Heart Sutra and Emptyness 17 – 19 OCT 2025
Heart Sutra and Emptyness
In-depth Study Weekend with Lama Jigme Namgyal
Delve into the profound insights into emptiness in the Heart Sutra with the approachable and interactive teachings of Lama Jigmé. This weekend aligns with the center’s commitment to making complex spiritual teachings accessible to everyone. “For those who cannot attend in person due to special circumstances and have contacted Khandrola in advance, the recordings will be available for a month after the event.” The Buddha’s teachings have one goal: the attainment of liberation, or enlightenment. Liberation in Buddhism means escaping the prison of our conditioned self-image, the automatic assumptions about who we are, what we think, and how we experience the world. This is only possible when our perception—everything we experience internally and externally—radically transforms. From simple mindfulness practices to the most advanced Vajrayana yogas, all Buddhist methods are designed to support this liberating transformation.
Those who succeed in this inner shift experience reality as it truly is, in its pure, unfiltered form. This open, naked awareness is free from all bias and ignorance. The Buddha realized this state of being some 2,500 years ago under the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya. What he discovered, he called “emptiness”; śūnyatā. That may sound abstract or even pessimistic, but the opposite is true. Emptiness means that nothing is fixed; that every moment is fresh, open, and full of potential. The nature of this reality, emptiness, is regarded in Mahayana Buddhism as a universal law. As part of the “Perfection of Wisdom” sutras, the Heart Sutra conveys the insight into emptiness in a truly unparallel way, with just a few words. Yet despite that brevity, it expresses the deepest and most subtle realization that is possible. During this retreat weekend, Lama Jigmé will give accessible and clear teachings on the Heart Sutra and the insight into emptiness. His explanation, rooted in the living Vajrayana tradition, makes this topic tangible and relevant, both for those who are new to Buddhism and for long-time practitioners.
Understanding this topic helps to develop a broader perspective. It opens the mind and helps us to approach daily experiences, whether pleasant or painful, good or bad, with more context, understanding, and wisdom. That is not only liberating, but can contribute to everyone’s happiness. You are warmly invited to join this special weekend.
Practical information
Location: Phuntsok Chö Ling, Oostkousdijk 17B, 3024 CL Rotterdam.
Online: Online participation is also possible. You will receive the link immediately after registration.
(to watch recordings afterwards please register first, then contact khandrola@phuntsokcholing.org).
Times: October 17, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Tempel open 7:00 PM), other days 09:00 AM – 13:00 AM
Lunch: Coffee, tea & snack (lunch not included).
Language: English.
Price: See options when registering.
Registration Link: https://my.phuntsokcholing.org/shop/event?wsID=264