Classroom Newsletter

 

Message from the Teacher

Hello Families,

Welcome to another exciting week in our classroom! This week, we will delve into the fascinating topic of Saññākkhandha (Perception). We will explore how we recognize and identify objects and experiences, along with the significant teachings provided by the Buddha on perception. As we engage in discussions and activities, we aim to deepen our understanding of how perception shapes our experiences and reality.

Sao Dhammasami

What We’re Learning

This week, students will learn about:

• Recognition and identification of objects and experiences: How we perceive and make sense of the world around us.
• The Buddha's teaching: "Yā kāci saññā atītānāgatapaccuppannā" (SN 22.59), which highlights the nature of perception in relation to past, present, and future experiences.
• The function of recognition (sañjānana) and how it relates to our memory and understanding.
• The metaphor "Seyyathāpi, bhikkhave, gimhānaṃ pacchime māse marīcikā" (SN 22.95) - "Like a mirage" - illustrating the transient nature of perception.

Additionally, we will cover the six types of perception based on sense doors:

• Rūpa-saññā (perception of forms)
• Sadda-saññā (perception of sounds)
• Gandha-saññā (perception of smells)
• Rasa-saññā (perception of tastes)
• Phoṭṭhabba-saññā (perception of touches)
• Dhamma-saññā (perception of mental objects)

Students will explore the functions of perception, including:

• Recognition (sañjānana)
• Memory formation
• Conceptual understanding
• Making marks for recognition

We will also discuss the key characteristics of all aggregates: Anicca (impermanent), Dukkha (unsatisfactory), and Anattā (non-self).

Important Dates & Reminders

• ( upcoming events, assignments)

Classroom Highlights

• Check Class Room Announcements

At-Home Connections

Here are some simple ways you can engage your family in the topic of Saññākkhandha (Perception) at home:

1. Observation Exercise: Go for a walk and ask your family members to describe what they see, hear, smell, and feel. Discuss how each person's perception may vary.
2. Mirage Metaphor: Share examples from everyday life where things aren't what they seem, much like a mirage. Encourage family members to think about how perceptions can be misleading.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at Saodhammasami@gmail.com Thank you for your continued support in your child's learning journey!

Warm regards,
Sao Dhammasami, Ph.D. (Candidate), M.A. (Pali)