About the Class

Vajrayana Buddhism is not one thing. Rather, it is a rich tapestry of the vibrant spiritual and intellectual traditions that arose due to particular circumstances and the brilliance of their founders, teachers and practitioners. Looked at from the perspective of the Ri-mé (non-sectarian) Movement of Tibet, each is an invaluable expression of the Buddha’s wisdom and skillful means. Being aware of the distinct character of each tradition enriches one’s own practice, experience and knowledge, deepening one’s appreciation for the entire Buddhist tradition.

This series will cover The Eight Chariots, the major practice lineages of Vajrayana Buddhism as transmitted into Tibet from India. Each class will cover the history of the lineage and its main teachers, and include an introduction to the basic teachings and practices of that tradition.

Classes & Speakers

This course will feature individual speakers for each class, each with particular expertise, knowledge and experience in the tradition they are speaking on.

Class 1: The Eight Chariots and the Roots of the Ri-mé Movement with Sarah Harding // Class 2: Nyingma lineage with Daniel Hirshberg // Class 3: Kadampa and Gelukpa lineages with Thupden Jinpa // Class 4: Sakya lineage with Khenpo Kunga Sherap // Class 5: Marpa Kagyu lineage with Elizabeth Callahan // Class 6: Shangpa lineage with Sarah Harding // Class 7: Zhi-je & Chöd lineages with Charlotte Rotterdam // Class 8: Jo Druk (Kalachakra) with Michael Sheehy // Class 9: Sadhana of Mahamudra Feast

Class Format

Class Format: opening chants, brief meditation practice, presentation, questions and discussion, ending chants. Each class will run two hours. There will be weekly links provided to the recordings of the classes. The class will conclude with an online practice with feast offering of The Sadhana of Mahamudra.

Cost & Registration Deadline

The cost of The Eight Chariots series is $125. The registration deadline is April 11, 2025.

Send any questions to [email protected]