Sutta Meditation Series: Recent Episodes

Sutta Meditation Series

A podcast on how to study the Buddha's Teachings (Dhamma) and meditate on the Buddha's insight (knowledge) pathways from the Theravada suttas.

Particular emphasis is given to lay practitioners to develop on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path towards full liberation.

This is an offering, Dhammadāna, take what is useful to you.

For videos https://bit.ly/3Dy5mKy For notifications and published documents https://bit.ly/3xg4yXQ

To get in touch with a question, request or comment, you can: 1) leave a voice message https://bit.ly/3qP6Ige or 2) send an email to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the Dhamma session on "Developing an Unblemished Mind", which was was conducted via zoom.

We deep-dive into Venerable Sāriputta and Venerable MahāMoggallāna’s teaching in the Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5).

In this teaching, Venerable Sāriputta spoke of four persons - with and without blemishes and knowing it and not knowing it - explaining which were called inferior and superior using a simile of a bronze dish. He then gives a masterclass on evil, unwholesome wishes associated with anger and bitterness as blemishes, with some powerful similes to help us understand how to develop an unblemished mind.

And Venerable MahāMoggallāna contributes as the questioner to Venerable Sāriputta's clarifier in this teaching, as well as providing a comprehensive summary at the end rejoicing in Venerable Sāriputta's instruction to the bhikkhus.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast

This is the Dhamma talk with Metta Centre (SYD) on "The Buddha's Antidote for War". This session was conducted via zoom on 18 August 2025.

Whether we find ourselves heading towards the next world war, or getting into physical fights, or an online battle infused with hate speech, or even verbal sparring with colleagues, friends or family, or simply the war that goes on in our mind, the Buddha has the antidote for all wars. In this session, we will look at what war means in the context of the Buddha's teachings, the challenges of getting pulled into different kinds of wars (in body, speech and mind), and explore the Buddha's antidote for all wars, which starts with the supramundane practice of loving kindness based on the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8).

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

The full Dhamma session with Q&A will be published to Metta Centre's YT channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast

This is the Dhamma talk with Metta Centre (SYD) on "Why we should become skilled in the ways of our own mind". This session was conducted via zoom.

Drawing from the Sacitta Sutta (AN 10.51), we will examine the Buddha's teaching on how to become skilled in the ways or nature of our own mind. The Buddha taught to train our minds as if our clothes or head were on fire. Through this, and another simile, he highlighted the benefit of regular self-examination towards abandoning unskilled states and developing skilled states of the mind. In this session, we will explore how we can apply this powerful teaching, which helps us to establish contemplation of the mind, undertake noble washing and activate the noble eightfold path.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

The full Dhamma session with Q&A will be published to Metta Centre's YT channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A recent Dhamma session on deepening our practice of the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) with a focus on two insight pathways (links). References are made to the Noble Eightfold Path, development of the brahmaviharas, bases of spiritual power and enlightenment factors and further advice on development of this sutta meditation.

*There are 2 short meditations in this session.

The YT video can be accessed here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_eeRh1KkQs

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A recent Dhamma session via zoom on instructions to meditate on the Noble Eightfold Path with the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5).

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the kalyanamitta who kindly sent the recording.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.A recent Dhamma session on how to meditate on the Buddha's simile of the cloth in the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7), also referred to as the Vattha Sutta . References are made to the Noble Eightfold Path, stream entry and advice on development of this sutta meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

In this session, we continue to examine the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)*and the Buddha's instructions on how to develop liberation of the mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti) and mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others.

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

In this session, we continue to examine the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)*and the Buddha's instructions on how to develop liberation of the mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti) and mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - 29 March 2025

02:09 How to get the best out this session

05:33 Brief summary of where we've got to in our slow sessions

09:04 Recap of the meditation to reach liberation of the mind by loving kindness

33:45 Short meditation on liberation of the mind by loving kindness

48:58 Recap of how we fortify liberation of the mind by loving kindness by the seven factors of enlightenment

57:08 Development of noble supernormal power or potency (ariya iddhi)

1:32:47 Venerable Sariputta's noble power and taking him as a role model for mindfulness regarding the body and giving up the obsession with anger or ill will.

1:51:27 Comments on next session

1:52:55 Sharing the merit and blessings

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://youtube.com/live/B1CVlrO_cQY

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract or audio clip from a recent Dhamma Half-Day Program, held on 17 March 2025, where we intensely developed sutta meditations to understand the Physical Nutriment (form).

This short audio clip serves as an encouragement to anyone developing the insight pathways or sutta meditations following the Buddha's instructions.

External challenges are usually obvious, but what is less apparent is how we self-sabotage ourselves when it comes to developing or meditating on the Buddha's instructions.

Take what is useful. Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

In this session, we continue to examine the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)*and the Buddha's instructions on how to develop liberation of the mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti) and mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - 22 March 2025

01:38 How to get the best out this session

04:42 Recap of Buddha's words on what should be asked with respect to liberation of the mind by loving kindness when asked about differences in this teaching

08:25 Similarities in the way Buddha answers when asked about the difference in teachings on five hindrances and the seven factors of enlightenment

10:51 What is liberation of the mind by loving kindness?

12:34 Buddha's words on how liberation of the mind by loving kindness is developed

13:44 Why are the factors of enlightenment needed?

21:02 Noble eightfold path becomes noble tenfold path

23:27 What does it mean "based on seclusion, dispassion and cessation, maturing in release"?

27:21 How do we develop the liberation of the mind by loving kindness starting with painful practice with slow realisation and then contemplating impermanence?

59:26 Circling back to explain how we arouse and develop the enlightenment factors as part of developing this insight pathway

01:16:19 How liberation of the mind by loving kindness is fortified by the seven factor so enlightenment

01:34:26 Comments on next session

01:35:08 Sharing the merit and blessings

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://youtube.com/live/cZ-R61RLjrE

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

In this session, we begin to examine the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)and the Buddha's instructions on how to develop liberation of the mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti) and mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others.*

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - 15 March 2025

01:53 How to get the best out this session

04:32 Short meditation: loving kindness (mettā)

14:18 Sutta Architecture: Mettāsahagata Sutta

18:02 Begin our "deep dive" into Mettāsahagata Sutta

24:26 What is liberation of the mind by loving kindness?

29:07 Why should we develop liberation of the mind by loving kindness?

52:04 "You should train yourselves thus"

59:42 Encouragement for Metta Sutta (AN 8.1)

1:01:09 Comments on next session and Sharing the merit and blessings

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://youtube.com/live/FfNuoDTvqzo

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

In this session, we recap the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, and Q&A on this insight pathway.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - 8 March 2025

04:18 Start of session

06:19 How to get the best out this session

08:39 First Profitable Direction & Noble Eightfold Path

11:17 First Unprofitable Direction

14:55 Recap of the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation

50:42 Short meditation on Karaṇīyametta Sutta

1:02:37 Question on why it's easier to meditate on the unprofitable directions over the profitable directions

1:14:26 Question on struggles with illness and having challenges to cultivating metta, despite earlier easeful practice

1:25:22 Question on forgetting steps halfway through the meditation

1:26:54 Question on developing the asubha meditation and not finishing with loving kindness

1:29:53 Question on certain key points in the meditation associated with higher concentration

1:35:07 Comments on next session and Sharing the merit and blessings

Next session, we will start to examine and practise the Buddha's instructions on (3) how to develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.To watch the YouTube livestream - https://youtube.com/live/7bIiAeV1sRg

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

We recommence Metta Lab with a recap of Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8), and Q&A on this insight pathway.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - 1 March 2025

00:11 Start of session

00:40 What to expect over the next few Metta Labs

07:00 How to get the best out this session

11:10 Recap of Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8) insight pathway

46:02 Short meditation on Karaṇīyametta Sutta

55:26 Question whether it is okay not to strictly follow the insight pathway

1:10:39 Question on past memories of people doing wrong (to us) arising in our metta meditation

1:16:55 Question on taking sides in a dispute due to moral righteousness, while acknowledging there's a hole in the metta bucket.

1:26:57 Question on after developing loving kindness, how to sustain it.

1:37:10 What we'll cover in our next Metta Lab

1:38:08 Sharing the merit and blessings

Following the next recap session, we will start to examine and practise the Buddha's instructions on (3) how to develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://youtube.com/live/jgZ9CuNisuw

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

An opportunity to come together to hear the Buddha's words and practice on the second uposatha of 2025. In this session, we examine and practice the teaching given by Venerable Sāriputta in the Dutiyaāghātapaṭivinaya Sutta (AN 5.162) on removing anger or resentment.

the five 5min meditation periods have been included

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/2t927zew

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part VII: Perception of not self in what is suffering (dukkhe anattasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

Please note this is part of an insight pathway we develop by applying this particular sequence of profitable perceptions from the Buddha. So how we develop the perception of not self in what is suffering is finely tuned to what we have already developed in the earlier profitable perceptions, as well as how it is framed with developing a mind devoid of I-making, mine-making, and conceit regarding this conscious body and all external objects.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)

— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)

— Ānanda Sutta (SN 22.159)

— Anusaya Sutta (SN 18.21)

— Apagata Sutta (SN 18.22)

— Ānanda Sutta (AN 3.32)

— Khema Sutta (AN 6.49)

— Petakopadesa (Pe 5, 6, 8)

— Nettipakarana (Ne 21)

— Chachakka Sutta (MN 148)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1rtNx49G4w

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A very impromptu opportunity to come together to catch up on updates and hear the Buddha's words and practice the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5) on the first uposatha of 2025.

short meditation periods have been removed

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/2u5nt8dn

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from the FULL Dhamma live session on "The Buddha's advice on meditation practice for busy people" based on the Mahānāma Sutta (AN 11.11) on 20 July 2024.

This extract is the explanation of the EIGHT DIRECTIONS that makes the Buddha the "unsurpassed trainer of persons to be tamed" or in pali "anuttaro purisadammasārathi".

When we develop these eight directions, we see through the gross and subtle things that we attached to that bind us to suffering. We have learned most of this Dhamma through our sutta meditations in order to train. And by developing in these eight directions, we sharpen our spiritual faculties and would naturally incline towards Nibbana as our goal and Nibbana as our object.

For the FULL Dhamma session - https://t.ly/j504j (video) OR https://t.ly/AyXKt (audio)

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from the FULL Dhamma session on "The Third Doorway to Nibbana" or Pleasant Practice with Slow Realisation on 5 October 2023.

This extract is a brief explanation on the contemplation of mind (cittānupassanā), which is the third establishment of mindfulness as set out by the Buddha in the Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10).

The Buddha encouraged us to contemplate the mind as mind. It is fundamentally about understanding our mind states - how they come to arise and how they pass away. We have already learned enough from our sutta meditations to understand how to develop this practice. When we establish mindfulness regarding the mind and insight into the true nature of the mind, we would not cling to the mind.

I referred to this Dhamma part in our recent live session on "How to be the best among the best" based on the Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta (MN 53), when we examined the good quality of mindfulness (one of the 15 caranadhamma) in the trainee's path of practice.

For the FULL Dhamma session on the Third Doorway to Nibbana - https://tinyurl.com/yu52259m (video) or https://tinyurl.com/yem5zr2c (audio)

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this livestream Dhamma session on Binara full moon poya, we examine the "HOW TO BE THE BEST OF THE BEST" based on the Venerable Ānanda's teaching in the Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta (MN 53).

We begin with the verse:

“The ruling elite is the best among people

For those whose standard is the clan,

But one accomplished in knowledge and conduct

Is best among devas and humans.”

and examine the full teaching in the Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta (MN 53) on a trainee's mode of practice to be accomplished in knowledge and conduct (vijjācaraṇasampanno), in other words "the best among the best".

― TIMESTAMPS ―00:00 How to be the best among the best03:16 Homage to the Triple Gem03:37 What we'll cover04:45 How to get the best out of this session06:28 Verse uttered by Brahmā Sanaṅkumara11:55 Why is this teaching beneficial?14:12 Overview of the Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta15:56 Who is a trainee (sekha)?22:32 Introduction to the discourse25:51 Perfect in true knowledge (3) and conduct (15)30:26 Possessed of virtue (sīlasampanno)39:50 Guards the doors to the sense faculties (indriyesu guttadvāro)48:02 Moderate in eating (bhojane mattaññū) 57:37 Devoted to wakefulness (jāgariyaṁ anuyutto) 01:08:27 Intro to the seven good qualities 01:09:20 The Buddha's simile of the citadel01:11:28 Conviction (saddho) 01:24:00 (Moral) Shame (hirimā)01:32:50 Fear of wrongdoing (ottappī)01:42:35 Learned (heard) much (bahussuto) 01:53:55 Energetic (āraddhavīriyo)02:03:07 Mindfulness (satimā) 02:15:53 Wise (paññavā)02:23:29 The Four Jhanas (catunnaṁ jhānānaṁ) 02:32:11 Simile of the hen with eggs02:34:00 First True Knowledge02:37:03 Second True Knowledge02:41:38 Third True Knowledge02:57:47 Sharing the merit and blessings

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the person who requested this sutta

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://t.ly/7JfIy

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this livestream Dhamma session on Esala full moon poya, we examine the "BUDDHA'S ADVICE ON MEDITATION PRACTICE FOR BUSY PEOPLE" based on the Buddha's teaching in the Mahānāma Sutta (AN 11.11).

In this session:

00:00 Start of the session

06:25 Overview of the Mahānāma Sutta (AN 11.11)

07:50 Why this teaching is beneficial and fruitful

11:49 Similar teachings to monastic and lay disciples of the Buddha

17:20 Who was Mahānāma the Sakyan?

19:25 Mahānāma’s question to the Buddha and his brief response

21:00 Establishing the five spiritual faculties

24:05 The six things to be developed

27:58 How it connects to noble attainment (path and fruit)

31:31 “Deep dive” into the recollection of the Buddha

38:07 What happens when we recollect the Buddha's qualities?

40:05 Qualities of the Buddha - first three

59:12 Qualities of the Buddha - middle three

01:22:34 Qualities of the Buddha - last three

01:27:41 Short meditation - recollection of the Buddha (10 mins)

01:37:55 Deepening our understanding the meaning of "one who sees the Dhamma sees me"

01:41:35 “Deep dive” into the recollection of the Dhamma

01:53:44 Short meditation - recollection of the Dhamma (5 mins)

01:59:38 “Deep dive” into the recollection of the Sangha

02:02:25 Eight persons and Eight qualities

02:11:44 Short meditation - recollection of the Sangha (5 mins)

02:16:19 “Deep dive” into the recollection of our own virtuous behaviour

02:24:49 Short meditation - recollection of our own virtuous behaviour (5 mins)

02:30:21 “Deep dive” into the recollection of our own generosity

02:40:25 Short meditation - recollection of our own generosity (5 mins)

02:45:18 “Deep dive” into the recollection of the devas

03:02:54 Short meditation - recollection of the devas

03:07:23 Encouragement

03:10:20 Sharing the merit and Blessings

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the person who requested this sutta

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://t.ly/j504j

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - First Doorway to Nibbāna - 6 July 2024

04:00 Recap on the first four steps of Painful practice with slow realisation to reach the heavenly or divine abode

19:58 First right striving (including the connection to Āneñjasappāya Sutta) to protect reaching the divine abode

22:22 Thoroughly contemplating the Noble Truth of Suffering

37:45 With the insight and wisdom up to this point, making the Determination for Truth (for Nibbāna)

45:05 Fulfilling the Concentration due to Desire

48:20 Why restraint of the sense faculties is needed to protect our mind and what we've developed in this insight pathway

55:04 Connecting to the Karaṇīyametta Sutta at "controlled at the sense faculties" (santindriyo) to reach immeasurable loving kindness

57:20 How a deeper understanding of the noble truth of suffering provides a strong foundation for the development of immeasurable loving kindness

01:00:38 How to reach the Beautiful Liberation (subhavimutti) from immeasurable loving kindness

01:01:15 Advice on developing the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation and other resources on Sutta Meditation Series

01:04:33 Brief overview of the key inflection points in this insight pathway

01:09:30 Revisiting the Dhammapada verse 40

01:14:20 Taking a break from Mettā Lab weekly slow sessions to develop and practice these meditations (Karaṇīyametta Sutta and Painful Practice with Slow Realisation) towards immeasurable loving kindness

01:16:03 Sharing the merit and blessings

The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/ZHHq3

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this livestream Dhamma session on Poson full moon poya, we examine the Buddha's teaching in the Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106) on the way to the imperturbable.

— TIMESTAMPS —

00:00 The Way to the Imperturbable

01:40 What we'll cover

04:11 What is “āneñja” and the context for this teaching?

18:35 Examples of the Buddha and the imperturbable

22:30 Overview of the Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)

23:45 “Deep dive” into the Buddha’s teaching on sensuality

46:04 "Deep dive" into the Buddha's teaching on the three ways directed to the imperturbable

1:01:58 "Deep dive" into the Buddha's teaching on the three ways directed to the base of nothingness

1:33:52 "Deep dive" into the Buddha's teaching on the three ways directed to the base of neither-perception-nor-non-perception

1:45:28 "Deep dive" into the Buddha's teaching on noble liberation

2:00:35 Encouragement towards investigating

2:03.38 Sharing the merit and blessings

In this session we cover:

— What is “āneñja” and the context for this teaching?

— Examples of the Buddha and the imperturbable

— Overview of the Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)

— “Deep dive” into the Buddha’s gradual teaching on sensuality, the higher concentrations and noble liberation

— Encouragement from the Buddha towards investigating

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this sutta.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://t.ly/q3Bwi

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - First Doorway to Nibbāna - 15 June 2024

03:32 Recap on the four profitable directions (modes of practice)

09:30 Painful practice with slow realisation

14:05 The five contemplations or profitable perceptions

31:34 Activating or developing the noble eightfold path

32:43 Fulfilling the first jhāna

38:14 Buddha's simile for the first jhāna

46:29 Context within higher training

48:22 Short meditation

1:01:07 First establishment of mindfulness

01:03:24 Arising and passing away of form

01:13:15 Heavenly abiding

01:21:52 Sharing the merit and blessings

The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/SBjai

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Mettā Lab - Mettā Q&A - 8 June 2024

04:43 Short meditation - Karaṇīyametta Sutta

15:55 Mettā Q&A

16:02 What meditations would you recommend to prepare the mind for loving kindness?

23:56 What should I do if my mind wanders off while I am taking my own example?

27:40 What's the best way to teach my children Buddha's loving kindness? Do they have to be a certain age to understand?

34:28 Do you have any advice on how to overcome grudges as part of developing mettā?

50:50 Can I spread loving kindness to a relative or friend who has passed away?

53:30 Can you comment on the flow of how we're supposed to develop this Karaṇīyametta Sutta? How much time developing the qualities and then spreading loving kindness?

56:54 When we develop mettā using this method (Karaṇīyametta Sutta) is it linked to the jhānas?

1:03:50 First Doorway to Nibbāna - context and overview

1:30:53 Sharing the merit and blessings

The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/NSZmV

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This unique Dhamma session was held over Vesak via zoom on "DISPELLING BUDDHIST MYTHS". In this session, we tackled about 6 common Buddhist myths, though we had a longer list of Buddhist myths.

One of our kalyanamittas was keen to have an interactive and fun session during Vesak to debunk or dispel some of the common Buddhist myths that exist, particularly in Buddhist countries.

As always, take what is useful.

— TIMESTAMPS —00:00 Dispelling Buddhist Myths01:25 Introduction05:09 Buddhist myth 01 - Only the wealthy can make merit16:05 Buddhist myth 02 - Buddha only taught Dhamma to monastic disciples and not lay people35:35 Buddhist myth 03 - Lay people cannot attain path and fruit49:43 Buddhist myth 04 - Buddhism is for those worried about life after death, and irrelevant to wellbeing in the present1:02:59 Buddhist myth 05 - Buddhism is not for the youth, you have to wait till your hair turns grey1:17:18 Buddhist myth 06 - A child's interest in Dhamma should not be encouraged as they will lose interest in life1:34:16 Sharing of merit and blessings

Much merit (bohoma pin) for the invitation to be part of this session, coming up with our initial list of Buddhist myths and helping to facilitate this session for the benefit of others.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://t.ly/TGlaR

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Metta Lab - Karaṇīyametta Sutta - 1 June 2024

05:50 Insight pathway and where we ended in the last session on 25 May 2024

08:26 Understanding and applying Buddha's example of a mother and her one and only child

16:22 How we spread loving kindness in all directions without obstruction, hate and hostility

19:07 Four postures, without drowsiness

21:15 Remembering or being mindful - what we have developed is a "divine abode"

24:48 Virtuous - 9 skilled states

27:31 How we get to the insight (wisdom) of developing this Karaṇīyametta Sutta meditation and noble attainment (path and fruit of non-return)

42:48 Recap of insight pathway meditation - 15 steps

53:34 Short meditation

1:09:12 Info on Upcoming session - First Doorway to Nibbana (Painful Practice with Slow Realisation)

1:13:27 Sharing the merit & blessings

The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/P214s

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast

Updated on 5 June 2024 for extended version to include Q&A

This is the guided meditation, Dhamma talk and Q&A with Metta Centre (SYD) on "The Mastery of Buddha's Instructions - How it leads to noble attainment and freedom from suffering". This session was conducted via zoom.

— TIMESTAMPS —00:00⁠ The Mastery of Buddha's Instructions

⁠04:47⁠ Guided meditation on loving kindness based on Karaṇīyametta Sutta

⁠24:35⁠⁠ Dhamma talk on the Mastery of Buddha's Instructions

⁠53:32⁠⁠⁠ Q&A

⁠1:30:39⁠⁠⁠ Sharing of merit and blessings

The Buddha praised the mastery of instruction over the mastery of psychic power and the mastery of telepathy because it leads to noble attainment and culminates in complete liberation. Lay people received gradual instructions from the Buddha and attained the fruit of stream entry and more.

Now more than 2,500 years after the parinibbāna of the Buddha, if we have faith or conviction in the Buddha, incline towards understanding the Buddha’s gradual instructions and diligently practice in accordance with them, we can still expect wonderful results.

In this Dhamma session we will examine the Buddha’s gradual instructions from the Pali Canon and why they are so valuable and powerful.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

The full Dhamma session is available on Metta Centre's YT channel - https://t.ly/r8O3d

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice.

— Timestamp —

00:00 Metta Lab - Karaṇīyametta Sutta - 25 May 2024

05:02 Quick recap

20:38 Short meditation - up to "May all beings be happy"

30:21 Loving kindness and the noble eightfold path

33:45 Right view leads to Right thought (understanding twofold thought)

37:47 Range or spectrum of living beings

44:35 "Let no one deceive another"

47:50 "Nor despise anyone anywhere"

52:24 "With anger or ill will, one should not wish another to suffer"

53:53 How do we remove anger (byārosanā)?

1:00:44 How do we remove ill will (paṭighasañña)?

1:09:45 Sharing the merit & blessings

The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/YSxB1

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this livestream Dhamma session on Vesak full moon poya, we examine the Buddha's teaching in the Dhammadāyāda Sutta (MN 3) that encouraged "Be my heirs in Dhamma, not my heirs in material things."

In this session we cover:

— Overview of the Dhammadāyāda Sutta (MN 3)

— Buddha’s teaching on “Be my heirs in the Dhamma, not heirs in material things”

— “Deep dive” into the Venerable Sāriputta’s elaboration of the Buddha’s teaching highlighting the importance of training in seclusion

— Important connection to the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://t.ly/jzyyH

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/NUzgJ

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/Db_F3

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/Pag3h

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to Mettā Lab @suttameditationseries

Mettā Lab is a weekly YouTube livestream Dhamma session on the Sutta Meditation Series channel to develop and intensify our loving kindness (mettā) practice. The focus is on developing supramundane loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.

(1) We will begin with the Buddha's instructions on how to develop mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(2) Then we will develop the First Doorway to Nibbana or Painful Practice with Slow Realisation which culminates in immeasurable mettā, based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9). It also draws on what we learn in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

(3) Then we will develop mettā with the seven enlightenment factors (bojjhangas), based on the Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54), which distinguishes the Buddha's teaching of mettā from all others. And liberation of mind by loving kindness (mettācetovimutti)

These are purposely "slow sessions" to gradually learn (or revise), develop and practise each step of these sutta meditations. Each session will be 1 to 1.5 hours duration. And during the session there will be short meditation periods. It may take a few weeks to complete each sutta meditation.

Mettā Lab is for beginners and meditators who wish to refresh and deepen their loving kindness practice. Everyone is welcome.

This is the updated session (without sound issues)*

To watch the YouTube livestream - https://t.ly/93vbr

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part VI: Perception of impermanence (aniccasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

Please note this is part of an insight pathway we develop by applying this particular sequence of profitable perceptions from the Buddha. So how we develop the perception of impermanence is finely tuned to what we have already developed in the earlier profitable perceptions, as well as how it is framed with the mind shrinking away from gain, honour and praise.
— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)
— Pañcamacchariyasutta (AN 5.254)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Lābhasakkārasaṁyutta (SN 17)
— Assāda Sutta (AN 6.112)
— Aniccasaññā Sutta (SN 22.102)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SogIxOGAxb4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question "Why does Buddhism talk so much about suffering?" is often asked by people who are not-so familiar with the Buddha's teachings and also people who are practising the Buddha's teachings and wish to help people who ask them this question. This was a recent offering to a kalyanamitta that might be of benefit to others. Wishing you well.

A transcribed note can be found on our Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries/758

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part V: Perception of tnon-delight in the entire world (sabbaloke anabhiratasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

In this session we go through some ways for developing this profitable perception of non-delight in the entire world, as well as why it's important to do so.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)
— Loka Sutta (SN 12.44)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Haliddakāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Pahāna Sutta (SN 36.3)
— Chachakka Sutta (MN 148)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Gaṇḍa Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Āsavakkhaya Sutta (AN 5.70)
— Nibbhedika Sutta (AN 6.63)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - http://tinyurl.com/pcrbauup

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session on Navam full moon poya, we examine the "Buddha's advice on caring for the sick". This is in response to a request from one of our kalyanamittas. This will be based on Upaṭṭhāka Sutta (AN 5.124) and we will draw on other teachings, as well as highlighting the benefit of some of the sutta meditations we already practise.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Paṭhamadāna Sutta (AN 8.31)
— Dānamahapphalasutta (AN 7.52)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Gaṇḍa Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Vijaya Sutta (Snp 1.11)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Udāyī Sutta (AN 5.159)
— Nakulapitu Sutta (AN 6.16)
— Gilāna Sutta (SN 55.54)
— Gilāna Vagga (SN 46.14 to 46.16)
— Paṭhamaupaṭṭhāka Sutta (AN 5.123)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Kd 6)
— Sattamavagga (AN 1.264)
— Kusalākusalabalavatarapañha (Mil 6.3.3)
— Pathavicalanapañha (Mil 5.1.4)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - http://tinyurl.com/4ypfy6d2

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part IV: Perception of the repulsiveness of food (āhāre paṭikūlasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

In this session we go through some ways for developing this profitable perception of the repulsiveness of food, as well as why it's important to do so. We also reference the Story of Venerable Belatthasisa Thera and the Buddha's Dhammapada verse to help us to understand this Noble Dhamma.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Gaṇḍa Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Sekha Pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Atthirāga Sutta (SN 12.64)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Belatthasisatheravatthu (Dhp 92)
— Sannidhikāraka (Bu Pc 38)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - http://tinyurl.com/pcrbauup

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part III: Perception of death (maraṇasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

In this session we go through some ways for developing this profitable perception of death, as well as why it's important to do so. We also reference some of the Buddha's teachings on mindfulness of death, as well as the Buddha's sayings with regard to the story of the weaver girl and also Venerable Paṭācārā Theri for inspiration and encouragement.

Previous talks referenced in this session:

— Dhamma Q&A on overcoming challenges with the maranasati meditation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVywqneHZ8I (video) or
— The Story of the Weaver Girl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdYG1SfGqM4 (video) or
— The Story of Paṭācārā Therī: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLWx1jZwkAU (video) or

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)
— Paṭhamavagga (AN 1.303)
— Aparaaccharāsaṅghātavagga (AN 1.466)
— Jarāmaraṇa Sutta (SN 12.71)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Jarāmaraṇa Sutta (SN 3.3)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Gaṇḍa Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Paṭhamamaraṇassati Sutta (AN 6.19)
— Dutiyamaraṇassati Sutta (AN 6.20)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/3ttcue9k

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part II: Perception of unattractiveness (asubhasaññā) explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

In this session we go through some ways for developing this profitable perception of unattractiveness, as well as why it's important to do so. And we look into the powerful story of Venerable Nandā Theri, who the Buddha declared “the foremost of my bhikkhunī disciples among meditators or those who practice absorption (or jhānas)” for encouragement and inspiration.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Gaṇḍa Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Janapadakalyāṇīrūpanandātherīvatthu (Dhp 150)
— Sundarīnandātherīgāthā (Thig 5.4)
— Vijaya Sutta (Snp 1.11)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/pz2ks9ap

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We begin our Profitable Perceptions Series with Part I: An Introduction to the set of seven perceptions explained in the Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49).

This short session provides some context for why it's fruitful and beneficial to develop and cultivate this set of seven profitable perceptions.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Lobha Sutta (Iti 1)
— Lobhapariññā Sutta (Iti 9)
— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 7.615-1124)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Gilāna Sutta (AN 5.121)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/wa8p728y

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.Blessings of the Triple Gem - In today’s uposatha Dhamma session we examine “THE HARM OF INSULTING DHAMMA TEACHERS AND THEIR DISCIPLES” based on the Buddha’s teaching to Venerable Dhammika in the Dhammika Sutta (AN 6.54).In this teaching, the Buddha highlights the harm that we can do to ourselves and to others, if we insult, scold and argue with spiritual teachers and disciples of other religions or traditions or with noble disciples of the Buddha. Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:— Akkosaka Sutta (AN 5.211)— Dhātusosaṁsandana Sutta (Iti 78)— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)— Sattasūriya Sutta (AN 7.66)— Mūgapakkhajātaka (Ja 538) — Kuddālajātaka (Ja 70)— Hatthipālajātaka (Ja 509)— Mahāgovinda Sutta (DN 19)— Sunetta Sutta (AN 7.73)— Paṭhamakhata Sutta (AN 4.3)— Hāliddakāni Sutta (SN 22.3)— Puggala Sutta (AN 9.9)— Gūthakhādakapetavatthu (Pv 43)— Dhātuvivaṇṇapetavatthu (Pv 35)— Acinteyyasutta (AN 4.77)— Dhammaññūsutta (AN 7.88)— Kokasunakhaluddakavatthu (Dhp 125)— Maṇikārakulūpakatissattheravatthu (Dhp 126)— Voropita Sutta (AN 6.87)— Suppabuddhasakyavatthu (Dhp 128)— Kokālikasutta (SN 6.10), (AN 10.89)— Turūbrahmasutta (SN 6.9)— Kokālikavatthu (Dhp 363)— Kacchapa Jātaka (Ja 215)— Akkosa Sutta (SN 7.2)— Chaddantajotipālārabbhapañha (Mil 5.5.6)— Byasana Sutta (AN 11.6)— Sikkhāsutta (AN 5.5) — Dutiyalakuṇḍakabhaddiya Sutta (Ud 7.2)Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who requested this talk.The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/2hmzra9z

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we wisely contemplate in a progressive way,

wholesome and unwholesome states (Kusala Sutta),
blameable and blameless states (Sāvajja Sutta),
inferior and superior states (Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta), and
dark and bright states with their counterparts (Chaḷabhijāti Sutta)

referencing key teachings of the Buddha, to deepen our understanding of kamma. This will also enable us to grow in wisdom and deepen our understanding of wrong view and right view, and more importantly, we’ll be nourishing the right view that is “noble, taintless, supramundane, a factor of the path”.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Mahacattarisaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Kāya Sutta (SN 46.2)
— Bala Sutta (AN 9.5)
— Kammanirodha Sutta (SN 35.146)
— Kusala Sutta (AN 10.180)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Paṭhamanirayasagga Sutta (AN 10.211)
— Kammanidāna Sutta (AN 10.174)
— Sāsanapaṭṭhānadutiyabhūmi (Pe 2)
— Samādhi-bhāvana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Sāvajja Sutta (AN 10.140)
— Ānaṇya Sutta (AN 4.62)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Anussatiṭṭhāna Sutta (AN 6.25)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Puggala Sutta (AN 3.21)
— Tamotama Sutta (AN 4.85)
— Chaḷabhijāti Sutta (AN 6.57)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 8)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/28ewv3z6

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine the Third Doorway to Nibbāna — Pleasant Practice with Slow Realisation (sukhā paṭipadā dandhābhiññā). This is the Buddha's medicine for Mental Volition as Nutriment. This is part of the supramundane path and practice.

This is a powerful insight pathway, and is suitable for those "who are not strongly prone to lust, hatred and delusion, and don't often experience pain and dejection born of lust, hatred and delusion".

We will be drawing on some of the meditations we have practised before. Consider these as pre-requisites to help with this Third Doorway to Nibbāna:

(1) Understanding of developing the Four Jhānas - https://tinyurl.com/38ejcbdz or https://tinyurl.com/y87ma9ea
(2) Understanding the Four Nutriments (or Four Unprofitable Directions rooted in greed, hatred and delusion) - https://tinyurl.com/3aajdpza
(3) Ability to purify the mind (Vatthūpama Sutta, MN 7 or similar)
(4) Understanding the Exposition of the Elements (Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta, MN 140) - https://tinyurl.com/yfunf5n2
(5) Understanding the Pathway of Renunciation (Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta, MN 137) - https://tinyurl.com/5cm6u83u
(6) Seven factors of enlightenment - https://tinyurl.com/ymcveve4 (Intro and Overview) and https://tinyurl.com/yfa9fhdz (Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)

In this session we look at:

— Pre-requisites for the 3rd doorway to Nibbāna
— Recap of the Four Nutriments and Four Modes of Practice
— What kind of spiritual faculties and powers are associated with this mode of practice?
— What underpins this 3rd doorway to Nibbāna?
— "Deep dive" into the insight pathway for pleasant practice with slow realisation
— Recap of the meditation instructions

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Paṭipadāvagga, (AN 4.161-70)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33),
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
— Ubhaya Sutta (AN 4.166)
— Brahmājala Sutta (DN 1)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anupubbanirodha Sutta (AN 9.31):
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Uposatha Sutta (AN 4.190)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Cakkavattirāja Sutta (SN 55.1)
— Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Āḷavaka Sutta (SN 10.12)
— Silavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Nibbānarūpasaṇṭhānapañha (Mil 6.3.10)
— Nibbānasannihitapañha (Mi. 6.3.12)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Tathāgata Sutta (SN 56.12)
— Samādhi-bhāvana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Mettagūmāṇavapucchāniddesa (Cnd 8)
— Chandasamādhi Sutta (SN 51.13)
— Bhikkhu Sutta (SN 46.5)
— Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)
— Kūṭāgāra Sutta (SN 46.7)
— Dutiyamettā Sutta (AN 4.126)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who requested this insight pathway meditation

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/yu52259m

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.This is an easy check, once we have developed the 10 skilled states through the insight pathway in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8) and are radiating loving kindness to all living beings.

I like to call it the "stickiness" check. This is how we can diagnose if there are flaws in our metta practice. If so, we can go back to purify and ensure we truly have the 10 skilled states.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In Part III of our Bojjhaṅga Series, we address some questions on developing the seven factors of enlightenment:

Is it possible to develop the bojjhaṅgas at work or while going about daily activities?
Can someone arouse the bojjhaṅgas without any desire for enlightenment?
Is it possible to develop the bojjhaṅgas by hearing the teachings of someone other than the Buddha?
How are bojjhaṅgas aroused through developing the other sutta meditations?
Can we develop the bojjhaṅgas in any order?
What is the difference between the enlightenment factors of tranquillity, concentration and equanimity?
Once we develop the bojjhaṅgas, what is developed beyond them?

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)
— Pariyāya Sutta (SN 46.52)
— Pīti Sutta (AN 5.176)
— Mahāsuññata Sutta (MN 122)
— Paviveka Sutta (AN 3.93)
— Kuṇḍaliya Sutta (SN 46.6)
— Bhikkhu Sutta (AN 46.5)
— Kūṭāgāra Sutta (SN 46.7)
— Taṇhakkhaya Sutta (SN 46.26)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vattha Sutta (SN 46.4)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Vammika Sutta (MN 23)
— Nibbedhabhāgiya Sutta (SN 46.28)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Anupādāparinibbāna Sutta (SN 45.48)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the people who asked questions on the bojjhaṅgas.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/usmwsnhr

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from the FULL Dhamma session on "The progressive development of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment" based on the Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3) on 31 August 2023.This extract is only a SUMMARY OF THE PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SEVEN FACTORS OF ENLIGHTENMENT. Just as in the Kūṭāgāra Sutta (SN 46.7) with the simile of all the rafters of a peaked house that slant, slope, and incline towards the roof peak, if we are developing and cultivating the bojjhangas correctly (in accordance with the Buddha's instructions), we slant, slope, and incline towards Nibbāna.

With wisdom developed through the bojjhangas, Nibbāna is our only goal.

For the FULL Dhamma session - video (https://tinyurl.com/yfa9fhdz) or audio (https://tinyurl.com/yv79kzxh)Bohoma pin (much merit) to the people who requested the bojjhaṅgas.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from the FULL Dhamma session on "The progressive development of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment" based on the Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3) on 31 August 2023.This extract is on "WHAT NOURISHES THE BOJJHANGAS?" referencing the Kundaliya Sutta (SN 46.6). This is very helpful for establishing a good foundation in order to develop the seven factors of enlightenment, as well as diagnosing where we can have problems or challenges with our development.For the FULL Dhamma session - video (https://tinyurl.com/yfa9fhdz) or audio (https://tinyurl.com/yv79kzxh)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the people who requested the bojjhaṅgas.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In Part II of our Bojjhaṅga Series, we examine the Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3) and the Buddha’s progressive pathway for developing the seven factors of enlightenment.

In this session we look at:

— Overview of the Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)
— What nourishes the bojjhaṅgas?
— “Deep dive” into how to arouse and develop each bojjhaṅga
— Summary of the progressive development of the bojjhaṅgas
— Fruit and benefits of cultivating the bojjhaṅgas in this way

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Bojjhaṅgā Saṁyutta (SN 46)
— Kuṇḍaliya Sutta (SN 46.6)
— Nālanda Sutta (SN 47.12)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Sīlalakkhaṇapañha (Mil 3.1.9)
— Pīti Sutta (AN 5.176)
— Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2)
— Mahākassapasaddhivihārikavatthu
— Paṭhamasūriyūpama Sutta (SN 46. 12)
— Yonisomanasikāra Sutta (SN 46.35)
— Ajjhattikaṅga Sutta (SN 46.49)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Āsāduppajahavagga (AN 2.126)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Dutiyavagga (AN 1.311)
— Desanāhāravibhaṅga (Ne 4)
— Micchatta Sutta (AN 10.103)
— Ānanda Sutta (SN 22.159)
— Cūḷarāhulovāda Sutta (MN 147)
— Pariyesana Sutta (AN 4.255)
— Cunda Sutta (SN 47.13)
— Vidhā Sutta (SN 46.41)
— Hāravibhaṅgapañcamabhūmi (Pe 5)
— Bojjhaṅgapañha (Mil 3.7.6)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19)
— Saḷāyatana-vibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Passaddhi Sutta (AN 9.58)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the people who requested the bojjhaṅgas.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/yfa9fhdz

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We begin our Bojjhaṅga Series with Part I : An Introduction to the Factors of Enlightenment.

In this session we look at:

— Understanding ”bhāvanā“
— What makes the factors of enlightenment unique?
— Why are they called factors of enlightenment ?
— The Buddha’s simile of the rafters of a peaked roof
— Hindrances vs factors of enlightenment
— Important attributes and application of the factors of enlightenment

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Bojjhaṅgā Saṁyutta (SN 46)
— Kimatthiya Sutta (SN 45.5)
— Paṭhamauppāda Sutta (SN 45.14)
— Paṭhamaparisuddha Sutta (SN 45.16)
— Viraddha Sutta (SN 45.33)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Sabbāsava Sutta (MN 2)
— Pancasatabhikkhu Vatthu (Dhp 274)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Pancangika Sutta (AN 5.18)
— Udumbarika Sutta (DN 25)
— Cūḷasaccaka Sutta (MN 35)
— Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Uttiya Sutta (AN 10.95)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Āsava Sutta (AN 6.58)
— Khīṇāsava Sutta (AN 10.90)
— Pāraṅgama Sutta (SN 45.34)
— Pañcasataāgantukabhikkhuvatthu (Dhp 87-89)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the people who requested the bojjhaṅgas.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/ymcveve4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine a selection of the Buddha's teachings on walking meditation and its benefits, including the Caṅkama Sutta (AN 5.29) .

In this session we look at:

— Evidence of walking meditation being practised by the Buddha(s) and noble disciples
— How it connects with wakefulness and helps to overcome the hindrance of dullness and drowsiness
— Buddha’s instructions on walking meditation in the suttas
— What are the five benefits of walking meditation?

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Cara Sutta (AN 4.11), (Iti 110)
— Caṅkama Sutta (AN 5.29)
— Āmaṇḍaphaladāyakattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 531)
— Kesarapupphiyattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 366)
— Maggadattikattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 178)
— Sudatta Sutta (SN 10.8)
— Supati Sutta (SN 4.7)
— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Aggañña Sutta (DN 27)
— Bāhiya Sutta (Ud 1.10)
— Māratajjanīya Sutta (MN 50)
— Dhammacetiya Sutta (MN 89)
— Aparihāniya Sutta (AN 4.37)
— Apaṇṇaka Sutta (AN 3.16)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Samādhi-bhāvana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Kosambhiya Sutta (MN 48)
— Sīla Sutta (AN 4.12)
— Anuruddhamahāvitakka Sutta (AN 8.30)
— Padhāna Suttas (AN 4.13), (AN 4.69)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Samaya Sutta (AN 5.54)
— Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Kd 6.11)
— Khuddakavatthukkhandhaka (Kd 15)
— Padhāniyaṅga Sutta (AN 5.53)
— Kaṇṇakatthala Sutta (MN 90)
— Paṭhamapatthanā Sutta (AN 5.135)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this talk. Apologies for the delay

**A graphic with "The five benefits of walking meditation" from the Caṅkama Sutta (AN 5.29) as discussed in this Dhamma session has already been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/636)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/2p9pfpt9

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine the Vammika Sutta (MN 23) and how to contemplate the riddle given to Venerable Kumārakassapa and the teaching he received from the Buddha, which eventually culminated in this noble disciple of the Buddha realising nibbāna.

