Online Community Classes

DRBU Extension organizes free classes that are open to the public both in-person and online.

How do I register for classes? 

All community classes are free and open to the public (donations are welcome). Most classes require online registration.
Spring 2025 Class List  
Shurangama Mantra Review

Professor Bhikshuni Heng Chih
Tuesday 4:15-5:45pm
Registration will re-open late Jan 2025
[Class Registration]

 Starting in July, we will be starting the mantra with line 1 of the first assembly of the mantra. We will look at the Qing dynasty text by Master Xu-fa, and then exploring in detail Venerable Master Hua’s verse and prose commentaries on each set of syllables. Questions and comments from participants are welcome as we learn the meaning and functions of the mantra syllables, define technical terms, consider the content of relevant Buddhist lists, and share pertinent experiences in practice.

This is an online class.
Buddhism for the Modern Mind

Professor Douglas Powers
Wed 6:00-7:30 PM
Registration will re-open late Jan 2025
[Class Registration]

 This semester, we will study Observing the Mind, Awakening From A Dream by Ryōhen. It is a summary of the Yogâcāra –– consciousness-only system. The text explains karma, rebirth, cognition, practice, and liberation through the lens of the Yogacara system.

Location: in person at the Guest Building/old DRBU Building (Conference Room) at the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas.

Class is also be available online.
Avatamsaka Sutra: Chapter 9 and 10

Dr. Martin Verhoeven
Friday 7:30-9:00PM
Berkeley Buddhist MonasteryClass will resume in fall 2024.
[Live stream on Youtube]

 The Avatamsaka Sutra, or Flower Ornament Sutra describes a cosmos of infinite realms upon realms, mutually containing one another. The text touches on various topics such as the Bodhisattva path, the interpenetration of phenomena (dharmas), the visionary powers of meditation and the equality of things in emptiness.

Location: Class is both in person and online at Berkeley Buddhist Monastery.

This semester, we will finish with chapter 9 and will start chapter 10: “Bodhisattvas Ask for Clarification”.