Matthew Zalichin
Matthew Zalichin began studying Buddhism as an undergraduate in 1971. His teachers include many of the past and current century’s most eminent Tibetan lamas of all main lineages, but principally the Kagyu and Nyingma through his two root gurus Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, whom he met in 1977. He has, for the most part, practiced as a householder in North America, and from roughly 1981-2000 focused on ngondros, various yidam practices, and dharma center administration while working full time, raising a family, paying mortgages, and so on. Authorized as a meditation instructor in 1981, he taught meditation, Buddhism, and related subjects continually from then until 2000, when he moved to Nepal to focus on solitary retreat practice.
In July 2009 he accepted Phakchok Rinpoche’s appointment as meditation instructor and teacher in residence at Rangjung Yeshe Gomde New York.
Events with Matthew Zalichin
Cultivating Stillness: Weekly Meditation GroupFebruary 20 - May 28, 2024
We welcome you to this weekly practice of calm-abiding (shamatha) meditation, suited both for beginners and those who which to reinvigorate and sustain their practice. Deepen your experience of the essential art of meditation as found in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, guided by our experienced instructors. This class not only provides a structured environment for practice but also emphasizes active engagement through open discussion and a dedicated Q&A segment. Each session unfolds with a purposeful meditation period, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the transformative practices inspired by the rich traditions of Buddhism. This “hands-on” experience provides a unique…
The Treasury of Blessings: Weekly Practice GroupFebruary 22 - May 30, 2024
We invite you to join this weekly practice of the Treasury of Blessings, a liturgy to unlocks the profound path of Buddha Shakyamuni. Each session will begin with a guided group practice in English, and include space to cultivate one’s meditation practice, the key to Phakchok Rinpoche’s Path of Meditation program. Our experienced instructor will provide simple yet impactful instructions, combining the Treasury of Blessings with the transformative power of meditation. After each practice session, there will be an opportunity for open discussion and Q&A segment. Share insights, ask questions, and connect with like-minded individuals on the spiritual path. Whether…
Introduction to the Path of MeditationMay 4, 2024
We invite you to join this half-day introduction to the practice of meditation. Held on the first Saturday of every calendar month, this workshop provides a unique opportunity for participants to establish a strong foundation in the principles and practices of meditation within the rich tapestry of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, and as found in the online Path of Meditation course on Samye Institute. This ongoing series is meticulously designed to cater to beginners seeking an insightful initiation into the profound world of meditation. Led by our experienced instructors, each workshop delves into the core principles that underlie the Tibetan…
The Path of Meditation: Weekend RetreatMay 24 - 26, 2024
We invite you to join our Path of Meditation retreat, a tranquil weekend program tailored for those seeking a gentle introduction to the transformative power of meditation. Nestled in the serene hills of Cooperstown, NY, this retreat is designed to provide a welcoming space for beginners to learn the art of meditation, and those with more experience to deepen their practice. Our skilled meditation instructors will guide you through accessible and beginner-friendly practices, offering techniques to quiet the mind, cultivate inner peace, and enhance overall well-being. The retreat schedule allows for a gradual and nurturing immersion into meditation, ensuring that…
Foundations of the Buddhist PathJune 14 - 16, 2024
Explore the foundations of Buddhist practice in this learning & discussion series, held every second Saturday of the calendar month. This series provides a dedicated space for in-depth discussions on fundamental topics within Buddhist practice, with the Treasury of Blessings practice, a liturgy focused on Buddha Shakyamuni, serving as the basis for understanding. Led by experienced practitioners, each session delves into crucial aspects of Buddhist philosophy and ritual. Topics covered in this ongoing series may include refuge, the four immeasurables, bodhicitta, prostration, offering, confession, requesting the dharma, requesting the teacher’s longevity, dedication, visualization, chanting, and meditation. Participants will have the…
Samye Summer ImmersionJuly 10 - 31, 2024
Applications are now open! Join us for a three-week immersive program in Tibetan Buddhist thought and practice, offering college-level instruction to learners of all ages. The Samye Summer Immersion combines rich study with practical application—a precious opportunity to not only explore the vast world of Buddhist wisdom but also to integrate it into our lived experience—amidst the rolling hills of Cooperstown, in all its summer glory. Three tracks are available: Buddhist Studies, Tibetan Language, and Dharma Service. Our Buddhist Studies track features an academically-focused introduction to the philosophical and cultural breadth of the Buddhist traditions, led by Joie Szu-Chiao Chen…