It's a powerful teaching and we will be drawing on some of the meditations we have practised before. These earlier sessions are helpful as pre-requisites to this meditation:

— Exposition of the Elements - Part 1 (tbc)
— Q&A on how to contemplate the elements (tbc)
— Arising and passing away of the five aggregates (tbc)
— Understanding the simile of the fruits on a tree in the Potaliya Sutta (timestamped tbc)

In this session we look at:

— Overview of the Vammika Sutta (MN 23)
— Who is Venerable Kumārakassapa?
— The deity’s riddle for Venerable Kumārakassapa
— “Deep dive” into the Buddha’s explanation of how to understand the meaning the deity’s riddle
— Summary of how to contemplate the Buddha’s words towards complete liberation
— The medicine for the five hindrances

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20)
— Kevaddha Sutta (DN 11)
— Sammāsambuddha Sutta (SN 22.58)
— Dhātuvibhanga Sutta (MN 140)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Puggala Sutta (AN 9.9)
— Avijja Sutta (SN 45.1)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Anusaya Sutta (SN 45.175)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Āvaraṇanīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.37)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Karanīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Samādhi-bhāvana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Mahāsaḷāyatanika Sutta (MN 149)
— Pathamasukha Sutta (AN 10.65)
— Nandikkhaya Sutta (SN 22.51)
— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN53)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/yjhs4f4f

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

In this session we delve into the story of Venerable Kumārakassapa Thera, who was born to a young bhikkhuni. After being brought up under the care of King Pasenadī of Kosala, he took novice ordination at seven years old. Later on, after taking full ordination, he was given a riddle from a non-returner deity from the Pure Abodes and asked the Buddha to explain its meaning and instruction on how to contemplate it (Vammika Sutta, MN 23). He subsequently realised the fruit of arahantship by contemplating it and penetrating the Dhamma.

We will study the Vammika Sutta (MN 23) in an upcoming Dhamma session.

Some of the suttas referred to in this Dhamma talk:

— Mahākhandhaka (Kd 1)
— Etadaggavagga (AN 1.217)
— Vammika Sutta (MN 23)
— Pāyāsi Sutta (DN 23)
— Nigrodhamigajātaka (Ja 12)
— Kumārakassapattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 537)
— Kumārakassapattheragāthā (Thag 2.41)
— (Uttara) Pāyāsivimānavatthu (Vv 74 or Vv 6.1)
— Kumārakassapamātuttherivatthu (Dhp 160)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://tinyurl.com/2xj3rj7y

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we look at a question that has been asked by one of our kalyāṇamittas:

“I was wondering if you could do a teaching on the four jhāna similes as found in the Samādhaṅga (Pañcaṅgika) Sutta among many others and how they relate to the development of jhana. The bath attendant, lake, lotuses and white cloth.”

In answering this question, we take the opportunity to go through the whole sutta, which has a total of 8 similes given by the Buddha.

This is a very powerful teaching from the Buddha on developing the noble five-factored right concentration. It emphasises:

how we direct the mind to develop the jhāna concentrations, using the Buddha's jhāna similes as skillful means;
having attained the jhāna concentrations, by reviewing we "know" we possess certain important attributes (including the noble eightfold path, the enlightenment factors); and
with the noble five-factored right concentration, we now have the basis or foundation to direct the mind towards the special knowledges or supernormal powers, and are capable of realising them.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19)
— Pāsarāsi Sutta (MN 26)
— Vicayahārasampāta (Ne 21)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Kāya Sutta (SN 46.2)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Culapanthakavatthu (Dhp 25)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from our Dhamma session on the Second Doorway to Nibbana - Painful Practice with Quick Realisation, we examine why envy is a block to developing Immeasurable Compassion.This is a good example of the power of abandoning defilements or mental stains, as we have been practiing with the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) and Anumāna Sutta (MN 15).Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Abhinanda Sutta (SN 22.29)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 14 May 2023.

This was based on the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and Petakopadesa.

Please note, it's helpful if you have already practised the insight pathway meditation for the First Doorway to Nibbāna — Painful practice with slow realisation (https://bit.ly/3GzEkpy), as well as being able to develop loving kindness (mettā). And to be familiar with the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54) via the recent sessions on noble retirement

The format for this livestream:

Recap of the Four Modes of Practice
What kind of spiritual faculties and powers are associated with this mode of practice?
Venerable MahāMoggallāna
What underpins this 2nd Doorway to Nibbāna?
"Deep dive" into the insight pathway for painful practice with quick realisation
Meditation instructions

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Paṭipadāvagga, (AN 4.161-70)
— Kīṭāgiri Sutta (MN 70)
— Pahārāda Sutta (AN 8.19)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Mahāmoggallāna Sutta (AN 4.167)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33),
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.2)
— Kūṭa Sutta (AN 5.12)
— Paṭhamavibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.9)
— Āsavakkhaya Sutta (SN 48.20)
— Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Gandha Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Vijaya Sutta (Snp 1.11)
— Girimananda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Hāliddakāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)
— Khajjanīya Sutta (SN 22.79)
— Dutiyajhānapañhā Sutta (SN 40.2)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Abhinandana Sutta (SN 22.29)
— Paññā Sutta (AN 8.2)
— Venāgapura Sutta (AN 3.63)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Tathāgata Sutta (SN 56.12)
— Mettagūmāṇavapucchāniddesa (Cnd 8)
— Chandasamādhi Sutta (SN 51.13)
— Apāra Sutta (SN 51.1)
— Dutiyamettā Sutta (AN 4.126)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who requested this insight pathway meditation

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3IuDrj3

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 5 May 2023

The main purpose of today’s livestream is to understand the perfection of a fully enlightened Buddha, and why a Buddha is superior to other living beings, including humans, devas and even noble disciples who have realised the fruit of arahantship.

The format for this livestream will be: (1) The Tathāgata, bhikkhus liberated by wisdom, other teachers, brahmins and wanderers(2) The importance of conviction in the Tathāgata(3) Qualities of the Buddha, including short meditation (buddhānusati)(4) The danger of slandering the Buddha (5) Asking for forgiveness

In clarifying some of these things, we hope to arouse more conviction, confidence and faith towards the Buddha(s).

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those assisted with the research for this Dhammadāna

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3UsOJsV

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 5 May 2023

The main purpose of today’s livestream is to understand the perfection of a fully enlightened Buddha, and why a Buddha is superior to other living beings, including humans, devas and even noble disciples who have realised the fruit of arahantship.In Part 1 we'll look at:• What is a Buddha?• Why does he refer to himself as Tathāgata?• How does one become a Buddha?• What makes a Buddha incomparable to others?• What does the Buddha himself have to say about it? and more...In clarifying some of these things, we hope to arouse more conviction, confidence and faith towards the Buddha(s).Bohoma pin (much merit) to those assisted with the research for this Dhammadāna

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 23 April 2023

This is one of the Buddha's most powerful teachings to a lay person on how to develop the path that leads to supramundane or noble retirement (nibbāna)

The format for this livestream (Part II) will be:

Overview of the Buddha's instructions on how to achieve noble retirement entirely and in all ways
Understanding the Buddha's pathway of renunciation and the principles we will apply
"Deep dive" into the seven similes of the Buddha to understand the danger in sensual pleasures and link to the eight things
Accomplishing the Three Knowledges
Buddha's final question for Potaliya and his response
To recap the Buddha's pathway to renunciation - https://bit.ly/3L0A5Vw (video) or https://bit.ly/3oCLdQX (audio)
To recap the three knowledges - https://bit.ly/3ozSEsa (video) or https://bit.ly/3owzSBP (audio)Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:
— Pahārāda Sutta (AN 8.19)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Alagaddūpama Sutta (MN 22)
— Cūḷadukkhakkhandha Sutta (MN 14)
— Dhatuvibhanga Sutta (MN 140)
— Culasunnata Sutta (MN 121)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Suttādhiṭṭhānatatiyabhūmi (Pe 3)
— Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who requested this sutta.

To read the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54) - https://bit.ly/3UXVoe

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/41PAdOd

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 22 April 2023

This is one of the Buddha's most powerful teachings to a lay person on how to develop the path that leads to supramundane or noble retirement (nibbāna)

The format for this livestream (Part I) will be:

Introduction and overview of the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54) and why this teaching is important
Review the Buddha’s initial interaction with Potaliya
Highlight the differences in worldly retirement vs Potaliya’s version of retirement vs noble retirement
“Deep dive” into the eight things that develop the path leading to noble retirement, including short meditations on each

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Cūḷaniddesa (PTS 1049, explanation 475)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Ādhipateyya Sutta (AN 3.40)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who requested this sutta.

To read the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54) - https://bit.ly/3UXVoe

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3H87Yme

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 16 April 2023

The format for this livestream:(1) Quick overview of the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) and why the Buddha encourages these five subjects for frequent contemplation:

— ‘I am subject to old age; I am not exempt from old age.’
— ‘I am subject to illness; I am not exempt from illness.’
— ‘I am subject to death; I am not exempt from death.’
— ‘I must be parted and separated from everyone and everything dear and agreeable to me.’
— ‘I am the owner of my kamma, the heir of my kamma; I have kamma as my origin, kamma as my relative, kamma as my resort; I will be the heir of whatever kamma.’

(2) Review of the five subjects with explanation and short meditations on each Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 9)
— Devadūta Sutta (AN 3.36)
— Jarādhamma Sutta (SN 48.41)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Girimananda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Pesakāradhītāvatthu (Dhp 174)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Kisāgotamīvatthu (Dhp 114)
— Paṭācārātherīvatthu (Dhp 113)
— Visākhāvatthu (Dhp 213)
— Assu Sutta (SN 15.3)
— Tayojanapabbajitavatthu (Dhp 209-211)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Adhammacariyā Sutta (AN 10.220)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255)

To read the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - https://bit.ly/42PhZ0K

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3KxZ2ao

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on BAK POYA (5 April 2023) via zoom, on "THE ATTRIBUTES OF HOUSEHOLD LIFE THAT CAN POISON THE MIND"We examine the Cūḷadukkhakkhandha Sutta (MN 14) and the Buddha's teaching to Mahānāma the Sakyan on why, despite understanding the Dhamma taught by the Buddha, his mind gets invaded by states of greed, hate, and delusion at times and they remain. In this session, we cover:— Overview of the Cūḷadukkhakkhandha Sutta (MN 14)— Who is Mahānāma the Sakyan?— “Deep dive” into the Buddha’s answer to Mahānāma and the teaching on the gratification and dangers of sensual pleasures— Buddha’s encounter with the NigaṇṭhasSome of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN 53)— Paṭhamamahānāma Sutta (AN 11.11)— Mahānāma Suttas (SN 55.21-22) — Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.252)— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)— Nibbedkika Sutta (AN 6.63)— Kāma Sutta (Snp 4.1)— Bhoga Sutta (AN 5.227)— Haliddakani Sutta (SN 22.3) — Chiggaḷayuga Suttas (SN 56.47-56.48)— Pañcagatipeyyālavagga (SN 56.102-105)

The video of this talk will be published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3ZDy6LX

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.The format for this livestream:(1) Examine the teachings of the Buddha on how difficult and rare it is to gain a human birth, including the eight lost opportunities(2) Contemplate the Buddha's advice on this unique and precious opportunity we have in this life(3) Meditate together on an insight pathway to replace wrong view with right view and develop a sense of urgency towards the noble eightfold pathSome of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:— Assu Sutta (SN 15.3)— Chiggaḷayuga Suttas (SN 56.47-56.48)— Cankama Sutta (SN 14.15)— Erakapattanāgarājavatthu (Dhp 182)— Nakhasikha Sutta (SN 20.2)— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130) — Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)— Manussacutiniraya Sutta (SN 56.102)— Manussacutitiracchāna Sutta (SN 56.103)— Manussacutipettivisaya Sutta (SN 56.104)— Manussacutidevanirayādi Sutta (SN 56.105)— Akkhaṇa Sutta (AN 8.29) — Pātubhāva Sutta (AN 6.96)— Udāyī Sutta (AN 5. 159)— Pabbatūpama Sutta (SN 3.25)— Jarā Sutta (Snp 4.6)— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) — Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3G5Vc7d

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 25 March 2023 so that we could practise together. This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on CULTIVATING LOVING KINDNESS based on the insight pathway from the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8).By developing the 10 skilled states, we abandon the 10 unskilled states. With an understanding of the 1st noble truth of suffering, we are able to develop boundless or immeasurable metta. This is a supramundane practice that can lead to path and fruit of non-return, leaning towards nibbāna.

Please note, this has been recorded as a useful aid, and you are strongly encouraged to learn the meditation and develop it on your own so that the insight pathway is fully activated and you can sharpen your spiritual faculties

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3nnWu71

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 25 March 2023 so that we could practise together.

The format for the session:(1) Quick overview of the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)(2) Simple explanation, including examples, of the Vatthūpama Sutta links that corrupt the mind (3) Short meditations to break these Vatthūpama Sutta links to purify and experience the skilled states"Infographic of the two Insight pathways (Vatthūpama Sutta links)" we meditated on in this Dhamma session, have been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/677)The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3K5207t**

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Recent Dhamma session via zoom with student members and friends of the Warwick Buddhist Society on "THE POWER OF AN UNHINDERED MIND", where we contemplated the five hindrances, how they are linked, why they trouble us (including weakening our memory, making it difficult to concentrate the mind and blocking wisdom), and the Buddha's medicine that we can apply to overcome them.

In this session, we covered:

— What is meditation?
— What does the Buddha say about the five hindrances and why is it important to overcome them?
— “Deep dive” into each of the five hindrances (including short meditation on each)

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahācattarisaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Tevijja Sutta (DN 13)
— Akusalarāsi Suttas (AN 5.52, SN 47.5)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Nīvarana Sutta (SN 46.40)
— Saṅgarava Sutta (SN 46.55)
— Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— MahāAssapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Ina Sutta (AN 6.45)
— Bhoga Sutta (AN 5.227)
— Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 9.29)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those who helped organise this Dhamma session.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from the unexpected visit to the hospital and taking the opportunity to contemplate the Dhamma, we now take a look at the importance of prioritising Dhamma, not Kamma.

Whether we know it or not, all of us spend the bulk of our time on kamma. Even when we think we're in Dhamma.

Kamma keeps us bound to saṁsāra and this whole mass of suffering, while Dhamma (Buddha's true teachings and instructions) helps us to realise complete liberation.

Some of the suttas that are referred to:

— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Khuddakavatthuvibhaṅga (Vb 17)
— Haliddakāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Candūpama Sutta (SN 16.3),
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8),
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.33)
— Khīra Sutta (SN 15.4)
— Velama Sutta (AN 9.20)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Sharing this morning's unexpected visit to the hospital and using the opportunity to contemplate the Dhamma and cultivate immeasurable mettā, immeasurable upekkhā and liberation of mind due to mettā.

The insight pathway applied is the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation (dukkhā paṭipadā dandhābhiññā), the first doorway to Nibbāna (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/241) combined with the instructions for cultivating mettā in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta.

Some of the suttas that may be useful:

— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta(MN 140)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We live streamed this Dhamma session on our YouTube channel on 5 February 2023 for the uposatha, so that we could practise together. This is one of the most beneficial suttas to help us be in the right mind state to continuously learn and penetrate the Buddha's true teachings, but one we find most difficult to listen to and put into practise.

The format for the session:

Broad overview of the Anumāna Sutta (MN 15), including some references to other suttas
Simple explanation of how to do this sutta meditation
Meditate together on each quality that makes us "difficult to instruct" (duvaco) in order to purify the mind and remove any blocks
Sharing the merit and blessings

Reference was made to two previous Dhamma sessions:

"Why we struggle to understand Dhamma" - https://bit.ly/3DFSQdN (audio) or https://bit.ly/3lgP5oP (video)
"The Story of Radha Thera (Dhp 76) - https://bit.ly/3ld2PBc (audio) or https://bit.ly/3YeQxXK (video)

**Slides summarising — (1) The 16 qualities that make us difficult to instruct (duvaco) (2) The sutta meditation instructions to purify the mind (3) The 16 qualities that make us easy to instruct (suvaco) from the Anumāna Sutta (MN 15), have been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/650)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/40zENAt

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on NAVAM POYA (5 February 2023) via zoom, on "SPIRITUAL PROGRESS AND ATTAINMENT"

We examine the Sunakkhatta Sutta (MN 105) and the Buddha's teaching to Sunakkhatta on true spiritual progress and attainment that is intent on complete liberation through a series of similes.

Much of what is referred to will make sense to advanced practitioners developing the Noble Eightfold Path, where one already sees the danger in sensual pleasures, practises the important sutta meditations covered on this channel, and can enter the form jhānas and formless attainments with no trouble or difficulty, and understands how to enter them and what makes them cease.

In this session, we cover:

— Overview of the Sunakkhatta Sutta (MN 105)
— Who is Sunakkhatta?
— Contemplation of Buddha’s similes on how we should practise and train as we progress and attain on the Noble Path
— Understanding the distinction between those who have attained to stream entry, once-return and non-return VS arahants, including the danger that is still present for those yet to attain to the fruit of arahantship
— Why one attained up to the fruit of non-return still can't afford to be negligent, and it is impossible for an arahant to be negligent
— Seeing sense restraint as associated with happiness and integral to guarding skilled states and attainment

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Pāthika Sutta (DN 24)
— Mahāsīhanāda Sutta (MN 12)
— Anupubbanirodha Sutta (AN 9.31)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Culasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Dhātuvibhanga Sutta (MN 140)
— Suññataloka Sutta (AN 35.85)
— Santatara Sutta (Iti 73)
— Anusaya Sutta (SN 45.175)
— Kīṭāgiri Sutta (MN 70)
— Mettagū Sutta (Snp 5.4)
— Mettagūmāṇavapucchāniddesa (Cnd 8)
— Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

**A slide with a "Summary of Buddha's Similes" from the Sunakkhatta Sutta (MN 105) as shown in this Dhamma session has been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/650)

The video of this talk will be published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel -

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we complete our study of the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140) and the Buddha's teaching to venerable Pukkusāti on the six elements, six bases of contact, eighteen mental explorations and four determinations.

For Part 1 - https://bit.ly/3Gf539O (video) or https://bit.ly/3XYlFdy (audio)

In this session (part ii), we cover:

— How does one preserve truth? - developing the supreme determination for truth
— How does one cultivate relinquishment? - developing the supreme determination for relinquishment
— How does one train for peace? - developing the supreme determination for peace
— Summarising the key verse on developing the Four Determinations
— Understanding what it means to be called a "Sage at Peace"
— Understanding Venerable Pukkusāti's transgression and why he asked for forgiveness from the Buddha and what we can learn from this
— Venerable Pukkusāti's attainment and how we can follow in his footsteps

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhātu Sutta (SN 27.9)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Vakkali Sutta (SN 22.87)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Caṅkī Sutta (MN 95)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mettagū Sutta (Snp 5.4)
— Mettagūmāṇavapucchāniddesa (Cnd 8)
— Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48)
— Ghaṭīkāra Sutta (SN 1.50)

To read the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140) - https://suttacentral.net/mn140/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin (much merit) to those that requested this sutta.

The video of this talk will be published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/408wA66

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This short extract is from discussion around identifying and abandoning unwholesome verbal conduct and mental stains in the meditation and then seeing that they arose as a result of spending time clicking through a variety of things on the internet, as well as indulging in frivolous talk.

This has been edited from a Dhamma session held via zoom on "DEVELOPING IMMEASURABLE LOVING KINDNESS", based on the Buddha's teaching in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8).

This is encouragement towards developing and experiencing the happiness of meditation/higher concentrations, over what we are highly conditioned to gravitate towards in the world. Wisdom over ignorance and delusion.

Pali references:

"samphappalāpā" = frivolous talk (rooted in delusion)
"upakkilesa" = defilements, mental stains (unskilled states we abandon in our meditation)
"atta" = me and mine, sense of self
"sukhavihārā" = dwelling in happiness

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an edited version of a Dhamma session held via zoom on "DEVELOPING IMMEASURABLE LOVING KINDNESS", based on the Buddha's teaching in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8), emphasising the supramundane practice that leads to the fruit of non-return.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the kalyanamittas who requested this Dhamma session.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from our Full Duruthu Poya Dhamma session (on 6 January 2023) explaining the connection between the Four Noble Truths and having the Four Determinations as taught by the Buddha in the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140), that lead to the four concentrations.

This gives a broader picture of what underpins the verse "One should not neglect wisdom, should preserve Truth, should cultivate relinquishment and should train for peace"

The Buddha give very clear and sequential instructions in his teaching to venerable Pukkusāti about -

not neglecting wisdom (which means being vigilant in actively developing wisdom),
preserving Truth (about Nibbāna),
cultivating relinquishment (of all acquisitions), and
training for peace (pacification from lust, hatred and delusion).

It's important to see the link between having these Determinations based on understanding dukkha, wishing to abandon craving, realising cessation and fully developing the Noble Eightfold Path. And to see how they lead to the four developments and concentrations, inclining towards Nibbāna.

**A table of "The Four Profitable Directions" as referenced in this extract has been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/650)

In the FULL session, we start to go into the sequential and powerful instructions of the Buddha in the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140):

To watch the full session (video) - https://bit.ly/3Gf539O
To listen to the full session (audio) - https://bit.ly/3XfsqqV

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3GvBwZV

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short extract from our Full Duruthu Poya Dhamma session (on 6 January 2023) explaining the context for Buddha's exposition of the six elements in the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140) - Why the Buddha is offering this particular teaching to venerable Pukkusāti and why it is applicable to us.

We reference the Dhātu Sutta (SN 27.9) to understand the mental corruption of the six elements and the danger it poses.

In the FULL session, we start to go into the sequential and powerful instructions of the Buddha in the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140):

To watch the full session (video) - https://bit.ly/3Gf539O
To listen to the full session (audio) - https://bit.ly/3XfsqqV

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3ZnokyO

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on DURUTHU POYA (6 January 2023) via zoom, on "THE EXPOSITION OF THE ELEMENTS" - PART ONE.

We examine the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta(MN 140) and the Buddha's teaching to venerable Pukkusāti on the six elements, six bases of contact, eighteen mental explorations and four determinations.

The key verse is: "One should not neglect wisdom, should preserve truth, should cultivate relinquishment, and should train for peace"

*Note - the two meditation periods have been excluded or cut from this recording.*

In this session (part i), we cover:

Overview of the sutta, including architecture, links to other suttas and context for this teaching
Examine the meeting between the Buddha and venerable Pukkusāti, the Buddha's summary and brief explanation
Briefly explain how the Four Determinations fit into the Four Profitable Directions and the Four Noble Truths
Deep dive into the "How does one not neglect wisdom?" and what it really means to make the Determination for Wisdom (paññādhiṭṭhāna)
Understanding the links in dependent origination - six sense bases, contact and feeling

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhātu Sutta (SN 27.9)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Āneñja Sutta (AN 3.116)
— Nibbānarūpasaṇṭhānapañha (Mil 6.3.10)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

To read the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta(MN 140) - https://suttacentral.net/mn140/en/bodhi

**A table of "The Four Profitable Directions" as referenced in this Dhamma session has been posted to our Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/650)Bohoma pin (much merit) to those that requested this sutta.

The video of this talk will be published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3Gf539O

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

As we come to the end of 2022, it's a good opportunity to reflect on how we've connected through the Buddha and his Teachings, and to honour the good friendship we've cultivated together.

It's a time to express heartfelt gratitude and joy. (Listen to the end if you can)

Blessings and good wishes, to all our brothers and sisters in Dhamma, as we close out the year and head into a new one.

May the Noble Eightfold Path unfold with ease and safety. May your spiritual faculties continue to sharpen. May wisdom grow. May the Path bear fruit. May your aspirations be fulfilled.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Dutiyasiṅgala Sutta (SN 20.12)
— Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2)
— Kalyāṇamittādivagga (AN 1.71)
— Dovacassatā Sutta (AN 6.115)
— Dutiyasekha Sutta (Iti 17)
— Kalyāṇamitta Sutta (SN 45.63)
— Ādicca Sutta (SN 46.48)
— Kisāgotamītherīgāthā (Thig 10.1)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Ṭhiti Sutta (AN 10.53)

*Bohoma pin (much merit) to everyone who contributed and supported with this Dhamma dana*

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMduMK0Iytc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an EXTRACT from the Full Unduvap Poya Dhamma session (on 7 December 2022) explaining the Buddha's teaching of the Seven Knowledges that arise from possessing the noble right view:

making one ready to realise the fruit of Stream Entry, or
one has attained and is able to maintain the fruit of the attainment as a concentration.

Often people use this as a checklist to determine if they are ready to attain or have attained to fruit of the path. Or apply it as a basis for how to identify a stream enterer. A table of these seven knowledges for easy reference has been posted to our YT Community page and to Telegram (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/633)

This follows on from an earlier Dhamma Q&A on "How can you identify a stream enterer?" - https://bit.ly/3Y5vtDe (video) or https://bit.ly/3UEDoVe (audio)

For the Full Unduvap Poya Dhamma session AND the list of sutta references (on 7 December 2022) - https://bit.ly/3h5EKue (YT video) or https://bit.ly/3VZmTUQ (audio)

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loKrTXAbY3s

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on UNDUVAP POYA (7 December 2022) via zoom, on "THE STRENGTH OF LIVING IN HARMONY AS SUPPORT TO DEVELOP THE NOBLE PATH".

We examine the Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48) and the Buddha's teaching to the quarreling monks of Kosambi.

The purpose of examining this particular teaching from the Buddha is to understand the importance of living in harmony if we wish to develop the non-greed, non-hate and non-delusion path, the Noble Eightfold Path. When we live in disharmony, we decline because we remain imbued with sensuality and unwholesome states (physical, verbal and mental) and we cultivate the wrong path. This makes it difficult and obstructive, to developing the Noble Path.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Overview of the Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48)
— “Deep dive” into the Buddha’s teaching in the Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48) and the advice on developing the six principles of cordiality
— Overview of the fruit of stream entry – readiness to realise and to maintain
— Buddha’s verse with reference to the Kosambi monks from Dhammapada verse 6

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Kosambi Jātaka (Ja 428)
— Kosambakakkhandhaka (Kd 10)
— Upakkilesa Sutta (MN 128)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)
— Pālileyyakagamanakathā (Kd 10.5)
— Kosambaka Vatthu (Dhp 6)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://bit.ly/3h5EKue

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

As we come close to the end of the year, we can take the opportunity to do some self-examination of our spiritual practice, applying the Buddha's teaching from the Ṭhiti Sutta (AN 10.53).

The Buddha states at the opening of the discourse:

"Bhikkhus, I do not praise even a standstill in wholesome qualities, much less decline. I praise only growth in wholesome qualities, not a standstill or deterioration."

And lists seven qualities or characteristics against which to measure whether they have deteriorated, grown, or remain the same. This self-examination can be done regularly, not just at the end of the year (as we are doing here).

To read the Ṭhiti Sutta (AN 10.53) - https://bit.ly/3Uu3Lgq

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

In this session we delve into the story of Jīvaka Komārabhacca, an accomplished lay disciple of the Buddha who was also the physician of the Sangha headed by the Buddha. Due to his skill as a doctor and other good qualities, he was foremost among the Buddha's lay followers who people had confidence in. He also realised the fruit of stream entry despite leading a very busy life.

Jīvaka Komārabhacca's story is a very interesting one. He had plenty of encounters with wealthy merchants, families, kings, the Buddha and the Sangha. His story is inspiring for a number of reasons, including the qualities he demonstrated, his skill at healing, his devotion to the Triple Gem, his good fortune to regularly interact with the Buddha, his influence over some of the Vinaya rules, his Dhamma questions, and his attitude towards wealth. We can learn much from Jīvaka's wonderful example.

Some of the suttas referred to in this Dhamma talk:

— Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.248–257)
— Sattavagga (AN 1.258-267)
— Sāmaññavagga (AN 6.128)
— Cīvarakkhandhaka (Kd 8)
— Mahakhandhaka (Kd 1)
— Khuddakavatthukkhandhaka (Kd 15)
— Sanjiva Jātaka (Ja 150)
— Saṅkicca Jātaka (Ja 530)
— Cūḷaseṭṭhi Jātaka (Ja 4)
— Sattigumba Jataka (Ja 503)
— Cullahamsa Jataka (Ja 533)
— Jīvaka Sutta (AN 8.26)
— Jīvaka Sutta (MN 55)
— Jīvakapañhavatthu (Dhp 90)
— Sāmaññaphala Sutta (DN 2),
— Cūḷapanthakavatthu (Dhp 25),

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the kalyanamitta who contributed towards producing this Dhamma session. Much mudita.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDRqTMpdeq8

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked:

“A friend recently accused me of singing the Dhamma, rather than reciting it. We got into an argument about it, where he was saying “it’s in the suttas” and I was saying “I’m following what I’ve learned at the temple or monastery, and the chants that are on YouTube”. Could you offer some guidance on what the Buddha has recommended? What is wrong with singing the Dhamma?”

To answer this question, we reference the Gītassara Sutta (AN 5.209) and its origin story from the Chapter on Short Topics in the Vinaya. We also connect with other teachings of the Buddha to help us understand the dangers of singing the Dhamma and how to discern the difference between reciting (chanting) and singing.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Khuddakavatthukkhandhaka (Kd 15)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Saṁvara Sutta (SN 35.98)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Saṁkhittūposatha Sutta (AN 8.41)
— Paṭhamadhammavihārīsutta (AN 5.73)
— Dutiyadhammavihārīsutta (AN 5.74)
— Vimuttāyatana Sutta (AN 5.26)
— Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xrad4J-pgo0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

As a follow up to the post on our community page about offering pahan (oil lamp/light) puja, we take a look at the fruit of offering lamps/lights to the Buddha (dīpadānassidaṁ phalaṁ).

We examine the legends of the senior monks and nuns - Anuruddha Thera, Sakulā Theri, Pañcadīpa Thera, Araṇadīpiya Thera, Ajita Thera, Ekadīpiya Thera, and Pañcadīpadāyikā Theri. A great source of inspiration and encouragement. Following in the footsteps of the Buddhas, they are the "teachers, caravan-leaders, fault-abandoners, dispellers of darkness, light-bringers, makers of radiance, luminaries, torch-bearers, bringers of illumination, noble ones, possessors of vision.” They are worthy role models.

And we remind ourselves of the connection to the meditation on the perception of light and the development of knowledge and vision of divine eye. By developing the light of wisdom, we dispel the darkness of ignorance and other obscurations, towards the ultimate goal of Nibbāna.

For the offering of pahan (oil lamp) puja, see — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4U4nqISRydg

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Pajjota Sutta (AN 4.145)
— Pajjota Sutta (SN SN 1.26)
— Anuruddhattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 6)
— Sakulātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 24)
— Pañcadīpakattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 59)
— Padīpadāyakattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 266)
— Ajitattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 402)
— Ekadīpiyattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 418)
— Pañcadīpadāyikātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 9, 15)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Udāyī Sutta (AN 6.29)
— Sīlasampanna Sutta (Iti 104)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to all who enquired about offering pahan puja (lamps/light)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR_Pe766RK4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this extended Dhamma session, we look to deepen our understanding and practice of the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) by focusing on the skilled mental states that arise when we abandon these mental stains or defilements.

This Dhamma session is particularly beneficial for those who already know how to meditate on the Vatthūpama Sutta, and are seeking to enhance and deepen their understanding and practice

In this session, we also:

— connect and re-affirm how we activate the Noble Eightfold Path with this sutta meditation
— briefly touch on the link with the Anumāna Sutta (MN 15) and why the purifying process is important towards overcoming the challenges of being difficult to instruct
— take a closer look at each mental stain and how skilled states arise as we abandon the unskilled, and also how wisdom grows, including a greater understanding of our bigger predicament
— look at why this meditation is the pre-requisite for developing the brahmavihāras
— examine the Buddha's words on developing confidence in the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha and having given up the mental stains, and his reference to "one bathed with inner bathing"
— highlight important insight pathways to meditate on, to understand the links between the mental stains and how they arise and escalate.

For the full introductory Dhamma session on the Vatthūpama Sutta, see https://bit.ly/3Oi1Wl4 (video)

For the introductory guided meditation on the Vatthūpama Sutta, see https://bit.ly/3AqPtGd (video) or https://bit.ly/3Vaimys (audio)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hEJwP4-t1c

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on ILL POYA (7 November 2022) via zoom, on "THE MAGNITUDE OF SAMSARA".

We examine the Anamataggavagga or Chapter of Linked Discourses on theUndiscoverable Beginning (Saṁyutta Nikāya 15).

The purpose of examining this particular chapter is to gain a stronger understanding of the bigger picture and context for the Buddha’s teachings. If we understand this aspect of saṁsāra, this infinite vastness conveyed by the Buddha, then we will also understand our bondage to infinite dukkha or suffering if we remain bound through our kamma to continued existence in saṁsāra. We connect to the Four Noble Truths, the development of wisdom and the link to dependent origination.

A real sense of urgency can arise, when we meditate on the powerful, and sometimes visceral similes taught by the Buddha in this chapter.

*Note - the two meditation periods have been excluded or cut from this recording.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Introduction to Anamataggavagga (SN 15) including dependent origination and link to spiritual faculties
— “Deep dive” into most of the Buddha’s similes
— Meditation in the Assu Sutta (SN 15.3) and Puggala Sutta (SN 15.10)
— Verses of Sumedhā Therī

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Avijjā Sutta (SN 56.17)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Āpaṇa Sutta (SN 48.50)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Bhoga Sutta (AN 5.227)
— Gavampati Sutta (SN 56.30)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216),
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Sumedhātherīgāthā (Thig 16.1)
— Sumedhātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 1)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this sutta.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clGZ14xMOvc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

From the request to provide an EXTRACT from the Full Vap Poya Dhamma session (on 9 October 2022) on developing the three knowledges as highlighted in the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19). The Buddha's instructions are explained and helpful sutta references are provided.

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

With the foundation of higher virtue and higher concentration from developing this sutta meditation, it is possible to train and develop these three knowledges (higher wisdom) that the Buddha refers to:

— knowledge of the recollection of past lives (pubbenivāsānussatiñāṇā)
— knowledge of the passing away and reappearance of beings (cutūpapātañāṇā)
—knowledge of the destruction of the taints (āsavānaṁ khayañāṇā)

It's important to note that the Buddha has included training towards these accomplishments in knowledge are part of the trainee's mode of progress towards Nibbāna.

For the Full Vap Poya Dhamma session AND the list of sutta references (on 9 October 2022) - https://bit.ly/3CLFXz8 (YT video) or https://bit.ly/3RNCGTW (audio)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who made the request

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKKhW7b7Vgo

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, as requested, we go through instructions on "How do we meditate on the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta and navigate the jhānas?"

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path For the Full Vap Poya Dhamma session AND the list of sutta references (on 9 October 2022) - https://bit.ly/3CLFXz8 (YT video) or https://bit.ly/3RNCGTW (audio)

An electronic copy of the slide "Meditating on the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta" as discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries). This slide helps to clarify and confirm how we activate and develop the Noble Path and higher training (also applicable to other sutta meditations)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7SEiWMHkB8

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we look at a question that has been asked on the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19):

"Meditators seem to fall into two baskets with the jhānas – (1) you really need them and can get intoxicated with them, or (2) you don’t need them and ignore them entirely. So, this might be a silly question, but I respectfully ask anyway, what’s the deal with the jhānas? We know the Buddha taught them in a lot of suttas and encouraged them, but what is the true purpose or reason for developing the jhānas?"

To answer this question, we look specifically at the Buddha's references to the four jhānas in selected suttas (please note this answer does not mix references to teachings from other traditions or practices, solely the Buddha's Noble Path to Liberation).

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Vijjā Sutta (AN 10.105)
— Paṭhamasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.89)
— Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Āvijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Upakkilesa Sutta (AN 5.23)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.14)
— Dutiyavibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.10)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Mahāmoggallānasutta (AN 4.167)
— Sāriputtasutta (AN 4.168)
— Gaṅgāpeyyālavagga (SN 53.1-12)
— Oghavagga (SN 53.45-54)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq8TWmgrue0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

From the request to provide an EXTRACT from the Full Vap Poya Dhamma session (on 9 October 2022) explaining how we enter and develop the four jhānas by contemplating the instructions in the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19).

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

In this segment we:

— go through some of the technical aspects of entering the four jhāna concentrations;
— explain the meaning behind some of the key pali words and processes that are associated with each jhāna;
— go through what is abandoned (or ceased) and what is attained for each jhāna concentration; and
— answer the question on "how do we know we have entered each jhāna concentration?"

It is important to know the process of HOW we enter and abide in the four jhāna concentrations, rather than simply the attainment of jhāna concentration. And to train in these higher concentrations, so we attain them without trouble or difficulty, in order to progress and develop higher wisdom.

For the Full Vap Poya Dhamma session AND the list of sutta references (on 9 October 2022) - https://bit.ly/3CLFXz8 (YT video) or https://bit.ly/3RNCGTW (audio)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who made the request

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Rm3u1pjpQQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on VAP POYA (9 October 2022) via zoom, on "SKILLED THOUGHTS, JHĀNAS & THE RIGHT PATH"

We examine the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19), where the Buddha gives an account of what he did as the unenlightened Bodhisatta to develop the mind towards Nibbāna. It's a very inspiring and useful teaching that we can learn and incorporate into our practice, to develop the Noble Eightfold Path.

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

Note - the short 10 minute meditation around the 40min mark has been included in this recording.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

Introduction to the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19)
“Deep dive” into how the Bodhisatta

(1) understood thoughts, (2) his instruction for developing and maintaining skilled thoughts as the means to (3) enter and abide in the four jhana concentrations, (4) accomplish the three knowledges and realise Nibbāna * The Simile of the Deer Herd - encouragement and urgency

As part of this Dhamma session, we will address some of the misconceptions around thinking or dealing with thoughts in meditation, attaining the jhanas and how to know you have entered into each one, as well as certain difficulties regarding the jhanas. We will also briefly look at how to develop the three knowledges. It is useful to remember the four jhanas and three knowledges are part of the trainee's mode of progress.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta(MN 117)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Mahāassapura Sutta (MN 40)
— Alagaddūpama Sutta (MN 22)
— Dukkhadhamma Sutta (SN 35.244)
— Bhoga Sutta (AN 5.227)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Akusalarāsi Sutta (AN 5.52)
— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Pubba Sutta (SN 51.11)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta(AN 4.41)
— Vibhaṅga Sutta (SN 51.20)
— Cūḷaniddesa (PTS 1049, explanation 475)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this sutta.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybxWAeV4lI4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from our last Dhamma session looking into a question on the Byasana Sutta, we now examine The Great Misfortune of Tissa Thera from Dhammapada verse 240 as a case study on rebirth in lower realms. This is useful to enable us to understand this Dhamma.

Tissa Thera was very attached to his robe and was reborn as a louse (animal realm) living in that same robe he was attached to. He was at risk of further being reborn into the hell realm, when the Buddha stepped in. We use this account of Tissa Thera to go over how this could happen, particularly referencing different parts of Venerable Mahakaccana's teaching from the Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3), the Buddha's teaching in the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5) and Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52) to understand this Dhamma.

*These previous Dhamma talks are linked to what we examine in this session:

— Why it's difficult to renunciate the world https://bit.ly/3CthhLu
— Abandoning craving through the arising and passing away of the five aggregates https://bit.ly/3ycUpxb

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Tissatthera Vatthu (Dhp 240)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Loka Sutta (Ud 3.10)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/THhJLaOOt38

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked:

“In the Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130), the Buddha states there are five kinds of misfortune or loss. Out of the five, there are only two that lead to rebirth in lower realms - misfortune regarding virtuous behaviour and misfortune regarding view. Why only these two? And if you could also explain, how this happens?”

To answer this question, we reference a number of teachings from the Buddha as well as revisit the Four Unprofitable Directions - Four Nutriments and Going the Wrong Ways. (*It is helpful if you have been through the Dhamma sessions on the Four Nutriments - see YT playlist https://bit.ly/3C1vxK4) And, we take an example from a recent retreat.

In answering this question, it makes more sense why the Buddha's instructions or insight pathways are given in a particular sequence to correct wrong view with right view and to ensure we cultivate and maintain virtue and give up misconduct. Developing the Noble Eightfold Path is very much included in this.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Raṭṭhapāla Sutta (MN 82)
— Kalyāṇamittādivagga (AN 1.76)
— Bhoga Sutta (AN 5.227)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Ṭhāna Sutta (AN 4.192)
— Micchādiṭṭhika Sutta (Iti 70)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this Dhamma session has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrgHP14bfw0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we look at a question that has been asked on the Meghiya Sutta (Ud 4.1):

"The question I would like to ask is about Meghiya’s eagerness. Meghiya sees that, unlike the Buddha, there is something further to do and there is something to add to what has been done, but his liberation of mind is not fully mature. May I know how we should check that our eagerness and maturity in mind is balanced?"

We take the opportunity, while answering this question, to take an extended look at Venerable Meghiya, the challenges he faced and how he matured in his spiritual practice after following the Buddha's admonishment, advice and wise counsel. Following this teaching Venerable Meghiya attained the fruit of stream entry, proving he was obedient to the Buddha (or "suvaco", easy to instruct) and eventually he attained the fruit of arahantship. With the Buddha and the noble disciples as his good friends and companions, the whole of the spiritual life, it is understandable why he was able to realise nibbana.

The key areas that we will focus on are:

— understanding the challenges faced by Venerable Meghiya and how one determines spiritual immaturity
— the five things recommended by the Buddha that leads to maturity in one who's liberation of mind is not fully mature
— the Buddha's emphasis on good friendship
— additional suttas references and examples to support this teaching
— cross-references to other relevant Dhamma talks on the podcast (Virtue - https://bit.ly/3DVPwwp; Beneficial Talk - https://bit.ly/3LDQNKa; Energetic - https://bit.ly/3StqCbs; and The Story of Radha Thera - https://bit.ly/3StqJno)

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Mahāgopālaka Sutta (MN 33)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.38)
— Dīghajāṇu Sutta (AN 8.54)
— Mahāsuññata Sutta (MN 122)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Desanāhāravibhaṅga (Ne 4)
— Dutiyasekha Sutta (Iti 17)
— Sambodhi Sutta (AN 9.1)
— Mitta Sutta (SN 56.26)
— Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2)
— Sambahulabhikkhu Vatthu (Dhp 328-330)
— Mahākassapasaddhivihārika Vatthu (Dhp 61)
— Meghiythera Vatthu (Dhp 33-34)
— Rādhatthera Vatthu (Dhp 76)
— Meghiyattheragāthā (Thag 1.66)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this Dhamma session has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpiytVy0ZOY

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

**This Dhamma session follows on from the "Living by the Dhamma" — Dhammavihari Suttas (AN 5.73-74) — https://bit.ly/3S3SgMb

In this Dhamma session, we examine the opportunities (or bases) for liberation that can come from hearing a teaching from a teacher, teaching the Dhamma to others in detail, reciting the Dhamma in detail, contemplating the Dhamma and penetrating well with wisdom a certain basis for concentration.

