Saddhammadhara Meditation Retreats, led by Venerable Bambalapitiye Gnanaloka Thero, focus on self-guided exploration of the Buddha’s teachings. Rooted in the framework developed by Most Venerable Ñāṇavimala Mahāthera, the retreat emphasizes direct engagement with the Suttas rather than relying solely on a teacher’s guidance. Instead of approaching the texts as mere intellectual study, participants are encouraged to directly experience their meaning. Insight arises naturally in moments of quiet contemplation, when the mind is at ease and free from expectation—whether through reading a few words of the Buddha or deeply reflecting on a single teaching.
Key texts used in the retreats include The Word of the Buddha by Venerable Ñāṇatiloka Mahāthera, along with selected suttas from the Majjhima Nikāya (Middle-length Discourses) and Saṃyutta Nikāya (The Connected Discourses), offering both a framework for understanding the Dhamma and multiple meditation objects, particularly within Dhammānupassanā (contemplation of phenomena).
Practices from Kāyānupassanā (contemplation of the body), such as Ānāpānasati (mindfulness of breathing), along with meditations like Mettā (loving-kindness), are incorporated to cultivate inner stillness, supporting deeper insight. Open to all levels, the retreat provides a space to take refuge in the Buddha’s words and deepen one’s practice.
As envisioned by Ven. Ñāṇavimala Mahāthera, the ultimate intention is not just to develop meditative understanding but also to inspire suitable individuals toward the renunciant path, possibly even leading them to embrace the life of a cārikā bhikkhu (wandering monk).