Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from meditation?

No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhism is a non-evangelical religion.

Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith, or to none.

Do I need to have experience in meditation or Buddhism to attend the classes?

No. All you need is the wish to improve yourself and the quality of your life.

What do I need to bring to class?

If you wish to take notes, please bring a pen and notepad.

What is the cost of the classes?

Class fees are $10 per class. Chanted prayers (pujas) are free. Workshops, retreats, and empowerments are priced according to the event.

Monthly Membership: For $60 a month, you can become a Supporting Member of Dharmapala Buddhist Center. This includes all formal program classes offered during the month.

These fees directly support the Center activities. As a nonprofit organization, fees for classes and individual donations are our only source of income.

What if I don't have money and I want to go to a class?

Everyone can participate in the classes regardless of ability to pay.

How should I dress for class?

Dress comfortably.

What relevance does Buddhism have to the US now and to my life?

Although Buddhism first appeared in India over two and a half thousand years ago, it has a timeless and universal relevance. In a nutshell, Buddha explained that all our problems arise from confused and negative states of mind. He taught methods for ridding the mind of these destructive states and thereby realizing true happiness and fulfillment. These methods work for any mind, in any country, in any age.

Who do Buddhists worship, and why?

Buddhists regard all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas as perfect guides and role models, and as such naturally develop faith in them and rely upon them as Spiritual Guides.

As a meditator approaches, and eventually attains, enlightenment he or she develops extraordinary mental powers. These include the ability to bless receptive minds with powerful transforming energy that greatly accelerates the process of mental development. For this reason, Buddhists try through meditation, prayer, and various ritual practices to communicate with enlightened beings and receive their transforming blessings.

Is the NKT part of Tibetan Buddhism?

No. The New Kadampa Tradition is a global Buddhism. Just as the Tibetans faithfully adopted the practices taught to them by the great Indian masters and adapted it to their own culture, so Geshe Kelsang encourages people from all ethnic backgrounds to adopt the wisdom and compassion of Buddha and put it into practice in a way that suits their particular culture.