Datuk Charlie reiterated the essence of the Buddha’s teachings – “Avoid Evil, Do Good and Purify the Mind”.

On Sunday 2 August, devotees gathered joyfully at Nalanda Centre, our spiritual home, for the weekly learning and practice of the Dhamma.  We were honoured to welcome Datuk Charlie Chia for an engaging sharing on “Practical Buddhism”, one of the topics from the late Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda’s Dhamma Series.

In his talk, Datuk Charlie reiterated the essence of the Buddha’s teachings – “Avoid Evil, Do Good and Purify the Mind”.  Through practical examples, he reminded that the Buddha’s teachings are not merely to be studied, but to be investigated, experienced, and lived.   As lay disciples, we cultivate a balanced and meaningful life by taking refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, observing the Five Precepts, understanding kamma, and applying the Four Noble Truths and Noble Eightfold Path to respond wisely to challenges in life.

Cultivation of the mind through meditation.

Offering of items while reflecting on the meaning.

Communal chanting with harmony.

He also encouraged the cultivation of the Four Sublime States – loving-kindness (mettā), compassion (karuṇā), appreciative joy (muditā), and equanimity (upekkhā).  Together with contentment, humility, patience, generosity, and spiritual friendship, these wholesome qualities help us to navigate life’s changing conditions with wisdom and compassion.

May we continue strengthening the foundations of dāna, sīla, and bhāvanā, bringing the Dhamma into our work, family life, and daily interactions for the welfare and happiness of ourselves and others.

Everyone was listening attentively to Datuk Charlie.

Group discussions to deepen the Dhamma learning.

Host shared upcoming programmes to the congregation.