The Tradition

Five centuries after the Buddha, the noble heritage of Vipassana had disappeared from India. The purity of the teaching was lost elsewhere as well. In the country of Myanmar, however, it was preserved by a chain of devoted teachers. From generation to generation, over two thousand years, this dedicated lineage transmitted the technique in its pristine purity.

Ven Ledi Sayadaw (1846–1923)

His concise and extensive scholarly work served to clarify the experiential aspect of Dhamma.

Saya Thetgyi (1873–1945)

He was born in a poor farming village and in 1915 was appointed as a teacher by Ledi Sayadaw.

Sayagyi U Ba Khin (1899–1971)

He was Goenkaji's teacher and also an outstanding civil servant of Burma.

Shri S. N. Goenka (1924–2013)

As the principal teacher, he has been prominent in the spread of Vipassana in modern times.

What is Vipassana?

Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, is one of India's most ancient techniques of self-observation. It was taught more than 2500 years ago as a universal remedy for universal ills i.e., an Art of Living.
 
This non-sectarian technique aims for the total eradication of mental impurities and the resultant highest happiness of full liberation. Healing, not merely the curing of diseases, but the essential healing of human suffering, is its purpose.

Vipassana is a practical technique which enables one to lead a more positive balanced and happy life.  It is a practical method of self-knowledge and awareness that is universal and not connected with any religious organisation.

How is it learnt?

The technique of Vipassana is taught at ten-day residential seminars during which participants learn the basics of the method and practice sufficiently to experience its beneficial results. No previous experience is required. After reviewing the Code of Discipline for Vipassana seminars and checking the seminar schedule, you may apply for a seminar.

Where?

Dhamma Latthika and  Dhamma Kamboja are the two Cambodian Centres dedicated to the practice of Vipassana meditation, as taught by S.N. Goenka.

There also are numerous Centres in other parts of the world. Check the international website at www.dhamma.org.

Seminar finances

Seminars are run solely on a donation basis. There are no charges for the seminar, not even to cover the cost of food and accommodation. All expenses are met by donations from those who have completed a 10 day seminar, experienced the benefits of Vipassana, and wish to give others the same opportunity. Neither the Teacher nor the assistant teachers receive remuneration; they and those who organize the seminar volunteer their time.