We are pleased to announce the dates for the next VajrayānaConference that will be held from 19 to 21 April 2019, at Thimphu, Bhutan.
The conference, organised by The Centre for Bhutan Studies & GNH and The Central Monastic Body of Bhutan, will bring together scholars from around the world to discuss and deliberate on Vajrayāna Buddhism.
Vajrayāna Buddhism is often referred to as the ‘Path of Skillful Methods’ in reference to its diversity of means for realizing enlightenment in a single lifetime. The theme for this year’s conference is thus ‘Techniques in Vajrayāna Buddhism’.
The Centre for Bhutan Studies & GNH invites prospective presenters to submit abstracts that address this distinguishing feature of Vajrayāna Buddhism, whether from a historical perspective or from the point of view of efficacy and effects.
Founded in the Mahayāna view of Śūnyatā–that all categories are conceptual constructions and thus alterable–Vajrayāna’s experiential techniques for actualizing Buddha Nature encompass both constructive (kyerim) and deconstructive (dzogrim) modalities for awakening the wisdom, compassion, and altruistic action represented by Vajrayāna’s luminous maṇḍalas of enlightened deities.
This year’s conference will specifically seek to identify the characteristics of Vajrayāna Buddhism that distinguish it from other modes of Buddhist practice. Papers are specifically invited that address the ways in which Vajrayāna’s deeply embodied forms of self-cultivation, ranging from visualization practices to strenuous physical yoga, activate dormant capacities of mind and body towards more altruistic modes of awareness and wellbeing. Papers are thus also encouraged from leading scientific and social science researchers in regard to the measurable effects and positive outcomes of meditative and yogic techniques.
This year’s conference will also explore the diverse ways in which the techniques of Vajrayāna Buddhism can be adapted and made relevant to a modern, transcultural, scientifically driven, and environmentally challenged world.
The submission of abstract was closed on 31st January 2019.
We look forward to welcoming you to Bhutan. Online registration is free and open until February 15, 2019.
If you have any queries, please write to vaj.conference@gmail.com or jphuntsho@bhutanstudies.org.bt