We underpin this teaching linking to foundations for the spiritual faculty of wisdom to arise - wisdom produced by hearing or learning (sutamayī paññā), wisdom produced by thought (cintāmayī paññā) and wisdom produced by development (bhāvanāmayī paññā) - which comes from developing right view

This teaching from the Buddha may help to clarify some of the misconceptions around how we practise and realise noble attainment, and encourage and inspire us in how we approach this spiritual life.

We deep dive into each opportunity and take examples from the time of the Buddha, as well as, in some instances examine how we can directly apply ourselves to make spiritual progress.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Dhammavihārī Suttas (AN 5.73-74)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Desanāhāravibhaṅga (Ne 4)
— Bāhiyadārucīriyatthera Vatthu (Dhp 101)
— Sāriputtatthera Vatthu (Dhp 392)
— Sukkātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 35)
— Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Soṇātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 26)
— Rāhulovāda Sutta (SN 35.121)
— Dhammikatthera Vatthu (Dhp 84)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this Dhamma session has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKctnRGbaVQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short EXTRACT from the Full Binara Poya Dhamma session (on 10 September 2022) on why we meditate, the different kinds of concentration that lead to one-pointedness or unification of the mind, what makes the Buddha's teachings different, and what is really his definition of development of the mind ("meditation")

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

For the Full Binara Poya Dhamma session (on 10 September 2022) - https://bit.ly/3RRbdBd

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-D5LU1nENM

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

From a request to provide an EXTRACT from the Full Binara Poya Dhamma session (on 10 September 2022) explaining The wisdom pathway or progression of renunciation instructed by the Buddha in the Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137), which can be sequentially contemplated as a meditation.

This was examined as part of understanding noble right intention and the importance of renunciation in developing the Noble Eightfold Path.

The advice is to give up joy, sadness and equanimity based on household life using specific instructions from the Buddha towards happiness, sadness and equanimity based on renunciation.

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

For the Full Binara Poya Dhamma session (on 10 September 2022) - https://bit.ly/3RRbdBd

An electronic copy of the slide for the "wisdom path of renunciation based on Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta " as discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who made the request

The video of this Extract has also been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJpHC1ynA_I

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on BINARA POYA (10 September 2022) via zoom, on "HOW DO WE DEVELOP NOBLE RIGHT CONCENTRATION WITH THE EIGHTFOLD PATH?"

We examine the Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117), which is an important teaching of the Buddha on how the Noble Eightfold Path works, how we activate and develop it to fulfilment.

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

Quick recap of the Four Noble Truths (including arising and passing away, the stages and insights and wrong/right paths)
Intro to the Noble Eightfold Path - Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117) and what is important about this teaching
“Deep Dive” into how the Noble Eightfold Path works, how we activate and develop it, how the path factors support noble right concentration and leads to right knowledge and right liberation
Understanding the Great Forty

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Arahanta Sutta (SN 56.24)
— Āvijjā Sutta (SN 56.17)
— Vijjā Sutta (SN 56.18)
— Dvayatānupassana Sutta (Sn 3.12)
— Gavampati Sutta (SN 56.30)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vijjā Sutta (AN 10.105)
— Vipattisampadā Sutta (AN 3.117)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 137)
— Pamadavihari Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Samadhi-bhavana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Pīti Sutta (AN 5.176)
— Dhatuvibhanga Sutta (MN 140)
— Culasunnata Sutta (MN 121)
— Duccaritavipākasutta (AN 8.40)
— Vaṇijjā Sutta (AN 5.177)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

An electronic copy of the slide for the "Three states that run together" from the Mahācattārīsaka Sutta and the "wisdom path of renunciation based on Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta " as discussed in this Dhamma Session will be posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this sutta asking the question on noble right concentration.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dX_1b1AMCw

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine these teachings of the Buddha titled "one who lives by the Dhamma" (dhammavihārī) from Dhammavihārī Suttas (AN 5.73-74). The Buddha goes through the different ways we develop our spiritual practice (learning, declaring, reciting, reflecting and practising) and where we can fall short.

We also refresh ourselves on the importance of learning True Dhamma, the Buddha's learning system and nine-fold classification of the teachings, as well as the important connection with the trainee or learner quality of "bahussuta" or very learned (having heard much).

Through understanding what the Buddha is emphasising in these suttas — that is, understanding the meaning of the Dhamma with wisdom and prioritising solitude or seclusion to practise what has been heard or learned to attain to the higher concentrations of mind — we can make spiritual progress and correct any misconceptions we might have around the different forms of practice.

We also look into useful examples from the Dhammapada to help us penetrate this Dhamma.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Dutiyamārapāsa Sutta (SN 4.5)
— Dutiyasaddhammasammosa Sutta (AN 5.155)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Dhammaññū Sutta (AN 7.68)
— Appassuta Sutta (AN 4.6)
— Piyaṅkara Sutta (SN 10.6)
— Dvesahāyakabhikkhuvatthu (Dhp 19-20)
— Chattapāṇiupāsakavatthu (Dhp 51)
— Dhammānudhammapaṭipanna Sutta (Iti 86)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/1QhfFEGzvCw

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 392 - THE STORY OF VENERABLE SĀRIPUTTA HONOURING VENERABLE ASSAJI (Sāriputtatthera Vatthu). This is encouragement and inspiration towards honouring those that help us and offer great service encouraging us towards the Triple Gem and the Path and Practice taught by the Buddha, in order to find real safety.

To further our understanding, we examine the Buddha's teaching on the three persons who are of great service to another; that it is not easy to repay such persons, how roles may block our ability to honour such a person; why honouring helps us to abandon the fetter of conceit and to develop more metta qualities; and how honouring those worthy of honour is a great blessing and very meritorious.

We also contemplate what it would be like if such persons did not encourage us of help us to understand the meaning of the Buddha's teachings and how to practice towards a happy destination or full liberation.

And we also briefly touch on a teaching on the meaning of a True Elder (senior). This is in contrast to the worldly measure of an elder or senior.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 392:

“Yamhā dhammaṁ vijāneyya,

sammāsambuddhadesitaṁ;

Sakkaccaṁ taṁ namasseyya,

aggihuttaṁva brāhmaṇo.”

“From whom one has known and understood the Dhamma,

taught by the Perfectly Enlightened One;

one should honour (respect) and venerate them,

like a brahmin honours (respects) and venerates the fire-sacrifice.”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Bahukāra Sutta (AN 3.24)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.249)
— Aggappasāda Sutta (AN 4.34)
— Dakkhiṇāvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 142)
— Mahāmaṅgala Sutta (Snp 2.4)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.38)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Dutiyauruvela Sutta (AN 4.22)
— Gavampati Sutta (SN 56.30)
— Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta (MN 53)
— Kassapadasabalassasuvaṇṇacetiyavatthu (Dhp 195-196)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NH03P5-C-aE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked on the Subha Sutta (DN 10):

May I ask, with regards to the Subha Sutta (DN 10), there is a section on samādhikkhandha, not just talk about mental absorptions, but also includes guarding the sense doors, mindfulness and clear comprehension, and contentment. Can you help to give more insight into this section?

And also, I came across these Pali words with regards to samādhi but I don’t know it’s meaning: “cittassa thiti santhiti avatthiti avisaharo avikkhepo”. May I know your thoughts on these Pali words please?"

In this session, we take the opportunity, while answering this question to briefly provide the foundation or context for the three aggregates of Noble Virtue, Noble Concentration and Noble Wisdom. These are the three sets of things that the Buddha praised what he encouraged, settled, and grounded people in.

We also link to the three higher trainings, how the aggregates include the Noble Eightfold Path and then delve into answering the question on the Aggregate of Concentration - looking more closely at guarding the doors to the sense faculties, mindfulness and clear comprehension, contentment, abandoning the five hindrances and entering and remaining in the four mental absorptions (jhana).

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 8)
— Vicayahārasampāta (Ne 21)
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2/Mnd 11)
— Paṭhamasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.89)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Sūda Sutta (SN 47.8)
— Satisampajañña Sutta (AN 8.81)
— Kāmadasutta (SN 2.6)
— Mahāassapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Tuvaṭakasuttaniddesa (Mnd 14)
— Sāriputtasuttaniddesa (Mnd 16)
— Khaggavisāṇasuttaniddesa (Cnd 23)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIZFZsIZtg0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked on Dukkha:

“Could you please tell me if I am mis-leading myself if I think of dukkha, the second characteristic of conditioned existence, as “incomplete” or “never resolved” instead of “stressful” or “suffering”? I ask because dukkha implies there is something or someone experiencing stress or suffering, the way I see it. But since conditions are impersonal, how is dukkha to be understood in this context?”

In answering this question, we look at the translation of dukkha and how it is applied and whether it fits the phrasing and meaning in the Buddha's teachings on the the First Noble Truth of Suffering, understanding the corruptions in the mind, the three kinds of dukkha, and also some of the Buddha's teachings on the three characteristics.

This session highlights the importance of the right view when it comes to penetrating the Dhamma that is good in the beginning, good in the middle and good in the end, with the correct meaning and phrasing.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Dukkha Sutta (SN 46.72)
— Anatta Sutta (SN 46.73)
— Dutiyasamugghātasappāya Sutta (SN 35.32)
— Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta (SN 22.59)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)

For the Dhamma session on "What things should be wisely contemplated?" - https://bit.ly/3cfn5hh

For the guided meditation "Is it worth taking as me and mine?" - https://bit.ly/3clkLVZ

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atan6Q_Bq6w

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked on the Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140):

“I have read Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140) and found that I want to do the meditation with regards to the elements. Can I read the words from the sutta on these five elements (earth, water, fire, air and space) and contemplate as my guided meditation?

Or do you have a much more appropriate way to do this meditation? Can I have your guidance?”

To answer this question, we refer to our Dhamma Session on "The Profitable Path" (YT - https://bit.ly/3T6WsMc) and also "Real Emptiness" (YT - https://bit.ly/3CjFKmV). Then, we run through some simple steps on how to meditate on the five elements applying our own examples to the Buddha's list to directly see this Dhamma for ourselves.

We also emphasise that this meditation is about the Determination for Wisdom - activating the right view with regards to the body and also right mindfulness of the body. When this is active and penetrated, we are then able to realise what the Buddha means by "what is empty of self and empty of what belongs to self".

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Kāyagatāsati Sutta (MN 119)
— Kāyagatāsativagga (AN 1.593-595)
— Suññataloka Sutta (AN 35.85)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person who asked this question.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipG2K01pAtk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

To find the YT Sutta Meditation Series playlists visit: https://www.youtube.com/c/SuttaMeditationSeries/playlists, or click on 'Playlists' in the top menu bar.

Selected tables, slides and documents are shared via the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel - https://t.me/suttameditationseries

For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

When we see the value of Buddha Dhamma and realise the benefits of developing the Noble Eightfold Path, we naturally want all of our loved ones to come towards Buddha Dhamma and realise the benefits too. We want them to find the happiness and safety that we have found.

We can become overcome with desire or craving for our loved ones to value the Buddha's Teachings. However, it is not always easy to bring our loved ones towards Buddha Dhamma. They may value other things, may have very strong views, or they are simply not ready.

In this session we delve into:

— what is functional and dysfunctional behaviour on our part
— what are some of the challenges and dangers for our loved ones
— the importance of not (knowingly or unknowingly) sabotaging our loved ones' spiritual path
— understanding some of the challenges we face when we are overly concerned for our loved ones, such as cultivating unwholesome or unskillful mental states, and maybe physical and verbal misconduct
— the qualities of loving kindness, particularly "not yearning for families or groups"
— the importance of patience
— the Story of Kala, son of Anathapindika

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Dhammika Sutta (AN 6.54)
— Tevijja Sutta (Iti 99)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Sukhasomanassa Sutta (AN 6.78)
— Candūpamā Sutta (SN 16.3)
— Bhaddaka Sutta (AN 6.14)
— Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Samāpattivagga (AN 2.165)
— Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)

Bohoma pin to the people who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2q-uUiuduVM

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this short session, we look at a question that has been asked on one of the Buddha's insight pathways in the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61):

"With regards to Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61), I noticed there were two occasions that mindfulness or ’sati’ appeared in the kusala path (satisampajañña and satipaṭṭhānā). May I ask, are they different or are they the same? Can you explain more on this please?”

To answer this question, we re-examine the unwholesome and wholesome pathways in the Avijjā sutta and take a closer look at the development of mindfulness as you meditate and cultivate the wholesome pathway. In answering this question, what is strongly emphasised is to see how the Buddha teaches (right) mindfulness in the context of the sattatiṃsa bodhipakkhiyā dhammā (37 enlightenment factors or qualities). (Right) mindfulness is part of the Noble Eightfold Path, one of the spiritual faculties (indriya), powers (bala), factors of enlightenment (bojjhanga) and Four Establishments of Mindfulness.

Bohoma pin to everyone who has asked for an answer to this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

An extended answer to this often-asked question on "HOW DO WE TRANSLATE WHAT WE LEARN IN OUR MEDITATION (SPIRITUAL PRACTICE) INTO EVERYDAY LIFE?"

To answer this question, we delve into encouragement and advice on daily practice, participating in Dhamma sessions & discussions, attending meditation retreats, and how this gradually translates into everyday life.

We also touch on:

the importance of stream entry,
cultivating a sense of urgency towards spiritual development,
the value of kalyanamitta,
being mindful not to injure oneself nor harm others in the process of spiritual development,
and some of the other challenges that can arise ...

Bohoma pin to everyone who has asked for an answer to this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Advice and guidance, based on commonly asked questions, on how to take one's spiritual practice forward if you have attended one of our meditation retreats. The focus is on utilising the momentum from the meditation retreat, practising the insight pathway meditations and ensuring we activate the Noble Eightfold Path.

This talk may still be useful for those who haven't attended our meditation retreats, as general advice on spiritual practice.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Uposatha Sutta (Ud 5.5)
— Subhāsita Vācā Sutta (AN 5.198)

Bohoma pin for those who asked questions re: post-retreat guidance.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine this timely teaching of the Buddha in the Adhammika Sutta (AN 4.70) on how a country (or world) becomes corrupt when the leaders are corrupt, and the misery and downfall that can be expected. We also examine when the leaders are righteous with integrity, a country (or world) becomes righteous and prosperity and wellbeing can be expected. The Buddha also gives a wonderful simile of cattle crossing a ford to help us connect with this teaching. Hopefully this session will give a better perspective (from the Buddha) on how we can understand what's happening in the world.

In this session we cover:

— Introduction to the Adhammika Sutta (AN 4.70)
— The Story of an Unrighteous King
— When the system becomes corrupt
— The result to be expected of crooked kamma
— Simile of the ripe fig
— The Story of Prince Temiya
— Understanding how integrity and Dhamma underpin prosperity
— The supramundane perspective

If we take this teaching the right way, it can be a very empowering teaching. It's important to investigate where we may go wrong in following the wrong examples set by leaders (at all levels of society), and to see the importance of walking the Buddha's wholesome path, and by doing so, setting a good example for others.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Gandhatindukajātaka (Ja 520)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Mahāsupina Jataka (Ja 77)
— Cakkavatti Sutta (DN 26)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Sarāga Sutta (AN 4.66)
— Tesakunajātaka (Ja 521)
— Cakkavatti Sutta (AN 3.14)
— Dhammarājā Sutta (AN 5.133)
— Rājovādajātaka (Ja 334)
— Mūgapakkhajātaka(Ja 538)
— Paṭhamaadhamma Sutta (AN 10.113)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)

An electronic copy of the "The Simile of Cattle Crossing the Ford" and "The Moral Decline of Society" as discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this sutta.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bsS-EylAMA

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we take a closer look at the question on "WHO BENEFITS FROM OUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE?" and a collection of teachings from Asuravagga (AN 4.95 - AN 4.99).

The Buddha teaches about four kinds of persons in the world:

One who is practising neither for their own benefit nor for the benefit of others (nevattahitāya paṭipanno no parahitāya)
One who is practising for the benefit of others but not for their own benefit (parahitāya paṭipanno no attahitāya)
One who is practising for their own benefit and not for the benefit of others (attahitāya paṭipanno no parahitāya)
One who is practising both for their own benefit and for the benefit of others (attahitāya ceva paṭipanno parahitāya ca)

We delve into the scale from lowest to highest of these four kinds of persons, the different qualities (or lack of) highlighted by the Buddha that differentiates them, and important aspects that can help our spiritual practice to develop and grow in line with Buddha's wholesome path.

We also cross-reference some additional teachings from the Buddha on what is blameworthy vs praiseworthy, the types of persons who appear in the world for the benefit of many, Buddha's encouragement to teach Dhamma, and we highlight a good example who was praised by the Buddha for practising both for their own benefit and for the benefit of others.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Chavālāta Sutta (AN 4.95)
— Rāgavinaya Sutta (AN 4.96)
— Khippanisanti Sutta (AN 4.97)
— Sikkhāpada Sutta (AN 4.99)
— Dhammavihārī Sutta (AN 5.73-74)
— Mahānāma Sutta (AN 8.25)
— Sikkhāpada Sutta (AN 4.201)
— Dhammaññū Sutta (AN 7.68)
— Bahujanahita Sutta (Iti 84)
— Saṅgārava Sutta (AN 3.60)
— Balavagga (AN 5.17 - AN 5.20)
— Jiṇṇa Sutta (SN 16.5)
— Dutiyamārapāsa Sutta (SN 4.5)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nk045vCxBe0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question comes from the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ESALA POYA (13 July 2022) via zoom on "REAL EMPTINESS" where we examined the Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121) and the Buddha's teaching on the gradual development of emptiness that culminates in the "emptiness that is pure, superior, and unsurpassed."

The question we examine in this short session is:

“What are other ways to reach the Dimension of Infinite Consciousness?

To listen to the full Dhamma session on "Real Emptiness" - https://bit.ly/3B1azvV or to watch on the YT channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5iS8TbpdsM

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Vakkali Sutta (SN 22.87)
— Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ObpmnfYJGE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question comes from the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ESALA POYA (13 July 2022) via zoom on "REAL EMPTINESS" where we examined the Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121) and the Buddha's teaching on the gradual development of emptiness that culminates in the "emptiness that is pure, superior, and unsurpassed."

The question we examine in this short session is:

"Can too much concern for others block the formless attainments?"

The following extended Dhamma sessions, mentioned in this Dhamma Q&A, may also be helpful:

To listen to the full Dhamma session on "Real Emptiness" - https://bit.ly/3B1azvV or to watch on the YT channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5iS8TbpdsM
To listen to the full Dhamma session on "Why it's difficult to renunciate the world" (Hāliddikāni Sutta) - https://bit.ly/3OnSOKo or to watch on the YT channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8Lf53-GxYA
To listen to the full Dhamma session on "Safeguarding the mind by dwelling with vigilance" (Pamādavihārī Sutta) - https://bit.ly/3zohz4K or to watch on the YT channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5GPBDSg-0A

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Piṇḍapātapārisuddhi Sutta (MN 151)
— Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Candūpamā Sutta (SN 16.3)
— Ākāsānañcāyatanapañhā Sutta (SN 40.5)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

Bohoma pin to the people who asked questions about getting stuck in the perception of village and human being as blocks to entering the formless attainments.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVAxHxiPuIo

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question comes from the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ESALA POYA (13 July 2022) via zoom on "REAL EMPTINESS" where we examined the Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121) and the Buddha's teaching on the gradual development of emptiness that culminates in the "emptiness that is pure, superior, and unsurpassed."

The question we examine in this short session is:

“What are other ways to reach the Dimension of Infinite Space?

To listen to the full Dhamma session on "Real Emptiness" - https://bit.ly/3B1azvV or to watch on the YT channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5iS8TbpdsM

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Ākāsānañcāyatanapañhā Sutta (SN 40.5)
— Mettāsahagata Sutta (SN 46.54)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3VNjMoXxSQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on ESALA POYA (13 July 2022) via zoom, on REAL EMPTINESS.

We examine the Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121), which is an important teaching of the Buddha on the gradual development of emptiness that culminates in the "emptiness that is pure, superior, and unsurpassed".

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Overview and context to the Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Summary of insight pathway for developing real emptiness
— Buddha’s words on Nibbāna
— What is needed towards learning to do this meditation correctly?
— “Deep dive” into Buddha’s detailed teaching on developing emptiness
— Summary of the meditation

Helpful to understanding the meditation steps needed to develop the insight (wisdom) pathway for this Cūḷasuññata Sutta (links are to previous YT videos, though also available on the podcast):

— Arising and Passing away of the Five Aggregates: https://bit.ly/3c6M7Pk
— Understanding impermanence through arising and passing away: https://bit.ly/3nYQSx3
— Four Nutriment (series of videos) including perversions: https://bit.ly/3ccM0BF
— Dependent origination: https://bit.ly/3AMvqmE
— Profitable Path meditation (Elements/Determination for Wisdom - timestamped): https://bit.ly/3nX73Lp

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sattadhātu Sutta (SN 14.11)
— Paṭhamanibbāna Sutta (Ud 8.1)
— Piṇḍapātapārisuddhi Sutta (MN 151)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Dhātuvibhanga Sutta (MN 140)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN7)
— Vakkali Sutta (SN 22.87)
— Suññataloka Sutta (AN 35.85)
— Suññatasamādhi Sutta (SN 43.4)
— Nibbānarūpasaṇṭhānapañha (Mil 6.3.10)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Anuruddhattheravatthu (Dhp 93)

An electronic copy of the "Summary of Cūḷasuññata Sutta Insight Pathway" as discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this sutta.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5iS8TbpdsM

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we take a closer look at the Kāladāna Sutta (AN 5.36) and the Buddha's teaching on giving timely gifts and how the merit-making can be vast.

The five timely gifts are:

one gives to a visitor
one gives to one setting out on a journey
one gives to a patient (or sick person)
one gives during a famine
one first presents the newly harvested crops and fruits to the virtuous ones

We also cross-reference some additional teachings from the Buddha on gifts of a good person, remind ourselves of the importance of letting go of stinginess, some advice on how to refine giving, as well as look into why giving to noble ones makes a gift fruitful, and who is considered the most worthy of offerings and gifts.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 5.148)
— Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 8.37)
— Dāna Sutta (Iti 26)
— Āhuneyya Sutta (AN 9.10)
— Velāma Sutta (AN 9.20)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksu52jyTKZg

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session we delve a little deeper into the Buddha’s teaching on giving, and more specifically into the gradual progression of giving as we practice and develop this quality on the Buddha's Path.

Giving is an important support or foundation for the spiritual path. It's fundamental to the non-greed path of the Buddha's teachings. As we refine how we give, correct wrong view with right view and we infuse our giving with wisdom, many parts of the Buddha's Path and Practice start to come together.

Some of the suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Sudatta Sutta (AN 4.58)
— Dānamahapphalasutta (AN 7.52)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Pañcamacchariya Sutta (AN 5.254)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)
— Dāna Sutta (Iti 98)
— Udāyī Sutta (AN 5.159)
— Bahujanahita Sutta (Iti 84)
— Parābhava Sutta (Snp 1.6)
— Mahāmangala Sutta (Snp 2.4).
— Kāladāna Sutta (AN 5.36)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an encouragement when one falls sick. To look at the aversion that can arise and what we can contemplate to overcome the aversion. Although the body may be afflicted with physical illness, the mind does not have to be afflicted.

Some of the suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Salla Sutta (SN 36.6)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Girimananda Sutta(AN 10.60)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fifth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ).

In this additional session, we examine RENOUNCING A SMALL HAPPINESS FOR A GREATER ONE and the story of how the Buddha came to be showered with lavish offerings, shown deep reverence and great devotion following his visit to help the people of Vesali and that it was because of a good deed (renunciation) performed in a past existence (Dhammapada verse 290).

We can learn much from this teaching, and from the story of retold by the Buddha. What we have renounced in the past, is helping us towards the Dhamma Path today, and what we do now, will help us later - in developing further, in being of service to others, and towards the ultimate goal.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahākoṭṭhikattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 539)
— Bāḷisikaṅgapañha (Mil 7.7.9)
— Visākhāvatthu (Dhp 53)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuyzPqgiouk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fifth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ).

In this additional session, we examine THOSE WHO DELIGHT IN THE PEACE OF RENUNCIATION and the story of the Buddha's return from the Tāvatiṁsa realm associated with Dhammapada verse 181.

As we are still learning the Dhamma, it is not easy to truly understand the importance of renunciation and the blessings of renunciation, so this Dhamma session gives us another opportunity to examine the Buddha's teachings and another perspective to consider and reflect upon. Any time hearing the Buddha's words, is time well spent.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20),
— Samaya Sutta (SN 1.37)
— Pajjota Sutta (SN 1.26)
— Māradheyya Sutta (Iti 59)
— Mahākassapathera Vatthu (Dhp 56)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCr6gUYvHNI

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fifth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ).

In this additional session, we examine HOW THE BUDDHA FULFILLED THE HIGHER PERFECTION OF RENUNCIATION (AS THE BODHISATTA), to help us to gain insight from the former births of the Buddha and inspire our own development and practice.

One of the key things the Buddha says is:

"No, bhikkhus, my renunciation of the world, after leaving my kingdom, was not wonderful, when I had fully exercised the perfections; for before, even when my wisdom was still immature, and while I was still attaining the perfections, I left my kingdom and renounced the world."

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sumedhapatthanākathā (Bv 2)
— Makhadeva Jātaka (Ja 9)
— Yudhañcaya Jātaka (Ja 460)
— Hatthipāla Jātaka (Ja 509)
— Ayoghara Jātaka (Ja 510)
— Mūgapakkha Jātaka (Ja 538)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rA9TNhuzWk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we answer a request for guidance on what are the recommended things to be done and how to make the best of the opportunity when going on Buddhist pilgrimage. We start by looking at the Saṁvejanīya Sutta (AN 4.118) and go from there.

In this session, we cover:

— The Four Inspiring Places (Nepal, India)
— Other Inspiring Places (India)
— Bodhi-pūjā, Buddha-pūjā, generosity and sharing the merits
— Taking the three refuges and observing the precepts
— Noble aspiration
— Transgressions, prostrations and asking for forgiveness
— Recitation or chanting
— Contemplating the suttas in the places where they were taught

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Saṁvejanīya Sutta (AN 4.118)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Pītavimānavatthu (Vv 47)
— Dhātuvivaṇṇapetavatthu (Pv 35)
— Mekhalādāyikātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 2)
— Tirokuṭṭapetavatthu (Pv 5)
— Saraṇattaya (Kv 1)
— Pañcasikkhāpadasutta (SN 14.25)
— Sampakkhandanalakkhaṇasaddhāpañha (Mil 3.1.11)
— Ovāda Sutta (SN 16.6)
— Vimuttāyatanasutta (AN 5.26)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHAObAwCgMk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on VESAK POYA (15 May 2022) via zoom, on THE TRUE GOAL OF SPIRITUAL LIFE. We examine the Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29), which is an important teaching of the Buddha on the benefits that result from making progress in the spiritual life, which can also become obstacles to the Path when unwholesome states enter our practice.

The 3 short meditation sessions from today's session are INCLUDED in this episode. The first was to lift the mind and the other two were to put into practise the insight pathway taught by the Buddha. You are invited to practise the short meditations we undertook during this Vesak Dhamma session.

Please note - we are examining this teaching from the Buddha with the aspiration for the supramundane development of the Noble Eightfold Path

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Why the Buddha taught the spiritual life?
— Background and context to the Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)
— Mapping to the Higher Training (including the Noble Eightfold Path)
— What enables us to develop to fullness?
— “Deep dive” into the Simile of the Heartwood, including examples for each of the benefits and how we can go wrong, other sutta references, some meditation practice

Our earlier Dhamma session on "The Danger of Gain, Honour and Praise" can be also be listened to here - https://bit.ly/3yF68px

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Aggidattabrāhmaṇavatthu (Dhp 190-192)
— Brahmacariya Sutta (AN 4.25)
— Dutiyajananakuhana Sutta (Iti 36)
— Vajjiputta Sutta (AN 3.84)
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2/Mnd 11)
— Paṭhamasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.89)
— Dussīla Sutta (AN 5.24)
— Dāruṇa Sutta (SN 17.1)
— Pañcarathasata Sutta (SN 17.36)
— Ghaṭikāra Sutta (MN 81)
— Sekha-patipadā Sutta (MN 53)
— Paṭhamahatthaka Sutta (AN 8.23)
— Paṭhamaugga Sutta (AN 8.21)
— Dutiyaugga Sutta (AN 8.22)
— Dutiyagilāna Sutta (SN 35.75)
— Rathavinīta Sutta (MN 24)
— Sīlabbata Sutta (AN 3.78)
— Saṅghabheda, (Pli Tv Bu Vb Ss 10)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Patisambhidamagga (Ps 1)
— Sāmaññaphala Sutta (DN 2)
— Avakujja Sutta (AN 3.30)
— Sambahulasīlādisampannabhikkhuvatthu (Dhp 271-272)

An electronic copy of "Summary of the Simile of the Heartwood" and the "Insight pathway to contemplate for each benefit of spiritual life" from the Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29), as discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this sutta.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S46qXRMlD9I

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we are addressing a Dhamma question (or topic) on the Dhamma-follower (dhammānusārī), Faith-follower (saddhānusārī), and Stream Entry.

In addressing this topic, we delve into the Buddha's words on these two kinds of persons, the fixed course of rightness, and how they enter the stream; reference to learning ability; the importance of developing the spiritual faculties (indriya); understanding the distinction between this two kinds of persons and the stream-enterer; revisit the definition of "the stream" and the factors leading to Stream Entry; reinforce the benefit of thoroughly learning the Dhamma; look into the commentarial reference to the “cūla sotāpanna”; and take in the Buddha's encouragement that this is a gradual training, gradual practice and gradual progress.

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Kīṭāgiri Sutta (MN 70)
— Paṭhamavibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.9)
— Paṭipanna Sutta (SN 48.18)
— Ugghaṭitaññū Sutta (AN 4.133)
— Cakkhuvagga (SN 25.1-10)
— Sotānugata Sutta (AN 4.191)
— Sāsanapaṭṭhānadutiyabhūmi (Pe 2)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)

Bohoma pin (much merit) to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjyG5e_PqxE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A Dhamma talk on the Sotānugata Sutta (AN 4.191) where the Buddha reminds us of the importance of thoroughly learning the Dhamma in this life and the benefits that can be expected in the future (assuming you live a wholesome life), particularly if one is concerned about passing away with a muddled mind.

In this session, we reference the Buddha's Learning System and the nine-fold division of the Buddha's teachings. We revisit the methods the Buddha encourages us towards to learn the Dhamma (i.e. followed by hearing, recited verbally and practised them, examined them carefully with the mind, and penetrated them well by (right) view); seeing this as part of the groundwork for spiritual progress (even at a later time); and a wise investment of our time and effort. We also visit the deva realms, through the suttas, in this Dhamma session.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Accaya Sutta (AN 11.24)
— Paṭhamadevacārika Sutta (SN 55.18)
— Hatthaka Sutta (AN 3.127)
— Janavasabha Sutta (DN 18)
— Dutiyanaḷakapāna Sutta (AN 10.68)
— Mahānāmasutta (AN 8.25)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQaGArbTBwc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 42 - THE STORY OF NANDA, THE HERDSMAN (Nandagopālaka Vatthu). The Buddha gives a very powerful teaching about the importance of a rightly directed mind and the safety of stream entry.

In this short session we examine Nanda's story and how he was able to enter the stream before his sudden death. We revisit the key dangers that are highlighted from this teaching, the importance of right view in activating the Noble Eightfold Path, being virtuous, and path and fruit of stream entry.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 42:

*“Diso disaṁ yaṁ taṁ kayirā,

verī vā pana verinaṁ;

Micchāpaṇihitaṁ cittaṁ,

pāpiyo naṁ tato kare.”*

*“Whatever an enemy would do to an enemy,

or one hostile to another bearing hostility;

a wrongly directed mind,

can inflict far worse to itself.”*

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Nakhasikhā Sutta (SN 13.1)
— Brahmacariyogadha Sutta (SN 55.2)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Micchādiṭṭhika Sutta (Iti 70)
— Sammādiṭṭhika Sutta (Iti 71)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od8Dy2aIMU4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session we take a look at the Buddha's advice on longevity and vitality. We primarily examine the Anāyussā Sutta (AN 5.125-126) and the seven things that are conducive to shorter life and those that are conducive are conducive to longer life.

Some of these things you may already be familiar with, while others may encourage you to further investigation.

We also draw on other teachings of the Buddha where he talks of times where the life span of human beings was as great as 80,000 years and the reason why they declined to just over a hundred years. How it will reduce even further, and then the future period of growth leading to the coming of Metteyya Buddha.

And we also briefly touch on the development and perfection of the bases of spiritual power as another way of living longer.

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Cakkavatti Sutta (DN 26)
— Paṭhamaāyu Sutta (SN 4.9)
— Iṭṭha Sutta (AN 5.43)
— Vitthatūposatha Sutta (AN 8.42)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Bhojana Sutta (AN 4.59)
— Anatthapucchakabrahmana Vatthu (Dhp 104-105)
— Dussīla Sutta (SN 14.24)
— Āyusaṅkhārossajjana Sutta (Ud 6.1)
— Cetiya Sutta (SN 51.10)

An electronic copy of the "Summary Table - Anāyussā Sutta (AN 5.125-126)", of the seven things discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhJZnes02OU

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A Dhamma talk on the Avakujja Sutta (AN 3.30) where the Buddha talks about three kinds of persons and the way they listen to Dhamma, which results in different types of wisdom (i.e. inverted, lap-like, and wide wisdom). The Buddha gives us three very useful similes to contemplate and connect with this teaching. And he states that the person with wide wisdom in the best.

This is a very useful teaching to contemplate as it can be very helpful towards getting the most out of Dhamma teachings, sessions and talks, whether it is at a monastery, on retreat, or watching/listening at home. We can also correct the way we listen to Dhamma, or optimise each and every opportunity, so we can develop and grow in wide wisdom.

We also touch on the accomplishment in much learning (bahussuta), the importance of subduing the five hindrances (nīvarana), and activating the enlightenment factors (bojjhanga)

If may be helpful to listen to Episode 128 of this podcast on the Buddha's Learning System - https://bit.ly/3vjjiGo or watch the YT video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCHMI5VYmcY

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
— Sīla Sutta (SN 46.3)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdmlpGNiwOE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 35 - THE STORY OF A BHIKKHU WHO WISHED TO TAME THE MIND (Aññatarabhikkhu Vatthu). This is encouragement and inspiration towards making effort to restrain, guard, protect and tame the mind.

To further our understanding, we examine the Buddha's explanation of a taming practice and a calming practice, both are most helpful in development and training. We also examine again the distinction between the mind of a worldling and the mind of an arahant. And we close with the Buddha as our most excellent role model - "graceful, inspiring confidence, with peaceful faculties and peaceful mind, one who had attained to the highest taming and serenity"

The Buddha's words from Dhp 35:

*“Dunniggahassa lahuno,

yatthakāmanipātino;

Cittassa damatho sādhu,

cittaṁ dantaṁ sukhāvahaṁ.”*

*“Difficult to subdue (control),

swift, flying towards wherever there is pleasure;

it is profitable to tame the mind—

a tamed mind brings happiness.”*

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Adantavagga (AN 1.31-40)
— Paṭhamakhama Sutta (AN 4.164)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Sekha-patipadā Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20)
— Rathopama Sutta (SN 35.239)
— Arahantavedanāvediyanapañha (Mil 6.1.6)
— Doṇa Sutta (AN 4.36)
— Salla Sutta (SN 36.6)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZ7iQOzmrvY

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ).

In this additional session, we examine THE GREAT FRUIT AND BENEFIT OF OBSERVING THE UPOSATHA, to understand how the Buddha encourages lay people to renunciate, make merit, develop virtue and grow on the Buddha's Path.

In this session, we look into:

— What is the uposatha
— The different kinds of uposatha
— Understanding how the noble ones' uposatha is observed and the different reflections recommended by the Buddha to cleanse the defiled mind by exertion
— The eight factors to be observed on the uposatha
— The great fruit and benefit of observing the uposatha and why it is "extraordinarily brilliant and pervasive"
— A ninth factor that can be observed and developed
— The cause and reason why some nāgas observe the Uposatha
— What devas rejoice in and what they find unpleasant
— Further encouragement from the Buddha towards the uposatha

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Uposatha Sutta (AN 3.70)
— Vitthatūposatha Sutta (AN 8.42)
— Vāseṭṭha Sutta (AN 8.44)
— Navaṅguposathasutta (AN 9.18)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Uposatha Sutta (SN 29.3-29.6)
— Campeyyajātaka (Ja 506)
— Catumahārāja Sutta (AN 3.37)
— Uttarāvimānavatthu (Vv 15)
— Sakka Sutta (AN 10.46)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04lNeHdkG20

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question was asked during the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on BAK POYA (16 April 2022) via zoom on "TAMING THE MIND" where we examined the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20).

The question:

“When unwholesome thoughts trouble me in my meditation, I usually examine those thoughts and review the five hindrances in meditation and apply the appropriate medicine. Is this correct? Is this also how we apply the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta instructions from the Buddha?”

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Nīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 45.177)
— Nīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.40)
— Akusalarāsi Sutta (AN 5.52)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Mahāassapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Iṇa Sutta (AN 6.45)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Sammādiṭṭhisutta (MN 9)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0mDCSTAsOk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question was asked during the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on BAK POYA (16 April 2022) via zoom on "TAMING THE MIND" where we examined the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20).

The question:

"Can you get to the higher concentration of mind by following a guided meditation?"*

* Note - the higher concentration of mind referred to here is the Buddha's training of higher mind (adhicitta) in line with right concentration and the Noble Eightfold Path

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question was asked during the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on BAK POYA (16 April 2022) via zoom on "TAMING THE MIND" where we examined the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20).

The question:

“I practise with a lot of restraint in daily life. I don’t read newspapers and only look at headlines for example… When I went through the similes in meditation – the third simile, which is much like restraint, stood out for me. In the talk today you spoke about switching meditations, can you explain a bit more about that?”

Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2l8p_nNM_oc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on BAK POYA (16 April 2022) via zoom, on "TAMING THE MIND". We examine the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20), which is an important teaching by the Buddha on how to tackle blocks and challenges that come up in our meditation when we are intent on training in the higher mind (i.e. to enter and dwell in higher concentration)

Please note - this teaching from the Buddha is directed at intermediate to advanced meditators who have some experience in development of the mind, rather than beginners.

Our objective is to study the Buddha’s instructions on how to tame our mind and actively work with the signs that enable us to overcome any challenges that arise from unwholesome thoughts or states, see what might be preventing us from higher concentration, and figure out what makes us “wobble” or where we find ourselves in some ways “kicked out” of those higher concentrated states, particularly in the initial stages of absorption.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Right Intention and development of the Noble Eightfold Path (including development of mind or bhāvitā cittā)
— Introduction to Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20)
— What is meant by pursing the higher mind
— Understanding different kinds of unwholesome thoughts and the emphasis on abandoning them
— Examining the Buddha's reference to "mastery over the ways of thought"
— “Deep dive” into the five signs and similes when pursuing the higher mind
— Meditation / Contemplation

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2/Mnd 11)
— Vajjiputta Sutta (AN 3.84)
— Paṭhamasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.89)
— Dutiyasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.90)
— Paṁsudhovaka Sutta (AN 3.101)
— Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80)
— Vassakāra Sutta (AN 4.35)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Nimitta Sutta (AN 3.102)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Katuviya Sutta (AN 3.128)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Sekha-patipadā Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Pāveyyakahatthivatthu (Dhp 327)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

An electronic copy of the "The Five Signs to Give Attention to and the Buddha Similes" from the Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20), discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MI--iA79bMw

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session, we examine the Kaṭuviya Sutta (AN 3.128) and the Buddha's teaching "DO NOT POLLUTE YOURSELF". This short teaching from the Buddha advises not to pollute oneself, not to become tainted with a stench so that flies will attack and pursue.

We look into the meaning of the Buddha's teaching, as well as draw on other Dhammas to remind ourselves of the importance of sense restraint to protect ourselves, making effort to abandon what is unwholesome, not to indulge in the unwholesome, and knowing what makes the mind happy.

This teaching can be beneficial in arousing a sense of urgency in our spiritual practice...

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)

The extended talk on the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97) can be heard in Episode 21 - https://bit.ly/3vh5Th3

Or the excerpt from this session on contemplating through each sense faculty in Episode 230 - https://bit.ly/3L18qmh

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEBSG--zRV4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short Dhamma talk on the Nikaṭṭha Sutta (AN 4.138). The Buddha talks about four kinds of persons in relation to being on retreat. This addresses the different permutations of where we are disciplined or undisciplined by body or by mind and the conditions are then conducive or not conducive.

It's very good to examine this teaching of the Buddha from the perspective of seeing how we can be like these different kinds of persons depending on our physical and mental conditions, as well as the progress we are making in our practice.

We often need to work and train with less than ideal conditions. And it's very important not to wait for perfect conditions or delay the path. Instead, find ways to work around, or optimise the existing conditions, or examine our virtue, or strive harder in our meditation to purify the mind. Sometimes, we can forget that less than ideal conditions can be more conducive to making progress, particularly if we are open to seeing the blessing in difficult conditions.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOqAE2mQoaw

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the fifth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series, focused on our younger audience looking into BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ).

This session links with the earlier sessions and confirms the importance of building a foundation of generosity and virtue, and the Buddha's teachings on the heavenly realms and particularly the danger in sensual pleasures. Kamma and Rebirth is a central part of all of these gradual teachings. This next talk in this series will build on top of this and move us further along.

