The Dhammapada: The Philosophy of Buddhism

How can we stop being controlled by our thoughts, emotions, and desires?We all struggle with worry, anger, distraction, and wanting things we cannot have. Even when life is going well, our own minds can make us unhappy.The Dhammapada, one of the great texts of Buddhist philosophy, offers practical wisdom for understanding our minds, overcoming destructive habits, and finding greater peace.In this Reading Club, we’ll explore how our thoughts shape our experience, why craving and attachment lead to suffering, and how we can develop greater self-mastery.Questions we’ll explore:How can we better manage anger, anxiety, and negative thoughts?Why do we keep wanting more, even when we have enough?How can we develop greater self-control and peace of mind?What does it mean to be truly free?What to expectWe’ll begin with a brief introduction to Buddhist philosophy, followed by guided close reading and small-group discussions. Together, we’ll examine the text and consider how its teachings apply to our everyday lives.No prior knowledge is required. Everyone is welcome.