At the Dipabhavan or Theepapawan meditation center – “The Development of Light Hermitage” on the well-known holiday island of Koh Samui in Suratthani Province, two five-day retreats take place every month starting from April 2006. One from the 12th to the 17th in Thai language and one from the 21st to the 27th in English. Registration takes place one day before, i.e. on the 20th of each month. Meeting point at Wat Sila Ngu Temple near Rocky Resort, Lamai at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. The teachings and schedule are similar to the 10-day course at the International Dharma Hermitage in Wat Suan Mokkh.
During the entire retreat, Anapanasati (contemplation of in- and out-breathing) is practiced. Ajahn Buddhadasa does not strictly separate Samatha and Vipassana meditation, but propagates the joint development of mental calm and insight (two wings of a bird).
Anapanasati is taught in four stages: contemplation of the body (Kaya), feelings (Vedana), mind (Citta), and realization of the highest Dhamma. These four contemplations are each divided into four steps.
Each participant commits to completing the entire retreat, adhering to the schedule, and maintaining noble silence. Furthermore, sexual activities are to be ceased and the five Silas (five moral precepts) are to be observed. Clothing should be comfortable, practical, and appropriate (no shorts or sleeveless T-shirts). Each participant should take on a task for the community (e.g. sweeping, refilling water, etc.) and strive to lead a spiritual life.
The five-day courses take place every month from the 15th to the 20th and from the 22nd to the 27th. It is essential to arrive one day before!
The teachings are held in English.
Vegetarian breakfast and lunch. In the evening there is a hot drink.
Medical care is very good by Asian standards. Koh Samui is not considered a malaria area, but malaria is prevalent in other parts of Thailand.
Donation basis.
Best travel time from December to March. November and December are the rainy season in southern Thailand.
“Anapanasati – The Gentle Healing of Spiritual Disease” and “The Heartwood of the Bodhi Tree – Understanding and Living Sunnata” are available in German from “Books On Demand” and can be downloaded for free from the internet along with other recommended books and texts by Ajahn Buddhadasa at www.buddhadasa.de.