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PRACTICE The Amida School (Amida-shu) is a Budhist sangha following the Pureland tradition. This tradition derives from the insights, practice, dedication and faith of such great masters as Nagarjuna (1st century) and Vasubandhu (4th century) in India, Hui Yuan (334-416) and Shan Tao (613-681) in China, and Honen Shonin (1133-1212) and his many disciples in Japan. The practice of this school is primarily focussed on chanting and the principle form of chanting is nembutsu. Nembutsu is the invocation of the Buddha of eternal life. Major features of this approach to spirituality are a sense of the bitter-sweetness of life, of the smallness of human existence in the scheme of things, appreciation of beauty and naturalness, personal humility and faith, and a reliance upon community. The Amida School has a substantial involvement in engaged Buddhism and the retreat centre in France is part of a network of Amida centres and groups in different parts of the world; between these centres a balance of engaged and contemplative life is maintained. Amida France has extensive grounds. There are beautiful paths for walking meditation, and plenty of space for private contemplation. Solitary retreats are possible in the retreat hut, or by bivvying in more distant fields. Sometimes there are ceremonies. Our practice includes sharing daily tasks, and work in the gardens and on buildings. Community is an important aspect of the practice. We respect Buddhist precepts. Please do not bring meat or alcohol onto the site. We shall be very happy if you will join us in creating a suitable atmosphere by behaving responsibly, avoiding sexual misconduct, respecting living things, sharing and co-operating with others and appreciating the wonder of a simple life. |