The Path of Integrity: Sappurisa, Sīla, & Virtue

Dhamma practice, as well as society, depends on integrity. Relationships become toxic when integrity is lacking. Meditation goes awry when honesty is weak. Speculations replace insights when the foundations of character and virtue are shaky. An important figure for conveying these aspects of practice is sappurisa, true persons of good character and integrity. Not necessarily enlightened and perfect, such people are the bedrock of sangha, who support us all in finding and following the noble path of awakening.

This retreat will explore fundamental themes of the path of integrity and virtue: refuge in Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha; giving, sharing, and generosity; respect and truthfulness; conscience and shying away from bad behavior; composure based in the joy of integrity; and compassion and other supreme dwellings of the heart. Such cultivation of integrity, virtue, and good character fosters resilience, the strength to meet with adversity, and the courage to shed light in the darker regions of our humanity, all in service of waking up from self-inflicted affliction and misery.

This retreat takes place within a retreat container of noble silence, quiet times for meditation, friendly sangha, and Cloud Mountain’s natural peace and beauty. Meditation suggestions will be woven throughout and reflection with the retreat’s themes will be encouraged. Please join us in strengthening the seeds of integrity and awakening already ripening in us all.

With Santikaro. The fee is tiered — $830, $630 or $530 — plus dana (offerings) to the teachers. Check-in opens at 1 pm on the first day, and the retreat ends by 11 am on the last.