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~ Discussion & inquiry ~ Sanskrit text translation |
Dharma discussion and inquiry, in addition to silence, are essential
to the heart's unfolding. Optional teacher-facilitated discussions
are based on the direct experience of participants in an atmosphere
of caring and simplicity. Group and one-to-one interviews with
teachers allow questions to be aired and explored, to adapt general
instructions to individuals, and to practice deep listening to
self and to others. Unlike the discussions, these twice-weekly
interviews are required of all participants.
In the text translation class, Ajay Singh, a Sanskrit scholar
and original thinker, leads a discussion based on his direct translation
of one of the great Sanskrit scriptures. In previous retreats
we have looked into such classics as Yoga Vasisht, Bhagavad
Gita, or Patanjal Yogasutra.
The text, however, simply stimulates conversation and reflection
on one's own experience. Our purpose is to deepen our own understanding,
rather than to attempt to create a "perfect" translation.
Those who haven't had the privilege of studying ancient texts
through direct translation may be surprised at the subtlety of
the Sanskrit language, and therefore the range of English words
which can be used to translate a single Sanskrit word depending
on the context. Ajay deliberately uses unusual or surprising English
words to challenge the listener, stop us from assuming too quickly
that we understand.
Those who have been more focused on Buddhist scriptures,will probably
be surprised how similar some Buddhist and "Hindu" techniques
and wisdom are.
*The class is optional.
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