Study, Practice & Meditation

Have you ever wondered where modern practices like mindfulness and meditation come from? They have their roots in the timeless teachings of the Buddha, developed over centuries to help people cultivate peace, resilience, and wisdom in their lives.

Discovering Buddhism is your opportunity to explore these ancient insights and discover how they remain profoundly relevant today.

Buddhist teachings may seem vast and complex at first glance, encompassing philosophy, psychology, and practical tools for living a meaningful life. Fortunately, great masters distilled these teachings into clear, structured paths to guide students step by step. This course introduces you to these practical frameworks, helping you make sense of the Buddhist path and its transformative potential.

Through Discovering Buddhism, you’ll explore essential topics like the mind, karma, meditation, and the art of living a compassionate life. Whether you’re looking to deepen your meditation practice, understand the workings of the mind, or simply find a greater sense of purpose, this course will give you the tools and understanding to start—or deepen—your journey.

The course is accessible to everyone, whether you’re completely new to Buddhism or already familiar with mindfulness and mental wellbeing. Taught by the highly respected Geshe Tenzin Namdak, and offered both in-person and online, it provides a supportive and welcoming environment to learn and grow.

Ready to take the next step on your path? Join us for Discovering Buddhism, and uncover the timeless wisdom that has inspired and transformed lives for thousands of years.

Starting in April 2026, Discovering Buddhism will run every Tuesday evening at 19.00 onsite only.

The course will be led by two inspiring teachers: Geshe Tenzin Namdak, a renowned scholar and teacher of Buddhist philosophy, and Ven. Gendun, a dedicated monk from Nalanda Monastery with a wealth of experience in Buddhist study and practice. Together, they’ll provide clear guidance, relatable insights, and the opportunity to engage with centuries-old teachings in a way that feels relevant and accessible today.

WHEN: Tuesdays
TIME: 7.00 – 9.00 pm CET
WHERE: Onsite
LANGUAGE: English
LEVEL: Perfect for anyone curious about exploring Buddhist teachings and practices in a structured and accessible way. Whether you’re completely new to Buddhism, already familiar with mindfulness or meditation, or looking to deepen your understanding, this course meets you where you are.

The sessions are suitable for drop-ins as well as for all levels.

What you can expect: designed to create engagement through live mediations and facilitator led discussions on each topic.

• Teaching: watching recorded discourses by the esteemed teachers.
• Meditation: meditating on the current topic at hand.
• Discussion: discuss the evening’s topic over a cup of tea in the Green Tara Lounge.

WE INVITE YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

Suggested donation: is 0-40 CHF for a session. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. You can donate online (via Paypal, Twint or E-Banking).

Get to know Geshe Namdak and Ven. Gendun, your expert guides to Discovering Buddhism

Geshe Namdak

Geshe Tenzin Namdak brings a unique blend of academic rigor, scientific expertise, and deep spiritual practice to his teachings. After completing his university studies in Hydrology, he worked as an environmental researcher in the Netherlands. He began studying Buddhism at Maitreya Institute, eventually ordaining as a monk under His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He went on to complete the prestigious 20-year Geshe degree—the equivalent of a PhD in Buddhist philosophy—at Sera Jey Monastic University in India, followed by the traditional one-year Vajrayana study program at Gyume Tantric College.

Venerable Gendun

Born in Sri Lanka and growing up in England, Ven. Tenzin Gendun studied at art school and finished a degree in illustration. After completing his tertiary studies, he traveled to India and met Tibetan Buddhism in 1991 through the kindness of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He was ordained in 1992, and then worked in FPMT centers in New Zealand.

This course follows a clear and practical learning plan designed to guide you step by step through key Buddhist teachings. Each session explores topics such as the nature of the mind, karma, meditation, and living a compassionate life, offering you insights and tools you can apply to your everyday experience.

Classes and the teaching schedule

Classes begin on Tuesday, April 21st, and run weekly from 19.00 – 21.00 (Zurich time) through May 2027.

Here you find the answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked by students, if you need advice or guidance beyond the FAQs simply reach out via the contact details below.

How do I register / Sign Up?
No registration required. Join all of the sessions or only those that fit your schedule or interests.

Is this course right for me?
Discovering Buddhism is perfect for anyone curious about exploring Buddhist teachings and practices in a structured and accessible way. Whether you’re completely new to Buddhism, already familiar with mindfulness or meditation, or looking to deepen your understanding, this course meets you where you are.

We also find the students who have previously studied DB or attended other classes and courses get great benefit from revisiting foundational topics with a new depth of understanding.

What is Dhana and the Generosity model?
Dhana is a Sanskrit word meaning generosity or giving. In Buddhism, it’s a foundational practice that cultivates an open heart and a sense of interconnectedness. The teachings of the Buddha are considered priceless, and offering them on the basis of dana reflects this principle.

At Jamyang, we follow a generosity-based model for our courses and events. This means we rely on your contributions to sustain the center and make these teachings accessible to everyone. Instead of a fixed fee, we invite you to offer what you feel is appropriate and within your means. Your dana directly supports the teachers, the running of the center, and the continuation of the Dharma for future generations.

Are there learning resources and support available?
We provide a range of resources to help you get the most out of the Discovering Buddhism course:

• Course Materials: You’ll receive comprehensive handouts, readings, and worksheets for each module to deepen your understanding.
• Discovering Buddhism WhatsApp Group: A dedicated space to connect with fellow students, share resources, and ask questions.
• Recommended Readings: Curated book and article lists to expand your study of each topic.
• Online Resources: Access to additional materials and suggested meditations to support independent practice.

These resources are designed to ensure you feel supported throughout the course, whether you’re joining in person or online.