In this session we look into:

— What does “nekkhamma ānisaṃsaṃ” mean?
— Framing our session around the two kinds of happiness
— The Buddha’s Great Renunciation
— Important link between seeing the danger in sensual pleasures and renunciation
— What are the different kinds of renunciation
— Security (or safety) in renunciation

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sukhavagga (AN 2.64)
— Pāsarāsi Sutta (MN 26)
— Pabbajjā Sutta (Snp 3.1)
— Sukhumāla Sutta (AN 3.39)
— Tapussa Sutta (AN 9.41)
— Andhakaraṇa Sutta (Iti 87)
— Nissāraṇīya Sutta (AN 5.200)
— Anusota Sutta (AN 4.5)
— Pabbajjapañha (Mil 3.1.5)
— Dutiyasikkhattaya Sutta (AN 3.90)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked about gradual instructions for lay people over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

Bohoma pin anumodana to the kalyanamittas who helped with the content of this Dhamma session. Much mudita for your Dhammadāna.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU8g_q9vFx0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

The title of this Dhamma Session is "All the Feels" and focuses on the Buddha's teaching on feeling or experience (vedanā). We study the Salla Sutta (SN 36.6) as well as other supporting suttas.

The question that is often asked is around "why does the Buddha and the noble disciples constantly talk about bearing with conditions?"; or "how can we not be shaken by difficult conditions?" We seek to find some answers in the Buddha's teachings on feeling (vedanā) and drawing on some of what we have learned in our earlier sessions.

In this session we look at:

— the importance of not responding to feeling (any of the three kinds of feeling) by going through the Salla Sutta
— revisit the Buddha's teachings on objects, contact and feeling, which all result in suffering (or dukkha)
— highlight the underlying tendencies that lie behind the three kinds of feeling
— discuss the reflection of feeling as a "water bubble"
— link in the 2nd Unprofitable Direction - Contact as Nutriment and the Buddha's simile of a flayed cow
— bring this back to dependent origination
— lay the groundwork for future sessions on the 2nd Profitable Direction or Doorway to Nibbana (Painful Practice with Quick Realisation) and the Bases of Spiritual Power (iddhipāda)

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Pahāna Sutta (SN 36.3)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Samādhi-bhāvana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Pātāla Sutta (SN 36.4)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 36.6)
— Phassamūlaka Sutta (SN 36.10)
— Anicca Sutta (SN 36.9)

Bohoma pin to the people who asked questions that were the basis for this Dhamma talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvk9UYUIfhs

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma talk is encouragement towards taking a closer look at non-mettā as a way to develop and deepen our mettā or loving kindness practice in daily life.

The core virtues and qualities of mettā are very important during these challenging times, and there is much we can investigate in daily life that will help us to overcome specific blocks, and ensure we deepen our spiritual practice.

As always, take what is useful from this session...

Some of the suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Kakacūpama Sutta (MN 21)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session we take a look at the Buddha's answer, in the Paloka Sutta (AN 3.56), to a brahmin's question on why we see the number of people decline, why depopulation can be seen.

The Buddha gives three reasons for why we experience depopulation, and in his answer he emphasises what is driving these reasons. He explains that when the world is overpowered by illicit lust, rapacious greed and led by the wrong Dhamma (i.e. following the greed, hatred and delusion path) we can only expect downfall, decline and afflictions such as depopulation.

We study this teaching not to focus on blaming and pointing at specific people or groups, but to look at how we can empower ourselves to do better - for ourselves, for each other, for the world.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahāsupina Jataka (Ja 77)
— Parābhava Sutta (Snp 1.6)
— Sukkadhamma Sutta (Iti 42)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Attabyābādha Sutta (AN 3.17)
— Aññatarabrāhmaṇa Sutta (AN 3.53)
— Samaya Sutta (AN 3.54)
— Dutiyaanāgatabhaya Sutta (AN 5.78)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this Dhamma talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4KjPKhbTx8

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma Session, we delve into the contemplation given by the on unfavourable (and favourable conditions) for spiritual practice from the Samaya Sutta (AN 3.54) and Dutiyaanāgatabhaya Sutta (AN 5.78). These teachings are very beneficial and particularly timely for where we find ourselves with increasingly challenging conditions in the world.

The five unfavourable conditions that the Buddha asks us to contemplate, are when we are:

— overcome by old age
— overcome by sickness
— overcome by famine
— overcome by peril (or danger), and
— overcome by a schism in the Sangha

Our main objective in contemplating these suttas is to rouse energy towards spiritual practice while we may still have favourable conditions, and to infuse our practice with a sense of urgency as these favourable conditions start to decline.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tevlWK7eNfk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Youth Edition of the Parābhava Sutta as requested.

Slightly different perspective on the Buddha's teaching on "what brings downfall to a person" for our younger audience. For the younger generation there is an opportunity to pre-empt and prevent downfall by making wise choices once the Buddha's teaching is understood.

What's really important is to contemplate the 12 actions or qualities explained by the Buddha to truly connect with this teaching.

Generosity, virtue (keeping precepts), abandoning the mental stains and developing wholesome actions by body, speech and mind are really important towards success, rather than failure (in this lifetime and beyond).

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sukhasomanassa Sutta (AN 6.78)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Brahma Sutta (AN 4.64)
— Dutiyaagārava Sutta (AN 5.10)
— Jigucchitabba Sutta (AN 3.27)
— Siṅgālovāda Sutta (DN 31)
— Vatapada Sutta (SN 11.11)
— Dīghajāṇu Sutta (AN 8.54)

An electronic copy of the "Table summarising the 12 causes of a person's downfall" from the Parābhava Sutta (Snp 1.6), discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this Youth Dhamma talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-niAHVYddo

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session we examine the Buddha's teaching to the devas on "what brings downfall to a person?" from the Parābhava Sutta (Snp 1.6). The Buddha outlines 12 actions or qualities that cause downfall or decline. Due to these factors a person cannot make progress of succeed.

This session focuses primarily on the worldly or mundane perspective of the Buddha's teaching. As the world spins further into decline, we need to ask the question whether we wish to decline with the world.

In another session we'll examine the supramundane perspective, how this affects spiritual progress, and link some of the important Dhammas.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Anusota Sutta (AN 4.5)
— Sukhasomanassa Sutta (AN 6.78)
— Dhammānudhammapaṭipanna Sutta (Iti 86)
— Parihāna Sutta (Iti 79)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Pasenadikosala Vatthu (Dhp 325)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Brahma Sutta (AN 4.64)
— Dutiyaagārava Sutta (AN 5.10)
— Jigucchitabba Sutta (AN 3.27)
— Siṅgālovāda Sutta (DN 31)
— Ādiya Sutta (AN 5.41)
— Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 5.148)
— Mahāsupina Jātaka (Ja 77)
— Vatapada Sutta (SN 11.11)
— Dīghajāṇu Sutta (AN 8.54)
— Niraya Sutta (AN 4.64)
— Kula Sutta (AN 4.258)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)

An electronic copy of the "Table summarising the 12 causes of a person's downfall" from the Parābhava Sutta (Snp 1.6), discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this Dhamma talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-cVz-mwW8g

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short Dhamma talk on the Pathamasukha Sutta (AN 10.65), where Venerable Sāriputta answers a question from the wanderer Sāmaṇḍakāni on "What is happiness? What is suffering"

The reference point for his succinct answer is in regards to rebirth (i.e. our bigger predicament). This teaching from Venerable Sāriputta is a very powerful one because he immediately addresses right view.

In simple terms:

What is happiness = supreme safety from rebirth (nibbana), sanctuary from aging, sickness and death and the whole mass of suffering
What is suffering = no safety from rebirth, bound to transmigrating samsara due to ignorance and craving

In this short talk, we run through how to do this contemplation, drawing on our own direct experience. There are blessings in the meditation when you start contemplating by following Venerable Sāriputta's words or instructions.

With right view activated, it will lead to developing right concentration. What you gain as insight, happiness, calm and equanimity from this meditation will flow into daily life, which can be most helpful during these challenging times.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z828TAaPEKg

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ)

In this session, we do a GUIDED MEDITATION together - SIMPLIFIED POTALIYA SUTTA - CONTEMPLATING EACH OF THE SIMILES FOR SENSUAL PLEASURES, which are:

— Meatless Bone (skeleton)
— Piece of Meat
— Blazing Grass Torch
— Charcoal Pit
— Dream
— Borrowed Goods
— Fruits on a Tree

NOTE - this is a simplified guided meditation of the powerful meditation that is given in the Potaliya Sutta

To begin, we clarify our intention with this meditation and rouse some energy through our conviction (saddha) towards the Buddha. Then we contemplate each of the similes in the sequence given in the Potaliya Sutta. We bring the Buddha's words to mind, meditate on that, then bring in our own examples to connect with this Dhamma.

This guided meditation helps with learning how to correctly contemplate the similes for sensual pleasures to correct our view, and to gradually see the danger in our strong desire for sensual pleasures.

If we regularly practise this meditation, become skilled in it on our own, it can have a powerful effect not just in formal meditation, but also in daily life. And it is very good for developing more wisdom towards the Dhamma Path.

We can apply this meditation as we go about our daily lives and in all postures (sitting, walking, standing, wakefully lying down)

An electronic copy of the "Slide summarising the Buddha's seven similes for sensual pleasures from the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)", discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

A VIDEO of this GUIDED MEDITATION has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6PE8udI6Fg

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this Dhamma session we study the Mahāsupina Jataka (Ja 77), one of the birth stories, that goes into the 16 terrifying great dreams of King Pasenadi of Kosala.

This is a powerful jataka story where we can draw parallels with what is, and has been, unfolding in the world.

The key teaching that Buddha is drawing on is to correct our view. To ensure that we understand kamma - that our volitional actions will have results. Most of the time we find it difficult to understand what is happening in the world. Why the world seems to be imploding, declining, or hurtling from one disaster to the next. Why it seems we are seeing the downfall or increasing perversion of our society.

Understanding the world is one of the inconceivable things that only a Buddha can fully know and understand. Through the Buddha's explanations of the dreams (from his knowledges and direct insight) we can learn a lot - the key thing is to ensure we develop the Noble Eightfold Path that begins with the right view.

The key themes that the Buddha is teaching us include - the law of kamma, the importance of virtuous behaviour, the danger in sensual pleasures, the downfall of breeding defilements, the importance of spiritual faculties and good role models.

To read the Mahāsupina Jataka (Ja 77) - https://suttacentral.net/ja77/en/chalmers or an alternative translation - https://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/kawasaki/bl144.html#fn-1

An electronic copy of the "Table summarising the order of the 16 Great Dreams" from the Mahāsupina Jataka (Ja 77), discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4QHc0sTDrE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma talk is encouragement towards protecting our minds during this heightened period of turbulence in this afflictive world. Knowing where the safety is - within our spiritual practice (internal) and notwith the challenging and divisive conditions in the world (external).

Some of the suttas referred to directly or indirectly:

— Tiracchānakathā Sutta (SN 56.10)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)

An electronic copy of the transcript of this Dhamma talk has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ)

In this additional session, we study the Buddha's teaching to householder Potaliya, who thinks he has cut off all his worldly affairs and learn HOW TO MEDITATE ON THE SIMILES IN THE POTALIYA SUTTA (MN 54) in a simplified way. the Buddha explains to Potaliya the true meaning of cutting off of affairs and teaches him how to contemplate the great suffering, great despair and great danger in sensual pleasures. This is important so we can acknowledge this danger, decline, and defilement in all sensual pleasures and start breaking the bonds we have towards them using effort, wisdom and direct understanding.

NOTE - this is a simplified explanation of the powerful meditation that is given in the Potaliya Sutta

In this session we give a brief overview of this sutta, then go through in more detail each of the seven similes taught by the Buddha, which are:

— Meatless Bone (skeleton)
— Piece of Meat
— Blazing Grass Torch
— Charcoal Pit
— Dream
— Borrowed Goods
— Fruit on a Tree

A Guided Meditation will be published to go with this session, so we can practise how to meditate on this seven similes taught by the Buddha, in order to realise the truth of the danger in sensual pleasures and to then be able to choose more wisely.

To read the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54) in full - https://suttacentral.net/mn54/en/bodhi

An electronic copy of the "Slide summarising the Buddha's seven similes for sensual pleasures from the Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)", discussed in this Dhamma Session has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vogWrLBkmiI

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ)

In this additional session, we study the Buddha's teaching on SENSUAL PLEASURES, POVERTY & DEBT from the Iṇa Sutta (AN 6.45). This is a very powerful teaching from the Buddha, very practical in helping us to understand the bondage we can create with sensual pleasures, both in a worldly sense as well as spiritual one.

The world we inhabit is built largely on debt and we are conditioned to take on more debt as we grow up and make a life for ourselves. The more we long for things, the more potential to take on debt and accrue interest, fees and more. We can acknowledge the pain and stress of having debt and not being able to repay. The same thing applies in a spiritual sense, when we don't develop good qualities and encourage misconduct by body, speech and mind, and accrue unwholesome kamma. So it's really good to heed the Buddha's advice on the different ways we become poor and indebted, so we don't find ourselves sinking into disaster, not just in this life, but well beyond.

The focus of this session is on:

— how we suffer enjoying sensual pleasures using the Buddha's teaching on worldly poverty & debt and spiritual poverty & debt
— understanding the debt to our parents and how we can repay it
— using the Buddha's example of worldly and spiritual debt to see the danger in any kind of strong attachment to sensual pleasures
— learning about the importance of wholesome qualities of conviction, moral shame, fear of wrongdoing, energy and wisdom
— recognising the links to other parts of the Buddha's gradual instructions, such as giving, virtue and heavenly realms

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN22.3)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.2)
— Kimatthiya Sutta (AN 11.1)
— Mahāassapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Ānaṇya Sutta (AN 4.62)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7)

An electronic copy of the "Table summarising the Buddha's teaching on how we suffer enjoying sensual pleasures using the Buddha's teaching on worldly poverty & debt and spiritual poverty & debt" from the Iṇa Sutta (AN 6.45), discussed in this Dhamma Session have been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrKe6lnQPe0

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ)

In this additional session, we look at THE STORY OF BĀLANAKKHATTA FESTIVAL from the Dhammapada verses 26 - 27. Through this story the Buddha emphasises the important distinction between negligence and vigilance when it comes to knowing the danger in sensual pleasures, using the behaviour at the festival as the example. Negligence is for the foolish and vigilance is for the wise.

The focus of this session is to

— examine this story from the time of the Buddha and connect it with our modern times
— understand what the Buddha means by negligence vs vigilance
— recognise sense restraint as important when it comes to vigilance towards sensual pleasures
— learn about the proximate cause for sense restraint, being moral shame and fear of wrongdoing
— delving into moral shame and fear of wrongdoing to understand why the Buddha calls these two bright qualities that protect the world.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN35.97)
— Hirīottappa Sutta (AN 7.65)
— Cariya Sutta (AN 2.9)
— Vitthatabala Sutta (AN 7.4)
— Vitthatadhana Sutta (AN 7.6)

...

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fr-l_87m5Q

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on NAVAM POYA (17 January 2022) via zoom, on "BENEFICIAL TALK" that comes abandoning wrong speech to enter upon right speech. We examine the 10 beneficial topics of discussion that the Buddha encourages in the Paṭhamakathāvatthu Sutta (AN 10.69).

As we know, Right Speech is an important factor of the Noble Eightfold Path, that is the way out of suffering, leading to full awakening (nibbāna).

So, if you wonder why the mind wobbles, why it is unwieldy and non-compliant when you meditate... Why the mind doesn't easily enter concentration or jhāna..., then this Dhamma session on Beneficial Speech may offer some meaningful answers from the Buddha's teachings.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Right Speech and the Noble Eightfold Path (mundane and supramundane)
— Wrong Speech that arises from Pointless Talk (tiracchānakathā)
— Fourfold Developments and the Profitable Directions
— Right Speech that arises from the ten topics of discussion (dasakathāvatthu)
— Benefits of engaging in Beneficial Talk — Venerable Mahākassapa, a role model

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Tiracchānakathā Sutta (SN 56.10)
— Viggāhikakathā Sutta (SN 56.9)
— Halidakkani Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Rāja Sutta (Ud 2.2)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Dutiyasekha Sutta (AN 5.90)
— Mahāsuññata Sutta (MN 122)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7)
— Sambodhi Sutta (AN 9.1)
— Dutiyakosala Sutta (AN 10.30)
— Paṭhamakathāvatthu Sutta (AN 10.69)
— Dutiyakathāvatthu Sutta (AN 10.70)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Santuṭṭhitā Sutta (AN 6.114)
— Paṭhamahatthaka Sutta (AN 8.23)
— Santuṭṭha Sutta (SN 16.1)
— Paviveka Sutta (AN 3.93)
— Saṅgaṇikārāma Sutta (AN 6.68)
— Dhātusosaṁsandana Sutta (Iti 78)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Ākaṅkheyya Sutta (MN 6)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Dutiyavibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.10)
— Upanisa Sutta (SN 12.23)
— Kimatthiya Sutta (AN 10.1)
— Paṭhamaupanisa Sutta (AN 10.3)
— Jiṇṇa Sutta (SN 16.5)
— Mahāgosiṅga Sutta (MN 32)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldAwUOXe_kc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

In this session we delve into the story of Venerable Nanda, the Buddha's half-brother, who was troubled particularly by sensual lust and other defilements, but through associating with Buddha and other noble disciples, he eventually became foremost who guard the doors to the sense faculties (indriyesu guttadvārānaṁ) and realised full awakening.

Some of the suttas referred to in this Dhamma talk:

– Catutthavagga (AN 1.230)
– Nandattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 15)
– Nandakattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 408)
– Nandattheravatthu (Dhp 13-14)
– Nanda Sutta (Ud 3.2)
– Saṅgāmāvacarajātaka (Ja 182)
– Nanda Sutta (SN 21.8)
– Sugatacīvara (Pli Tv Bu Vb Pc 92)
– Nandattheragāthā (Thag 2.19)
– Nanda Sutta (AN 8.9)
– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
– Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1mFI0nS2tw

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on Heavenly Realms:

“Do you have any information taken from the suttas about the ‘Nāga Loka’? The question that comes to my mind is they are supposed to have a lot of faith in Buddha and Dhamma but they cannot listen to Dhamma from their world, as it’s not accessible. Is this stated in the suttas?”

In answering this question, we take the opportunity to learn a little more about the nāgas, their realm, kingdoms, attributes, powers and more. They appear many times in the suttas, and most particularly in the Jatakas. Buddha as a bodhisatta had a past births as a nāga king.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Āṭānāṭiya Sutta (DN 14)
— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20)
— Khaṇḍajātaka (Ja 203)
— Kulāvakajātaka (Ja 31)
— Bhūridattajātaka (Ja 543)
— Mahākhandhaka (Mv 1.12)
— Aggidattabrāhmaṇavatthu (Dhp 188-192)
— Vidhurajātaka (Ja 546)
— Ghatāsanajātaka (Ja 133)
— Uposatha Sutta (Ud 5.5)
— Pahārāda Sutta (AN 8.19
— Nāgā Sutta (SN 45.151)
— Himavanta Sutta (SN 46.1)
— Campeyyajātaka (Ja 506)
— Samuddakākajātaka (Ja 146)
— Bakajātaka (Ja 405)
— Paṇītatara Sutta (SN 29.2)
— Saṅkhapālajātaka (Ja 524)
— Mucalinda Sutta (Ud 2.1)
— Erakapattanāgarājavatthu (Dhp 182)
— Mahākhandhaka (Mv 1.49)
— Uposatha Sutta (SN 29.3-29.6)
— Khaṇḍa Jātaka (Ja 203)
— Uposathakkhandhaka (Pli Tv Kd 2)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the person who asked this question.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEGvU2w3gjs

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ okāraṁ saṅkilesaṁ)

In this additional session, we look at the important area of REPROGRAMMING THE PLEASURE SEEKER. With a human body, we are born to seek pleasure through our sense faculties. And from the time we are babies, we trained to continue to seek pleasure in the same way.

It is only through the Buddha's Teachings that we are taught the danger of being pleasure seekers, the danger of strengthening and reinforcing longing, craving and indulgence through our senses. The Buddha teaches us that we will experience pain and sadness in this life if we keep following this tendency and conditioning; and it will inevitably lead to bondage that will keep us coming back to the sense realms in samsara.

The focus of this session is to really investigate the process of pleasure seeking through each sense faculty. To see the decline, decay in this process - that it is flawed. And then to look at some methods to reprogram this conditioning that is based on ignorance and craving.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Kammanirodha Sutta (SN 35.146)
— Kāmayoga Sutta (Iti 96)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255)
— Āditta Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Dutiyacetanā Sutta (SN 12.39)
— Dutiyasatta Sutta (Ud 7.4)
— Dutiyasamugghātasappāya Sutta (SN 35.32)
— Bhaya Sutta (AN 6.23)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUXGo54rSqQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question to contemplate when it comes to daily practice. Something so mundane, yet so important. How we start our day is all about what we lead with and the tone we set for the rest of the day.

Do we lead with what is wholesome (kusala), or do jump straight into the unwholesome (akusala)? What are our habit tendencies? It's important to do things consciously, knowingly.

Do we start with generosity? virtue? right view? wholesome actions by body, speech and mind?

The sutta mentioned in this session is the Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ okāraṁ saṅkilesaṁ)

In this additional session, we look at a collection of Sayings of the Buddha from the Dhammapada (piyavagga), with related stories that show how we create different kinds of bonds to sensual pleasures - what we take as beloved, affection, attachment, sensual longing, and craving.

Through these verses and stories in this session, we examine:

— the fragility of this existence and all that we hold dear;
— the bond of sensuality (re-linking to rebirth)
— the trouble we create by taking things as "me and mine"
— the link to sorrow and fear, and suffering; and
— the importance of the frequent contemplation recommended by the Buddha that 'we will be parted and separated from everyone and everything dear and agreeable' to us.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Aññatarakuṭumbika Vatthu (Dhp 212)
— Visākhā Vatthu (Dhp 213)
— Licchavī Vatthu (Dhp 214)
— Anitthigandhakumāra Vatthu (Dhp 215)
— Aññatarabrāhmaṇa Vatthu (Dhp 216)
— Yoga Sutta (AN 4.10)
— Loka Sutta (Ud 3.10)
— Assu Sutta (SN 15.3)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlNtvr00DbY

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the fourth module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series, focused on our younger audience looking into BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ okāraṁ saṅkilesaṁ)

This session links with the earlier sessions and confirms the importance of building a foundation of generosity and virtue, and Buddha's teachings on the heavenly realms in order to develop our Path and Practice. Kamma and Rebirth is a central part of all of these gradual teachings. The next talk in this series will build on top of this and move us further along.

In this session we look into:

— What does “kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ okāraṁ saṅkilesaṁ” mean?
— How should sensual pleasures be understood?
— What are the different types of sensual pleasures?
— What are the dangers of sensual pleasures ?
— Buddha’s similes for sensual pleasures
— What are some of the skilful things we can do?
— Sensual pleasures, desire and rebirth (importance of path and fruit)

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Aññatarabrāhmaṇa Vatthu (Dhp 216)
— Kāma Sutta (Snp 4.1)
— Kāmasuttaniddesa (Mnd 1)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Mahādukkhakkhandha Sutta (MN 13)
— Dutiyayodhājīva Sutta (AN 5.76)
— Channa Sutta (AN 3.71)
— Anusota Sutta (AN 4.5)
— Sekha Pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Kāmayoga Sutta (Iti 96)
— Kāmasuttaniddesa (Mnd 1)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked about gradual instructions for lay people over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwpXIX5MwKQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question on DETAILS OF THE HEAVENLY REALMS, in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on the HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ). This session is specifically on the FORMLESS REALMS (arūpa-loka).

We explore some of the key aspects about these realms, their lifespan, possible inhabitants from the time of the Buddha, the meditation attainments, and some of the distinguishing features of these realms from the suttas.

Understanding more about these heavenly realms helps us to recognise where we might have developed or are developing wrong views that may leads us to be reborn in one of these places still bound to samsara, and the context for the Buddha's teachings on the heavenly realms.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Uposatha Sutta (AN 4.190)
— Āneñja Sutta (AN 3.116)
— Cetanā Sutta (AN 4.171)
— Pāsarāsi Sutta (MN 26)
— Nālaka Sutta (Snp 3.11)
— Paṭhamabhava Sutta (AN 3.76)
— Santatara Sutta (Iti 73)
— Moggallānavagga (SN 40.5-40.8)
— Saṅkhārupapatti Sutta (MN 120)
— Nirāmisa Sutta (SN 36.31)
— Bhava Sutta (SN 45.164)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the people who made this request.

Much merit (bohoma pin) for the generous Dhamma dana contribution towards this talk

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TreKSicViMc

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 32 - THE STORY OF NIGAMAVĀSITISSA THERA and how he approached spiritual practice with vigilance (appamada) and simplicity, being easily satisfied with little, which leads to realising fruits of the Buddha's Path.

In the Dhammapada commentary to this saying of the Buddha, there is also a story of the Parrot King that is also very useful to contemplate.

These teachings are very complementary to our recent Dhamma session on Happiness & Joy, as well as Dwelling with Vigilance. When we delight in vigilance by guarding our sense faculties and realise the danger of negligence, then we are incapable of decline in our spiritual practice, and we are in the vicinity of Nibbāna.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 32:

*“Appamādarato bhikkhu,

pamāde bhayadassi vā;

Abhabbo parihānāya,

nibbānasseva santike.”*

“*A bhikkhu who delights in vigilance

realising the danger in negligence,

is incapable of falling away

and is close to Nibbāna*”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Cittakadharakummaṅgapañha (Mil 7.7.3)
— Uddhacca Sutta (AN 6.116)
— Devadaha Sutta (SN 35.134)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Appamāda Sutta (AN 6.53)
— Patiṭṭhita Sutta (SN 48.56)
– UbhayatthaSutta (Iti 23)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJuHfyzaiCM AND as a video podcast on Spotify

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an EXTRACT from the Full Dhamma Session on the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97) - SAFEGUARDING THE MIND BY DWELLING WITH VIGILANCE. It was delivered on full moon poya (uposatha) on 4 July 2020 via Zoom to a meditation group.

To listen to the FULL SESSION - Episode #21 - https://bit.ly/33VczY5

This specifically outlines how to meditate on each sense faculty (eye, ear, nose, tongue, body and mind) to understand the difference between dwelling with negligence (pamādavihārī) vs dwelling with vigilance (appamādavihārī).

In your meditation, it is very good to take your own examples, and in this extract from the full Dhamma session, we look at a few examples for each sense faculty.

This is an encouragement to learn this sutta meditation, and to gradually put this into practice in daily life.

To read the whole Pamādavihārī Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/sn35.97/en/bodhi

An electronic copy of the "Diagrams outlining Dwelling in Negligence (pamādavihārī) vs Dwelling in Vigilance (appamādavihārī)" from the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97), discussed in this Dhamma Session have been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5GPBDSg-0A AND as a video podcast on Spotify

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

The Buddha tells Venerable Ānanda in the Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2) that "Good friendship, good companionship is the entire Spiritual Life". In this short session, we hear some of the most important insights from our kalyāṇamittas or good friends.

We learn so much from each other on this spiritual path. It's good to ask our kalyāṇamittas the question: "WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT INSIGHT FROM YOUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE LAST YEAR?" This is our second instalment of listening to the important insights or lessons from spiritual practice last year, from our good friends from across the globe.

Much mudita to all those who shared their insights. Bohoma pin. May it be of benefit to our kalyāṇamittas and help to strengthen progress on the Noble Path.

If you would like to share your most important insight from last year with kalyāṇamittas on this channel, you can send an email to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com OR leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mP7wGMmsMIE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a re-recorded version (due to sound issues) of the FULL DHAMMA SESSION, conducted on DURUTHU POYA (17 January 2022) via zoom, on "HAPPINESS & JOY" that comes from spiritual (Dhamma) practice.

In this Dhamma session, we:

introduce three key suttas, including the Sukhasomanassa Sutta (AN 6.78), Bhaddaka Sutta (AN 6.14) and Anutappiya Sutta (AN 6.15)
review the 12 qualities (wholesome and unwholesome) - including the pairings and insight pathways
“deep dive” into the qualities and pairings
review how to contemplate and work with these qualities in daily life and our spiritual practice

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sukhasomanassa Sutta (AN 6.78)
— Bhaddaka Sutta (AN 6.14)
— Anutappiya Sutta (AN 6.15)
— Dhammānudhammapaṭipanna Sutta (Iti 86)
— Dhammārāmattheravatthu (Dhp 364)
— Kiṁsīla Sutta (Snp 2.9)
— Parihāna Sutta (Iti 79)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Mahākaccāna Therāgathā (Thag 8.1)
— Ariyavaṁsa Sutta (AN 4.28)
— Cūḷaniddesa (PTS 1049, explanation 475)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Bhāvanā Sutta (AN 7.71)
— Tiracchānakathā Sutta (SN 56.10)
— Tambadāṭhikacoraghātakavatthu (Dhp 100)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Adhikaraṇavagga (AN 2.19)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Pasenadikosala Vatthu (Dhp 325)
— Kusītārambhavatthu Sutta (AN 8.80)
— Sacitta Sutta (AN 10.51)
— Vitakka Sutta (Iti 38)
— Guhaṭṭhakasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2)
— Paviveka Sutta (AN 3.93)
— Pīti Sutta (AN 5.176)
— Kaṇṭaka Sutta (AN 10.72)
— Saṅgaṇikārāma Sutta (AN 6.68)
— Nandiyasakka Sutta (SN 55.40)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN35.97)
— Mahāsuññata Sutta (MN 122)
— Mahādukkhakkhandha Sutta (MN 13)
— Venāgapura Sutta (AN 3.63)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Dhātusosaṁsandana Sutta (Iti 78)
— Anuruddhamahāvitakka Sutta (AN 8.30)
— Yavakalāpi Sutta (SN 35.248)
— Tuvaṭakasuttaniddesa (Mnd 14)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Subhaddaparibbājakavatthu (Dhp 254-55)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

An electronic copy of the "Monthly Personal Audit of Wrong Talk" and the "Insight Pathways" discussed in this Dhamma Session have been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8k_jSE6sdY

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will delve into the story of Ghatikara, the Potter, a lay disciple, who was the chief attendant and supporter of Kassapa Buddha and a good friend of the bodhisatta, Jotipala, who we know as Gotama Buddha. He has a significant role in the time of Kassapa Buddha and also Gotama Buddha.

There are some very inspiring stories of Ghatikara told by Kassapa Buddha and we also have the more recent story of Ghatikara as a noble being dwelling in the Pure Abodes. He realised path and fruit of non-return during the time of Kassapa Buddha, and we meet him in the time of Gotama Buddha, when he pays a visit to inform the Buddha of several bhikkhus who were reborn in the Aviha realm of the Pure Abodes.

We can learn much from the example of Ghatikara, who lived an exceedingly upright householder life with outstanding noble qualities of a good person.

The primary suttas referred to in this Dhamma talk:

– Ghaṭikāra Sutta (MN 81)
– Ghaṭikārapañha (Mil 5.5.7)
– Ghaṭīkārasutta (SN 1.50), (SN 2.24)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_r7lJAOHoKk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on the HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ).

In this session, we do a GUIDED MEDITATION together - RECOLLECTING THE NOBLE BEINGS IN THE PURE ABODES (suddhāvāsa). We recollect their conviction, virtuous behaviour, learning, generosity and wisdom to be reborn in the highest of the heavenly realms. We bring to mind the noble beings we have heard of from the Buddha's teachings, and we deepen the meditation by recollecting they have attained path and fruit of non-return and path and fruit of arahantship and developed noble qualities.

This meditation is particularly helpful:

- when we feel low in mind energy
- when the conditions appear challenging
- when we feel we need protection and safety
- when we need to study or sit for exams
- when we want to improve our memory and retention
- when we need to face challenges at work, home and in the community
- when we want to learn, practise and understand Buddha Dhamma

It will help lift the mind, brighten it, make it happy and safe - so the mind can concentrate more easily, focus, and retain what's needed to be retained.

We can apply this meditation as we go about our daily lives and in all postures (sitting, walking, standing, wakefully lying down)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this GUIDED MEDITATION has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqlcplcYFEQ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

The Buddha encourages making wholesome resolutions and talks of great benefits and blessings as a result.

As we begin a new year, in this Dhamma session we look at the Buddha's words in a couple of suttas, the benefit of making resolutions, what kind of resolutions can we make towards our spiritual practice, some helpful things to consider, and talk through some examples.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

– Cakka Sutta (AN 4.31)
– Pubbaṇha Sutta (AN 3.155)
– Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
– Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2NSiHTRYFE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

The Buddha tells Venerable Ānanda in the Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2) that "Good friendship, good companionship is the entire Spiritual Life". In this short session, we hear some of the most important insights from our kalyāṇamittas or good friends.

We learn so much from each other on this spiritual path. It's good to ask our kalyāṇamittas the question: "WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT INSIGHT FROM YOUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE LAST YEAR?"

Much mudita to all those who shared their insights. Bohoma pin. May it be of benefit to our kalyāṇamittas and help to strengthen progress on the Noble Path.

If you would like to share your most important insight from last year with kalyāṇamittas on this channel, you can send an email to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com OR leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM9hycXjWF0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question on DETAILS OF THE HEAVENLY REALMS, in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on the HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ). This session is specifically on NON-RETURNERS & THE PURE ABODES, as we complete our review of the heavenly realms of form (rūpa-loka).

The noble beings that dwell in the Pure Abodes are non-returners and arahants and they are considered the most superior beings in the world.

This session explores what we know about these realms from the suttas.

Our minds are lifted and brightened when we think about these great and wise noble beings.

In this session, we examine:

— the five realms that comprise the Pure Abodes
— Buddha's visit to the Pure Abodes, noting that he mentions he has never previously been born into these realms
— the abilities of the noble beings dwelling in the Pure Abodes and the important role they play, the knowledge and wisdom they are endowed with and the types of activities in the Pure Abodes
— what is means to be a non-returner and they types of non-returners
— examples of lay people, monks and nuns who were reborn in the Pure Abodes, including Hatthaka of Alavi, Venerable Pukkasati and Ghatikara
— the qualities of Brahma Sahampati, who dwells in the Pure Abodes.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahāpadāna Sutta (DN 14)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20)
— Kāmayoga Sutta (Iti 96)
— Paṭhamapuggala Sutta (AN 8.59)
— Saṁyojanasutta Sutta (AN 10.15)
— Paṭhamavitthāra Sutta (SN 48.15)
— Ekaanāgāmitthera Vatthu (Dhp 218)
— Hatthaka Sutta (AN 3.127)
— Mahāvaccha Sutta (MN 73)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Ghaṭikāra Sutta (MN 81)
— Sahampatibrahma Sutta (SN 48.57)
— Andhakavinda Sutta (SN 6.13)
— Gārava Sutta (SN 6.2)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the people who made this request.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cb0ZB03Ne5s AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question on DETAILS OF THE HEAVENLY REALMS, in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on the HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ). This session is specifically on the HEAVENLY REALMS OF FORM (rūpa-loka), with other sessions to follow to describe the others.

We explore some of the key aspects about these realms, their lifespan, notable inhabitants, and some of the distinguishing features of these realms from the suttas.

Understanding more about these heavenly realms may help us to recognise where we might have developed or are developing wrong views that may leads us to be reborn in one of these places, and we also get a glimpse of how the Buddha teaches divine beings in these realms to come out of the wrong view with the right view.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Brahmadeva Sutta (AN 6.3)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.36)
— Tissa Sutta (AN 7.56)
— Aññatarabrahma Sutta (SN 6.5)
— Aruṇavatī Sutta (AN 6.13)
— Brahmanimantanika Sutta (MN 49)
— Brahmāyu Sutta (MN 91)
— Gilāna Sutta (SN 55.54)
— Sattasūriya Sutta (AN 7.66)
— Sattāvāsa Sutta (AN 9.24)
— Sangiti Sutta (DN 33)
— Bhaddaji Sutta (AN 5.170)
— Sattaviññāṇaṭṭhiti Sutta (AN 7.44)
— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20)
— Piṇḍa Sutta (SN 4.18)
— Paṭhamakosala Sutta (AN 10.29)
— Paṭhamanānākaraṇa Sutta (AN 4.123)
— Brahmajala Sutta (DN 1)
— Baka-Brahma Jātaka (Ja 405)
— Cūḷasakuludāyi Sutta (MN 79)
— Saṅkhāra Sutta (AN 3.23)
— Janavasabha Sutta (DN 18)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the people who made this request.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWxdl3N2lzA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

As we come to the end of 2021, it's a good opportunity to reflect on how we've connected through the Buddha and his Teachings, and to honour the good friendship we've cultivated across the world. Expressing gratitude and joy.

Blessings and good wishes, to all our brothers and sisters in Dhamma, as we close out the year and head into a new one. May the Noble Eightfold Path unfold with ease and safety. May wisdom grow. May the Path bear fruit. May your aspirations be fulfilled.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

– Upaḍḍha Sutta (SN 45.2)
– Meghiya Sutta (Ud 4.1)
– Dutiyasampadā Sutta (AN 8.76)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EfvCekdI_A AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today's subject is "WHEN SPIRITUAL PRACTICE SEEMS DIFFICULT" and we draw on the Buddha's teaching to a young deva in the Kāmada Sutta (SN 2.6) for inspiration and encouragement.

At different times, we have all experienced the thought or feeling that this spiritual path and practice is "too difficult" or "too hard" or even that "it's an impossible process".

Our session today specifically focuses on learning from Kāmada's example and particular areas where he is going wrong, the importance of certain aspects of how we practice and develop the Noble Path.

There are four key areas we look at (based on Kāmada's lamentation to the Buddha):

Difficult to do (spiritual practice)
Difficult to obtain (joy)
Difficult to concentrate (the mind)
Difficult to pass and uneven (the path)

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sekha Pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Bhāvanā Sutta (AN 7.71)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Akkhama Sutta (AN 5.139)
— Samacittavagga (SN 2.36)
— Āpaṇa Sutta (SN 48.50)
— Papāta Sutta (SN 56.42)
— Ariyamagga Sutta (AN 10.189)
— Ariyamagga Sutta (AN 10.145)

To read the Kāmada Sutta (SN 2.6) - https://suttacentral.net/sn2.6/en/sujato

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1hmJtOeoVA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session we look into the Buddha's question to some young boys when he encounters them doing unskilful things: "ARE YOU AFRAID OF PAIN?" from the Kumāraka Sutta (Ud 5.4).

What's interesting about this story and similar ones is the link between inflicting pain and being fearful or afraid of experiencing pain.

We also look at the result of inflicting pain or harm on others and what the Buddha recommends as the means to eliminate fear and enmity, as well as mental pain and sadness.

The questions we must ask ourselves after listening to the Buddha's words are the same one as Buddha asked the young boys: "Are we afraid of pain? Do we find it disagreeable to experience pain? Do we get uncomfortable or upset at even the idea of feeling any kind of pain or suffering?" If the answer is yes, then we must heed the Buddha's teaching and train ourselves in good conduct.

Suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Sambahulakumāraka Vatthu (Dhp 131-2)
– Attadaṇḍa Sutta (Snp 4.15)
– Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
– Bhaya Sutta (AN 10.92)

To read the Kumāraka Sutta (Ud 5.4) - https://suttacentral.net/ud5.4/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the people who have been fearless in acknowledging fear and asking questions on how to deal with and overcome fear.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRrxQCjROpw AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 75 - THE STORY OF SAMANERA TISSA, THE FOREST DWELLER and how he was devoted to solitude, instead of intimacy in the village and gain, honour and praise.

Samanera Tissa is a good contrast to what we examined in the story of Devadatta, as part of looking at the danger of gain, honour and praise (in our most recent poya Dhamma session)

In this session we look into honour, qualities of a good person, how to be more detached from the world, and the different types of solitude.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 75:

“*Aññā hi lābhūpanisā,

aññā nibbānagāminī;

Evametaṁ abhiññāya,

bhikkhu buddhassa sāvako;

Sakkāraṁ nābhinandeyya,

vivekamanubrūhaye.”*

*“Knowledge is the means for worldly gain,

knowledge leads to Nibbāna.

In this way, with direct knowledge,

the monk, the disciple of the Enlightened One;

does not delight in honour or respect,

devotes oneself to solitude.”*

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Āsava Sutta (SN 45.163)
— Sakkāra Sutta (Iti 81)
— Sagāthaka Sutta (SN 17.10)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Candūpamā Sutta (SN 16.3)
— Guhaṭṭhakasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2)

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2LVIKFJ3r0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session we look at "THE STORY OF THE WOODCUTTER'S SON" from Dhammapada Verse 296-301. The story about the young boy when he is left overnight by himself exposed to the elements, is one that all of us can probably relate to, in some way or another. And what is particularly helpful are the SIX THINGS the Buddha reminds us, that are protections from evil and danger that we can practise or remember, to overcome fear, anxiety and becoming overwhelmed.

This is a timely teaching from the Buddha and will resonate with all of us as we try to navigate this uncertain world and challenging external conditions that can make us feel anxious, fearful, worried and stressed at times.

If we can practise and train to be genuinely fearless, that can truly be an offering and a blessing to all the people around us - at school, college, work, home and wherever we go.

Suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

— Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3)
— Chappāṇakopama Sutta (SN 35.247)
— Maṇibhadda Sutta (SN 10.4)
— Bhāvanā Sutta (AN 7.71)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)

Bohoma pin to the people who have been fearless in acknowledging fear and asking questions on how to deal with and overcome fear.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va3txeVMVqU AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on UNDUVAP POYA (18 December 2021) via zoom on "THE DANGER OF GAIN, HONOUR & PRAISE - Obstacles on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path". In pali, this is lābhasakkārasiloka.

Throughout his teachings, the Buddha strongly cautions against becoming overwhelmed and obsessed with gain, honour and praise. He describes it as dreadful, bitter, vile and obstructive to realising the cessation of all suffering. The similes given by the Buddha are profoundly powerful and visual when contemplated. And the ruin and downfall of Devadatta, due in large part to his obsession with gain, honour and praise, provides a very good example for us to explore and investigate.

Whether you are a lay practitioner or a monastic, the Buddha's teachings on gain, honour and praise are important and something for all of us to be mindful of in developing the Noble Eightfold Path. It's often easier to see these characteristics in someone else, than in ourselves, but we must hold up the mirror and look for blemishes.

