What is Vipassana?

Vipassana means seeing things as they really are.

Vipassana is one of India’s most ancient meditation techniques. Long lost to humanity, it was rediscovered by Gotama the Buddha more than 2500 years ago. It is the process of self-purification by self-observation. One begins by observing the natural breath to concentrate the mind. With a sharpened awareness, one proceeds to observe the changing nature of body and mind, and experiences the universal truths of impermanence, suffering and egolessness.

This truth realization by direct experience is the process of purification. The entire path (Dhamma) is a universal remedy for universal problems, an art of living, and has nothing to do with any organised religion or sectarianism. For this reason, it can be practiced freely by everyone, at any time, in any place, without conflict due to race, community or religion, and will prove equally beneficial to one and all.

What Vipassana is not:

  • It is not a rite or ritual based on blind faith.
  • It is neither an intellectual nor a philosophical entertainment.
  • It is not a rest cure, a holiday, or an opportunity for socialising.
  • It is not an escape from the trials and tribulations of everyday life.

What Vipassana is:

  • It is a technique that will eradicate suffering.
  • It is a method of mental purification which allows one to face life’s tensions and problems in a calm, balanced way.
  • It is an art of living that one can use to make positive contributions to society.

Vipassana Courses

The technique of Vipassana Meditation is taught at 10-day residential courses during which participants learn the basics of the method, and practice sufficiently to experience its beneficial results.

There are no charges for the courses, not even to cover the cost of food and accommodation. According to the tradition of pure Vipassana, all expenses are met by donations from those who have completed at least one 10-day course, experienced the benefits of Vipassana, and wish to give others the opportunity to benefit as well. Students taking the course for the first time may give donations for future courses on the last day of the course or any time thereafter.

If you wish to take a course, please visit the page of “How to Apply” and read the Code of Discipline carefully.  You can then choose a centre, check the course schedule and apply online. No previous experience of meditation is required.

Vipassana Centres

There is one centre in Hong Kong dedicated exclusively to the teaching of Vipassana meditation: Dhamma Muttā at Tung Wan on South Lantau Island. You can also visit the International Vipassana website for information on centres around the world in this tradition.