[EB-2022] 9. Exploring Debate – Session 10

Geshe Tenzin Namdak has been discussing various aspects of Buddhist philosophy and logic, including:

1. The importance of reasoning and analytical meditation to understand reality, particularly subtle impermanence and emptiness.

2. Different types of inference:
– Inference by the power of fact (most important for realizing impermanence and emptiness)
– Inference by renown (conventional agreements)
– Inference by belief (for very hidden phenomena)

3. The structure of syllogisms and proof statements used in Buddhist logic and debate.

4. The importance of critical thinking and examining Buddhist teachings using three levels of valid cognition:
– Direct valid perception
– Valid inference
– Inference by belief

5. The impermanence of life and the uncertainty of future rebirths, emphasizing the importance of Lamrim practice.

6. A brief discussion on upcoming courses and opportunities for further study in Buddhist philosophy.

The session included explanations of these concepts with examples and anecdotes.