Dana (giving), we are also showing gratitude to all sentient beings and our country. For in Buddhism, we speak of the fourfold embodiment of blessings in our lives (our parents, our country, all sentient beings, the triple gems).
WHO can donate blood?
- Anyone is between 16 and 60 years old
- Anyone who weighs at least 45kg
- Anyone who feels well (with no coughs, colds or flus) and has not taken any form of medication/drugs/alcohol at least three days prior to donating blood
HO cannot donate blood?
- Anyone who is suffering from Hepatitis A and/or B and/or C
- Anyone who is suffering from AIDS or who is HIV positive
- Anyone who has visited United Kingdom between 1980 and 1996 for a period of 3 months or more
- Anyone who has stayed in France from 1980 till the present
- Anyone who has multiple sex partners
- Anyone who engages in casual sex
WHAT you must bring:
- For Singaporeans & PR: NRIC, Blood Donor's Card (if you have)
- For foreigners, please bring along your employment pass or work permit. If you have a card verifying that you can be blood donors, please bring it along.
How to get there:
Buses: 8, 15, 22, 25, 51, 61,63, 65, 66, 93, 94, 854
Nearest MRT is Eunos, proceed to bus interchange to take bus no 63
All are welcome |
| Aug 08 | Buddhist Library | Special 8 precepts ceremony
Eight Precepts Observance on National Day - 9 AUG 2004 By Ven B Dhammaratana
Venue: The Buddhist Library - Auditorium
Date: 9 Aug 2004 (Monday, National Day)
Time: 8am - 8pm
Regn: The Buddhist Library,
2 Lor 24A Geylang
S'pore 398526
Tel: 67468435 Fax: 67417689
The observance of the Eight Precepts on special occasions has long been a traditional Buddhist practise. The precepts are the basis of any Buddhist's life and the 8 Precepts are especially meaningful in reminding us of the importance of morality in purifying our body and mind.
This National Day (Aug 9, Monday) Ven B Dhammaratana (Bhante) will be administering a special Eight Precept Ceremony. The practice will include noble silence and special Meditation sessions as well as Dhamma teachings. The precepts will be administered at 8am with the reversion to the 5 precepts in the evening.
Registration is opened now and as seats are limited, please register early to avoid disappointment!
(Usual Registration is at $30 and will include meals (Breakfast & Lunch).
Dana offering is also available on that day.
For further details, please call TBL at 67468435 or visit Buddhist Library
All are welcome |
Aug 12
to
Aug 14 | Faculty Lounge (AS7, Level 1), The Shaw Foundation Building, National University of Singapore. By Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore | Exploring Theravada Studies:
Intellectual Trends and the Future of a Field of Study
Location:
Faculty Lounge (AS7, Level 1)
The Shaw Foundation Building
National University of Singapore
Organized by:
Asia Research Institute
National University of Singapore
The Shaw Foundation Building
AS7, Level 4, 5 Arts Link
Singapore 117570
Tel (65) 6874 3810, (65) 6779 1428
Website: http://www.ari.nus.edu.sg/conf2004/theravada.htm
DAY 1: Thursday, August 12, 2004
10:30-11:00 am
Tea & Registration
11:00-11:15 am
Opening Welcome
11:15-12:15 pm
Keynote Address John Holt (Bowdoin College, USA) “Theravada Now and Then”
Break
1:15-2:00 pm
Panel 1 - On the Very Idea of Therav?da Buddhism
- - Peter Skilling (Lumbini International Research Institute, Bangkok) “An Embarrassment of Categories: Theravada, Hinayana, Mahayana, and Other Old Friends” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: t.b.a.)
Break
2:15-3:45 pm
Panel 2 - Buddhist Identities: What Are Monks, Novices, and Nuns?
