The Institute of Chinese Buddhism (ICB) warmly invites you to the fifth lecture of our ICB 2026 Public Lecture Series with Prof. G. A. Somaratne from the Centre of Buddhist Studies, University of Hong Kong.
Understanding Suicide Through a Buddhist Lens: “Why the ‘Escape Trap’ Fails”
Why does the desire to escape suffering sometimes lead us deeper into it? In this profound two-day lecture, Prof. Somaratne offers a compassionate exploration of suicide and despair through the lens of Buddhist teachings — revealing how craving, mistaken views, and avoidance can cloud the path to true liberation.
🗓 18 & 19 April 2026 (Saturday & Sunday)
🕙 10am – 1pm
📍 Poh Ming Tse Temple
💰 By donation ($20 per day suggested) | Free for students and monastics
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/fuFbGvAqAj
This talk invites participants to reflect deeply on the Buddhist understanding of life, suffering, and the mind’s tendency to seek escape.
Through the Buddha’s teachings, Prof. Somaratne will explore:
• Why the wish for non-existence can be a subtle form of craving
• How distorted views about suffering and liberation can arise
• The Buddhist path toward insight, acceptance, and freedom
Rather than condemning or romanticizing suicide, Buddhist philosophy approaches it with clarity and compassion — showing that freedom comes not from avoidance, but from understanding the true nature of existence.
All are welcome — no prior knowledge required.
WhatsApp: (+65) 8068 7969
Email: instituteofchinesebuddhism.sg@gmail.com
Poh Ming Tse Temple | Institute of Chinese Buddhism (ICB)
