Journey into the Heart of the Buddha's Teachings

Join Naropa University’s Wisdom Traditions faculty in a one-of-a-kind learning experience.

Whether you're familiar with modern presentations of secular mindfulness, engaged in Buddhist meditation, or you're a curious lifelong learner—all will benefit from the depth of insight and practical guidance offered in Naropa’s renowned contemplative learning curriculum—now available to you at home, on your own schedule.

Taught by Professor Amelia Hall, The First Turning of the Wheel introduces Buddhism’s Indian roots and explores the foundational teachings of the four noble truths, the eightfold path, the nature of mind and emotions, and mindfulness meditation.

Explore the historical, social, and spiritual context in which Buddhism arose, and awaken the spirit of personal inquiry through guided meditation and contemplation practices.

What’s Included?

✔ Six weeks of video classes with your Naropa University instructor (about one hour total per week)
✔ Full transcripts of each session
✔ Weekly deep dive readings to expand your understanding
✔ Short quizzes to support your reflection and comprehension
✔ Weekly contemplation or meditation to help enrich your experience

Course at a Glance

Week 1: The Spiritual Landscape of Ancient India
Gain historical, social, and spiritual knowledge of the context in which Buddhism arose; Learn details of the Buddha’s life story; Develop skill in reading foundational Buddhist texts

Week 2: The Four Noble Truths
Gain an in-depth understanding of the four noble truths; Develop ways of understanding how suffering occurs; Cultivate insight into patterns of craving that cause dissatisfaction in your own life

Week 3: Buddhist Cosmology
Gain understanding of the components of “existence” according to the Buddhist system; Cultivate insight into how habitual patterns are perpetuated; Learn how to work with difficult emotions

Week 4: What Is a Person? Introduction to the Abhidhamma
Gain an understanding of early Buddhist psychology; Cultivate insight into the nature of thoughts and emotions; Develop ways to work with the core Buddhist teachings on selflessness

Week 5: Foundational Buddhist Meditation
Be able to identify the purpose of mindfulness practice according to its Buddhist roots; Begin to develop your own mindfulness practice; Identify common hindrances to meditation practice

Week 6: The Sangha
Understand why the Buddha employed various teaching methods; Learn about the ethical considerations of the Buddhist sangha; Explore the role of women in early Buddhism

By completing The First Turning of the Wheel, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the view, practice, and roots of the Buddha’s early teachings.