“In this meditation, we combine our breathing with the recitation of the mantra OM AH HUM, which is called the ‘mantra of all Buddhas.’” - The New Meditation Handbook, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

 

Generally, the purpose of breathing meditation is for calming the mind and to reduce distractions before engaging in a practical meditation, such as any of the meditations on the stages of the path to enlightenment. A simple breathing meditation will help us do this, but the meditation explained in this retreat also performs many other functions.

 

All Buddhas are contained within three groups: vajra body, vajra speech, and vajra mind. The mantra of vajra body is OM, the mantra of vajra speech is AH, and the mantra of vajra mind is HUM. Therefore, if we recite these three letters with faith, we will receive the blessings of the body, speech, and mind of all Buddhas.

 

In this introductory retreat, Gen Norbu will introduce and guide a special breathing meditation in which we combine our breathing with the recitation of the mantra OM AH HUM.

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Schedule

10-11:15am   Session 1

11:45am-1pm   Session 2

1-2:30pm   Lunch

2:30-3:45pm   Session 3

About the Teacher

Gen Kelsang Norbu was ordained in 2006 by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, and was requested by him to be the Resident Teacher of KMC North Carolina. He earned the title “Gen” in 2012, indicating that he is a senior ordained teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition of modern Buddhism.

Gen Norbu is known for his loving and gentle nature and holds a very clear and sharp understanding of Buddha’s teachings. Through his teachings and his personal example, Gen Norbu shows us how to integrate Buddha's teachings into our daily life.