Tara Institute
Tara Institute is a Tibetan Buddhist center located in East Brighton, Melbourne, dedicated to teaching the beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism. It has served as a significant hub for Buddhist practice and education since its establishment, with Venerable Geshe Doga serving as the resident teacher since 1984. The institute is a member of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT).
Key Facts
- ›Began in Melbourne in 1974 as a small group meeting in North Fitzroy.
- ›The center was established in stages, moving through various locations including Carlton and Kew.
- ›Acquired its current location at Marillac House, an historic mansion, in 1987.
- ›Offers a weekly program of meditation and Buddhist courses, as well as weekend events and pujas.
- ›Provides accommodation for full-time residents and visitors.
- ›Is supported by residency and membership fees, donations, and volunteer work.
Important Relationships
- Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition
- Kopan Monastery
- Lama Thubten Yeshe
- Geshe Doga
Marillac House
About Tara Institute
Tara Institute is a prominent center for Tibetan Buddhism located in East Brighton, Melbourne, Australia. It serves as a dedicated space for teaching and practicing the beliefs and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, with a particular focus on the teachings transmitted by the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT).
History and Development
The origins of Tara Institute can be traced back to 1974 when a small group of individuals, who had attended meditation courses at Kopan Monastery in Nepal, began meeting in North Fitzroy. This nascent community evolved over the following years. By 1976, the group rented an old hotel in Carlton and named it Tara House, a name given by Lama Thubten Yeshe. The center subsequently moved to a rented house in Kew in 1977. In 1978, efforts began to establish a retreat center at Noojee. The first resident teacher, Geshe Dawö, arrived in 1980. Following the encouragement of Lama Thubten Yeshe to "think big," Tara House purchased an old mansion in East St Kilda in 1983. By 1987, the center had outgrown its previous location and purchased its current premises at Marillac House, an historic mansion in East Brighton, at which point it was renamed Tara Institute.
Activities and Facilities
Tara Institute offers a rich program of activities designed to support Buddhist practice and study. This includes a weekly schedule of meditation sessions and Buddhist courses, alongside weekend courses, pujas, and specialized healing courses. The center also engages in social events and provides activities for children. It accommodates full-time residents and offers dormitory-style accommodation for visitors. The institute is sustained through residency and membership fees, donations, and the dedicated work of volunteers. Among its facilities are a library and a bookshop, providing resources for practitioners and interested individuals.
Significance
As a member of the FPMT, Tara Institute plays a vital role in disseminating Tibetan Buddhist teachings in Melbourne. The long tenure of Venerable Geshe Doga as the resident teacher since 1984 has provided continuity and depth to the center's spiritual guidance. The institute's evolution from a small study group to a well-established center with comprehensive facilities highlights its enduring commitment to the Buddhist path.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Tara Institute begin?
Tara Institute's origins trace back to 1974 when a small group of individuals began meeting in North Fitzroy, Melbourne. This initial gathering evolved over several years, leading to the establishment of the center in its current form.
What kind of activities does Tara Institute offer?
Tara Institute hosts a variety of activities including a weekly program of meditation and Buddhist courses. They also offer weekend courses, pujas, special healing courses, social events, and activities specifically for children.
Where is Tara Institute located?
Tara Institute is situated in East Brighton, Melbourne. Its current home is at Marillac House, which incorporates an historic mansion, purchased in 1987.
Who is the resident teacher at Tara Institute?
As of March 2020, the resident teacher at Tara Institute is Venerable Geshe Doga. He has been in this role since 1984, guiding the center's teachings and activities.
Is Tara Institute part of a larger organization?
Yes, Tara Institute is a member of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT). This affiliation connects it to a global network of Buddhist centers.
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