In this Dhamma session, we cover:

— Defining the Spiritual Life?
— What is lābhasakkārasiloka?
— The Buddha’s Teachings and Similes
— Devadatta’s obsession and downfall
— Tackling the dangers

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Brahmacariya Sutta (AN 4.25)
— Dutiyakodhagaru Sutta (AN 4.44)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sakkāra Sutta (Iti 81)
— Lakundakabhaddiyatthera Vatthu (Dhp 81)
— Paṭhamalokadhamma Sutta (AN 8.3)
— Tuvaka Sutta(Snp 4.14)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— most of the suttas from chapter 17 of the linked discourses (SN 17)
— Roga Sutta(AN 4.157).
— Devadatta Sutta (Iti 89)
— Devadattavipatti Sutta (AN 8.7)
— Devadatta Sutta (AN 4.68)
— Caṅkama Sutta (SN 14.15)
— Nāgita Sutta (AN 5.30), (AN 6.42) and (AN 8.86)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wVnFwkYaDQ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question has been asked in regards to this Dhammapada verse and story:

"May I ask, if we do something wrong like killing and we felt remorse about it, then is the vipaka [kamma] a lesser burden? Can you explain more about “remorse“ in this verse?”

Dhammapada verse 157 is THE STORY OF PRINCE BODHI and his wife, who are unable to have children. He invites the Buddha for an alms-giving and learns of their past life transgressions that have resulted in this predicament.

This teaching is particularly helpful in understanding that

— we are the owners of our kamma,
— examining the importance of regret over our actions,
— abandoning unwholesome conduct,
— admitting fault and making amends, and
— having strong intentions and applying effort towards cultivating wholesome conduct.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 157:

*"Attānañce piyaṁ jaññā,

rakkheyya naṁ surakkhitaṁ;

Tiṇṇaṁ aññataraṁ yāmaṁ,

paṭijaggeyya paṇḍito.”*

“If one knows oneself as dear,

one should guard oneself well,

during one of the three watches of the night

the wise one should stay wakeful (alert).”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Accaya Sutta (AN 3.4)
— Cakkhupālatthera Vatthu (Dhp 1)
— Acinteyya Sutta (AN 4.77)
— Aṅgulimālattheravatthu (Dhp 173)
— Aṅgulimāla Sutta (MN 86)
— Dutiyasīla Sutta (Iti 33)

To read the full chapter Atta Vagga (Dhp 157–166) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp157-166/en/anandajoti

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the person who has asked this question.

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_2CxbP8dgs AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a part of a collection of gradual talks that will explore the Buddha's Teachings on Fear - the qualities we are encouraged to develop to overcome fear, how fear is constructed, the arising of fear, the dangers, challenges and the escape. We begin with shorter teachings from the Buddha and noble arahants, and eventually examine the longer teachings that will help to correct any wrong views and deepen our practice.

It is an encouragement towards standing firmly on the Dhamma to acknowledge, understand, deal with and overcome fear. The world presents us with external challenges and uncertainties, and we have the means to bear with these external difficulties as well as to work through internal fears with the Buddha's teachings.

In this session we look at "WHAT TO RECOLLECT TO ABANDON FEAR" from the Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3). The Buddha speaks to the monks about the battle between the devas and asuras and what Sakka advises the devas before battle when fear, trepidation and terror arises. The Buddha encourages the monks towards a different kind of recollection in order to abandon fear, trepidation and terror and gives reasons for his teaching.

This is a timely teaching and good reminder for all of us who are walking the Buddha's Noble Path.

To read the Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3) - https://suttacentral.net/sn11.3/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the people who have been fearless in acknowledging fear and asking questions on how to deal with and overcome fear.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKC0KSRi-8Q AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a part of a collection of gradual talks that will explore the Buddha's Teachings on Fear - the qualities we are encouraged to develop to overcome fear, how fear is constructed, the arising of fear, the dangers, challenges and the escape. We begin with shorter teachings from the Buddha and noble arahants, and eventually examine the longer teachings that will help to correct any wrong views and deepen our practice.

It is an encouragement towards standing firmly on the Dhamma to acknowledge, understand, deal with and overcome fear. The world presents us with external challenges and uncertainties, and we have the means to bear with these external difficulties as well as to work through internal fears with the Buddha's teachings.

In this first session we look at "WHY ARE SO MANY PEOPLE AFRAID?" - a question to the Buddha from deva or divine being in the Bhītā Sutta (SN 1.75). The Buddha's answer reminds us to cultivate good conduct, as well as standing on four good qualities, which will enable us to be unafraid or less afraid. It really reminds us of the core foundations of our spiritual practice in walking the Noble Eightfold Path.

Suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Sādhu Sutta (AN 10.178)
– Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.2)
– Karaṇīyamettā Sutta (Snp 1.8)
– Dāna Sutta (Iti 98)
– Macchari Sutta (SN 1.49)
– Paṭhamasaṁvāsa Sutta (AN 4.53)

To read the Bhītā Sutta (SN 1.75) - https://suttacentral.net/sn1.75/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the people who have been fearless in acknowledging fear and asking questions on how to deal with and overcome fear.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkcGPZ4CxgY AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This talk looks at the challenges we face in our practice when it comes to speculation about the world. It's far too easy to knowingly and unknowingly fall for worldly matters, which inevitably takes us down a variety of rabbit holes that are very difficult to climb out of. We trust a variety of sources without knowing if they are worthy, we pollute our minds, and as a result experience confusion, anxiety, fear and more. Many of us don't realise we are suffering from this, and veering onto the greed, hatred and delusion path.

Using the analogy of a non-stop train to Nibbāna and reference to some specific teachings of the Buddha, the encouragement is to renunciate and abandon these speculations - don't delay, waste time, or veer off the Noble Eightfold Path.

The Buddha considers speculation about the world as an inconceivable thing that will lead to madness or frustration (Acinteyya Sutta, AN 4.77). Buddha also cautions about trusting people too easily, as they are hard to know by appearance and often deceivers who haven't penetrated the truth (Sattajaṭila Sutta, SN 3.11)

It is important to apply knowledge and wisdom from the Buddha's teachings and insight from our meditations to ensure we safeguard from these worldly matters and diversions, and if we can, to encourage our kalyanamittas to do the same.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Acinteyya Sutta (AN 4.77)
— Sattajaṭila Sutta (SN 3.11)
— Somā Sutta(SN 5.2)
— Samiddhi Sutta (SN 4.22)
— Akkosa Sutta (SN 7.2)
— Guhaṭṭhakasuttaniddesa (Mnd 2)
— Nandamāṇavapucchāniddesa (Cnd 11)

Bohoma pin to the kalyanamittas who have engaged in Dhamma sākacchā (discussion) on this particular topic and their contribution to this talk.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question on DETAILS OF THE HEAVENLY REALMS, in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on the HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ). This session is specifically on the SENSUAL heavenly realms, with other sessions to follow to describe the others.

We explore some of the key aspects about these realms, their lifespan, notable inhabitants, and some of the distinguishing features of these realms from the suttas.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Puññakiriyavatthu Sutta (AN 8.36)
— Janavasabha Sutta (DN 18)
— Ātānātiya Sutta (DN 32)
— Mahāsamaya Sutta (DN 20)
— Uposatha Sutta (AN 3.70)
— Pañcapubbanimitta Sutta (Iti 83)
— Mahāparinibbānasutta (DN 16)
— Gilāna Sutta (SN 55.54)
— Cālāsutta (SN 5.6)
— Vimānavatthu (Vv)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the people who made this request.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5BBTDr7Rg4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 171 we look at the STORY OF PRINCE ABHAYA and his fall from celebrating victory to experiencing shock and distress. He wisely visits the Buddha for advice and learns about what the Buddha teaches about the world.

This particular story resonates on my levels with what we experiencing in the world today - when something shocking happens while we're attending a concert, sports event, or any kind of gathering, or see it unfold on TV, internet or social media...

In this session we look closer into Prince Abhaya's experience, the meaning behind Buddha's words and link it back to what we have already learned from the Buddha.

The Buddha's words from Dhp 171:

*“Etha passathimaṁ lokaṁ,

cittaṁ rājarathūpamaṁ;

Yattha bālā visīdanti,

natthi saṅgo vijānataṁ.”*

*“Come, look at this world,

which is like an adorned royal carriage.

While fools sink down,

There is no clinging for those who understand.”*

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Assu Sutta (SN 15.3)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Āhāra Sutta (AN 12.11)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52)
— Lokapañhā Sutta (SN 35.82)
— Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Saccavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 141)
– Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)

To read the full chapter Loka Vagga (Dhp 167–178) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp167-178/en/sujato

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kt3byZPNUi8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In answer to a variety of questions about meditation and the mind that wanders off or proliferates in meditation, Part 3 looks at how we consciously or unconsciously insult, disparage, and slander the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha.

This can be a huge obstruction to the Path, so it is very beneficial and important to acknowledge any shortcomings and ask forgiveness. This can then enable the pathways in meditation to be more easeful; for right concentration to develop; and wisdom to grow.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Bālavagga (AN 2.23-29)
— Turūbrahma Sutta (SN 6.9)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)

An electronic copy of the slide on "Asking forgiveness of the Triple Gem" has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/347).

Bohoma pin to those who have asked questions about these kinds of challenges arising in their meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to answer a question in regards to the Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ):

“May I ask, with regards to the talks on virtue, can you explain about Cārittavāritta? How should Cāritta be understood?”

The answer to this question emphasises the foundation for (or what underpins) the Buddha's teachings and how we must develop the Path. We look at the translation for cārittavāritta, its meaning and application in the suttas.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sādhu Sutta (AN 10.178)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Parikkamana Sutta (AN 10.175)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Sikkha Sutta (AN 3.88)
— (Apara) Gotamattheragāthā (Thag 10.7)
— Saddhammantaradhānapañha (Mil 5.1.7)

Much merit (bohoma pin) to the person who asked this question.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjD1OXi373k AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on male lay disciples of the Buddha, and one in particular, Hatthaka of Āḷavī, who was declared by the Buddha foremost among his male lay disciples who gather a following by means of the four bases of kindliness (catūhi saṅgahavatthūhi parisaṁ saṅgaṇhantānaṁ) - AN 1.251.

Hatthaka of Āḷavī is praised along with Citta the householder as the standard and measure for male followers and as role models for mothers who have sons. The Buddha tells the monks precisely how we should remember Hatthaka - as having 8 good qualities, some of which align with the trainee (sekha) qualities. He realised Path and Fruit of a non-returner, was reborn in Avihā (one of the five pure abodes) and we have a wonderful account of his visit to the Buddha as a young deva, where we learn some useful things.

Suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.251)
– Saṅgaha Sutta (AN 4.32)
– Āyācanavagga (AN 2.132)
– Āyācana Sutta (AN 4.176)
– Gotamabuddhavaṁsa (Bv 27)
– Ekaputtaka Sutta (SN 17.23)
– Hatthaka Sutta (AN 3.35)
– Paṭhamahatthaka Sutta (AN 8.23)
– Dutiyahatthaka Sutta (AN 8.24)
– Sekha PāṭipadaSutta (MN53)
– Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
– Samaṇa Sutta (AN 4.241)
– Hatthaka Sutta (AN 3.127)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BubToHGjqc AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ).

In this additional session, we look into the Buddha's teachings on THE MIND IS THE FORERUNNER, THE LEADER to help us understand what drives kamma, and to address some questions around what happens if we do something unknowingly that is unwholesome.

In this short session we examine:

— what leads and controls
— what arises first
— a simplifed version of the teaching in volition, making plans and tendencies (habits)
— the story of Cakkhupāla Thera
— the story of Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī
— the question of whether we need to rein in the mind from everything

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Citta Sutta (SN 1.62)
— Accharāsaṅghātavagga (SN 1.56-57)
— Cetanā Sutta (SN 12.38)
— Cakkhupālatthera Vatthu (Dhp 1)
— Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī Vatthu (Dhp 2)
— Manonivāraṇa Sutta (SN 1.27)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dP3FLkZPwH0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ)

In this additional session, we delve into THE BENEFIT OF REGRET & ASKING FORGIVENESS as an answer to questions around what can we do if we've transgressed or undertaken wrongdoing and how to possibly neutralise some of the unwholesome kamma.

In this short session we examine:

— the difference between a fool and a wise person when it comes to transgressions and wrongdoing
— Buddha's teaching to Rahula of the importance of admitting wrongdoing, and a framework for doing so
— the example of Venerable Sudhamma behaves poorly and must ask forgiveness of Citta, the Householder
— how to ask forgiveness of the Triple Gem
— as more of a preventative measure, developing the powers of shame (hiri) and fear of wrongdoing (ottappa)

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Accaya Sutta (AN 3.4)
— Ambalaṭṭhikarāhulovāda Sutta (MN 61)
— Kusalākusalasamavisamapañha (Pli Tv Kd 11)
— Sukkadhamma Sutta (Iti 42)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.2)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)

An electronic copy of the slide on "Asking forgiveness of the Triple Gem" has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries/347).

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePt0fVI8ZVA AND on Spotify as a video podcast.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ)

In this additional session, we go a little deeper into the the Buddha's teachings on kamma to get a better understanding about THE COMPLEXITY OF KAMMA. There are certain aspects about kamma that we won't be able to know, as only a Buddha with special knowledge is capable of knowing. The encouragement is to lean towards the Buddha's teachings on kamma and to continue to train and develop the virtuous path.

In this short session we examine:

— Buddha's declaration that the result of kamma is an inconceivable matter and the implications of that
— Buddha's teachings on the result of some specific bad actions (e.g. killing, false speech, taking alcohol, envy and more)
— the greater exposition on kamma that demonstrates the complexity of kamma
— the stories of Angulimala and Devadatta (from a kamma perspective) to help us understand kamma in practice

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Acinteyya Sutta (AN 4.77)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Mahākammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 136)
— Aṅgulimālattheravatthu (Dhp 173)
— Aṅgulimāla Sutta (MN 86)
— Kusalākusalasamavisamapañha (Mil 5.4.7)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hSmm6NwOQE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ)

In this additional session, we look in a little more detail at KAMMA & REBIRTH. The encouragement is to lean towards the Buddha's teachings on kamma and to continue to train and develop the virtuous path.

In this short session we examine:

— What is kamma?
— How it is connected to Right View
— What are some of the misconceptions about kamma
— How kamma should be understood
— Different aspects about kamma and how to contemplate it
— The Divine Eye
— Buddha's encouragement to frequently contemplate kamma to help us overcome misconduct or wrongdoing.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Nidāna Sutta (AN 3.34)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Kammapathavagga (AN 4.263-273)
— Saṁkhitta Sutta (AN 4.232)
— Kammanirodha Sutta (SN 35.146)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Upakkilesa Sutta (AN 5.23)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZife3GwDA8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session, we examine the Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52) in order to further UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE WORLDLY PATH AND THE BUDDHA'S NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH.

In most of our recent insight pathway meditations, we take up the Buddha's wholesome determinations, for Truth, Relinquishment, Wisdom and Calm, to overcome the worldly ones we have been taught or conditioned to have, as well as being deluded by. The Khattiya Sutta (AN 6.52) is very useful in showing us where worldly objectives and inclinations differ from those of the spiritual path. Why one goes "with the stream" and another goes "against the stream".

It can help us understand why the Buddha encourages us in certain ways, and to know there are challenges when we attempt to reconcile lay life and spiritual practice.

In this session we:

— examine Jānussoni’s questions to the Buddha on the wishes, quest, determination, inclination and final goal of different groups of people in the world.
— define some of the terms to helps us understand the Buddha's meanings in this teaching
— use the teaching as a means to understand some of the challenges for lay people walking the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path, in contrast to those who ordain
— link this teaching with our recent meditations on Painful Practice with Slow Realisation, the Profitable Path (Cunda Sutta), and Halidakkani Sutta.
— look into the Buddha's definition of a samana
— end our session with some instructions for a powerful meditation that goes into wrong view vs right view relating back to supramundane right livelihood

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— MahāAssapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Anusota Sutta (AN 4.5)

An electronic copy of the "Table with the Buddha's answers to the questions for each group of people" and a "Summary of the Four Determinations" has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked questions on this Dhamma topic.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfZ-IafbP_0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This question was asked during the the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ILL POYA (18 November 2021) via zoom on "WHY IT'S DIFFICULT TO RENUNCIATE THE WORLD", how to contemplate the Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3).

The question:

"As a muni (sage) your mind is already content. With that contented mind you don't incline towards entertaining anyone or seeking out entertainment from anyone. This is natural progress on the spiritual path. As a result, a lot of family and friends fall away. Over time more and more. How do you explain this process and is there a way to understand it?"

Note - During the Dhamma session, we spoke about the qualities of a sage, the different kinds of sages (muni) and their behaviour being very upright in body, speech and mind.

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ILL POYA (18 November 2021) via zoom on "WHY IT'S DIFFICULT TO RENUNCIATE THE WORLD", how to contemplate the Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)

This is a teaching to lay people, with Venerable Mahākaccāna elaborating on the Buddha's verse:

**"Having left home to roam without abode,

In the village the sage is intimate with none;

Rid of sensual pleasures, without expectations,

He would not engage people in dispute"**

A very important teaching about the importance of not making a home for consciousness to establish and not roaming with our sense faculties to construct (and reconstruct) the world, with some very practical application.

This Dhamma session consolidates and expands on many of the instructions, insight pathways and meditations we have studied over the past few poya and other Dhamma sessions.

Note - This is a broad session on the Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3), and we may have another session to go through a powerful meditation on this sutta

In this Dhamma session we cover:

— Tips & reminders
— Why it’s difficult to renunciate the world
— Introduction to the HāliddikāniSutta (SN 22.3)
— Venerable Mahākaccāna’s detailed explanation of Buddha’s brief statement in 3 parts
— What is a sage (muni)?
— How to meditate on Halidakkani Sutta

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN35.97)
— Loka Sutta (SN 1.70)
— Lokapañhā Sutta (SN 35.82)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Candūpamā Sutta (SN 16.3)
— Kulūpaka Sutta(SN 16.4)
— Moneyya Sutta (AN 3.122)
— Anusota Sutta (AN 4.5)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Pañcasataāgantukabhikkhuvatthu(Dhp 87)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

To read the Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3) - https://suttacentral.net/sn22.3/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8Lf53-GxYA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ)

In this additional session, we look at the story of Anathapindika's youngest daughter, Sumanadevi - her qualities and attainments, short life, and subsequent rebirth in a heavenly realm. We also remind ourselves of the three grounds for making merit and examine what blocks us from developing the wholesome qualities. In particular, we look at the three intoxications that obstruct the heavenly messengers.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sumanadevī Vatthu (Dhp 18)
— Puññakiriyavatthu Sutta (Iti 60)
— Sukhumāla Sutta (AN 3.39)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAzp2y83NFo AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the third module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series, focused on our younger audience looking into BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON HEAVENLY REALMS (saggakathaṁ)

This session links with the earlier sessions and confirms the importance of building a foundation of generosity and virtue in order to develop our Path and Practice. The next talk in this series will build on top of this and move us further along.

In this session we look into:

— What does Buddha mean by sagga?
— Right View – understanding Kamma and Rebirth
— What are the 31 Planes of Existence?
— What is the cause and condition for rebirth in good or bad destination?
— Stories and other teachings on Heavenly Realms
— Heavenly Realms in the context of Stream Entry

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sammādiṭṭhika Sutta (Iti 71)
— Paṭhamanānākaraṇa Sutta (AN 4.123)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Āneñja sutta (AN 3.116)
— Chiggala Sutta (SN 56.48)
— Sāleyyaka Sutta (MN 41)
— Niraya Sutta (AN 5.173)
— Pāṇātipātī Sutta (AN 4.264)
— Vimānavatthu (Vv)
— Devata Samyutta (SN 1)
— Devaputta Samyutta (SN 2)
— Petavatthu (Pv)
— BālapaṇḍitaSutta (MN 129)
— DevadūtaSutta (MN 130)
— Pesakaradhita Vatthu (Dhp 174)
— Anāthapiṇḍika Sutta (SN 2.20)
— Anāthapiṇḍikovāda Sutta(MN 143)
— Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)
— Devaloka Sutta (AN 3.18)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked about gradual instructions for lay people over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKnb5XGdhsk AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In answer to a variety of questions about meditation and the mind that wanders off or proliferates in meditation, Part 2 takes it up a notch and offers additional suggestions, tips and encouragement towards overcoming these challenges and obstructions.

This is particularly helpful for those who have developed clear insight, as well as path and fruit from the Buddha's insight pathway meditations.

Bohoma pin to those who have asked questions about these kinds of challenges arising in their meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the second module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at the question of HOW WE CAN LIVE WITH EASE (or comfort)? What we learn from the Buddha's teachings to lay people and the monastic Sangha, is the importance placed on virtue or moral agreements. They help to create fondness, kindness and respect towards each other and support harmony, inclusion, non-dispute and unity in how we live with each other. This in turn means we live with more trust, and less fear and hatred.

The Buddha's words inspire us to empower ourselves to create a more easeful or comfortable life established on virtue - that can spread to those around us, people we live with, study with, work with and more.

What would the world be like if we all lived by the five precepts?

What would the world be like if we were more generous and less stingy?

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Phāsuvihāra Sutta (AN 5.105)
— Dutiyasāraṇīya Sutta (AN 6.12)
— Paṭhamasaṁvāsa Sutta (AN 4.53)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7Xt2fdLnx8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Encouragement towards cultivating generosity and virtue in an increasingly corrupt world, facing the challenges that may come our way as we navigate this landscape, and reminders of why we develop these qualities to walk the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Some of the suttas mentioned directly on indirectly in this talk:

— Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49)
— Caṅkama Sutta (SN 14.15)
— Mahā Maṅgala (Snp 2.4)
— Phāsuvihāra Sutta (AN 5.105)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In answer to a variety of questions about meditation and the mind that wanders off or proliferates in meditation, this offers some suggestions, tips and encouragement towards overcoming these challenges and obstructions.

The background sounds that arise halfway through this recording are of the Kathina procession and offering of cloth to the Sangha by lay people - it's a wholesome activity, so I've left this unedited

Bohoma pin to those who have asked questions about these kinds of challenges arising in their meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the second module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this session, we do a guided meditation together - recollecting how we keep good virtue or maintain integrity through the five precepts. We reflect by keeping our virtue wholesome and upright we offer safety, non-ill will and non-harm to others. And we keep company with the Noble Ones who walk the Buddha's Path.

This meditation is particularly helpful

- when we feel low in mind energy
- when the conditions appear challenging
- when we feel we need protection and safety
- when we need to study or sit for exams
- when we want to improve our memory and retention
- when we need to face challenges at work, home and in the community

*It will help lift the mind, brighten it, make it happy and safe - so the mind can concentrate more easily, focus, and retain what's needed to be retained.*

We can apply this meditation as we go about our daily lives and in all postures (sitting, walking, standing, wakefully lying down)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this GUIDED MEDITATION has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPetBn91IZI AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

*PARENTAL GUIDANCE IS RECOMMENDED for much younger children for this Dhamma talk*

Another session to accompany the second module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at THE STORY OF CUNDA, THE PORK BUTCHER. This is an important session, though it may not be a comfortable topic to think about. If taken in the correct way, with the Buddha as our teacher and his words to guide us, there is much we can learn.

In this session we examine:

— Cunda's story and the pain and suffering he experienced as a result of cruelty, harm and unskilful livelihood
— when a person torments others and pursues the practice of torturing others - they cultivate unskilful actions, hobbies and livelihood
— whether we truly understand inflicting pain and death
— the importance of protecting our minds when we use different devices, mediums and modalities for entertainment and other activities
— the Simile of the Roof to remind ourselves of protecting our minds, not allowing it become corrupt and therefore, not to get rotten.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Cundasūkarikavatthu (Dhp 15)
— Kandaraka Sutta (MN 51)
— Arakkhita Sutta (AN 3.109)
— Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzrXdw6IsRQ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the second module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at VIRTUE AS A FACTOR OF STREAM ENTRY. When it comes to the mundane path, virtue plays a key part in rebirth in a good destination as a result of merit-making and good conduct. However, on the supramundane path, virtue is only part of what helps us to walk the Noble Eightfold Path, which is the way out of all suffering.

In this session we examine

— why it's important to enter the stream and one of the Buddha's similes to explain that
— how virtue helps us to slant, slope and incline towards liberation
— "virtue dear to the noble ones" (ariyakantehi sīlehi) as a factor of stream entry and explain a little of what the Buddha teaches on this and how to develop it
— and link to our "Metta School" meditation
— how we purify our conduct and look at the Simile of Heartwood to understand where virtue fits into developing our Path and Practice.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Samudda Sutta (SN 13.7)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Dutiyamahānāma Sutta (SN 55.22)
— Paṭhamasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
— Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)

**For the full poya Dhamma session on BUDDHA'S ADVICE TO LAY PEOPLE ON STREAM ENTRY - Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7) - EPISODE 80 - https://bit.ly/3q0YUYx

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QajzGqUvJNA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the second module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at THE SCENT OF VIRTUE and Venerable Ānanda’s question to the Buddha. In Buddha's answer we learn of the supreme fragrance of virtue - how it spreads in all directions.

We can learn a great deal from understanding the Buddha's words on integrity/virtue/ethics, particularly if we want to develop a good reputation, become good change leaders in the world and for people to place their trust in us.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Ānandattherapañhavatthu (Dhp 54-55)
— Gandhajāta Sutta (AN 3.79)
— Gahaṭṭhavandanā Sutta (SN 11.18)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jkna-798iO4 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series, focused on our younger audience looking into BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON VIRTUE (sīlakathaṁ)

In this session we look into:

— what is sīla and why is it important?
— How to reflect on taking the five precepts
— Why we need to protect the mind
— Different things to consider about virtue - drawbacks, benefits, support...
— Buddha's words to inspire us and help us understand virtue
— Links to other parts of Buddha’s Teaching - giving, heavens, and more

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Gihi Sutta (AN 5.179)
— Abhisanda Sutta (AN 8.39)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Sikkha Sutta (AN 3.88)
— Arakkhita Sutta (AN 3.109)
— Bīja Sutta (SN 45.150)
— Velāma Sutta (AN 9.20)
— Chattamāṇavakavimānavatthu (Vv 53)
— Sukhapatthanā Sutta (Iti 76)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Dutiyamahānāma Sutta (AN 11.12)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked about gradual instructions for lay people over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2slnZdvYXk AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a supplement to our examination of the accomplishment of ENERGETIC or ACTIVE EFFORT (āraddhavīriyo), that is part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53).

In this brief session we examine some short teachings from the Buddha that look at result for a person that is energetic vs lazy when it comes to a badly explained Dhamma and Discipline vs well explained Dhamma and Discipline - AN 1.324-327

The aim is to encourage contemplation on the Buddha's words and for inspiration towards the Path and developing the good quality of āraddhavīriyo that will enable Path and Fruit.

To read the Buddha's words in Tatiyavagga (AN 1.324–327) - https://suttacentral.net/an1.316-332/en/sujato

**An electronic copy of the diagram transposing Buddha's words has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=It011z1CiWM AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on nun disciples (bhikkhuni) of the Buddha, and one in particular, Bhikkhuni Soṇā, who was declared by the Buddha foremost among his nun disciples who are energetic (āraddhavīriyānaṁ) - AN 1.241

The story of Bhikkhuni Soṇā is particularly inspiring as she spent most of her life as a lay householder focused on raising her children and household responsibilities. Her husband ordained as a monk well before she did, and she had to contend with a number of challenges in regard to her children as she got old.

She eventually decided to ordain as a nun and found there were many challenges even in this new setting. We can learn much from her experience, both as a lay householder (with respect to understanding acquisitions and worldly determinations) and then as an older nun, who eventually realised arahantship - particularly with the importance of learning and retaining the Dhamma, arousing energy and developing a sense of urgency.

Suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Pañcama Vagga (AN 1.241)
– Soṇātherīapadāna (Thi Ap 26)
– Soṇātherīgāthā (Thig 5.8)
– Sabrahmakasutta (Iti 106)
– Brahmasutta (AN 4.63)
– Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
– Pāsarāsi Sutta (MN 26)
– Sekha PāṭipadaSutta (MN53)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xME6rtmKSTQ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on PAINFUL PRACTICE WITH SLOW REALISATION (The First Doorway to Nibbana)

Please note, this has been recorded as a useful aid, and you are strongly encouraged to learn the meditation and develop it on your own so that the insight pathway is fully activated and you sharpen your spiritual faculties

There have been a number of podcast episodes on this particular meditation that may be helpful in learning this meditation:

Dhamma talk explaining this meditation - EPISODE 164 (https://bit.ly/3ErugLN)
Meditation Instructions - EPISODE 167 (https://bit.ly/3Etg3y8)
Key Inflection Points - EPISODE 176 (https://bit.ly/2Zymnoy)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this guided meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of ENERGETIC (āraddhavīriyo or ACTIVE EFFORT), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno).

We examine:

— the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) to help us understand the next 7 good qualities to be developed
— other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching — where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
— practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
— role model(s) who are praised by the Buddha for their accomplishment in this conduct
— connections with other aspects or qualities of the path and practice

**Additional talks that go with this Dhamma talk (as mentioned in the session):

— Venerable Soṇa Koḷivisa as a role model - EPISODE 132 (https://bit.ly/3Cp9vzJ)
— The Story of Tissa Thera , the Idle One - EPISODE 131 (https://bit.ly/3Co4BDc)
— The Story of Mahakala Thera - EPISODE 86 (https://bit.ly/3132gzD)

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Vibhaṅga Sutta (SN 45.8)
— Suddhika Sutta (SN 7.7)
— Sikkha Sutta (AN 9.73)
— Cara Sutta (AN 4.11), (Iti 110)
— Sīla Sutta (AN 4.12)
— Sampannasīla Sutta (Iti 111)
— Ghaṭa Sutta (SN 21.3)
— Kīṭāgiri Sutta (MN 70)
— Jiṇṇa Sutta (SN 16.5)
— Soṇa Sutta (AN 6.55)
— Mahākāḷattheravatthu (Dhp 7-8)
— Padhanakammika tissattheravatthu (Dhp 280)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.2)
— Paṭhama-vibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.9)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Chandasamādhi Sutta (SN 51.13)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33), Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Sacitta Sutta (AN 10.51)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html and the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) - https://suttacentral.net/an7.67/en/sujato

**An electronic copy of the diagram summarising the "Trainee's Mode of Progress" and the "Simile of the Fortress" have been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTnTcS45eYE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at THE STORY OF ANĀTHAPIṆḌIKA, the foremost donor of the Buddha's male disciples. He is a very well-known lay disciple of the Buddha and undoubtedly a wonderful role model for us to emulate with incredible generosity and conviction towards the Triple Gem. And he also attained stream entry after his first meeting with the Buddha.

In this talk we go through the main aspects of his life that focus on giving and generosity, how he lost and re-gained his wealth, as well as specific teachings given to Anathapindika by the Buddha.

We will revisit Anathapindika in other parts of this series on Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People, as we can learn from how he walks the Buddha's Path.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.249)
— Sudatta Sutta (SN 10.8)
— Senāsanakkhandhaka Sutta(PliTv Kd16, Vin 2.146–2.179)
— Gihisāmīci Sutta(AN 4.60)
— Kāliṅgabodhi Jātaka (Ja 479)
— Velāma Sutta (AN 9.20)
— Anathapindikasetthi Vatthu(Dhp119-120)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWunQYVuhNA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

In this additional episode, we look at THE STORY OF VISĀKHĀ, the foremost donor of the Buddha's female disciples. She is a undoubtedly a wonderful role model for us to emulate with amazing generosity and kindness and she also attained stream entry at an early age.

In this talk we go through some of her story, her past births, examples of giving and interesting lessons or dialogue she had with the Buddha.

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sattamavagga (AN 1.259)
— Visākhā vatthu (Dhp 53)
— Visākhā Vatthu (Dhp 213)
— Visākhā Sutta (Ud 8.8)
— Cīvarakkhandhaka (Pli Tv Kd8)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVnoRAyDUys AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

In this session, we do a guided meditation together - recalling all of our good deeds and what we give up (that we may have written down in our merit book (pin potha in Sinhala) or journal of good deeds).

This meditation is particularly helpful

- when we feel low in mind energy
- when the conditions appear challenging
- when we need to study or sit for exams
- when we want to improve our memory and retention
- when we need to face challenges at work, home and in the community

*It will help lift the mind, brighten it, make it happy - so the mind can concentrate more easily, focus, and retain what's needed to be retained.*

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1nMCexSLNk AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on VAP POYA (20 October 2021) via zoom on "THE PROFITABLE PATH", how to meditate on the Buddha's verse from the Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5) and activate the insight pathway of non-greed, non-hatred and non-delusion leading to the realisation of path and fruit.

Please note - the meditation slot have been removed, but you can easily stop the audio to do the meditation(s)

Note - This is a slightly simplified version of the meditation. A further session may come later to connect it with other meditations and Dhammas from recent Dhamma talks and full moon poya sessions.

In this Dhamma session we:

— walk through the story of the Buddha's last meal and the verse associated with this story
— examine why this four-line verse is important, with reference to the Petakopadesa analysis, particularly how we make progress from uninstructed worldling (mundane Dhamma) to trainee and adept (supramundane Dhamma) - both in this meditation and in our overall practice
— explain each line of the verse and how we meditate on the Profitable Path that activates profitable roots (sequential instructed way to abandon craving for sensual pleasures, form and formless)
— group meditation
— go through tips for this meditation

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Mahāparinibbāna Sutta (DN 16)
— Ariyasaccappakāsanapaṭhamabhūmi (Pe 1)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 8)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Rāgapeyyāla (AN 8.120)
— Santatara Sutta (Iti 73)

To read the Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5) - https://suttacentral.net/ud8.5/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuTTHVF8Edk

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Another session to accompany the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

We look into the significance of developing giving and generosity as a factor stream entry.

In this short session we examine:

— what is stream entry?
— why is stream entry important?
— what does the Buddha say about generosity as a factor of stream entry?
— how Anathapindika entered the stream (note - forgot to mention lay disciple, Visākhā entered the stream at 7yo)
— how the gradual teachings or instructions that we are learning together help with the process of entering the stream and leaning towards Nibbana

Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Nakhasikhā Sutta (SN 13.1)
— Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)
— Sudatta Sutta (SN 10.8)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmDCt8yyZ1c AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A short session to accompany the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions to Lay People on GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

We briefly look at a deva's questions to the Buddha on KNOWING WHAT WE GIVE in the Kiṁdada Sutta (SN 1.42).

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RP3xRh33LVsAND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

It's stated that "there are four ways of practice. What four? Painful practice with slow realisation, painful practice with quick realisation, pleasant practice with slow realisation, and pleasant practice with quick realisation" in the Saṁkhitta Sutta (AN 4.161)

We will examine what these Profitable Directions are, the importance of learning about these four modes of practice, how we develop these insight pathways that lead to the four immeasurable states (i.e. Buddha's medicine for overcoming the craving for the four nutriments), how the 37 enlightenment factors are activated and support the Path, and an overview of how we meditate or contemplate towards unlocking the doors to Nibbāna.

In this session we:

— get an overview of the framework and process map of the Four Modes of Practice and how it leads to the Four Immeasurable States
— familiarise ourselves with pali terms and their meanings to make the learning process easier
— how these insight pathways unlock the doorways to Nibbāna
— highlight the fruit of each profitable direction

NOTE - We have already looked in detail at the First Doorway to Nibbāna in episode 164 of the podcast - https://bit.ly/3BEWLVv

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
— Ubhaya Sutta (AN 4.166)
— Mahāmoggallāna Sutta (AN 4.167)
— Sāriputta Sutta (AN 4.168)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Sekha-paṭipadā Sutta (MN 53)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Brahma Sutta (SN 47.18)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Venāgapura Sutta (AN 3.63)
— Āneñjasappāya Sutta (MN 106)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Paṭhamasamaṇabrāhmaṇa Sutta (SN 46.5)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Iddhipāda Sutta (AN 4.276)
— Subrahma Sutta (SN 2.17)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this Dhamma talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IJoPpliodA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the chart or process map of the "Four Profitable Directions" has been published to the Sutta Meditation Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the first module in the Youth Dhamma Gradual Teachings series, focused on our younger audience looking into BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON GIVING (dānakathaṁ)

In this session we look into:

— what is giving and why it is important
— Importance of making and sharing merit
— Different qualities around giving
— Stories from the time of the Gautama Buddha
— What blocks giving?
— Who are our role models for giving or being great donors?

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 5.148)
— Pathamaaputtaka Sutta (SN 3.90)
— Dutiyaaputtaka Sutta (SN 3.20)
— Vacchagotta Sutta (AN 3.57)
— Metta Sutta (Iti 22)
— Tirokuḍḍa Sutta (Pv 1.5)
— Sakkapañha Vatthu (Dhp 354)
— Ugga Sutta (AN 7.7)
— Vitthatadhana Sutta (AN 7.6)
— Cūḷekasāṭakabrāhmaṇa Vatthu (Dhp 116)
— Sumana Sutta (AN 5.31)
— Chaḷaṅgadāna Sutta (AN 6.37)
— Sīhasenāpati Sutta (AN 5.34)
— Dānānisaṁsa Sutta (AN 5.35)
— Asadisadāna Vatthu (Dhp 177)
— Chaṭṭhavagga (AN 1.249)
— Sattamavagga (AN 1.259)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Velāma Sutta (AN 9.20)

If you have any questions or comments regarding this talk, regarding this talk, please email them to suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com or leave a voicemail message via anchor.fm

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked about gradual instructions for lay people over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

Bohoma pin to the kind person who helped with collating and highlighting of some of these valuable suttas for this session. Much mudita.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymC5F01Qrqw AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is another session to help with the learning and development of the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation (First Doorway to Nibbāna). We look at six key "inflection points" in the meditation as a means to addressing:

questions that have arisen,
potential blocks in the meditation, and
subtle nuances in understanding the insight pathway

Bohoma pin to all the people who have asked different questions on this meditation.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1TTSZaGKs8

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a SHORT GUIDED MEDITATION with the theme of TUNING INTO GOODNESS. In this meditation, we tap into our own acts of generosity and kindness to lift the mind.

We can rejoice in our own goodness, as well as the goodness of others (including the noble ones). We are connecting to the field of merit and goodness.

It's good to do this meditation frequently as it nurtures wholesome qualities, goes against the hindrances & defilements, and encourages letting go.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the introductory talk for a new series, specifically for our younger audience, looking into Buddha's Gradual Instructions (anupubbiṁ kathaṁ) for lay people.

The question commonly asked by audiences, both young or older, is why did the Buddha give these specific gradual instructions or teachings to lay people? And what are those teachings in more detail?

In this brief introductory talk we look at what the Buddha means by gradual instructions, the objectives in teaching lay people in this way, the important of this sequential process, and what to expect in this Youth Dhamma Series.

In future sessions we will go step-by-step, following the Buddha's instructions and look at:

(1) talk on giving (dānakathaṁ)
(2) talk on virtue (sīlakathaṁ)
(3) talk on the heavens (saggakathaṁ)
(4) talk on the danger, degradation, and defilement in sensual pleasures (kāmānaṁ ādīnavaṁ okāraṁ saṅkilesaṁ)
(5) talk on the blessing of renunciation (nekkhamme ānisaṁsaṁ), and only then
(6) talk on the Four Noble Truths

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked this question over the past few months. There have been quite a few, so much merit to you.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Th_S2JWfL9U AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A gentle encouragement to revisit and review who we take as our role models. Are they in support of the non-greed, non-hatred, non-delusion path? Are their actions and speech leaning towards freedom from all suffering? Are they encouraging us towards Nibbana, or tying us to samsara? Do they have Right View?

We must choose our role models wisely in order to find support to walk the Noble Eightfold Path. And this is why we study the monks, nuns and lay disciples from the time of the Buddha, those who have developed the noble qualities, and realised Path and Fruit. They are safe examples of guiding standards for noble living and practising the Path.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue with our examination of "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33) In this session (PART 6), we learn how to meditate on the Four Nutriments and Suffering.

All the nutriments are linked (work in tandem, or altogether - process happens very quickly), so we build on what we covered in the past five sessions.

It is helpful you have at least a broad understanding of each of the Four Nutriments, why we crave them, what is driving the insight pathways and why we go the wrong way in each of them. It's also beneficial if you are familiar with the "swinging monkey" analogy we went through in Part 4 - Mental Volition as Nutriment (3rd Unprofitable Direction)

In this short session, we explain the meditation steps using the Four Nutriments & Four Wrong Ways Table, and go through 2 examples to help us to apply this meditation. When you do this meditation, take an example that is relevant to you so you can connect with this Dhamma more directly.

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this meditation.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBnohxxRBaA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue with our examination of "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33) In this session (PART 5), we will examine the Fourth Unprofitable Direction how we go the Wrong Way due to Delusion (mohaagatigamanaṃ) when we crave Consciousness as Nutriment (viññānāhāro).

All the nutriments are linked, so we build on what we covered in the session on the Physical Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Desire, Contact as Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Hate and Mental Volition as Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Fear.

What we cover in this session:

— look at how craving for Consciousness as Nutriment activates dependent origination
— highlight the importance of understanding name-and-form
— go line by line to understand the process of how we go the wrong way due to delusion driven by ignorance and supported by the perversions
— examine how volitional formations get constructed, they shatter, and we continually lament when we don't get what we want. And this demonstrates the relationship between volitional formations and consciousness.
— apply the "swinging monkey" analogy to understand this Dhamma
— revisit the Buddha's simile of the criminal being punished by the king
— go through some examples of this process
— tips for learning and developing this meditation

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Atthirāgasutta Sutta (SN 12.64)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vibhaṅga Sutta (SN 12.2)
— Nāmarūpapaṭisandahanapañha (Mil 3.2.8)
— Viññāṇa Sutta (SN 12.59)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Saccavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 141)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Yoga Sutta (SN 45.172)
— Gantha Sutta (SN 45.174)
— Ānantarikasamādhiñāṇaniddesa (Ps 1.1.32)
— Ogha Sutta (SN 45.171)
— Paṭhamaagati Sutta (AN 4.17)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqXSMmiKzyE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 177 - THE STORY OF INCOMPARABLE ALMS-GIVING and the generous, abundant giving of King Pasenadi of Kosala and Queen Mallika. We learn a great deal from this story and the Buddha's saying about giving, generosity, right view, making merit, the cause and effect of our actions (kamma), having joy for others' generosity, and tapping into the frequency of goodness.

This story and saying of the Buddha links to the First Doorway to Nibbana and the importance of acknowledging and abandoning stinginess. Stinginess blocks giving, blocks giving up of craving, obstructs the mental absorptions, obstructs the development of loving kindness, and leads to unwholesome fruits. It also links back to our examination of wealth.

