ACI 1: “The Principal Teachings of Buddhism”

ACI 1 offers an in-depth study of the three great realizations – commonly referred to as the “Three Principal Paths” – which are essential for any practitioner of Buddhism. This is why it is the first among the 36 courses in the series. These three realizations are:

• Renunciation: A concern for the suffering of the world.
• Bodhichitta: The wish to achieve enlightenment to help every living being in the universe.
• Correct View: Understanding that no person or object exists independently of the seeds in one’s own mind.

This course incorporates the third great topic, “Clear Thinking,” as one of its initial objectives is to provide proof of the existence of past and future lives. It also delves into additional related topics such as levels of reality, the definition of valid perception, evidence of omniscience, and the connection between karma and rebirth.

The course is rooted in the fifth topic, “The Middle Way.” It is based on Je Tsongkhapa’s famous poem “The Three Principal Paths” (see image) and includes the complete text of the commentary on this poem by Pabongka Rinpoche, one of the most renowned Tibetan lamas of the early 20th century and the root teacher of Trijang Rinpoche (1901–1981), who was the root teacher of Khen Rinpoche, Geshe Lobsang Tharchin.

1. Topics Covered in the Course:
   • How to evaluate and choose a qualified teacher
   • The nature of Buddha
   • The essence of true Dharma
   • Samsara and renunciation
   • The principles of karma
   • The challenges of human life
   • Bodhichitta and its benefits
   • Methods for developing bodhichitta
   • The two levels of reality
   • Absolute reality (emptiness) according to the four schools
   • The interconnection between karma and emptiness

   Steps for Completing the Course:

   • Listen to the Lecture

   Choose a time when you won’t be disturbed. Focus entirely on the teachings being presented. Avoid multitasking, as the mind can concentrate on only one object at a time.

   • Read the Lecture Notes

   After each lecture, read the notes prepared by students who attended Geshe Michael’s teachings. These notes summarize key points and clarify Tibetan terminology.

   • Review the Reading Materials

   The reading materials are based on sacred Buddhist scriptures and their commentaries.

   • Complete the Homework

   Use the lecture, notes, and reading materials to answer each question in the assignment. Avoid using the answer key while preparing your responses.

   • Check Your Homework

   Compare your answers with the answer key. Do not revise your homework after reviewing the correct answers.

   • Perform Required Meditations

   Each lesson includes at least two analytical meditations, which must be completed on different days. While you can do as many meditations as you like, only one per day counts toward the course requirement.

   • Learn Memorization Assignments

   Study the required memorization assignments specified in the homework.

   • Take the Quiz

   Only after completing the homework, meditations, and memorization assignments should you take the quiz. Quizzes must be done without referencing course materials.

   • Move to the Next Lesson

   Proceed to the next lesson only after completing all the steps for the current lesson.

   • Prepare for the Final Exam

   After completing 10 lessons, listen to the 11th lecture, which provides a course overview, and prepare for the final exam. Focus on understanding the material rather than memorizing answers mechanically.

   • Write the Final Exam

   Answer all exam questions independently without using notes or materials.

   • Submit Your Work for Review

   After completing the course, submit all your materials for peer review via the platform (instructions will be provided).

   Course Author: Geshe Michael Roach

   Instructors: Yuliya and Yevhen Belyayev