Fri
3
Apr
2026
-
Fri
17
Apr
2026
The Ten Pillars

The ten Dharmachari precepts are what an Order member lives by; they are what Bhante has called ‘the Mula Pratimoksha’ – the basic ethical code. Each of the precepts is so precious that they can be likened to ten pillars made of precious substances – diamond, gold, crystal, pearl, etc. – which provide the essential foundation for the cultivation of higher states of consciousness and the development of transcendental insight. There is no spiritual life without them.

On this retreat, we will study and practise these ‘ten pillars’ of Buddhism and life in the Order, reflecting on and discussing them in the context of our own spiritual lives.

In particular, we will be studying Bhante's book The Ten Pillars of Buddhism. This is found in volume 2 of Sangharakshita's Complete Works; you can also buy the ebook here.

Banner and thumbnail image: image created by Sebastion ©

Details and Timings

The retreat starts with dinner on the first day at 6:30pm and finishes on the final day at 10.15am.

This retreat is directly followed by the Going for Refuge Weekend Consider making the most of your visit by booking onto both retreats

Led by
The Ordination Team
Retreat Open To:
Men training for ordination & Dharmacharis
Retreat Type
GFR Retreat
Booking Availability
Only a few spaces left
Only a few spaces left
Only a few spaces left
Coming on retreat

Coming on a retreat at Padmaloka is a step into another way of being, where we temporarily take up a way of life that is more supportive of Buddhist Practice. We go forth from our ordinary circumstances, our comforts and distractions so that we can discern and move towards our ideals and help others to do so as well.When booking a retreat at Padmaloka it is important to get a sense of how you will be living here - what our customs, etiquettes and requirements for being on retreat are.

Frequently asked questions

Upcoming Retreats
17 Apr
-
19 Apr
2026
17 Apr
2026
Going for Refuge Weekend: Initiation in the Stupa
1 May
-
3 May
2026
1 May
2026
UK & Ireland Men’s Area Order Weekend: A Word on the Mantrayana
3 May
-
10 May
2026
3 May
2026
Padmasambhava Retreat
14 May
-
18 May
2026
14 May
2026
Under 35s Retreat: The Turning About in the Deepest Seat of Consciousness