04/28/2022 “Revisiting Fundamentals: The Meaning of ‘The Middle Way’” with Dennis Warren

The Historical Buddha explicitly described the three trainings of the Eight-Fold Path as “the Middle Way.” At first glance, this description seems to provide a clear and tangible guide to evaluating elements of practice: What practice represents the middle point between extremes?

Is this what is meant by this teaching? Is it that simple? What standard would we use to make this seemly straight-forward evaluation? Or is there something more? How does the notion of “the Middle Way” fit into the Buddha’s finely woven net of teachings, psychology, methods and values.

During this evening we’ll examine the historical factors that led to this teaching. The context in which it was first introduced. And practical and powerful applications which provide a more expansive basis for understanding the role of the Middle Way in practice and life. The subject matter of this evening is appropriate for all stages of practice.