What is Secular Dharma?

A secular perspective is one that is concerned with the world in which we live, here and now. Secularity has no allegiance to any religious, spiritual, or political point of view. The primary emphasis is the study and promotion of human welfare and human flourishing through naturalistic, psychological, and emotional health. Serving the greater good is the primary duty and ultimate concern.

The study, practice, and integration of Dharma is the process of understanding the nature of how things come to be, and how to develop a constructive relationship with what happens. We acknowledge that any person can cultivate the contemplative tools needed to develop unshakable inner resources for well-being, health, and happiness. Our theory of dharma is drawn from the early Buddhist tradition as found within the teachings of the Pali canon. We utilize a secular approach to Buddhist texts by seeking to understand the social, historical, psychological, and ethical implications of these ideas rather than literal interpretations or strict adherence to any particular set of views, traditions or dogmas. Openness, tolerance, and continued dialog are our core principles.