- - Jeffrey Samuels (Western Kentucky University, USA) “The Practical Life of a Novice: Locating a Middle Way between Precept and Practice in the Study of Theravada Buddhism" Suwanna Satha-Anand (Chulalongkorn University, Thailand) “Truth over Convention: The Female Ordination Debate in Contemporary Theravada Thailand” Hiroko Kawanami (University of Lancaster, UK) “Contemporary Position of Buddhist Nuns in Burma: The Politics of Sasana-pyu” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Maria Heim)
Break
4:15-5:00 pm
Panel 3 - Ethics and Giving
- - Maria Heim (Amherst College, USA) “Recent Theravada Contributions to Buddhist Ethics” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Frank Reynolds)
DAY 2: Friday, August 13, 2004
Morning Tea 9:00-9:30 am
9:30-10:45 am
Panel 4 - Money and Its Circulation
- - Guy Lubeigt (National Center for Scientific Research, France) “Theravada Buddhism and Money: Myanmar's Paradigm” Leslie Gunawardana, t.b.a. Discussion (Semi-formal Response: John Holt)
Break
11:00-12:15 pm
Panel 5 - The Writings of History
- - Jacques Leider (Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient, Yangon) “Text, Lineage and Tradition: The Struggle for Norms and Religious Legitimacy under King Bodawphaya (1782-1819)” Sujatha Meegama (University of California, Berkeley, USA) “Representing and Invoking a Theravada Buddhist Past: 'History Paintings' at the Dambulla Cave Temple in Sri Lanka” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Himanshu Prabha Ray)
Break
2:00-3:15 pm
Panel 6 - The Archaeological Contribution
- - Himanshu Prahba Ray (Jawaharlal Nehru University, India) “Alexander Cunningham (1814-1893) and the Archaeology of Buddhist Sites in India” Michel Lorrillard (Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient, Vientiane) “The Spread of Buddhism in Southeast Asia: Insights from Lao Archaeology” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Leslie Gunawardana)
Break
3:30-4:45 pm
Panel 7 - Facing Modernity: Trends in Thai Buddhism
- - Ven. Sugandha (Mahamakut Buddhist University, Thailand) “A Modern Trend of Study of Buddhism in Thailand: King Mongkut and Dhammayutikanikaya” Pattana Kitiarsa (Asia Research Institute, Singapore) “Monk, Medium, and Mo Tham: Supernaturalism and Popular Buddhism in Contemporary Thailand " Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Louis Gabaude)
Break
7:00-9:30 pm Movie Viewing “Mekhong Full Moon Party” A Thai movie by Jira Malikul (2002) Presentation by Pattana Kitiarsa
DAY 3: Saturday, August 14, 2004
Morning Tea (9:00-9:30 am)
9:30-11:00 am
Panel 8 - Reading Texts
- - Mun-Keat Choong (University of New England, Australia) “The Importance of Pali-Chinese Comparison in the Study of Pali Suttas” Carol Anderson (Kalamazoo College, USA) “Producing Theravada Doctrines. Early Buddhism and Scholarly Constructions of Buddhist Texts and Practices” Guillaume Rozenberg (Asia Research Institute, Singapore) “Anthropology and the Buddhological Imagination: Reconstructing The Invisible Life of Texts” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: t.b.a.)
Break
11:15-12:30 pm
Panel 9 - When 'Buddhists' Study Theravada Buddhism
- - Louis Gabaude (Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient, Chiang Mai) “Is the 'Study' of Buddhism Possible for a Thai Theravada Monk? Some Observations from the Last Fifty Years” Asanga Tilakaratne (University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka) “Buddhist Studies in Sri Lanka: Present Trends and Future Possibilities” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Justin McDaniel)
Break
2:00-3:15 pm
Panel 10 - Abhidhamma: Its Roles and Teaching in Theravadin Societies
- - Justin McDaniel (University of California, Riverside, USA) “Theravada Philosophy 101: Teaching the Abhidhamma in Thailand from 1569 to the Present” Jason Carbine (University of Chicago, USA) “The Role of the Abhidhamma in the Field of Theravada Studies: A Perspective from Burma / Myanmar” Discussion (Semi-formal Response: Peter Skilling)
Break
3:30-4:30 pm
Closing Explorations
- - Frank Reynolds (University of Chicago, USA) “Theravada Now and Beyond” Discussion
Break
5:00-7:00 pm
Visit to Buddhist Temples
7:00-9:00 pm
Final Dinner
All are welcome |
Aug 19
to
Aug 21 | Esplanade Theatre. By Musical On Stage | Mandarin musical: Above Full Moon
The original team behind Siddhartha - The Musical, presents
another full-length Mandarin musical
Above Full Moon
- The legendary life of Master Hong Yi
19 – 21 August 2004, Esplanade Theatre
After its highly successful premiere last weekend at the Putra Indoor Stadium at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which attracted over 11000 audiences, the well-received full-length Mandarin musical Above Full Moon will perform at the Esplanade Theatre from 19 to 21 August, 2004.
The pursuit and display of perfection in life
Above Full Moon is a broadway-styled Mandarin musical depicting the life of Li Shu Tong, also known as Master Hong Yi. He is a legendary figure in modern history of Chinese arts, culture as well as religion. Before the age of 39, he was a talented young artist known as Li Shu Tong. Being one of the pioneers who introduced western art into China, he was a founding member of the first drama company in China, and was also responsible for founding the first magazine for music in China. He also penned many songs that are popular even up till today. After the age of 39, he became known as Master Hong Yi. At the height of his career, he left his worldly achievements and dedicated the rest of his life to Buddhism. This dedication saw him becoming an authoritative figure in Buddhism during his time.
Director cum scriptwriter Ho Lin Huay came across the story of Master Hong Yi by chance. She literally walked into the artistic world of Master Hong Yi, and discovered that the life of this legendary figure was a reflection of the true perfection in life. Lin Huay was so moved that she decided to pen the script for a musical based on Master Hong Yi – a first in the musical fraternity! She spent a total of three years in this writing process.