The Buddha's words:

*“Na ve kadariyā devalokaṁ vajanti,

Bālā have nappasaṁsanti dānaṁ;

Dhīro ca dānaṁ anumodamāno,

Teneva so hoti sukhī parattha.”*

*“Truly, the stingy do not go to the deva realms.

Indeed, fools do not praise giving.

But the wise one, rejoice giving,

On account of this, will be happy hereafter.”*

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Macchari Sutta (SN 1.49)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Pañcamacchariya Sutta (AN 5.254)
— Paṭhamajhāna Sutta (AN 5.256)
— Dutiyajhānasuttādisattaka (AN 5.257-263)

To read the full chapter Loka Vagga (Dhp 167–178) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp167-178/en/sujato

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRWVBM1Ajug AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from the sessions looking at "117 Why associating with good people (sappurisa) is so important on the Noble Eightfold Path" and "118 Developing the Buddha's qualities of a good person" and, "142 The Importance of Hearing True Dhamma", we now examine "ESTABLISHING UNWAVERING CONVICTION".

This talk is part of our examination of the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61). Instead of ignorance, we want to cultivate and develop to fulfillment True Knowledge and Liberation (vijjāvimutti). The intention is to look at a few different parts of this insight pathway (which has all the main teachings of the Buddha to develop the Noble Eightfold Path and realise Nibbana) before pulling it all together to explain how to meditate on the full insight pathway.

This Dhamma Talk builds on top of what we've previously examined about conviction (saddhā), as one of the good qualities in the Sekha-patipada Sutta (Podcast #30 - https://bit.ly/3ojN1Ml)

In this session we:

— revisit the insight pathway leading to True Knowledge and Liberation (vijjāvimutti)
— distinguish between Lack of Conviction (assaddhā) vs Conviction (saddhā)
— examine the very important relationship between Right View (sammādiṭṭhi), Wisdom (paññā) and Conviction (saddhā) and we can use this to establish firmer conviction
— tie in a number of suttas we have previously studied that emphasis the importance of how Conviction aids the development of the Noble Eightfold Path (power of faith converts to spiritual faculty)
— reference the Story of MahaKala Thera (Podcast #86 - https://bit.ly/3CWqWYn)
— look at the manifestation of Conviction (characteristics)

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Sekha-patipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Upanisa Sutta (SN 12.23)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Mahakalatthera Vatthu (Dhp 7-8)
— Kimila Sutta (AN 7.59)
— Saddhammappatirūpaka Sutta (SN 16.13)
— Subhūti Sutta (AN 11.14)
— Āvaraṇa Sutta (AN 6.86)
— Voropita Sutta (AN 6.87)
— Sussūsati Sutta (AN 6.88)

To read the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.61/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1qwE_SLK40 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on lay disciples of the Buddha, and one in particular - Velukantaki, Nanda’s Mother. She was nominated by the Buddha as one of the two role models (along with Khujjutara) as the standard for lay female disciples of the Buddha.

Although she doesn't appear in many places in the suttas, the two main suttas give us her astounding qualities, confirm her attainment of non-returner, and provide us with a wonderful example of the factors to manifest when giving.

Some of the suttas mentioned in this talk include:

– Ekadhītu Sutta (SN 17.24)
– Āyācanavagga (AN 2.133)
– Āyācana Sutta (AN 4.176)
– Nandamātā Sutta (AN 7.53)
– Orambhāgiya Sutta (SN 45.179)
– Chaḷaṅgadāna Sutta (AN 6.37)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOUh6AhTL3Q AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our recent poya Dhamma session on The First Doorway to Nibbāna:

"Could you briefly run through the instructions again for the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation and how to get to immeasurable mettā please?"

This is a particularly powerful meditation, but may not be for everyone, as the meditation objects are unpleasant, hence it is called a Painful Practice. However, it is very beneficial and fruitful for everyone to learn this. It leads to Immeasurable Metta or Loving Kindness, so can be very joyful and rapturous once you get into the meditation

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Puttamamsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Hāliddakāni Sutta(SN 22.3)
— Girimananda Sutta(AN 10.60)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta(MN 140)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Paṭhamajhānapañhā Sutta (SN 40.1)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Venāgapura Sutta (AN 3.63)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Chandasamādhi Sutta (SN 51.13)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta(Snp 1.8)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIR1lrXGN0Y

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our recent poya Dhamma session on The First Doorway to Nibbāna:

"Why is stinginess a block for the development of immeasurable mettā? And can you explain how to examine and overcome stinginess?"

The short answer relates to stinginess linking to craving contact as nutriment with consciousness steadying on feeling leading to greed, hatred and delusion (with an emphasis on the hate path). This goes against the Buddha's path the liberation, which is based on non-greed, non-hatred and non-delusion. To overcome stinginess, we need to cultivate giving, generosity and renunciation. This leans towards abandoning craving, which leads towards the cessation of suffering.

To answer this question we look into :

— the five kinds of stinginess, taking it further than what we previously looked at in the Vatthūpama Sutta
— the link between stinginess and feelings
— how stinginess leads to the Hate Path (via Contact as Nutriment)
— revisiting the importance of being "easy to instruct" (suvaco) in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta meditation (i.e. "Metta School")
— Buddha's words on abandoning stinginess to access and realise the mental absorptions (jhāna) and higher attainments

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Pañcamacchariya Sutta (AN 5.254)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Paṭhamajhāna Sutta (AN 5.256)
— Dutiyajhānasuttādisattaka (AN 5.257-263)
— Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)

Bohoma pin to the people who asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUDVNCN-ndE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on JOY. This quality of joy is developed out of conviction (saddha) or confidence in the Buddha and the Noble Arahants. We tap into the abundance of the wisdom of the Noble Ones through sharing the same noble wish that they have.

In this meditation, we develop and spread this noble wish "May the doors to Nibbāna stay open for all sentient beings"

These are the doorways of the immeasurables.

Built into this meditation is the wisdom of impermanence, suffering and not-me-and-mine (anicca dukkha anatta)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on BINARA POYA (20 September 2021) via zoom on "THE FIRST DOORWAY TO NIBBĀNA - PAINFUL PRACTICE WITH SLOW REALISATION", focusing on the Buddha's instructions in the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) and insight pathway detailed in the Petakopadesa.

Please note - meditation slots have been removed, but you can easily stop the audio to do the meditation(s)

*This is a particularly powerful meditation, but may not be for everyone, as the meditation objects are unpleasant, hence it is called a Painful Practice. However, it is very beneficial and fruitful for everyone to learn this. It leads to Immeasurable Metta or Loving Kindness, so can be very joyful and rapturous once you get into the meditation***

This session follows on from our last two poya sessions examining the Noble Truth of Suffering and the Arising and Passing Away of the Five Aggregates. Knowing how to do the Karaṇīyametta Sutta meditation correctly is a pre-requisite, and will aid this meditation on the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation.

We are meditating to overcome craving for the Physical Nutriment (correcting our wrong perception, thoughts and view), which leads to the Wrong Way with Desire (sickness). This session looks specifically at the medicine, which is the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation, which opens the doorway with Immeasurable Loving Kindness.

In this Dhamma session we:

— look at the different Doorways
— do a short meditation (muditā or joy) to lift our minds
— briefly look at the Four Profitable Modes of Practice
— examine the pairing - 1st Unprofitable & 1st Profitable Directions
— “deep-dive” into each step of the Painful Practice with Slow Realisation
— do a meditation on this first doorway to Nibbāna
— look at advice & tips for learning and developing this meditation

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vittara Sutta (AN 4.162)
— Ubhaya Sutta (AN 4.166)
— Paṭhamavibhaṅga Sutta (SN 48.9)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Dutiyasaññā Sutta (AN 7.49):
— Gandha Sutta (AN 9.15)
— Vijaya Sutta (Snp 1.11)
— Puttamamsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Hāliddakāni Sutta(SN 22.3)
— Girimananda Sutta(AN 10.60)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta(MN 140)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Paṭhamajhānapañhā Sutta (SN 40.1)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Venāgapura Sutta (AN 3.63)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Dukkha Sutta (SN 46.72)
— Dukkhatā Sutta (SN 45.165)
— Chandasamādhi Sutta (SN 51.13)
— Saṁvara Sutta (AN 4.14)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta(Snp 1.8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Mettābhāvanā Sutta (Iti 27)
— Mettā Sutta (AN 8.1)

To read the Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163) - https://suttacentral.net/an4.163/en/sujato

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoakCswaE8U AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Most of us are knowingly or unknowingly caught in many false narratives, theories and views. Maybe more so with the current conditions we all face in regards to the global pandemic and economic crisis.

This is a gentle but firm encouragement to come out of these wrong ways of thinking, to pull ourselves out of the danger of these wrong views and to use a simple question to help with this process. If you have saddha or conviction towards the Buddha's teachings and have started to develop the Noble Eightfold Path, then this can be a very quick process each and every time you get lost in the world and find yourself holding to strong views and opinions.

Always remember, holding to views as me-and-mine, comes from craving Mental Volition as Nutriment. Where does this end up? Going the wrong way with fear (episode 159 explains in more detail - https://bit.ly/3nter1U)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our examination of the Four Nutriments and Going the Four Wrong Ways:

“Could you explain in more detail how to meditate on the Greed Path? After watching your videos on our craving for food, sex and a whole lot of other things, it strikes me as an important meditation especially when it comes to bad habits and how this can lead us to future rebirths possibly in bad destinations”

To answer this question we:

— go through the importance of seeing the gratification and danger of fuelling craving for sensual pleasures
— emphasise the danger of burning with lust
— go through the meditation step-by-step of how we re-establish consciousness that results in rebirth
— highlight the link to lack of virtue (sexual misconduct and taking what is not given)
— emphasise our intolerance for when feeling changes or slides
— outline important tips for this meditation

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Upādāna Sutta (SN 12.52)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Paribbājaka Sutta (AN 3.54)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A copy of the GREED PATH insight pathway is published and pinned to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQ6o5ISaI2M AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

When we start to penetrate the Buddha's Teachings on impermanence (anicca), painfulness in change (vipariṇāma dukkha) and not taking the five aggregates as me-and-mine (anatta), then how we view birthdays also starts to change.

This Dhamma talk looks at how we can recalibrate our view on birthdays, understanding the existing conditioning we have around celebrating birthdays, and finding different ways of honouring our birthdays that align with the Buddha's Teachings and developing the Noble Eightfold Path.

Some of the suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Erakapattanagaraja Vatthu (Dhp 182)
— Pabbatūpama Sutta (SN 3.25)
— Akkhaṇa Sutta (SN 8.29)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our examination of the Four Nutriments and Going the Four Wrong Ways:

“My son is addicted to sex and regularly watches porn. What is the Buddha’s advice for lay people when it comes to porn and sex? Monks and nuns are celibate as they have the Vinaya rules, but for lay people it’s clearly different as we have relationships and families. The precept we take is to refrain from sexual misconduct. Does the Buddha discourage lay people from indulging in porn and sex, and if so why?”

The key to answering this question is about CORRECTING OUR MISAPPREHENSION OF THE BODY (Physical Nutriment) - at the view level, thoughts and perceptions.

To answer the question we :

— examine the importance of seeing the body (physical nutriment) correctly through correcting the perversion or corruption in the mind of attractive in the unattractive
— examine the Greed Path insight pathway that takes an agreeable object and results in painfulness in change (a copy of this is published and pinned to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel)
— look at what happens when we become addicted to porn, sex and anything sex-related
— highlight the importance of moral shame and sense restraint
— link to the insight path in the Karaniyametta Sutta
— take a look at celibacy vs non-celibacy and the Buddha's words
— confirm our understanding of sexual misconduct as a precept
— look at the benefits of when we have right view and virtue.

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10)
— Gaṇḍasutta (AN 9.15)
— Vijaya Sutta (Snp 1.11)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Māgaṇḍiya Sutta (Snp 4.9)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Saṁvara Sutta (SN 35.98)
— Janapadakalyāṇī Sutta (SN 47.20)
— Iṭṭhadhamma Sutta (AN 10.73)
— Channa Sutta (AN 3.71)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Saṁkhittūposatha Sutta (AN 8.41)
— Tissametteyya Sutta (Snp 4.7)
— Nakulapitu Sutta (AN 6.16)
— Paṭhamasañcetanika Sutta (AN 10.217)
— Kāmesumicchācāra Sutta (SN 56.73)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Kimatthiya Sutta (AN 11.1)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A copy of the GREED PATH insight pathway is published and pinned to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwiqMMBO9W8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue with our examination of "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33) In this session (PART 4), we will examine the Third Unprofitable Direction how we go the Wrong Way due to Fear (bhaya agatigamanaṃ) when we crave Mental Volition as Nutriment (manosañcetanāhāro).

All the nutriments are linked, so we build on what we covered in the session on the Physical Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Desire & Contact as Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Hate.

What we cover in this session:

— look at how craving for Mental Volition as Nutriment activates dependent origination
— highlight the importance of understanding and abandoning the 3 kinds of craving and the link to the arising and passing away of the 5 aggregates
— apply the "swinging monkey analogy"
— go line by line to understand the process of how we go the wrong way due to fear driven by the perception of me-and-mine and wrong view(s)
— examine how our perceptions get sick and deceive us, so we keep hold of wrong view(s)
— revisit the Buddha's simile of the man being dragged to a charcoal pit
— go through some examples of this process
— examine the Story of a Brahmin to understand the link between craving, sorrow and fear — tips for learning and developing this meditation

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Saccavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 141)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Aññatarabrāhmaṇa Vatthu (Dhp 216)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Yoga Sutta (SN 45.172)
— Gantha Sutta (SN 45.174)
— Ānantarikasamādhiñāṇaniddesa (Ps 1.1.32)
— Ogha Sutta (SN 45.171)
— Paṭhamaagati Sutta (AN 4.17)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6y1nviizNN8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been posted and pinned to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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This Dhamma talk is linked to the earlier talk on "What is a person's best wealth?" - (https://bit.ly/2Yx3C4A).

In this session we examine what ruins or obstructs wealth. For some, the teachings the Buddha offers on this topic may be surprising. But as always, it is on the wholesome or skilful side that one doesn't lose wealth, but rather gains and retains wealth.

We look at some suttas that highlight the holes where wealth leaks out, the qualities that enable wealth to be squandered, the value of virtue and wholesome conduct and the link back to conviction in the Buddha and his teachings. Both mundane and supramundane paths are examined.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Hirīottappa Sutta (AN 7.65)
— Najīrati Sutta (SN 1.76)
— Iṭṭhadhamma Sutta (AN 10.73)
— Sigālovāda Sutta (DN 31)
— Parābhavasutta (Snp 1.6)
— Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 5.148)
— Kula Sutta (AN 4.258)
— Kāmabhogī Sutta (AN 10.91)
— Macchari Sutta (SN 1.49)
— Pañcamacchariya Sutta (AN 5.254)
– Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Gaṇṭhibhedakacora Vatthu (Dhp 63)
— Pañcaverabhaya Sutta (SN 12.41)
— Kammanidāna Sutta (AN 10.174)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Vitta Sutta (SN 1.73)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLJ236sQ2RQ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 63 - THE STORY OF TWO PICK-POCKETS and how one was able to enter the stream while the other continued to steal (even at the monastery where the Buddha was giving a teaching).

This story and saying of the Buddha links back to our examination of wealth. Important to recognise that the fruit or result of taking what is not given or stealing is loss of wealth (both in the mundane and supramundane sense) or a bad destination. We also touch on right livelihood (mundane and supramundane path)

The Buddha's words:

Yo bālo maññati bālyaṁ,

paṇḍito vāpi tena so;

Bālo ca paṇḍitamānī,

sa ve “bālo”ti vuccati.”

“A fool who considers himself foolish is,

in this, like a sage;

But a fool who is proud of his cleverness

is truly called fool.”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Kammanidāna Sutta (AN 10.174)
– Adinnādāna Sutta (SN 56.72)
– Pañcaverabhaya Sutta (SN 12.41)
– Parikkamana Sutta (AN 10.175)
– Kammapathapeyyāla (AN 3.163–182)
– Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
– Anumāna Sutta (MN 15)
– Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
– Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
– Rukkha Sutta (SN 45.152)

To read the full chapter Bāla Vagga (Dhp 60–75) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp60-75/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8dufBd7LDM AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session we examine WEALTH - what we consider as wealth and how we gather, store, try to increase and protect our wealth vs what the Buddha considers as wealth and what is the best kind of wealth.

Very timely for all the changes, challenges and fears we have regarding our skills, assets and wealth.

We go through some of the stories from the time of the Buddha, particularly some wealthy or rich people, and the wise counsel and teachings of the Buddha helping us to discern what is true wealth. How is it possible to convert our wealth into something wholesome and meritorious? And what is the wealth we can never lose to natural disasters, theft, trickery or corruption?

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Mahaddhana Sutta (SN 1.28)
— Ānandaseṭṭhi Vatthu (Dhp 62)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)
— Aputtakaseṭṭhi Vatthu (Dhp 355)
— Metta Sutta (AN 7.62)
— Velāma Sutta (AN 9.20)
— Vitthatadhana Sutta (AN 7.6)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Vitta Sutta (SN 1.73)
— Sādhu Sutta (SN 1.33)
— Mahadhanasetthiputta Vatthu (Dhp 155-156)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Hirīottappa Sutta (AN 7.65)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvtwENwUhCk AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our examination of the Four Nutriments and Going the Four Wrong Ways:

“From the recent video on sadness, I can recognize sadness associated with having been born and subject to old age, sickness and death. What I want to understand more is the process that happens to create more sadness through turning to sensual pleasures. Is it possible to explain this process in more detail? Is there a meditation for this?”

To answer the question we :

— go into a helicopter view of greed, hatred and delusion to understand the process results in sadness arising
— take a deeper dive using more of the Four Nutriments, hindrances to understand this process better

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Sabbāsava Sutta (MN 2)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Nibbuta Sutta (AN 3.55)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6QHUm3qe7I AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Examining whether we really understand Buddha's teaching on anicca by posing a question to challenge ourselves.

Anicca meaning unlasting, impermanent, ephemeral. Nicca meaning lasting, constant, permanent.

By doing so, this enables us to see how the Noble Eightfold Path can really develop when we have right view that can be triggered by our correct understanding of anicca.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our examination of the Four Nutriments and Going the Four Wrong Ways:

“I am troubled a great deal by what I consider mental heaviness or pain. It was there before the pandemic – a general sense of melancholy and sadness – it’s present even when I’m busy, when things seem to be going ok, or not okay, and in the spaces in between. With the pandemic it feels like this mental heaviness is getting heavier. Part of it could be also loneliness despite living with people. Either way, no matter what I do to try to overcome it, I can’t seem to lift this feeling. What would the Buddha advise?”

To answer the question we examine:

— Recognising the fruit of our actions (vipaka-kamma) is to experience sadness
— Understanding why sadness and loneliness arises (samudaya), and how it passes away (atthangama)
— Importance of not creating more sadness through trying to fix this dukkha
— Reminder that all feelings result in dukkha and the meditation that helps to see that
— Value of training ourselves to bear with conditions and the resultant feelings
— Going over the link between the physical nutriment and contact as nutriment to try to fix dukkha and sadness
— Highlighting and explaining different tools from our meditation toolkit to reduce sadness and not create more sadness (e.g. generosity, sense restraint, gratitude and more)
— Gentle reminders to lift the mind, brighten it with the wholesome - to withstand difficulty and help others as well

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Saccavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 141)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Nibbuta Sutta (AN 3.55)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Saṁvara Sutta (SN 35.98)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Akusalarāsi Sutta (AN 5.52)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Dutiyasamugghātasappāya Sutta (SN 35.32)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpA3TNhzy_w AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received in relation to our examination of the Four Nutriments and Going the Four Wrong Ways:

“I’m a bit of a foodie and I was wondering how big of a problem this can be when it comes to the Physical Nutriment. When we went through the Buddha’s teaching on how we should view food in the Son’s Flesh Sutta and then more recently the process of craving, it really made me look at my relationship with food. Do you have any advice on applying the Buddha’s teachings to food obsessions and even eating disorders?”

The key to answering this question is about CORRECTING OUR MISAPPREHENSION OF FOOD (Physical Nutriment) - at the view level, thoughts and perceptions.

To answer the question we examine:

— and revisit the process of craving food
— the process of going down the first unprofitable direction and the "bigger picture" of our predicament, not seeing the decay, and the danger of misapprehending food and creating habits and tendencies with the wrong view
— the Buddha's four key terms of how we should consider food in the Puttamaṁsa Sutta
— highlight the importance of the perception of the repulsiveness of food (ahārepaṭikūla)
— run through a key meditation to help penetrate this Dhamma

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Atthirāga Sutta (SN 12.64)
— Saṁvara Sutta (SN 35.98)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Stories of Hungry Ghosts (Petavatthu)

To listen to the talk on Moderation in Eating (episode 26) as something to be developed in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta - https://bit.ly/3sVhJfb

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSmL4boZsfg AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue with our examination of "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)

In this session (PART 3), we will examine the Second Unprofitable Direction how we go the Wrong Way due to Hate (dosa agatigamanaṃ) when we crave Contact as Nutriment (phassa āhāro).

All the nutriments are linked, so build on what we covered in the session on the Physical Nutriment and Going the Wrong Way due to Desire.

What we cover in this session:

— look at how craving for Contact as Nutriment activates dependent origination
— revisit the Buddha's simile of the flayed (or skinned) cow
— highlight the importance of the greed, hatred and delusion meditation that confirms all feeling leads to dukkha (need to understand this to overcome craving for Contact as Nutriment)
— go line by line to understand the process of how we go the wrong way due to hate
— go through an example of this process and apply other suttas to further explain
— discuss how much we much depend on feeling to fix things, then personalise it - taking it as me-and-mine, and how we don't understand the poison wedged in our mind that it's not sukha, but dukkha
— tips for learning and developing this meditation

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Atthirāga Sutta (SN 12.64)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Pālileyya Sutta (SN 22.81)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Hāliddikāni Sutta (SN 22.3)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Yoga Sutta (SN 45.172)
— Gantha Sutta (SN 45.174)
— Ānantarikasamādhiñāṇaniddesa (Ps 1.1.32)
— Ogha Sutta (SN 45.171)
— Paṭhamaagati Sutta (AN 4.17)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6y1nviizNN8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been posted and pinned to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verses 113, 288-289 and the STORY OF PATACARA THERI, who suffered a great tragedy and through meeting the Buddha, was able to come out of the sorrow, grief and despair and realise stream entry, then after ordaining and practising as a bhikkhuni, she realised final liberation.

She was declared by the Buddha as the foremost nun disciple in memorizing the monastic discipline (vinayadharānaṁ) i.e. an expert in the Vinaya – Pañcamavagga (AN 1.238). She is certainly one of our role models on the Noble Eightfold Path.

What's very interesting is the teaching the Buddha specifically gave to her, which was to contemplate the arising and passing away of the five aggregates. This coincides with our recent study of the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5).

The Buddha's words:

***“Yo ca vassasataṁ jīve,

apassaṁ udayabbayaṁ;

Ekāhaṁ jīvitaṁ seyyo,

passato udayabbayaṁ.”***

*“Better than living one hundred years

without seeing arising and dissipation,

is living one day,

seeing arising and dissipation.”* – (Dhp 113)

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Paṭācārātherīgāthā (Thig 5.1)
– Candātherīgāthā (This 5.12)
– Pañcasatamattātherīgāthā (Thig 6.1)
– Uttarātherīgāthā
– Pañcamavagga (AN 1.238)
– Paṭācārātheriapadāna (Thi Ap 20)

To read the full chapter (Sahassa Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp90-99/en/feldmeierOR the full chapter (Magga Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp273-289/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLWx1jZwkAU AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A gentle reminder about the importance of attending to the sutta meditations and reaching the higher concentrations or mental absorptions frequently.

Also to really focus the practice on the sutta meditation(s) that resonate with you or work best for you. The ones that we can reach right concentration with, and be able to sustain that concentration.

When we develop frequent ease around accessing right concentration we continuously overcome the hindrances, lift our minds above sense pleasures, encourage a brighter mind, train ourselves with right view and lean towards Nibbana.

Some of the suttas mentioned in this short segment:

— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Pesakaradhita Vatthu (Dhammapada Verse 174)

There is a Guided Meditation already published for the short form meditation for the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122) mentioned in this segment, titled "IS IT WORTH TAKING AS ME AND MINE?" (episode 115) - https://bit.ly/3kjkpzi

Wishing everyone strength, conviction and wisdom on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Nikini Poya Dhamma Session on the Arising and Passing Away of the Five Aggregates subject to clinging in the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5):

“Should we understand impermanence (anicca) through the contemplation of arising and passing away of the five aggregates? Are there any such instructions from the Buddha that confirm this?”

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)
— Aniccasaññā Sutta (SN 22.102)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5RHweXJNBk

A VIDEO of this NIKINI POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION on the Arising & Passing Away of the Five Aggregates with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5lUpUo6QM

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 354 and the STORY OF SAKKA'S QUESTIONS TO THE BUDDHA. The devas of the Tavatimsa realm had questions that they had difficulty coming to the correct answers, so they went with Sakka, King of the Devas to see the Buddha in order to resolve these questions.

This story is a strong reminder that we must lean towards the Noble Dhamma, as it is the best of gifts, tastes and delights. And Sakka reminds us that sharing the merit when Dhamma is offered (or for any good deed) is welcome and much needed for all sentient beings.

The Buddha's words:

***“Sabbadānaṁ dhammadānaṁ jināti,

Sabbarasaṁ dhammaraso jināti;

Sabbaratiṁ dhammarati jināti,

Taṇhakkhayo sabbadukkhaṁ jināti.”***

“The gift of Dhamma excels all gifts.

The taste of Dhamma excels all tastes.

The delight of Dhamma excels all delights.

The destruction of craving conquers all suffering”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Brāhmaṇadhammayāga Sutta (Iti 100)
– Dhammānudhammapaṭipanna Sutta (Iti 113)
– Dhammassavana Sutta (AN 5.202)
– Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
– Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
– Loka Sutta (Ud 3.10)
– Bālapaṇḍita Sutta (SN 12.19)

To read the full chapter (Taṇhā Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp334-359/en/sujato

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3lmhzorOp0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on NIKINI POYA (22 August 2021) via zoom on "THE ARISING AND PASSING AWAY OF THE FIVE AGGREGATES", focusing on the Buddha's instructions in the SAMĀDHI BHĀVANĀ SUTTA (SN 22.5). This is essentially about the NOBLE TRUTH OF THE ORIGIN OF SUFFERING (Tanha or Craving)

This session follows on from the Esala poya session and our deep-dive into the Noble Truth of Suffering (dukkha). It is very important to understand the First Noble Truth correctly, in order to then see, with the wisdom faculty, the arising and passing away of the five aggregates.

In this Dhamma session we:

— go over a quick recap of the last poya session
— investigate the statement "you can't fix dukkha with craving"
— introduce the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta
— "deep dive" into the process of Arising and Passing Away (including meditation)
— go over useful tips for this meditation

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sakkapanha Vatthu (Dhp 354)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)
— Āhāra Sutta (AN 12.11)
— Saṁvara Sutta (SN 35.98)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Vitthata Sutta (AN 5.14)

To read the Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta - https://suttacentral.net/sn22.5/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5lUpUo6QM

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We continue with our examination of "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)

In this session (PART 2), we will examine the First Unprofitable Direction how we go the Wrong Way due to Desire (chandā agatigamanaṃ) when we crave the Physical Nutriment (kabaḷīkārāhāro).

What we cover in this session:

— look at how craving for the Physical Nutriment activates dependent origination
— emphasise that lust for the five cords of sensual pleasure (predominantly sensual desire) drives this process
— revisit the Buddha's simile of the son's flesh
— go line-by-line to understand the process of how we go the wrong way due to desire
— go through different examples of this process (eg. food, loved ones)
— tips for learning and developing this meditation

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Atthirāga Sutta (SN 12.64)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Chandappahāna Sutta (SN 22.111)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Yoga Sutta (SN 45.172)
— Gantha Sutta (SN 45.174)
— Ānantarikasamādhiñāṇaniddesa (Ps 1.1.32)
— Ogha Sutta (SN 45.171)
— Paṭhamaagati Sutta (AN 4.17)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8qZBQDxtng AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been posted to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“What is stuck in my mind from the session is the question about of ‘what makes suffering a noble truth?’ The way I’ve been taught to practice the first noble truth is more along the lines of observing moment-to-moment suffering, which is usually centered on personal suffering. And to be honest, I’ve always wondered why suffering, which we all experience day-to-day, is called a noble truth. Could you to explain this a bit more?”

The key to understanding the Noble Truth of Suffering (Dukkha) comes down to the activating the Right View. It's important to recognise through wisdom that suffering (dukkha) must be understood as a universal truth, common to all living beings, and not simply through grasping from personal experience of dukkha.

To answer the question we examine:

— the urgency of understanding the bigger predicament
— the perception of suffering in impermanence (anicce dukkhasaññā) and the perception of not me and mine in suffering (dukkhe anattasaññā);
— what happens when we take dukkha personally
— how arahants consider Noble Truth of Dukkha
— the importance of seeing Nibbana as not false or deceptive as it is not constructed, subject to change, nor deathbound
— reminding ourselves of the three kinds of dukkha arising from objects, sense contact and feelings
— taking a brief look at the doorways to Nibbana through the Four Noble Truths

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Dukkha Sutta (SN 46.72)
— Anatta Sutta (SN 46.73)
— Yadanicca Sutta (SN 22.15)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTXNRTWPTpU

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

It's stated that "all sentient beings are sustained by nutriment" (sabbe sattā āhāraṭṭhitikā) in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33).

We will examine what this means, why it is important to learn about the four nutriments, how we go the four wrong ways when we crave the four nutriments, and how to meditate or contemplate these insight or knowledge pathways.

As we know from the Buddha's teachings on the Four Noble Truths, craving (tanha) is the origin or arising of suffering (dukkha). When we take the four nutriments in these wrong ways this is known as the Four Unprofitable Directions. All four unprofitable directions lead us to future existence in samsara.

In this Part 1 session we:

— get an overview of the framework and process map of the Four Nutriments and how it leads to the Four Wrong Ways
— familiarise ourselves with pali terms and their meanings to make the learning process easier (e.g vipallāsa = perversion or corruption; upādāna = clinging and so on...)
— go through a simplified version of the framework to enable a "bird's eye" view of the Buddha's teaching, using a few examples.

Subsequent sessions will look at each of the Unprofitable Directions in greater detail, including how to meditate on them.

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Vipallāsa Sutta (AN 4.49)
— Upādāna Sutta (SN 45.173)
— Yoga Sutta (SN 45.172)
— Gantha Sutta (SN 45.174)
— Ānantarikasamādhiñāṇaniddesa (Ps 1.1.32)
— Ogha Sutta (SN 45.171)
— Paṭhamaagati Sutta (AN 4.17)
— Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33)

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuPRbbNtPgE AND on Spotify as a video podcast

An electronic copy of the chart or process map of the Four Unprofitable Directions has been published to the Sutta Meditation Telegram channel.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from the sessions looking at "117 Why associating with good people (sappurisa) is so important on the Noble Eightfold Path" and "118 Developing the Buddha's qualities of a good person", we now examine "THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING TRUE DHAMMA".

What is particularly important, from an ariya perspective (supramundane right view), is hearing True Dhamma and knowing the distinction between "what is false, which has a deceptive nature; and what is true which has an undeceptive nature, is Nibbāna" - Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)

This talk is part of our examination of the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61). Instead of ignorance, we want to cultivate and develop to fulfillment True Knowledge and Liberation (vijjāvimutti).

The intention is to look at a few different parts of this insight pathway (which has all the main teachings of the Buddha to develop the Noble Eightfold Path and realise Nibbana) before pulling it all together to explain how to meditate on the full insight pathway.

In this session we:

— try to define True Dhamma (saddhamma)
— contrast True Dhamma with Wrong Dhamma (asaddhamma)
— review some suttas highlighting the Buddha's references to True Dhamma and it's significance
— remind ourselves what leads to the decline and disappearance of True Dhamma
— explore what prevents us from penetrating the truth despite listening to True Dhamma, and what we need to abandon to remove those blocks.

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Aññatarapurisa Vatthu (Dhp 60)
— Sabbhi Sutta (SN 1.31)
— Vuṭṭhi Sutta (SN 1.74)
— Sīlasampanna Sutta (Iti 104)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Punabbasu Sutta (SN 10.7)
— Erakapattanagaraja Vatthu (Dhp 182)
— Kimila Sutta (AN 7.59)
— Saddhammappatirūpaka Sutta (SN 16.13)
— Sammattaniyāma Suttas (AN 5.151-153)
— Āvaraṇa Sutta (AN 6.86)
— Voropita Sutta (AN 6.87)
— Sussūsati Sutta (AN 6.88)

To read the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.61/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDFPrYLMRec AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session, we look at Dhammapada Verse 302 and the STORY OF THE BHIKKHU FROM VAJJI COUNTRY. This monk had a misguided thought one evening, that his plight (i.e. feeling lonely and unhappy) was worse than anybody else. This story is very helpful as a reflection for how we might be feeling (in and out of restrictions and lockdowns) as we look out at the world, and how to straighten our thoughts and feelings.

In this saying of the Buddha, he encourages us to contemplate hardships in life for all beings i.e. Birth is dukkha in all places (jatipi dukkha):

***“Duppabbajjaṁ durabhiramaṁ,

Durāvāsā gharā dukhā;

Dukkho samāna saṁvāso,

Dukkhā anupatita addhagū;

Tasmā na caddhagū siyā,

Na ca dukkha anupatito siyā.”***

“It’s difficult to go forth, it’s difficult to be content.

The life of a householder is difficult and painful.

To live with those who are unequal is painful.

The traveller (in samsara) is afflicted by suffering

Therefore, do not be a traveller (in samsara),

Do not be afflicted by suffering.”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255)
– Assu Sutta (SN 15.3)
– Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11),
– Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
– Paṭhamakoṭigāma Sutta (SN 56.21)
– Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
– Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)

To read the full chapter (Pakiṇṇaka Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp290-305/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYGFYyy_mqM AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“From the Stream Entry talk and subsequent Q&A, I think I understand what is meant around “not clinging to virtue and observances” – that virtue does not definitively lead to ultimate liberation, the Noble Eightfold Path does. My question is to do with the four developments and the Noble Eightfold Path, that you outlined in the Four Noble Truths talk. It seems that the virtue we are encouraged to cultivate on this Path has something to do with this. Can you please go over this again?”

Most of us in Dhamma understand the overall framework and component parts of the Noble Eightfold Path, however, not many are able to explain what the Buddha means by fully developing the Noble Eightfold Path (through development of body, virtue, mind and wisdom) and how it all comes together as the Path to Liberation, which is, the way leading to the end of the whole mass of suffering. If you understand this, then you begin to understand what is bhāvanā (what we call "meditation") that is taught by the Buddha.

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Cūḷaniddesa (PTS 1049, explanation 475)
— Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 7)
— Paccaya Sutta (SN 12.27)
— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Loṇakapalla Sutta (AN 3.100)
— Mahācunda Sutta (AN 10.24)
— Bhāradvāja Sutta (SN 35.127)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38h-jnFp19Y

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on lay disciples of the Buddha, and two in particular, Nakula's Father and Mother, who were declared foremost among those of the Buddha's lay disciples who are trustworthy (vissāsikānaṃ) - Sattama Vagga (AN 1.257), (AN 1.266). After receiving a teaching from the Buddha, they both realised stream entry.

The story of Nakula's parents is very inspirational for their upright qualities, their good example shows us how to develop more ease around our relationships with our partners (and this can be extended to our other relationships), and understanding the support for developing Path and Practice together.

Some of the suttas mentioned in this talk include:

– Sattama Vagga (AN 1.257), (AN1.266)
– Paṭhamasamajīvī Sutta (AN 4.55)
– Nakulapitu Sutta (SN 35.131)
– Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
– Samādhi bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
– Nakulapitu Sutta (SN 22.1)
– Sīlavanta Sutta (22.122)
– Nakulapitu Sutta (AN 6.16)
– Nakulamātā Sutta (AN 8.48)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WOgI1rBj1E AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“Meditating on old age, sickness and death doesn’t seem like an uplifting meditation. Is there any upside to the meditation, other than the obvious of penetrating truth? I feel that once you see the truth, you don’t need to do this particular meditation any more. There are other meditations to focus on that will really lift the mind and make it happy. Am I missing something?”

The Buddha's words remind us the five frequent recollections “should often be contemplated upon by woman or a man, by a householder or one gone forth”. Aging, sickness and death are part of those five. And there's good reasons for it, which will be expanded on when we look to answer the question.

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Dukkha Sutta (SN 48.72)
— Anatta Sutta (SN 48.73)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Nagara Sutta (SN 12.65)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)

Bohoma pin to the person that asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgFdBvvBDYU

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“When we contemplate birth and then aging, you mentioned that the link between the two is important and meditating on this is like a test. Please can you explain this further?”

In answering this question we examine the birth to aging link, dependent origination, the tests we face in our meditation, intoxication with youth, conventional challenges and conditioning, how we have the wrong view about what is lasting or permanent (nicca), the link between "me and mine" and permanency (atta-nicca), and misapprehending the physical nutriment. In a nutshell, we have the wrong view that we carry from birth to birth that "we can fix this" whenever we experience sadness (domanassa) and suffering (dukkha).

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

Some of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Nagara Sutta (SN 12.65)
— Paṭilābha Sutta (SN 48.11)

Bohoma pin to the person that has asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF76pR5nW9c

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“I need help with the contemplation of death meditation. As you said in the talk it’s difficult to even come to try to do this meditation. I find myself becoming physically sick when I start to do the steps, and most times I get as far as picturing a dead body and then I can’t seem to go on. Do you have any advice on how to overcome this? How have other meditators who have been successful overcome fears or blocks? Most grateful for any help.”

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

When you make effort towards this meditation, remember that the Buddha said this: “Mendicants, when mindfulness of death is developed and cultivated it’s very fruitful and beneficial. It culminates in the deathless and ends with the deathless.” - Paṭhamamaraṇassati Sutta (AN 6.20)

If you get this meditation right, you will enter the mental absorptions - the mind experiences joy and happiness after the bodily and verbal formations cease, the body really begins to settle and go tranquil and the mind then gets very concentrated and unified.

Some of the suttas that are referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Dhātuvibhaṅga Sutta (MN 140)
— Paṭilābha Sutta (SN 48.11)

Bohoma pin to the person that has asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVywqneHZ8I

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A question received following the Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths:

“I’ve been through the Dhamma session on the Noble Truth of Suffering. My question is what’s the best way to approach meditating on this first noble truth? Are there different meditations that should be done one-by-one? Or is there just a big meditation in terms of all aspects that have been defined by the Buddha?”

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

When you do this meditation methodically and completely, you come to know and understand why Buddha sees Dukkha or Suffering as a Noble Truth, and not simply the experience or feeling of something disagreeable of painful in everyday life. After realising this knowledge or understanding, the question then arises in a genuine sense - "How do I not construct another birth?"

Some of the suttas that are referred to:

— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Nagara Sutta (SN 12.65)

Bohoma pin to the person that has asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P30r3Zmd70k

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

One of the questions from yesterday's Esala Poya Dhamma Session on the Four Noble Truths, and specifically the contemplation of death (maranasati)

"Do I need to take a step further with the contemplation of death if I already see a very vivid account in meditation of my deceased body? Do I need to extend this meditation? I am not interested in seeing past births. But I’d like to know, if it is necessary to see past births?

To listen to the ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION - https://tinyurl.com/24yd5drz

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

When you see the foulness (asubha) of the body through the contemplation of death (maranasati), one begins to understand the 1st Noble Truth, that this is predicament is dukkha. The body is impermanent or unlasting (anicca), subject to change (viparinama dukkha) and not worth taking as me and mine (anatta). If you have DIRECT INSIGHT in your meditation through an expanded mind, what you really see directly for yourself, if you deepen this meditation, is the dependent origination link of birth to aging-and-death over and over, particularly with past rebirths and this continual re-linking following death. Then you know that you need to abandon any craving (tanha) and walk the Noble Eightfold Path.

Some of the suttas that are referred to:

— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22) or (MN 10)
— Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Nagara Sutta (SN 12.65)

Bohoma pin to the person that shared their meditation and asked this question.

A VIDEO of this DHAMMA Q&A with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pz-SNx5McQQ

A VIDEO of this ESALA POYA FULL DHAMMA SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on ESALA POYA (23 July 2021) via zoom on "THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS", with particular focus on learning and practising the contemplations on the 1st NOBLE TRUTH OF SUFFERING (Dukkha).

This session is for anyone who sincerely wants to follow Gautama Buddha's original teaching of the Four Noble Truths

Esala poya is an auspicious day as we celebrate and honour a number of significant events such as Prince Siddhartha leaving lay life and going forth in search of the truth; the birth of Prince Rahula, his son; the Buddha's first teaching on the Four Noble Truths and the setting in motion the wheel of Dhamma; following the Buddha's parinibbana, the 1st convocation of the monastic Sangha; and the day after Esala poya the annual start of the rains retreat (vassa).

In this Dhamma session we:

— broadly go over the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— explain the Four Noble Truths (including 3 stages and 12 insights) and why they are so valuable
— "deep dive" into the Noble Truth of Suffering (Dukkha), particularly the 12 aspects the Buddha outlines that we must fully understand (birth, aging, sickness, death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, sadness, despair, union with what is displeasing, separation from what is pleasing and not getting what one wants - all are suffering) and in brief, the 5 aggregates subject to clinging are also suffering.
— meditate on jatipi dukkha (birth is suffering) and maranasati (death contemplation)

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Pancasatabhikkhu Vatthu (Dhp 273-276)
— Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta (DN 22)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Saccavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 141)
— Ariyasaccapakāsana-paṭhamabhūmi (Pe 1)
— Avijjā Sutta (SN 56.17)
— Vijjā Sutta (SN 56.18)
— Cela Sutta (SN 56.34)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Dvayatānupassanāsutta (Snp 3.12)
— Mahāhatthipadopamasutta (MN 28)
— Gavampati Sutta (SN 56.30)
— Cūḷasuññata Sutta (MN 121)
— Paṭhamanānākaraṇa Sutta (AN 4.123)
— Sāleyakka Sutta (MN 41)
— Jāṇussoṇi Sutta (AN 10.177)
— Bālapaṇḍita Sutta (MN 129)
— Devadūta Sutta (MN 130)
— Māratajjanīya Sutta (MN 50)
— Niraya Vagga (Dhp306-319)
— Kukkuravatika Sutta (MN 57)
— Petavatthu (Pv)
— Vimānavatthu (Vv)
— Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3)
— Suvira Sutta (SN 11.1)
— Devaloka Sutta (AN 3.18)
— Pañcapubba Sutta (Iti 83)
— Santatara Sutta (Iti 73)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)
— Samādhi-bhavana Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)

To read the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11) - https://suttacentral.net/sn56.11/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riuNy43Ke2g

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on monk disciples (bhikkhu) of the Buddha, and one in particular, Bhikkhu Soṇa Koḷivisa, who was declared by the Buddha foremost among those who are energetic (āraddhavīriyānaṁ) - AN 1.205

The story of Bhikkhu Soṇa Koḷivisa is particularly beneficial in helping us to understand the importance of balancing energy in daily life and in cultivating the Noble Eightfold Path; and finding the evenness in the development of our spiritual faculties when practising the Buddha's meditations.

Other suttas mentioned in this talk include:

– Anuruddhamahāvitakka Sutta (AN 8.30)
– Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
– Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
– Soṇakoḷivisattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 44)
– Soṇakoṭivīsattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 391)
– Cammakkhandhaka (Pli Tv Kd 5)
– Soṇa Sutta (AN 6.55)
– Magga Vagga (Dhp 280)
– Soṇakoḷivisattheragāthā (Thag 13.1)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzMUIBNpQ-M AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session we look at Dhammapada Verse 280 and THE STORY OF THERA TISSA, THE IDLE ONE, who was prone to indolence, didn't exert himself at the right time and had difficulty cultivating the Path.

In this saying of the Buddha, he encourages rousing energy, not allowing the mind to go into unskillful states and become tired and indolent, so as to ensure one learn and practice in order to make progress on the Noble Eightfold Path.

The verse in Pali:

“Uṭṭhānakālamhi anuṭṭhahāno,

Yuvā balī ālasiyaṁ upeto;

Saṁsanna saṅkappamano kusīto,

Paññāya maggaṁ alaso na vindati.”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

- Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
- Kusītārambhavatthu Sutta (AN 8.80)

To read the full chapter (Magga Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp273-289/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=val32oUrZC4 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session, we look at a question that has been asked from one of our younger audience:

“We were taught at the temple, how the Lord Buddha spent the 7 weeks after Buddha’s enlightenment. I want to be very clear in my mind that this is not a myth. What mental powers and/or physical powers did he use? Does getting up after every 7 days have any significance? I have been told by my Achchi that Buddha had 73 special mental powers and 32 special physical features (specially that he had 40 teeth).”

To answer this question, we look at the Buddha's words on this period and some other relevant suttas that help us to understand the Buddha's deep meditations (including the attainment of cessation or nirodhasamāpatti), as well as his special knowledges, marks and abilities.

Some of the suttas mentioned in this segment:

— Bodhivagga (Ud 1)
— Tapussa Sutta (AN 9.41)
— Sattadhātu Sutta (SN 14.11)
— Cūḷavedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 44)
— Patisambhidamagga (Ps 1)
— Sāmaññaphala Sutta (DN 2)
— Mahāsīhanāda Sutta (MN 12)
— Lakkhaṇa Sutta (DN 30)
— Brahmāyu Sutta (MN 91)

Bohoma pin to the young person and their grandmother for asking this question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on the anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AG8t89RteIA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this talk we examine spiritual maturity - what it looks like, areas to further develop, things to abandon, and seeing the fruits of one's practice.

Some of the topics covered are generosity, virtue, recognising what is unbeneficial to the Path, developing an "unshakable" quality in one's practice, easeful renunciation, not being so easily swayed by conditions in our daily life, abandoning pettiness & silliness, diligence, joy for another's progress, actively using the "stop sign", appreciating solitude, cultivating a healthy sense of urgency, genuinely recognising Dhamma practice as energising, and more.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an EXTRACT from the Dhamma Session on developing the accomplishment of VERY LEARNED (bahussuto) from the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) and Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)

It explains the BUDDHA'S SYSTEM FOR LEARNING DHAMMA, that is gradual, comprehensive and entails study and meditation practice. If one wants to learn, develop and progress on the trainee's path of practice (Noble Eightfold Path), then applying the Buddha's framework for learning is an essential part of that.

For the full session on bahussuto - https://bit.ly/3eoA8ef

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this excerpt from the Dhamma Session:

— Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160)
— Tatiyasaddhammasammosa Sutta (AN 5.156)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Tatiyasaddhammasammosa Sutta (AN 5.156)
— Ujjhanasanni Sutta (SN 1.35)
— Cetiya Sutta (SN 51.10)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Mahāpadesa Sutta (AN 4.180)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Thera Sutta (AN 5.88)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html and the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) - https://suttacentral.net/an7.67/en/sujato

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCHMI5VYmcY AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question that has been asked:

“IS THERE A WAY TO TACKLE THE TAYODHAMMA SUTTA BIT-BY-BIT SO THAT WE CAN GET IT INTO OUR SYSTEM UNSHAKABLY?”

To answer this question, we look at:

How can we study & learn specific suttas and meditate on them?
Applying this to learning & meditating on the Tayodhamma Sutta (gradually from each element, each group of 3, all the different links, and eventually the full insight pathways

The emphasis is on using the Buddha's learning framework or system of learning Dhamma as the means to gradually and sequentially learn and practise. Strong encouragement is always towards making effort to develop virtue, strengthen the mind, develop the concentrations, build on the practice, and develop genuine insight.

Some of the suttas mentioned in this segment:

— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Attānuvāda Sutta (AN 4.121)
— Mahā Assapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Hirīottappa Sutta (AN 7.65)
— Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Avijjā Sutta (SN 45.1)

To read the Tayodhamma Sutta - https://suttacentral.net/an10.76/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the people who connected on this sutta and asked Dhamma questions on deepening our learning and practice on Tayodhamma Sutta.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on the anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8NdtWqJ9CU

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A response to general questions around learning Dhamma, what meditations to focus on, how best to apply oneself to the Buddha Dhamma, and finding balance in how you cultivate Dhamma practice.

Mostly words of encouragement, some gentle reminders and ideas for learning Dhamma, developing the Buddha's meditations, and finding your own balance in cultivating practice.

Wishing a calm mind and easeful conditions.

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked specific questions around learning & practising Dhamma in the context of daily life.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a short Dhamma talk looking into Buddha's practical advice from the Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61) to overcome sleepiness or drowsiness.

The Buddha gave this advice to Venerable MahaMoggallana when he saw him struggling (prior to Venerable MahaMoggallana realising full awakening) with sleepiness, and was prone to nodding off.

This short video references the Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61) and Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41).

If you are keen on developing the trainee quality of Wakefulness, there is longer Dhamma talk with a number of teachings from the Buddha and Venerable Ānanda - go to https://tinyurl.com/kzc83u8

Or if you wish to develop and improve the Perception of Light as a meditation - go to https://tinyurl.com/k5wx4sn4

A SHORT VIDEO with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO3OAQCURkA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the DHAMMA TALK that was delivered to students (grade 9 and upwards) of a local international high school, via zoom, on 27 June 2021 - in response to an invitation to participate in their Dhamma Session.

The title of the Dhamma talk: "THE VALUE OF MENTAL STRENGTH - How to apply the Buddha’s Teachings to develop a strong mind".

This talk was given as an encouragement to lean on the Buddha's Teachings as medicine in order to develop one's mind to be healthy, and strengthen it by understanding what makes it weak; learning how to clean the mind when it becomes weak or sick; and the importance of cultivating wholesome mental states.

In this Dhamma Talk we examined:

What are some of the current challenges?
How does the world define mental strength & mental weakness?
How does the Buddha define mental strength & mental weakness?
How can we apply some of the Buddha’s medicine to strengthen the mind?

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
— Āhārasutta (SN 46.51)
— Cūḷapuṇṇama Sutta (MN 110)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta(AN 7.61)
— Aparihāniya Sutta(AN 4.37)
— Nagaropama Sutta(AN 7.67)
— Rukkha Sutta (SN 45.152)

Bohoma pin to the organisers and participants of this wholesome Dhamma session.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz65CcwbKKg

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on POSON POYA (24 June 2021) via zoom on "WHAT MAKES US INCAPABLE OF REALISING NIBBANA?", or escaping from samsāra (the continual cycle of rebirth).

In this Dhamma session we:

Introduce and look at the context of the Buddha's teaching of the Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
Take a closer look at the Groupings of 3s and the individual elements
Extract the Insight Pathways (ñāṇapathā)

This session is more of a broad overview, initial study and snapshot of the Tayodhamma Sutta, explaining the key elements and the groupings and a glimpse at the insight pathways. More time is really needed to deeply study, investigate and contemplate these Dhammas (as in Dhammānupassana). But even this initial session is really helpful at seeing how certain teachings of the Buddha fit together and why what we have been studying thus far is so helpful to encouraging, developing and realising the Noble Eightfold Path.

It's recommended to (1) ensure you understand each element in this sutta (2) go through each grouping of three (3) start investigating the links for each grouping of three, and then (4) gradually study parts or the whole insight pathways of lust (greed), hatred and delusion, and non-lust (non-greed), non-hatred and non-delusion.

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Anumana Sutta (MN15)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Cūḷapuṇṇama Sutta (MN 110)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Vipallāsa Sutta(AN 4.49)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Sakkāyadiṭṭhi Sutta (SN 22.155)
— Diṭṭhikathā (Ps 2)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
— Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)

To read the Tayodhamma Sutta - https://suttacentral.net/an10.76/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the person who suggested the Tayodhamma Sutta following on from our Vesak poya session on wise contemplation (yonisomanasikāra).

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on the anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocTcHe3ryGs

An electronic copy the key tables from this session has been posted to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (pinned posts)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on the application of the Buddha's teachings in the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) and Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) to DECONSTRUCT ANGER.

In this meditation, we take an example at HOME to recognise the arising or construction of anger, and then apply the Buddha's teachings to deconstruct anger through looking at our grounds for anger and tackling the mental stains in the mind so they don't escalate.

The key point is to overcome anger with non-anger (not more anger).

To read the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.79/en/sujato

To read the Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

For the full talk and presentation slides on Anger 1.0 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oRcpVEeEgo

For the Youth Edition of this talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcrsH48B8P4

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this guided meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on the application of the Buddha's teachings in the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) and Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) to DECONSTRUCT ANGER.

In this meditation, we take an example at WORK to recognise the arising or construction of anger, and then apply the Buddha's teachings to deconstruct anger through looking at our grounds for anger and tackling the mental stains in the mind so they don't escalate.

The key point is to overcome anger with non-anger (not more anger).

To read the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.79/en/sujato

To read the Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

For the full talk and presentation slides on Anger 1.0 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oRcpVEeEgo

For the Youth Edition of this talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcrsH48B8P4

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this guided meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the most recent talk on Anger from a Youth perspective. It's a shorter and simplified talk.

The intention is to cultivate wisdom - so that we do not create the conditions for anger to arise, and if anger has arisen that we make an effort to abandon any of the mental stains associated with anger.

Suttas that are covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)

To read the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.79/en/sujato

To read the Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this version of the talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcrsH48B8P4 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session, we use the real-life experience of lockdown and restrictions over the past year and half to explore the topic of Anger from a Buddhist Perspective.

The intention is to cultivate wisdom - so that we do not create the conditions for anger to arise, and if anger has arisen that we make an effort to abandon any of the mental stains associated with anger.

In this session we:

- Explore the real-life experience of Lockdown
- Brainstorm personal reasons for Anger during the Lockdown
- Look into what we do when we get angry
- Deep dive into the Grounds for Anger in the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79)
- Deconstruct the grounds for Anger & Resentment
- Deconstruct mental defilements and their links in the Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
- Examine how these can lead to giving up Anger & Resentment

Suttas that are covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Potaliya Sutta (MN 54)
— Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 5.161)
— Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 9.29)
— Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)

To read the Āghātavatthu Sutta (AN 10.79) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.79/en/sujato

To read the Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the people who have requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oRcpVEeEgo AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following on from the last session looking at "Why associating with good people (sappurisa) is so important on the Noble Eightfold Path", we take this one step further to examine "Developing the Buddha's qualities of a good person".

We are particularly interested in looking at how we may self-sabotage our progress on the Path, and to investigate qualities that we consciously or unconsciously continue to practice that may be unwholesome, rather than wholesome. This is a strong encouragement to deepen the practice and really put effort to progress on the Noble Eightfold Path.

This is part of our examination of the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61). Instead of ignorance, we want to cultivate and develop to fulfillment True Knowledge and Liberation (vijjāvimutti). The intention is to look at a few different parts of this insight pathway (which has all the main teachings of the Buddha to develop the Noble Eightfold Path and realise Nibbana) before pulling it all together to explain how to meditate on the full insight pathway.

In this session we:

- briefly refresh our minds about the Story of Sakka, King of the Devas and the Buddha's words
- examine the qualities of gratitude and thankfulness, whom to praise and not praise, matters of belief or suspicion, behaving rightly towards our parents, the Tathagata and his noble disciples, simile of the newly arrived bride and the four qualities when it comes to virtues & faults, and the things we should refrain from using to glorify ourselves and belittle others
- look at how to reflect and contemplate to develop these wholesome qualities and abandon the unwholesome ones.

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Sakka Vatthu (Dhp 206-208)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Āyācanavagga (AN 2.134-137)
— Sappurisa Sutta (AN 4.73)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Dasuttara Sutta (DN 34)

To read the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.61/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DILGEN1PsAY AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

We look at the first part of the insight pathway for the way out or passing away (atthangama) of Ignorance (avijjā), which is associating with good people. This is from the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61). Instead of ignorance, we want to cultivate and develop to fulfillment True Knowledge and Liberation (vijjāvimutti).

The intention is to look at a few different parts of this insight pathway (which has all the main teachings of the Buddha to develop the Noble Eightfold Path and realise Nibbana) before pulling it all together to explain how to meditate on the full insight pathway.

In this session we:

- briefly revisit Buddha's definition of a bad person (asappurisa)
- look into the Buddha's definition of a good person (sappurisa)
- examine some of the Buddha's teachings on why it's important to associate with good people
- reflect on the example of Angulimala, the murderer who realised full awakening
- run through some questions we can use as prompts for contemplation about "why associating with good people is so important on the Noble Eightfold Path" that may help us to make more conscious choices regarding the company we keep and who we spend the most time with. This is from the perspective of the spiritual growth on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Sappurisavagga (AN 4.201-210)
— Samacittavagga (AN 2.32)
— Āyācanavagga (AN 2.134-137)
— Dutiyakhatasutta (AN 4.4)
— Sappurisa Sutta (AN 4.73)
— Akataññutā Autta (AN 4.223)
— Cūḷapuṇṇama Sutta (MN 110)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Paṭhamaasappurisa Sutta (SN 45.25)
— Dutiyaasappurisa Sutta (SN 45.26)
— Dasaṅga Sutta (SN 14.29)
— Caṅkama Sutta (SN 14.15)
— Angulimalatthera Vatthu (Dhp 173)
— Vassakāra Sutta (AN 4.187)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)

To read the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.61/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfc5me6D0j8 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session we study the insight pathways taught by the Buddha in the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) and how to contemplate or meditate on them.

The first is the one that leads to the arising (samudaya) of Ignorance and the second is the passing away (atthaṅgama) or way out of Ignorance.

The session has been split into two parts:

In this first part we look at the arising of Ignorance and all the nutriments or conditions that lead to the arising and growth of Ignorance, which in turn keeps us bound to continual rebirth into samsara.
In the second part (to be published), we’ll look at the insight pathway for the way out of Ignorance, which leads to True Knowledge and Liberation.

What is covered in this session:

o Overview of the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
o What is avijjā?
o Importance of this teaching
o Quick recap on insight pathways
o “Deep dive” into the insight pathway for avijjā
o How do we meditate on this sutta

Most of the suttas that are directly or indirectly referred to in this session:

— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
— Avijjā Sutta (SN 56.17)
— Samudaya Sutta (SN 22.131)
— Kevaddha Sutta (DN 11)
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)
— Vijjā Sutta (AN 10.105),
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 45.1)
— Sādhu Sutta (AN 10.34)
— Yonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.55)
— Sūka Sutta (SN 45.9)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Tiṇakaṭṭha Sutta (SN 15.1)
— Cūḷapuṇṇama Sutta (MN 110)
— Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
— Āsāduppajahavagga (AN 2.125-126)
— Ekadhammavagga, Dutiyavagga (AN 1.310-311)
— Vuṭṭhi Sutta (SN 1.74)
— Assaddhasaṁsandanasu Sutta (SN 14.17)
— Assaddhamūlaka (SN 14.18)
— Upanisa Sutta (SN 12.23)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Akusalavitakka Sutta (SN 9.11)
— Hāravibhaṅgapañcamabhūmi (Pe 5)
— Pamādādivagga (AN 1.92)
— Dutiyapamādādivagga (AN 1.108)
— Vīriyārambhādivagga (AN 1.68)
— Satisampajañña Sutta (AN 8.81)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Indriyasaṃvara Sutta (AN 6.50)
— Sāleyyaka Sutta (MN 41)
— Duccarita Sutta (Iti 64)
— Tevijja Sutta (DN 13)
— Akusalarāsi Sutta (AN 5.52, SN 47.5)
— Nīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.40)
— Kāyasutta (SN 46.2)
— Āhārasutta (SN 46.51)
— Upakkilesa Sutta (AN 5.23)

To read the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) - https://suttacentral.net/an10.61/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the people that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boCECIM0Lto AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on the following contemplation:

"If it is impermanent (anicca), painful or suffering (dukkha), and subject to change (vipariṇāma), is it worth taking as me and mine?"

**We examined this as part of looking into the contemplation of the five aggregates subject to clinging as 11 characteristics in the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122).

This is a very powerful contemplation that carefully directs the mind towards the right view (yoniso manasikāra), using the primary characteristics the Buddha would normally teach and then follow up with questions.

If you are new to this type of contemplation, there may be some resistance that arises during this guided meditation. If you can, do try to persist. If we ever want to get out this predicament (it can be likened to a constructed prison,) we can't gently break out or go softly-softly, there needs to be some force and conviction to overcome all the barriers and traps.

To read the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122) - https://suttacentral.net/sn22.122/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this guided meditation.

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

A few words of encouragement for walking the Noble Eightfold Path and lifting our minds away from unwholesome (akusala) states towards wholesome (kusala) states during these challenging times.

Sending kind thoughts out to the world.

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This session elaborates on how to meditate on the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122) with its deeply penetrative teaching on WHAT THINGS SHOULD BE WISELY CONTEMPLATED (i.e. the things we should be carefully directing our mind towards) TO ENSURE WE ACTIVATE THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (leading with Right View) and REALISE THE FRUIT OF THE PATH.

In this session we:

- get an overview of the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
- look into the importance and benefits of this teaching
- briefly examine the parallels in other suttas
- provide some guidance on resistance towards contemplating in this way
- deep dive into “What things should be wisely contemplated?”
- explain the Five Aggregates subject to clinging
- explain each of the 11 characteristics
- provide ways to meditate on this sutta
- sum everything up with the important short meditation

Suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Āsāduppajahavagga (AN 2.125-126)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Dutiyayonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.90)
— Sādhu Sutta (AN 10.34)
— Yonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.55)
— Dasuttara Sutta(DN 34)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Sutavanta Sutta (SN 22.123)
— Mahāmālukya Sutta (MN 64)
— Dīghanakha Sutta (MN 74)
— Dutiyanānākaraṇa Sutta (AN 4.124)
— Jhāna Sutta (AN 9.36)
— Vipassanākathā (Ps 3.9)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Aghamūla Sutta (SN 22.31)
— Palokadhamma Sutta (SN 35.84)
— Suññataloka Sutta (SN 35.85)
— Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta (SN 22.59)

To read the Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122) - https://suttacentral.net/sn22.122/en/sujato

Bohoma pin to the person that requested this talk.

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YoutTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzlN56EruLA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA APPLYING THE SIMILES FOR THE FIVE AGGREGATES from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we briefly examine Buddha's teachings on USING FIVE DIFFERENCE SIMILES TO SEE THROUGH THE FIVE AGGREGATES - see them as VOID, HOLLOW, EMPTY, WORTHLESS, NO SUBSTANCE. It's useful to do this meditation (although we didn't during the Dhamma session) as it reinforces the earlier meditations on the five aggregates, and takes it further to enable you to clearly see in your meditation these aggregates as empty (suññato) and not worth taking as me and mine (anattato).

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YoutTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx-Z0w8gIQE

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA OF THE FIVE AGGREGATES SUBJECT TO CLINGING AS 11 CHARACTERISTICS from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we examine the teachings given as a Q&A between Venerable MahaKotthita and Venerable Sariputta on:

yoniso manasikara - how to wisely contemplate and direct the mind towards the five aggregates, cling to them as 11 characteristics
ayoniso manasikara - how we misapprehend (unwisely contemplate) and direct the mind towards the five aggregates, cling to them as the opposing 11 characteristics
briefly go through each of the 11 characteristics
highlight importance of meditating on 5 x 11 = 55 contemplations (not easy, but very powerful given that this contemplation is advised for the virtuous, learned, stream-enterer, once-returner, non-returner and even the arahant)
how this contemplation bears fruit for those that diligently develop and frequently practice it
additional shorter meditation instruction - Taking to the mind the fact that we are born and subject to old age, sickness and death... you contemplate (yourself or someone else) - "If it is impermanent (anicca), suffering (dukkha) and, subject to change (viparinama), is it worth taking as mine?".

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Sutavanta Sutta (SN 22.123)
— Palokadhamma Sutta (SN 35.84)
— Mahāmālukya Sutta(MN 64)
— Dīghanakha Sutta(MN 74)
— Dutiyanānākaraṇa Sutta (AN 4.124)
— Dutiyamettā Sutta (AN 4.126)
— Jhāna Sutta(AN 9.36)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YoutTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEkgUd2wjFc

Extended talk on the Sīlavanta Sutt*a (SN 22.122) has recently been published - see episode 113*

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY THE SHORT ENCOURAGEMENT - WHEN WE WISELY DIRECT THE MIND, TO NOTICE THE FRUIT OF WISE CONTEMPLATION from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XABYrG90V4

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA - WHY IS THERE OLD AGE & DEATH? from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session,

we examine Buddha's teaching on dependent origination (paṭiccasamuppāda) and what Buddha contemplated prior to his awakening : ‘Alas, this world has fallen into trouble. It’s born, grows old, dies, passes away, and is reborn, yet it doesn’t understand how to escape from this suffering, from old age and death. Oh, when will an escape be found from this suffering, from old age and death?’
"deep dive" into Buddha's words: ‘When what exists is there old age and death? What is a condition for old age and death?’ Then, through wisely directing the mind, I comprehended with wisdom: ‘When there is birth, old age and death come to be. Birth is a condition for old age and death.’
highlight the difference between conventional answers vs Buddha's answer for death
specifically look at the paṭiccasamuppāda link of Birth leading to Old Age and Death
meditation instructions to examine this paṭiccasamuppāda link with ayoniso manasikara vs yoniso manasikara

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Nagara Sutta (SN 12.65)
— Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFSk7JhPf8E

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA OF THE IMPERMANENCE OF SENSE BASES & SENSE OBJECTS from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we briefly examine Buddha's teachings on the impermanence of the sense bases and sense objects. It follows on from the yoniso mansikara contemplation of impermanence of the five aggregates. It's useful to do this meditation (although we didn't during the Dhamma session) as it reinforces the earlier meditation, so you really start to see in your meditation the deathbound nature of everything that is conditioned by the five aggregates. we continuously personalise and identify with the wrong view of the sense bases and sense objects, but if you continue to develop these contemplations, you will see the lie, falsity and deception of what is conditioned in samsara.

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Ajjhattaaniccanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 35.158)
— Bāhiraaniccanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 35.159)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6CF3DIm2lU

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA OF THE IMPERMANENCE OF THE FIVE AGGREGATES from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we examine Buddha's teachings on:

ayoniso manasikara - how we misapprehend (unwisely contemplate) the five aggregates, cling to them, identify with them resulting in wrong view and continuation in samsara
yoniso manasikara - how to wisely contemplate and direct the mind towards anicca or impermanence of the five aggregates
recognise the process as a "death trap", where everything in samsara is conditioned, therefore deathbound
meditation instruction - use our own examples seeing five aggregates as a whole (but this can be done for each of the five aggregates) to see both ayoniso manasikara (nicca as permanent, lasting, stable, reliable, not subject to change, and not arising and passing away, thus valuable and substantial) vs yoniso manasikara (anicca as impermanent, unlasting, unstable, unreliable, subject to change, see the arising and passing away, therefore not valuable, no substance). In the meditation, you ask "which is the truth?"

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Dutiyanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 22.52)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhfTs-M_HeQ

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA TO THE HINDRANCE OF ILL WILL from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we examine Buddha's teachings on:

ayoniso manasikara - reason for arising of unarisen ill will (byāpādo) and increase & expansion of arisen ill will
yoniso manasikara - medicine for unarisen sensual desire and arisen sensual desire to be abandoned
meditation instruction - use our own examples to see both ayoniso manasikara and yoniso manasikara
reminder to notice how the mind settles towards the right direction (towards the Noble Eightfold Path, leading with Right View) after applying yoniso manasikara

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Nīvaraṇappahānavagga(AN 1.12 and AN 1.17)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Wd0qPxduCs

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the APPLICATION OF YONISO MANASIKARA TO THE HINDRANCE OF SENSUAL DESIRE from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

Please note - each contemplation is a gradual and sequential development of yoniso manasikara, therefore you may wish to do the meditations or contemplations in sequence.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

In this segment from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, we examine Buddha's teachings on:

ayoniso manasikara - reason for arising of unarisen sensual desire (kāmacchando) and increase & expansion of arisen sensual desire
yoniso manasikara - medicine for unarisen sensual desire and arisen sensual desire to be abandoned
meditation instruction - use our own examples to see both ayoniso manasikara and yoniso manasikara
reminder to notice how the mind settles towards the right direction (towards the Noble Eightfold Path, leading with Right View) after applying yoniso manasikara

The main suttas supporting this contemplation:

— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Nīvaraṇappahānavagga(AN 1.11 and AN 1.16)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmjir1RX6_w

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is ONLY the 1-hour Dhamma Talk from the Vesak Poya Dhamma Session, conducted via zoom on 26 May 2021.

For the full 3.5hr session (including contemplations) you can listen to episode 103 WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH (Vesak Poya FULL Dhamma Session)

The Dhamma talk:

examines the translation and definition of yoniso manasikara; and
looks into the importance of yoniso manasikāra in the Buddha’s Teachings

Most of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Erakapattanagaraja Vatthu (Dhp 182)
— Paṭhamamārapāsa Sutta (SN 4.4)
— Paṭhamasekha Sutta (Iti 16)
— Yonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.55),
— Dutiyayonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.62)
— Āsāduppajahavagga (AN 2.125-126)
— Ekadhammavagga, Dutiyavagga (AN 1.310-311)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Vipallāsa Sutta(AN 4.49)
— Dasuttara Sutta(DN 34)
— Dutiyayonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.90)
— Paṭhamasammattaniyāmasutta (AN 5.151)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Dutiyakusala Sutta (SN 46.32)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)

A VIDEO of this segment has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptkMMiJbP6Q

Blessing of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the FULL DHAMMA SESSION conducted on VESAK POYA (26 May 2021) via zoom on "WHY YONISO MANASIKARA IS ESSENTIAL TO THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH".

In this Dhamma session we:

examine the translation and definition of yoniso manasikara
look into the importance of yoniso manasikāra in the Buddha’s Teachings
“deep dive” into the application of yoniso manasikāra in the suttas and apply some contemplations in a gradual manner
directly experiencing the difference between ayoniso manasikara and yoniso manasikara in our contemplations

Most of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Erakapattanagaraja Vatthu (Dhp 182)
— Paṭhamamārapāsa Sutta (SN 4.4)
— Paṭhamasekha Sutta (Iti 16)
— Yonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.55),
— Dutiyayonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.62)
— Āsāduppajahavagga (AN 2.125-126)
— Ekadhammavagga, Dutiyavagga (AN 1.310-311)
— Mahāvedalla Sutta (MN 43)
— Vipallāsa Sutta(AN 4.49)
— Dasuttara Sutta(DN 34)
— Dutiyayonisomanasikārasampadā Sutta (SN 45.90)
— Paṭhamasammattaniyāmasutta (AN 5.151)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Dutiyakusala Sutta (SN 46.32)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Dutiyanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 22.52)
— Ajjhattaaniccanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 35.158)
— Bāhiraaniccanandikkhaya Sutta (SN 35.159)
— Gotama Sutta (SN 12.10)
— Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
— Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
— Palokadhamma Sutta (SN 35.84)
— Pheṇapiṇḍūpama Sutta (SN 22.95)
— Vipassanākathā (Ps 3.9)

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this topic for Vesak poya.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on the anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KV4bv2pIpwI

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question that has been asked:

"I am quite keen to see whether I can improve my ‘āloka-saññā’ meditation. It was kindly explained [at a recent Dhamma session]. Still I could not take in every thing that was explained. I have meditated on a bright white light only. Will you be able to explain it more on how to proceed?”

To answer this question we

- examine some key sutta references and Buddha's teachings on light and the perception of light
- briefly revisit the perception of light as the medicine for dullness & drowsiness and the Buddha's teaching to Venerable Mahamoggallana (prior to his full awakening) on the seven ways to overcome drowsiness
- explain how applying the perception of light to other meditations can aid concentration and deepen insight
- look at the relationship with colour and white light and how we can use that to improve our practice.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Dutiyasūriya Sutta (SN 56.38)
— Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Tevijja Sutta (Iti 99)
— Ghoṭamukhasutta (MN 94)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on the anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ndc9M4gRjZI

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“You briefly mentioned the four factors leading to Stream Entry – associating with good people, hearing the True Dhamma, wise attention and practicing in accordance with the Dhamma. Appreciate if you could explain each factor and how to develop them”

To answer the question the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced (more are cited in the video's presentation slides):

– Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
– Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
– Cūḷapuṇṇama Sutta (MN 110)
– Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
– Dhamma (nāvā) Sutta (Sn 2.8)
– Sakka Vatthu (Dhp 206-208)
– Punabbasu Sutta (SN 10.7)
– Dutiyaparihāni Sutta (AN 7.29)
– Erakapattanagaraja Vatthu (Dhp 182)
– Paṭhamasekha Sutta (Iti 16)
– Sīlavanta Sutta (SN 22.122)
– Paṭhamamārapāsa Sutta (SN 4.4)
– Janavasabha Sutta (DN 18)
– Dutiyanaḷakapāna Sutta (AN 10.68)
– Dukkara Sutta (SN 39.16)

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm website or podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLIeLeA0gVs

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In today's session we look at Dhammapada Verses 206-208 and THE STORY OF SAKKA, KING OF THE DEVAS, and how he came to personally attend to the Buddha when he became sick.

The Buddha later tells the story of what led Sakka in his previous life to realise the fruit of Stream Entry. In this saying of the Buddha, he encourages associating with good and wise people and steering clear of foolish people as a factor leading towards entering the stream.

The verses in Pali:

**Sāhu dassanamariyānaṁ, sannivāso sadā sukho; Adassanena bālānaṁ, niccameva sukhī siyā.

Bālasaṅgatacārī hi, dīghamaddhāna socati; Dukkho bālehi saṁvāso, amitteneva sabbadā;

Dhīro ca sukhasaṁvāso, ñātīnaṁva samāgamo. Tasmā hi—

Dhīrañca paññañca bahussutañca, Dhorayhasīlaṁ vatavantamariyaṁ;

Taṁ tādisaṁ sappurisaṁ sumedhaṁ, Bhajetha nakkhattapathaṁva candimā.**

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

- Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
- Sikkhāpada Sutta (AN 4.201)
- Assaddha Sutta (AN 4.202)
- Sattakamma Sutta (AN 4.203)
- Dasakamma Sutta (AN 4.204)
- Aṭṭhaṅgika Sutta (AN 4.205)
- Dasamagga Sutta (AN 4.206)
- Paṭhamaasappurisa Sutta (SN 45.25)
- Sappurisa Sutta (MN 113)
- Sappurisānisaṁsa Sutta (AN 4.242)
- Sappurisadāna Sutta (AN 8.37)

To read the full chapter (Sukha Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp197-208/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQbGIMcxrG0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“Can you explain what is abandoned once you enter the stream? I’ve often heard that three fetters are no longer an issue. In fact, that seems to be the focus of teachings on stream entry. But is there anything more?”

To answer the question the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Nakhasikha Sutta (SN 13.1)
– Maggañāṇaniddesa, Ñāṇakathā (Ps 1.1.11)
– Appahāya Sutta (AN6.89)
– Pahīna Sutta (AN 6.90)
– Saṁyojana Sutta (AN 10.13)
– Sakkāyadiṭṭhi Sutta (SN 22.155)
– Samādhi-bhavana Sutta (SN 22.5)
– Diṭṭhikathā (Ps 2)
– Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
– Cetokhila Sutta (MN 16)
– Aggappasāda Sutta (AN 4.34)
– Sīlabbata Sutta (AN 3.78)
– Vimuttiñāṇaniddesa, Ñāṇakathā (Ps 1.1.13)
– Paṭhamagiñjakāvasatha Sutta (SN 55.8)
– Bahudhātuka Sutta (MN 115)

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ss8Iz1UvrDw

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

"I practice diligently and try to live according to the Dhamma, but at times I have a doubts about whether I’m on the right track with my meditation and if I’m developing insight. This also makes me question stream entry. Are these doubts blocking stream entry?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Tissa Sutta (SN 22.84)
– Paṭhamamahānāma Sutta (SN 55.21)
– Dutiyamahānāma Sutta (SN 55.22)
– Vammika Sutta (MN 23)
– Suttatthasamuccayabhūmi (Pe 6)
– Cetokhila Sutta (MN 16)
– Cakkavattirājasutta Sutta (SN 55.1)
– Aggappasāda Sutta (AN 4.34)
– MahāAssapura Sutta (MN 39)
– Kāya Sutta (SN 46.2)
– Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
– Nīvaraṇappahānavagga (AN 1.15)
– Niddesavāra (Ne 3)
– Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)

Bohoma pin to the people who have asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZhPJVW01wo

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“It’s not easy to understand paṭiccasamuppāda or dependent origination. Is it necessary to understand the Buddha’s full teaching of dependent origination to enter the stream?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Dhammadinna Sutta (SN 55.53)
– Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
– Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
– Samādhi-bhavana Sutta (SN 22.5)
– Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
– Paccaya Sutta (SN 12.27)
– Dukkha Sutta (SN 12.43)
– Pañcaverabhaya Sutta (SN 12.41)
– Natumha Sutta (SN 12.37)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWwCWaqq0ns

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

"Virtue or moral conduct (sīla) is encouraged throughout the Buddha’s teachings. I was wondering if perfect virtue is a requirement for stream entry?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Dutiyagilāna Sutta (SN 35.75)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Akusala Sutta (AN 10.136)
— Sīlabbata Sutta (AN 3.78)
— Kukkuravatika Sutta (MN 57)
— Mahāsāropama Sutta (MN 29)
— Sīla Sutta (AN 5.213)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MfDBtlcUNc

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“I’ve heard there are different types of stream-enterers, can you explain what they are?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

- Dutiyasikkhā Sutta (AN 3.87)
- Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
- Ugghaṭitaññū Sutta (AN 4.133)
- Sāsanapaṭṭhānadutiyabhūmi (Pe 2)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzXl29z2bEk

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“I’ve listened to some Dhamma teachers that say it’s wrong to want to become a stream-enterer. They say not to entertain thoughts about stream entry as it’s linked to craving for existence. Is this true?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

— Dhammadinna Sutta (SN 55.53)
— Mahāpadesa Sutta (AN 4.180)
— Dutiyadhāraṇa Sutta (SN 56.16)
— Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
— Dhammacakkapavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
— Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
— Akusala Sutta (AN 10.136)
— Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9)
— Padhāna Sutta (AN 4.13)
— Manonivāraṇa Sutta (AN 1.24)
— Veludvareyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
— Paṭhamapuggala Sutta (AN 8.59)
— Āyācana Sutta (AN 4.176)
— Samudda Sutta (SN 13.8)

To watch the poya talk on Stream Entry (VIDEO) - https://bit.ly/3aSvH9W or to listen to the talk (AUDIO) - https://bit.ly/3t7RkZX

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzhACLg5k4U

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

“Can a stream-enterer break the five precepts or other kinds of sīla? Sometimes I wonder about this when I’m around people who I think are highly attained but demonstrate a lack of virtue from time to time”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Dutiyasikkhā Sutta (AN 3.87)
– Kalahavivāda Sutta (Sn 4.11)
– Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)
– Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29)
– Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
– Ratana sutta (Sn 2.1)
– Paṭhamasaraṇānisakka Sutta (SN 55.24)
– Dutiyasaraṇānisakka Sutta (SN 55.25)

To watch the poya talk on Stream Entry (VIDEO) - https://bit.ly/3aSvH9W or to listen to the talk (AUDIO) - https://bit.ly/3t7RkZX

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMh0nYibVgU

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

"Is it possible to identify a stream-enterer? If so, what are the characteristics or identifying traits?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Migasālā Sutta (AN 6.44), (AN 10.75)
– Dutiyalakuṇḍakabhaddiya Sutta (Ud 7.2)
– Bahudhātuka Sutta (MN 115)
– Ratana sutta (Sn 2.1)
– Paṭhamasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
– Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)
– Sarada Sutta (AN 3.94)
– Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
– Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)

To watch the poya talk on Stream Entry (VIDEO) - https://bit.ly/3aSvH9W or to listen to the talk (AUDIO) - https://bit.ly/3t7RkZX

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlCNaRFgrqE

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following the talk on poya on Buddha's Advice to Lay People on Stream Entry, a question has been raised:

"I’m a busy working parent with limited time to meditate and even less to study suttas. What’s the best approach to stream entry given my situation and time constraints?”

To answer the questions the following suttas were directly or indirectly referenced:

– Dhammadinna Sutta (SN 55.53)
– Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7)
– Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)

To watch the poya talk on Stream Entry (VIDEO) - https://bit.ly/3aSvH9W or to listen to the talk (AUDIO) - https://bit.ly/3t7RkZX

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5ieQFYpbgk

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at Dhammapada Verse 178 and THE STORY OF KALA, SON OF ANATHAPINDIKA, who tried to avoid the Buddha and his teachings but was eventually enticed by his father, which eventually led to very wholesome results.

In this saying of the Buddha, he raises the fruit of stream entry above the worldly and divine. It is a strong encouragement to develop the Noble Eightfold Path and take refuge in the Triple Gem, as it will ensure safety, prosperity and limit the amount of pain and suffering.

The verse in Pali:

“Pathabyā ekarajjena,

saggassa gamanena vā;

Sabbalokādhipaccena,

sotāpattiphalaṁ varaṁ.”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
– Paṭhamasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.4)
– Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
– Duggatibhaya Sutta (SN 55.14)
– Paṭhamamahaddhana Sutta (SN 55.44)
– Nakhasikha Sutta (SN 13.1)

To read the full chapter (Loka Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp167-178/en/feldmeier

The video of this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9O29-xTp04 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This session was conducted on POYA (26 April 2021) on the ADVICE TO LAY PEOPLE ON STREAM ENTRY, specifically looking at the Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7) and supporting teachings.

Suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

– Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
– Nakhasikha Sutta (SN 13.1)
– Paṭhamasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.4)
– Dutiyasāriputta Sutta (SN 55.5)
– Aṅga Sutta (SN 55.50)
– Sotāpattiphala Sutta (SN 55.55)
– Thapati Sutta (SN 55.6)
– Nandakalicchavi Sutta (SN 55.30)
– Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
– Paṭhamagiñjakāvasatha Sutta (SN 55.8)
– Anisansa Sutta (AN 6.97)
– Paṭhamaanāthapiṇḍika Sutta (SN 55.26)
– Anathapindikaputtakala Vatthu (Dhp 178)
– DutiyasikkhāSutta (AN 3.87)
– DaṭṭhabbaSutta (SN 48.8)
– Paṭhamapuggala Sutta (AN 8.59)
– Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN8.40)

To read the Veḷudvāreyya Sutta (SN 55.7) - https://suttacentral.net/sn55.7/en/sujato

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9_5vi6Bej8

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is the first part of a series looking into "What the Buddha Taught", based on a teaching by Venerable Sariputta in the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33) - Reciting Together - an extended collection of the Buddha's teachings grouped by numerical sequence.

In examining this sutta in a gradual way, it offers a different approach to learning the Dhamma. We take the opportunity to:

familiarise ourselves with pali words and phrases and delving into their true meanings;
extend and improve our pali vocabulary and pronunciation
reduce any anxiety, confusion or frustration that we might have towards pali and Dhamma that we aren't familiar with
learn new Dhamma, or revisit things we have already covered;
get a birds-eye view (or even learn a little more) of what the Buddha taught;
reference other teachings of the Buddha and the noble arahants to help understand parts of the Sangiti Sutta
use this as a way of reciting and memorising the Buddha's teachings
enable the spiritual path to grow and last longer

Other suttas referred to directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Dasuttara Sutta (DN 34)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 12.11)
— Puttamaṁsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
— Khajjanīya Sutta (SN 22.79)
— Paccaya Sutta (SN 12.27)
— Parivīmaṁsana Sutta (SN 12.51)
— Papāta Sutta (SN 56.42)
— Mahāpariḷāha Sutta (SN 56.43)
— Andhakāra Sutta (SN 56.46)

To read the Saṅgīti Sutta (DN 33) - https://suttacentral.net/dn33/en/tw-caf_rhysdavids or https://suttacentral.net/dn33/en/sujato

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDHbVVyRqXA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION ON THE FIVE FREQUENT CONTEMPLATIONS.

The Buddha's teaching in the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) underpins this meditation. It's useful to request the blessings of the Triple Gem before doing this meditation.

As a guided meditation - please remember it is only a guide drawing on the Buddha's words. As you cultivate and become skilled at this meditation you can adjust the meditation accordingly. Initially, some aspects of this meditation may resonate more than others, but the idea is to break through our usual ways of thinking and any blocks that may be preventing us from the Right View and hindering us from wisely reflecting.