A highly entertaining visual spectacle
Above Full Moon is presented by Malaysia’s Musical On Stage Productions. It is another collaboration between director Ho Lin Huay and composer Imee Ooi, whose last collaboration in 1999 resulted in the critically acclaimed production Siddhartha - The Musical. Siddhartha first premiered in Malaysia in 1999. A year later, it was performed in Singapore to a sell-out audience. The phenomenal success of Siddhartha prompted it to be staged again in 2002 in Malaysia, and subsequently toured three cities in South Africa.
Above Full Moon brings together the original creative team and main cast of Siddhartha. This new production promises an engaging and touching drama, great musical scores, and spectacular stage and set design. Audiences will be treated to an entertaining performance made up of mainly original scores; some of the familiar legacy works of Li Shu Tong will also be featured. The various original scores are performed in a creative mix of Western symphonic orchestra, Chinese orchestra, and even some new-age music, while the dance movement consists of classical dance, modern dance, Japanese dance, Chinese dance and even martial arts.
The musical traces the life of Master Hong Yi from the age of 19 to 63. The story spans across numerous cities, including Tianjin, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Tokyo. The musical will bring to life Master Hong Yi’s experience of the turbulent and unstable social conditions prevalent at that time, his loss of his mother, a touching love story that blossoms in a foreign land, as well as heart wrenching goodbyes.
For Immediate Release – Above Full Moon Pg 2
Yang Wei Han in challenging role of Master Hong Yi
Above Full Moon brings together some of the most talented singers in Malaysia. The title role of Li Shu Tong / Master Hong Yi is played by Malaysian singer Yang Wei Han, who has earlier performed to critical acclaims the key role of the Buddha in Siddhartha - The Musical. To play the role, Wei Han not only had to shave his head, but also had to go on a special diet to lose weight. He portrays Li Shu Tong in all the different stages of life, which include playing a female role in Camille.
Despite such challenges, Wei Han remains unfazed as he is determined to adopt the same serious and disciplined approach to life typified by Master Hong Yi in his lifetime. With this in mind, Wei Han strives to give his best efforts in every role, in every play.
Leading actresses Beh Kean Horng and Chew Paul Way
Female singers Beh Kean Horng and Chew Paul Way played the roles of Mrs Li Shu Tong and his Japanese lover respectively. The two women are totally different in their personalities; one is totally trapped in feudalistic traditions, while the other is a strong willed woman willing to put aside everything in pursuit of love.
The dedication and hard work the two female singers have put into preparing for their roles will be clear from their performance. The duet by the two of them is a scene to look forward to. The scene where Chew, who plays the Japanese lover, goes to the temple to see Master Hong Yi, who in turn refuse to see any of his relatives, is a touching and technically adept scene.
Publicity in Singapore Director cum scriptwriter Ho Lin Huay, composer Imee Ooi, and the three lead actors Yang Wei Han, Chew Paul Way and Beh Kean Horng will be in Singapore to publicize the musical. Members from the media are invited to attend the publicity event. Date: 15 July 2004 (Thursday) Time: 3pm – 6pm Venue: Park View Hotel, 81 Beach Road, Art Gallery Café (1st Level) RSVP: Jeaner Toh (96937371) or Wong Han Juan (96919716)
For Immediate Release – Above Full Moon Pg 3
Notes from the play
1) The musical traces the life of Master Hong Yi from the age of 19 to 63. In all, the musical lasts two and a half hours, incorporating two halves and seventeen scenes.
2) The production was realized after 3 years of preparations, 8 months of rehearsals; the production cost is over a million Malaysian Ringgit.
3) The story spans from the times of late Qing to modern China, and happens across numerous cities, including Tianjin, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Tokyo.
4) Audiences will be treated to over 130 minutes of original scores; some of the familiar legacy works of Li Shu Tong will also be featured, including Farewell (Song Bie), Remembering the Childhood (Yi Er Shi), The Cool (Qing Liang) and A Mortal Dream (Shi Meng).
5) One of the top ten Malaysian singers Yang Wei Han will play the title role of Master Hong Yi, portraying him from age 19 to 63. The remaining 38 cast members play the other roles.
6) The production will use 300 over costumes from different periods and countries, including Qing China, modern China, and Japanese costumes.
Performance Details
To be performed in Mandarin with English subtitles
Dates: 19 – 21 August 2004, 8 pm
21 August 2004, 2.30 pm
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Ticket Price*: $80, $65, $45, $30 (for 8 pm show)
$70, $55, $40, $25 (for 2.30 pm show)
*Exclusive of SISTIC fee $2
10% discount for:
Purchase of 6 tickets and more (not applicable for $30 and $25 tickets)
Senior citizens and students
Tickets are available at all SISTIC outlets.
Ticketing Hotline: 6348-5555
Online Booking: www.sistic.com.sg
For enquiries: 6837-3767
Website: www.musicalonstage.com
For more details click here
All are welcome |
| Aug 30 | Full Moon of the Chinese Seventh Month | Ullambana Day
Most Chinese Buddhists celebrate the Full Moon of the Chinese Seventh month by having prayers, general transferring of merits to the beloved departed ones and to the wandering spirits during Ullambana Day. Read about the Ullambana Sutra. |
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