The key is use your own examples to enable the truth to be seen, BUT not to get bogged down in personal stories and pain around the five contemplations. Keep bringing the meditation back to understanding these five contemplations as the key to unlocking the First Noble Truth of Dukkha - as our "collective predicament" in samsara.

For a detailed explanation of this teaching from the Buddha - https://bit.ly/2QKz7Ev

To read the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - https://suttacentral.net/an5.57/en/bodhi

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at Dhammapada Verses 7 and 8 - Mahakalatthera Vatthu about two brothers who, after hearing a teaching of the Buddha, ordain into the Sangha with different intentions, practice and outcomes. It is in The Chapter about Pairs (Yamaka Vagga). In this saying, the Buddha highlights:

specific bad qualities (contemplating the pleasant with wrong view, lack of sense restraint, laziness, lack of energy) that hinder one's practice and make one weak and susceptible to Mara's forces and
specific good qualities (contemplating the unpleasant with right view, sense restraint, conviction, energetic) that support one's practice and make one strong, resolute and firm against Mara's forces.

We can learn a great deal from the different circumstances of these brothers, as well as taking note of Mahakala Thera as a worthy role model having developed good qualities that enabled him to realise full awakening.

The verses in Pali:

“***Subhānupassiṁ viharantaṁ,

indriyesu asaṁvutaṁ;

Bhojanamhi cāmattaññuṁ,

kusītaṁ hīnavīriyaṁ;

Taṁ ve pasahati māro,

vāto rukkhaṁva dubbalaṁ.

Asubhānupassiṁ viharantaṁ,

Indriyesu susaṁvutaṁ;

Bhojanamhi ca mattaññuṁ,

Saddhaṁ āraddhavīriyaṁ;

Taṁ ve nappasahati māro,

Vāto selaṁva pabbataṁ.*”

Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Sekha-Patipada Sutta (MN 53)
– Dukkhavihāra Sutta (Iti 22)
– Sukhavihāra Sutta (Iti 23)
– Aparihāniya Sutta (AN 4.37)
– Apaṇṇaka Sutta (AN 3.16)
– Pasenadikosala Vatthu (Dhp 325)
–Nagaropama Sutta(AN 7.67)

To read the full chapter (Yamaka Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp1-20/en/feldmeier

A video with presentation slides for this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzfTXy0FVvM AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Part 2 of our look into "Who Are Our Role Models" - one of the monk disciples (bhikkhu) of the Buddha, Bhikkhu Mahākaccāna, who was declared by the Buddha foremost among those explain in detail the meaning of what has been stated in brief (saṅkhittena bhāsitassa vitthārena atthaṁ vibhajantānaṁ) - AN 1.197

You can access the AUDIO for Part 1 - https://bit.ly/3gf2uJz

In this talk we will take a short tour of Venerable Mahākaccāna's Dhamma Teachings - both the detailed explanations of the Buddha's statements in brief, as well as his own teachings of the Dhamma to the monastics and to lay people.

For those that have studied or are familiar with Venerable Mahākaccāna's life and teachings, this series of talks will provide encouragement & inspiration towards the Noble Eightfold Path, and wonderful pointers & reminders to realise the Buddha's Teachings for ourselves.

Other suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Madhupiṇḍika Sutta(MN 18)
– Mahākaccānabhaddekaratta Sutta(MN 133)
– Uddesavibhaṅga Sutta(MN 138)
– Hāliddikāni Sutta 1st (SN 22.3)
– Samacittavagga (AN 2.37–38)
– Mahākaccāna Sutta(AN 6.26)
– Kāḷī Sutta(AN 10.62)
– Kaccāna Sutta (Ud 7.8)
– Therāgathā Verses of Venerable Mahākaccāna (Thag494-95)
– Pitaka Disclosure (Petakopadesa)
– The Guide (Nettipakkarana)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin to the person who has requested this talk

The VIDEO has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eIBexVNBf0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on monk disciples (bhikkhu) of the Buddha, and one in particular, Bhikkhu Mahākaccāna , who was declared by the Buddha foremost among those explain in detail the meaning of what has been stated in brief (saṅkhittena bhāsitassa vitthārena atthaṁ vibhajantānaṁ) - AN 1.197

This talk will be in a number of parts, as there is much to examine in regards to Venerable Mahākaccāna's background, noble qualities, contribution to the Sangha and the method of his teachings (those detailed explanations of the Buddha's statements in brief, as well as his own teachings of the Dhamma).

For those that have studied or are familiar with Venerable Mahākaccāna's life and teachings, this series of talks will provide encouragement & inspiration towards the Noble Eightfold Path, and wonderful pointers & reminders to realise the Buddha's Teachings for ourselves.

Other suttas mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk include:

– Mahākaccānattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 35)
– Mahākaccānattheraapadāna (Tha Ap 533)
– Kusalākusalabalavatarapañha (Mil 6.3.3)
– Cammakkhandhaka (Vinaya, Pli Tv Kd 5)
– Soṇa Sutta (Ud 65)
– Mahakaccayanatthera Vatthu (Dhp 94)
– Pitaka Disclosure (Petakopadesa)
– The Guide (Nettipakkarana)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

Bohoma pin to the person who has requested this talk

* Apologies if you happened to hear firecrackers towards the end of this talk. These were the Avurudu celebrations that were taking place in the background during the recording of this talk.

The VIDEO with slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pVcCOehcnM AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at Dhammapada Verse 203 - Eka Upasaka Vatthu about a poor young man who realised the fruit of stream entry after listening to a teaching given by the Buddha. It is in The Chapter about Happiness (Sukha Vagga). In this saying, the Buddha highlights that "hunger is the greatest illness" as an explanation for why he ensured the young man (who was both hungry and tired by the time he arrived to see and hear the Buddha) was fed before giving the teaching.

The verse in Pali:

“Jighacchāparamā rogā,

saṅkhāraparamā dukkhā;

Etaṁ ñatvā yathābhūtaṁ,

nibbānaṁ paramaṁ sukhaṁ.”

To read the full chapter (Sukha Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp197-208/en/feldmeier

A video with presentation slides for this talk has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17YWvUMun-0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma talk examines the Buddha's teaching on how we search (for lasting happiness), but we go about it the wrong way. The Buddha makes the distinction between the ignoble (anariya) search and the noble (ariya) search.

This sutta we delve into is the Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255) and it complements what we recently looked at - the meditation on the Five Frequent Contemplations.

In this talk, we take encouragement towards really trying to understand and penetrate the Buddha's Teachings on the First Noble Truth of Dukkha - why it is a noble truth, what we must do to fully understand this noble truth, and how we can meditate using our own examples. As the Buddha's states, if we can truly see even one of the four noble truths, the Buddha says we see them all.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

– Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255) – Searches
– Pāsarāsisutta (MN 26) - The Noble Search
– Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - Subjects to be frequently contemplated
– Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11) - Setting in Motion the Wheel of the Dhamma
– Pariññeyya Sutta (SN 56.29) - To be fully understood
– Gavampatisutta (SN 56.30) - Gavampati
– Dukkhatā Sutta (SN45.165) – Painful States
– Dasuttarasutta (DN 34) - Up to Ten

To read the Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255) - https://suttacentral.net/an4.255/en/sujato

A VIDEO of this session with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnJR-zniX-A AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This talk was given to a Meditation Group via zoom as one segment of a complete Dhamma session on 8 April 2021, that included meditation practice and sutta study. It gives AN ENCOURAGEMENT TOWARDS THE BUDDHA'S FIVE FREQUENT CONTEMPLATIONS with a short explanation on each of the contemplations.

Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:

Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - Subjects to be frequently contemplated
Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11) - Setting in Motion the Wheel of the Dhamma
Pariññeyya Sutta(SN 56.29) - To be fully understood
Dukkhatā Sutta (SN45.165) – Painful States
Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - The Simile of the Cloth
Māgaṇḍiya Sutta (MN 75) – To Māgaṇḍiya
Assu Sutta (SN 15.3) – Tears
Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216) - Creeping
Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135) – The Shorter Analysis of Actions
Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40) - The Results of Bad Actions

To read the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - https://suttacentral.net/an5.57/en/bodhi

For a more detailed explanation of the Five Contemplations:

AUDIO (https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/episodes/80-FIVE-SUBJECTS-WE-MUST-FREQUENTLY-CONTEMPLATE-eudim4), or
VIDEO with SLIDES (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW2nMLHP6rc)

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this session, we examine the Buddha's teaching on FIVE SUBJECTS WE MUST FREQUENTLY CONTEMPLATE.

The session is broken into the following sections:

Introduction to Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
Finding support for this teaching - various suttas that support or intersect with this teaching
“Deep dive” into the five contemplations
Fruits of this Practice
Short instructions on how to meditate on this sutta

Suttas that are mentioned in this talk:

Vatthupama Sutta (MN 7) - The Simile of the Cloth
Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta (MN 9) – Right View
Māgaṇḍiya Sutta (MN 75) – To Māgaṇḍiya
Assu Sutta (SN 15.3) – Tears
Jātidhammā Sutta (SN 35.33–42_ Subject to Birth
Dukkhatā Sutta (SN45.165) – Painful States
Jarādhamma Sutta (SN 48.41) – Old Age
Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11) - Setting in Motion the Wheel of the Dhamma
Devadūta Sutta (AN 3.36) – Messengers of the Gods
Sukhamāla Sutta (AN 3.39) – Delicate
Paṭhamabhaya Sutta (AN 4.119) – Fear 1st
Pāṭibhoga Sutta (AN 4.182) – Guarantee/Security
Pāṇātipātī Sutta (AN 4.224) – Killing Living Beings
Paṭhamamagga Sutta (AN 4.225) – The Path 1st
Pariyesanā Sutta (AN 4.255) – Searches
Alabbhanīyaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.48) – Things That Cannot Be Obtained
Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63) – Penetrative
Adhammacariyā Sutta (AN 10.220) – Unrighteous Conduct
Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216) - Creeping
Pesakaradhita Vatthu (Dhp174) – Story of the Weaver Girl
Tayojanapabbajita Vatthu (Dhp209-12) - Story of Three Ascetics

To read the Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57) - https://suttacentral.net/an5.57/en/bodhi

A VIDEO of this session with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW2nMLHP6rc AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION ON EMBRACING OUR PARENTS - that contemplates our attitudes and actions towards them; the importance of their role and responsibilities, especially in our formative years; how we respond as they grow older; and how we can repay the debt.

The Sabrahmaka Sutta (AN 3.31) on how parents should be respected like Brahmā and the Kataññu Suttas (AN 2.31 - 2.32) on gratitude to our parents underpin this guided meditation.

The Buddha says:

“‘Brahmā,’ bhikkhus, is a designation for mother and father. ‘First teachers’ is a designation for mother and father. ‘Giftworthy’ is a designation for mother and father. For what reason? Mother and father are helpful to their children: they raise them, nurture them, and show them the world.” - Sabrahmaka Sutta (AN 3.31)
"I tell you, monks, there are two people who are not easy to repay. Which two? Your mother & father. Even if you were to carry your mother on one shoulder & your father on the other shoulder for 100 years, and were to look after them by anointing, massaging, bathing, & rubbing their limbs, and they were to defecate & urinate right there [on your shoulders], you would not in that way pay or repay your parents." - Kataññu Suttas (AN 2.31 - 2.32)

To read these suttas - https://suttacentral.net/an3.31/en/bodhi and https://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/an/an02/an02.031.than.html

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

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Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question that has been asked "CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SUTTA MEDITATION AND THE MORE TRADITIONAL FORMS OF MEDITATION SUCH AS ĀNĀPĀNASATI MEDITATION, INSIGHT MEDITATION ETC.?"

To answer this question we

- delve a little into how modern Buddhist meditation has evolved;
- refer to the series on "Unlocking the Buddha's Code" that highlights sutta meditation and extracting the Buddha's instructions through insight pathways; and
- examine metta meditation, insight meditation and anapanasati as three examples to elaborate on some of the differences.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
— Ānāpānassati Sutta (MN 118)
— Mahā Parinibbāna Sutta (DN 16) - specifically "Dhamma-Vinaya is the teacher" following the Buddha's passing
— Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160) - what leads to the decline and discontinuation of the Buddha's True Teaching
— Āṇi Sutta (SN 20.7) - wanting to listen to charismatic teachers with poetic words, rather than the Buddha's words
— Mahāpadesa Sutta (AN 4.180) - determine what is an authentic teaching of the Buddha
— Yuganaddhasutta (AN 4.170) - samatha and vipassana in conjunction
— Kevaddha Sutta (DN 11) - Buddha's miracle of instruction
— Kalahavivāda Sutta (Sn 4.11) - insight pathway
— Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)
— Girimānanda Sutta (AN 10.60)

Bohoma pin to the person who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

A VIDEO with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg74QxfzZPI

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This talk is part of a multi-part series titled "Unlocking the Buddha's Code", examining the importance of meditating on suttas, or the Buddha's specific instructions contained in the suttas. We look into the Buddha's instructions before he passed away; what he foretold when it comes to the decline and disappearance of the teachings; the unique method of instruction contained in the Pali Canon that unlocks the Buddha's code or insight pathway; why it's good to be "suvaco" or willing to follow instructions; and a glimpse at a few other useful things.

To listen to part 1 - https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/episodes/56-UNLOCKING-THE-BUDDHAS-CODE---WHY-SUTTA-MEDITATION-eqolpf

To listen to part 2 - https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/episodes/70-UNLOCKING-THE-BUDDHAS-CODE---Extracting-Insight-Pathways---Part-2-esmcpd

In this talk we follow up by taking a closer look at: - Insight or knowledge pathway contained in the Karaṇīyametta Sutta

Suttas referred to in this talk:

- Kalahavivāda Sutta (Sn 4.11)
- Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)
- Guhaṭṭhakasuttaniddeso (Mnd 2)
- Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)

Bohoma pin to those who have requested and patiently waited for this talk (and multi-part series) and also those who have helped in bringing this talk to fruition.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This talk is part of a multi-part series titled "Unlocking the Buddha's Code", examining the importance of meditating on suttas, or the Buddha's specific instructions contained in the suttas. We look into the Buddha's instructions before he passed away; what he foretold when it comes to the decline and disappearance of the teachings; the unique method of instruction contained in the Pali Canon that unlocks the Buddha's code or insight pathway; why it's good to be "suvaco" or willing to follow instructions; and a glimpse at a few other useful things.

To listen to part 1 - https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/episodes/56-UNLOCKING-THE-BUDDHAS-CODE---WHY-SUTTA-MEDITATION-eqolpf

In this talk we take a closer look at:

Insight or knowledge pathways (ñāṇapathā) as part of Buddha's method of instruction
an important reference to insight pathways in the Pali Canon
training in higher virtue (adhisīlasikkhā), higher thought (adhicittasikkhā) and higher wisdom (adhipaññāsikkhā)as the key ingredients in Buddha's insight pathways
some examples of insight pathways from the suttas
the importance of Buddha's method of instruction and gradual steps to developing wisdom and insight in our meditation/cultivation of the Noble Eightfold Path

Suttas referred to in this talk:

Dhammacakkappavattanasutta (SN 56.11)
Kalahavivāda Sutta (Sn 4.11)
Kalahavivādasuttaniddesa (Mnd 11)
Guhaṭṭhakasuttaniddeso (Mnd 2)
Sekha-Pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
Samādhi-bhavana Sutta (SN 22.5)
Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
Kevaddha Sutta (DN 11)
Udāyī Sutta (AN 5.159)

Bohoma pin to those who have requested and patiently waited for this talk (and multi-part series) and also those who have helped in bringing this talk to fruition.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This session was conducted on POYA (28 March 2021) for a YOUNGER AUDIENCE (and their parents and grandparents) on the STRENGTH OF WAKEFULNESS (jāgariyaṃ).

We mainly focused on how to develop, train and maintain wakefulness, including understanding that it is an "active practice" to cleanse of hindrances and defilements (enemies of wakefulness) and to establish other qualities that support wakefulness.

We also looked at how the sutta meditations we have previously studied in earlier poya sessions - Vatthūpama Sutta, The Five Hindrances, Karaṇīyametta Sutta (aka "Metta School") and the Perception of Light (alokasañña)) - all help to develop and maintain the quality of wakefulness.

Suttas covered in this session:

– Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
– MahāAssapura Sutta (MN 39)
– Anīvaraṇa Sutta (SN 46.38)
– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
– Jāgariya Sutta (Iti 47)
– Sekha-Pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
– Tuvataka Sutta (Sn 4.14)
– Aparihāniya Sutta (AN 4.37)
– Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
– Doṇapāka Sutta (SN 3.13)
– Sukhavihāra Sutta (Iti 29)
– Pasenadikosala Vatthu (Dhp 325)
– Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)

A VIDEO of this session with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_f2C-1rPw8

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "HOW CAN I DEVELOP METTĀ IN DAILY LIFE TO COMPLEMENT MY FORMAL MEDITATION PRACTICE OF KARAṆĪYAMETTA SUTTA? CAN YOU GIVE SOME TIPS?"

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on TAPPING INTO GRATITUDE & GOODNESS. We may currently be weighed down with frustration with our present situations, maybe financial burdens, hardship, difficulties and ever-challenging situations. This guided meditation seeks to tap into a source of wholesome and good. A reminder that there are moments of blessing, goodness, kindness and generosity that touch our lives.

Lifting our minds above negativity, aversion, fears, worries (all different kinds of mental blemishes) can help us to access gladness, calm, and concentrate our minds in order to access the Buddha's teachings.

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "IS IT EASIER FOR A MONASTIC TO MEDITATE THAN FOR A LAY PERSON (SUCH AS IN THE CASE OF CULTIVATING METTĀ)? AND IF SO, ARE THERE THINGS THAT LAY PEOPLE NEED TO FOCUS ON (MORE THAN FOR MONASTICS) DUE TO THIS?"

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION on having the courage to practise and manifest the Buddha's teachings on the Noble Eightfold Path in a world that is becoming increasingly polarised, hateful and divisive. The emphasis is on kusala or wholesome, with a focus on steering away from hateful/harsh and divisive speech, being cautious around information, interest, and situations that pull us into debates and taking hard-line positions that would compromise our practice, and to encourage non-hateful/non-harmful and non-divisive speech, and metta practice.

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "WHY IS SENSE RESTRAINT SO IMPORTANT FOR METTA? CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHY THE LACK OF SENSE RESTRAINT IS CONSIDERED DANGEROUS, AND WHY THE BUDDHA USES THE SIMILE OF BURNING WHEN DESCRIBING THIS?" by:

- reviewing how sense restraint fits into the training for higher virtue, higher thought and higher wisdom, which forms the foundation for the activating the insight pathway contained in the Buddha's Karaṇīyametta Sutta meditation;
- taking a closer look at the Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28);
- extracting an insight pathway meditation from the Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28); and
- examining where the practise of sense restraint fits with dependent origination and the potential to break some of the links in this conditioned process.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

– Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
– Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240 )
– Pamādavihāri Sutta (SN 35.97)
– Indriyasaṃvara Sutta (AN 6.50)
– Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
– Paṭiccasamuppāda Sutta (SN 12.1)
– Ārāmadaṇḍa Sutta (AN 2.36)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there.

For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on nun disciples (bhikkhuni) of the Buddha, and one in particular, Bhikkhunī Khemā, who was declared by the Buddha foremost among those with great wisdom (mahāpaññānaṃ) - AN 1.236; and a standard and a measure for the Buddha's nun disciples (alongside Bhikkhunī Uppalavaṇṇā) - SN 17.24.

Other suttas mentioned in this talk include:

– Abhiṇhapaccavekkhitabbaṭhāna Sutta (AN 5.57)
– Gandha Sutta (AN 9.15)
– Vijaya Sutta ( Sn 1.11)
– Samādhi-bhāvanā Sutta (SN 22.5)
– Khematheri Vatthu (Dhp 347)
– Uragajātaka (Jāt 354)
– Manojajātaka (Jāt 397)
– Rohaṇamigajātaka (Jāt 501)
– Cūḷahaṃsajātaka (Jāt 502)
– Mahāhaṃsajātaka (Jāt 534)
– Khemātherīgāthā (Thig 6.3)
– Khemā Sutta (SN 44.1)

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

The VIDEO has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series podcast channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "CAN WE BE TOO KIND & CARING THAT IT OBSTRUCTS DAILY LIFE?" by:

looking at how the practise of metta results in a refinement of one's virtue (body, speech and mind);
revisiting how it's important to cultivate the ten skilled states (dasakusala)
providing another way of contemplating the ten skilled states to reinforcing these core virtues;
highlighting the Buddha's teaching on "Mind is the chief forerunner of all unwholesome states";
mentioning the Story of Cakkhupala Thera; and
taking a quick look at what Buddha teaches on cause, diversity, result and cessation of kamma.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Saṃsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
Vatthūpama Sutta (MN7)
Cakkhupalatthera Vatthu (Dhp 1)
Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)

Bohoma pin to the young person who asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "I have a good practice of sense restraint (indriya samvara), but what happens when I am attacked?"

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE BRAHMAVIHARAS, WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY ARE DISTINCT FROM EACH OTHER?"

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Vatthūpama Sutta (MN7)
Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
Uposatha Sutta (AN 4.190)
Paṭhamaāghātapaṭivinaya Sutta (AN 5.161)
Arati Sutta (AN 6.113)
Hārasampātabhūmi (Pe 6)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "IS IT IMPORTANT TO MEMORISE THE KARANIYAMETTA SUTTA?" by:

examining what Buddha states leads to the decline and disappearance of True Dhamma and what leads to its preservation and continuance;
looking into the trainee (sekha) quality of very learned (bahussuta);
highlighting what makes one a learned memoriser of the Dhamma (bahussuto dhammadharo hotī); and
giving some encouragement with regards to the Karaṇīyametta Sutta

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160)
Sekha pāṭipada Sutta (MN 53)
Ummagga Sutta (AN4.186)
Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "HOW CAN YOU MEASURE SOMEONE'S METTA PRACTICE?" by:

highlighting the perfection of metta by the Buddha and the Noble Arahants
mentioning Queen Samavati who declared by the Buddha as the foremost lay female disciple in dwelling in loving kindness
recognising higher virtue (adhisīla), higher thought (adhicitta) and higher wisdom (adhipaññā) in one's/someone's practice
seeing the internal and external practice of loving kindness coming together
looking at how we can honour and meditate on the Buddha and the Noble Arahants in our practise of loving kindness

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "CAN YOU BRIEFLY EXPLAIN THE 1ST PROFITABLE DIRECTION LEADING TO IMMEASURABLE METTA?" by:

briefly reviewing the four modes of practice (patipada) and the learner's powers and spiritual faculties;
highlighting the mode of practice through which Venerables Sariputta and MahaMoggallana were liberated from the taints of non-clinging;
having a quick glance at the four nutriments and the four bad ways
seeing how we go the bad way through will (chanda agati) when we misapprehend the physical nutriment/edible food (kabalinkara ahara)
briefly explaining the meditation for the First Profitable Direction, as well as how we go the bad way through will.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Vitthāra Sutta (AN 4.162)
Sangīti Sutta (DN 33)
Āhāra Sutta (AN 12.12)
Puttamaṃsa Sutta (SN 12.63)
Asubha Sutta (AN 4.163)
Atthirāga Sutta (AN 12.64)
Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DON'T PRACTISE METTA?" and the difficulty of overcoming ill will (rooted in Hatred) and if we don't apply the medicine of loving kindness, then we continue to breed this defilement and hindrance which will hinder the Path.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Avijjā Sutta (AN10.61)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

In this segment, we look at the question of "SHOULD WE CULTIVATE METTA TO OURSELVES?" by

taking a look at the Universal Wellbeing Chant, where this practice is encouraged;
look at two suttas that are also used to infer this method of practice;
revisit the Buddha's instructions in the Karaniyametta Sutta and briefly explain the insight pathway and the importance of applying wise attention (yoniso manasikara) to correct wrong view; and
highlight the dangers of sharing what the Buddha has not taught, as well as making inferences about the Buddha's teaching when the teaching has already been fully drawn out.

Suttas mentioned in this segment:

Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn1.8)
Rāja Sutta (Ud 5.1)
Piya Sutta (SN3.4)
Abhāsita Sutta (AN 2:23)
Neyyatha Sutta (AN 2:25)

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked this Dhamma question.

A VIDEO of this Metta Q&A segment with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YA-tsAe568

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION ON LOVING KINDNESS (METTA) for our YOUNGER AUDIENCE, based on the Buddha's Teaching of the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

We develop loving kindness (metta) in 15 steps, like going to METTA SCHOOL, using the grading system as a way to gradually develop the virtues and qualities of loving kindness.

Find a comfortable sitting position (on a chair or on a cushion on the floor). Follow the instructions in the guided meditation. You can begin meditating with your eyes open. Eventually when you become more familiar and skilled at this meditation, you can meditate with your eyes closed.

If you need the more detailed explanation of the meditation, you can look at this Dhamma session on our Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itCUvxILDIY

It's also good to make some of your own notes about the meditation steps and make an effort to memorise them.

Bohoma pin to the person/people who have asked for this guided meditation.

A VIDEO of this GUIDED MEDITATION with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MR_bdSHMIc AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This session was conducted on POYA for a YOUNGER AUDIENCE (and their parents and grandparents) to LEARN HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS (metta) in 15 steps, like going to METTA SCHOOL.

It's based on the Buddha's Teaching of the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

A VIDEO of this session with presentation slides has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA/ AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on THREE KINDS OF CONCEIT (including ARROGANCE) - omāna, māna and atimāna

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following a request to provide short instructions to meditate on the Anumāna Sutta (MN 15), this short talk gives a brief summary of the sequential steps to abandon unwholesome "duvaco" qualities that make us difficult to instruct and cultivate more wholesome "suvaco" qualities that make us easy to instruct. Venerable MahaMoggallana encourages us to regularly review ourselves by using the simile of the mirror to see if we have any blemishes.

It's useful to have listened to the longer session "Why we struggle to understand Dhamma". For VIDEOS with presentation slides, a playlist has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmC_JpkDu4TEc_Lb1A9lChX-. Or the FULL video session https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elb4AIME4Aw&feature=youtu.be

Alternatively, the AUDIO has been published to this podcast.

Bohoma pin to the people who have requested this talk.

To read the whole Anumana Sutta: http://www.suttas.com/mn-15-anumana-sutta-inference.html

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This talk is part of a multi-part series titled "Unlocking the Buddha's Code", examining the importance of meditating on suttas, or the Buddha's specific instructions contained in the suttas. We look into the Buddha's instructions before he passed away; what he foretold when it comes to the decline and disappearance of the teachings; the unique method of instruction contained in the Pali Canon that unlocks the Buddha's code or insight pathway; why it's good to be "suvaco" or willing to follow instructions; and a glimpse at a few other useful things.

The talks that will follow this one, will take a closer look at Buddha's method of instruction, including nyanapathas or insight (knowledge) pathways, as well as "deep diving" into examples from the suttas.

Suttas referred to in this talk:

Mahā Parinibbāna Sutta (DN 16) - The Buddha's Last Days
Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160) - The Training of a Holy One
Āṇi Sutta (SN 20.7) - The Drum Peg
Appassuta Sutta (AN 4.6) - Not Very Learned
Sekha Pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) - The Trainee's Mode of Progress
Kevaddha Sutta (DN 11) - With Kevaddha
Udāyī Sutta (AN 5.159) - With Udāyī

To listen to PART 2 in this series - https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/episodes/70-UNLOCKING-THE-BUDDHAS-CODE---Extracting-Insight-Pathways---Part-2-esmcpd

Bohoma pin to those who have requested and patiently waited for this talk (and multi-part series) and also those who have helped in bringing this talk to fruition.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus again on lay women disciples of the Buddha, and one in particular, Queen Samavati, who was declared by the Buddha as his foremost female disciple who excelled in dwelling in loving kindness (mettāvihāranaṃ) - AN1.261.

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path

Bohoma pin to the people who have requested and contributed to this talk to complement our study of the Buddha's Teaching on How to Cultivate Loving Kindness.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Following a request to provide short instructions to activate the knowledge pathway in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), this podcast gives a brief summary of the 15 sequential steps to cultivate loving kindness.

It's useful to have listened to the longer session(s) that goes into a detailed study of the Buddha's instruction in the Karaniyametta Sutta. For VIDEOS with presentation slides, these have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete study on the Karaniyametta Sutta - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

The Pali translation and Table of Useful Sutta References to go with this detailed study have been published to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the FINAL (part 8/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the seventh part (7/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the sixth part (6/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the fifth part (5/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

TA SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the fourth part (4/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the third part (3/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is an edited version of the second session conducted on poya full moon, 28 January 2021, specifically the questions from grandparents, parents and children and corresponding answers. The meditation periods have been purposely omitted from this recording.

Q1 - What's the best way to share Dhamma with kids?

Q2 - If you're a grandparent, and the parents of your grandkids don't want you share Dhamma with them, or have specific requirements on how or what parts of Dhamma are shared with them, how do you handle that?

Q3 - Were there only 28 Buddhas?

Q4 - Is is true that in the past lifespan was as much as 40,000 years?

Q5 - A lioness killing an animal for food vs a poacher killing an animal to make money - do they accrue the same amount of bad kamma? And, will the lioness be reborn as a human in the future after killing so many animals?

Q6 - How do you guide a child who is hyper, even to calm down and listen?

The Global Group Metta Meditation that was mentioned towards the end - the times (Sri Lankan) are 5.00-5.30am; 4.30-5.00pm; and 9.00-9.30pm. You most welcome to join (as well as start earlier or extend the meditation period). Simply convert the times to your timezone and if you are free, be part of the "safe cushion" that wishes safety and wellbeing to everyone.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the second part (2/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma Talk is the first part (1/8) of a complete session on the Buddha's Teaching on HOW TO CULTIVATE LOVING KINDNESS, as instructed in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8).

The complete session is a detailed study of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway contained in the Karaniyametta Sutta (Sn1.8), which:

leads to an authentic development of metta (or loving kindness) based on kusala (or wholesome) and Right View, and
Right Concentration and True Insight on the Noble Eightfold Path.

Each part provides a gradual teaching or explanation of the Buddha's specific instructions and knowledge pathway, as well as background to the sutta and intersecting discourses or teachings from the Noble Ones.

A SUMMARY OF SUTTA REFERENCES for the Karaniyametta Sutta (most covered in this session) has been uploaded to the Telegram Channel - https://t.me/suttameditation

The VIDEOS with presentation slides have been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel. A playlist has been created for all the parts of the complete session - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmDCBcQBJqM6zykf0x39iHjq

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Apologies for the uneven audio sound levels - this is mainly due to this session being recorded live and then with final editing

Instruction and guidance on HOW TO MEDITATE TO OVERCOME THE FIVE HINDRANCES as the basis for the "BUDDHA'S ADVICE ON HOW TO SUCCEED AT LEARNING AND EXAMS".

It is applicable to educational, skill-based, job-related, sports-related and other forms of learning and exams. More importantly, it is very useful towards the learning and practice on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path, and the ultimate test that we all will face.

The full session, conducted with families (grandparents, parents and children) was held on Full Moon Poya - 28 January 2021.

In this full session we:

- introduce the session with an outline of what will be covered
- provide tips for making the most of the session
- give an overview of the challenges to learning and studies
- broadly revisit the Buddha's core teachings
- examine the importance and benefits of subduing or removing the five hindrances
- hear a reading of an excerpt from the MahaAssapura Sutta (MN39)
-'deep dive' into each of the five hindrances
- meditate to subdue each of the five hindrances to directly experience the fruits of this teaching

*Note - The VIDEO presentation of this session with slides has been uploaded to YouTube as a 10-part playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmBtd_aA6tJLZDWV1AUAwaWL*

To access Dhamma-related videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on STUBBORNNESS or MENTAL RIGIDITY (thambo)

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on TRICKERY or FRAUD (sāṭheyyaṃ)

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at a Saying by the Buddha contained in the Itivuttaka - Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80) on the THREE KINDS OF UNWHOLESOME THOUGHTS:

A thought concerned with not being despised (anavaññattipaṭisaṃyutto vitakko);
A thought concerned with gain, honour, and fame (lābhasakkārasilokapaṭisaṃyutto vitakko); and
A thought concerned with involvement in the affairs of others (parānuddayatāpaṭisaṃyutto vitakko).

To read the Vitakka Sutta (Iti 80) - https://suttacentral.net/iti80/en/ireland

Other suttas referred to in the short talk:

Lābhasakkāra Saṃyutta (SN17) - https://suttacentral.net/sn17
Halidakkani Sutta (SN22.3) - https://suttacentral.net/sn22.3/en/bodhi
Candūpamā Sutta (SN 16.3) - https://suttacentral.net/sn16.3/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today I'll be responding to some Dhamma questions and requests.

Q1 - Is there a sutta reference for when the Buddha says to reveal all your faults in detail?

Q2 - Is the sequence important when it comes to meditating and contemplating the suttas, for example in the Vatthupama Sutta?

Q3 - Do you have any tips for how to nurture and sustain good spiritual friendships or kalyanamitta?

Q4 - Is it suitable to give feedback to someone at a Dhamma gathering?

Q5 - Can you conduct a guided meditation on the Anumana Sutta to clarify the meditation steps?

Q6 - Can you tell us what is coming up next on the podcast and will you be explaining the Karaniyametta Sutta?

Bohoma pin to the person/people who asked this Dhamma question.

PLEASE NOTE - you can send in questions via the voice messaging feature on anchor.fm podcast app OR via email suttameditationseries[at]gmail.com.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at Dhammapada Verse 76 - Radhathera Vatthu about a poor old brahmin who, with the help of the Buddha, was ordained into the Order of the Sangha and was praised for his qualities of being easy to instruct and take feedback, diligence and attaining full liberation. It is in the Chapter about the Wise (Paṇḍita Vagga).

The verse in Pali:

*Nidhīnaṃva pavattāraṃ,

yaṃ passe vajjadassinaṃ;

Niggayhavādiṃ medhāviṃ,

tādisaṃ paṇḍitaṃ bhaje;

Tādisaṃ bhajamānassa,

seyyo hoti na pāpiyo.*

To read the full chapter (Paṇḍita Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp76-89/en/anandajoti

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This Dhamma talk focuses on the question of WHY WE STRUGGLE TO UNDERSTAND DHAMMA, PRACTICE THE TEACHINGS, AND MAKE PROGRESS ON THE NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH. The main sutta that we will be studying is the Anumana Sutta (MN15) - The Discourse on Inference.

We look into:

Why this teaching is important and the benefits of learning the knowledge pathways Intersecting or supporting suttas to give confidence in this teaching
What obstructs ("duvaco" qualities) vs what supports ("suvaco" qualities) our understanding of Dhamma and making progress
How to infer or conclude on ourselves The importance of regular review How to meditate on this sutta

To read the whole Anumana Sutta: http://www.suttas.com/mn-15-anumana-sutta-inference.html

A video that includes presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel - https://youtu.be/elb4AIME4Aw AND on Spotify as a video podcast

A playlist of this Dhamma talk has been broken into 6 parts to make the learning process easier - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmC_JpkDu4TEc_Lb1A9lChX-

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on RIVALRY or COMPETITION (sārambha)

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on DECEIT or HYPOCRISY (māyā)

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

Today we look at Dhammapada Verse 174 - Pesakaradhita Vatthu about a weaver girl who received a direct teaching from the Buddha right before she passed away. It is in the Chapter about the World (Loka Vagga).

The verse in Pali:

Andhabhuto ayam loko

*tanuke'ttha vipassati

sakuno jalamuttova*

appo saggaya gacchati.

To read the full chapter (Loka Vagga) of the Dhammapada - https://suttacentral.net/dhp167-178/en/buddharakkhita

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on lay men disciples of the Buddha, and one in particular, Citta the Householder, who was declared by the Buddha as his foremost male disciple who excelled in expounding the Dhamma (dhammakathikānaṃ) - AN1.250.

In learning about such noble beings, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards progress on the Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on SELFISHNESS or STINGINESS (macchariya)

It is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of VERY LEARNED (bahussuto), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno). We specifically examine BUDDHA'S SYSTEM FOR LEARNING DHAMMA and direct ways to DEVELOP THE ACCOMPLISHMENT IN LEARNING

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) to help us understand the next 7 good qualities to be developed
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Catutthavagga (AN 1.219–234)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Mahāgosiṅga Sutta (MN 32)
— Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160)
— Tatiyasaddhammasammosa Sutta (AN 5.156)
— Tayodhamma Sutta(AN 10.76)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Sugatavinaya Sutta (AN 4.160)
— Tatiyasaddhammasammosa Sutta (AN 5.156)
— Ujjhanasanni Sutta (SN 1.35)
— Cetiya Sutta (SN 51.10)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Mahāpadesa Sutta (AN 4.180)
— Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)
— Thera Sutta (AN 5.88)
— Avijjā Sutta(SN 45.1)
— Appassuta Sutta (AN 4.6)
— Ummagga Sutta (AN4.186)
— Cunda Sutta (Ud 8.5)
— Paṭhamadhammavihārī Sutta (AN 5.73)
— Sattama Vagga(AN 1.260)
— Ekadhītu Sutta (SN 17.24)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html and the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) - https://suttacentral.net/an7.67/en/sujato

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hw9ZV2GsTQA AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishments of MORAL SHAME (hirimā) & FEAR OF WRONGDOING (ottāpī), as two more of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) to help us understand the next 7 good qualities to be developed
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Cariya Sutta (AN 2.9)
— Avijjā Sutta (SN 45.1)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN 7.67)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Attānuvāda Sutta(AN 4.121)
— Mahā Assapura Sutta (MN 39)
— Hirīottappa Sutta (AN 7.65)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Saṃsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Byasana Sutta (AN 5.130)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html and the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) - https://suttacentral.net/an7.67/en/sujato

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuAAND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of CONVICTION or FAITH (saddha), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53)
the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) to help us understand the next 7 good qualities to be developed
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Assaddha Sutta (AN4.202)
— Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67)
— Āḷavaka Sutta (SN10.12)
— Vitta Sutta (SN1.73)
— Canki Sutta (MN 95)
— Vimamsaka Sutta (MN 47)
— Saḷāyatanavibhaṅga Sutta (MN137)
— Mahāsakuludāyī Sutta (MN77)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Avijja Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Saddha Sutta (AN5.38)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html and the Nagaropama Sutta (AN7.67) - https://suttacentral.net/an7.67/en/sujato

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7rZFc14L64AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

THIS EPISODE focuses on the FIRST 7 MENTAL STAINS - covetousness & unequal greed, ill will, anger, hostility, derogation, disparaging and envy.

This is a GUIDED MEDITATION with a specific focus on our Dhamma Practice and how we can't see the dirty, defiled, ugly and nasty side in how we practice and manifest, despite doing what is good.

We look with honesty where we may not see how we breed defilements even within Dhamma - with our kalyanamittas, Dhamma teachers and fellow practitioners, and in our dealings with Dhamma groups, circles and communities.

We "clean" the mind of the these mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

A VIDEO with slides of this talk (split into 9 PARTS) has been uploaded to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel. The playlist can be accessed here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlRz574kArmAKQzlC-qwbLCmaidxRLTib

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Role models play an important part in all of our lives, whether we seek them out or not. And whether we walk the Buddhist Path or not, they can have the power to shape the direction we take and the ability to influence the decisions that follow on from there. For Buddhist practitioners, the Buddha is our most eminent role model, teacher and the Perfectly Enlightened One. And there are also many noble and great disciples of the Buddha.

Today we will focus on lay woman disciples of the Buddha, and one in particular, Khujjutara, who was declared by the Buddha as his foremost female disciple in higher learning (having heard much or bahussuta) - AN1.260.

In learning about such a noble being, we can delight in their lives and accomplishments; recognise the importance of seeing them as worthy role models; and use it as inspiration towards the Noble Eightfold Path.

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of Devoted to Wakefulness (jāgariyaṃ anuyutto), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Aparihāniya Sutta (AN4.37)
— Apaṇṇaka Sutta (AN3.16)
— Samādhibhāvanā Sutta (AN 4.41)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Āvaraṇa Sutta (AN 5.51)
— Jāgariya Sutta (Iti 47)
— Dutiya Akuppa Sutta (AN5.96)
— Parihāna Sutta (AN8.79)
— Pasenadikosala Vatthu (Dhp325)
— Tuvataka Sutta (Sn4.14)
— Āhāra Sutta (SN 46.51)
— Pacalāyamāna Sutta (AN 7.61)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NiEK-GmNLoAND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of Moderation in Eating (bhojane mattaññū), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Puttamaṁsasutta (SN 12.63)
— Bhayabheravasutta (MN 4)
— Doṇapāka Sutta (SN 3.13)
— Bhaddāli Sutta (MN 65)
— Āhārepaṭikūla Sutta (SN 46.69)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmNz5RMPewEAND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of Guarding the Doors to the Sense Faculties (indriyesu guttadvāro), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— Migajāla Sutta (SN 35.46)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Suttavebhaṅgiya (Pe 9)
— Ādittapariyāya Sutta (SN 35.28)
— Dukkhavihāra Sutta (Iti 22)
— Sukhavihāra Sutta (Iti 23)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2loBd9r1kgo AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

This episode looks at how we can develop the accomplishment of Consummate in Virtue (sīlasampanno), as one of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno)

We examine:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Some of the suttas referenced directly or indirectly in this session:

— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
— Saṁsappanīya Sutta (AN 10.216)
— Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135)
— Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN 8.40)
— Anumana Sutta (MN 15)
— Anaṅgaṇa Sutta (MN 5)
— Sallekha Sutta (MN 8)
— Attha Sutta (AN 10.181)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html

To access the video with presentation slides, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGecCBjwzcMAND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is one part of a study program that delves into the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – Venerable Ānanda’s Discourse on the Trainee’s Mode of Progress, which has been broken into different episodes. This episode in an introductory talk to begin the study program.

This study program began in October 2020 with a specific meditation group and is still ongoing.

Each episode will examine one or more of the 15 accomplishments in conduct (caraṇasampanno) covering:

the explanations provided by Venerable Ānanda in the Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta
other useful suttas to give us additional help to understand the teaching
where the bar is set for the 'adept' and how to develop this quality as trainees towards the goal
practical tips for progress, taking into account responsibilities and challenges of lay life
useful meditations to help us further develop these accomplishments in conduct

Suttas that are referred to directly or indirectly in this talk:

— Mūlapariyāya Sutta (MN 1)
— Sekha Sutta (Iti 9)
— Aparihāniya Sutta (AN 4.37)
— Apaṇṇaka Sutta (AN 3.16)

To read the whole Sekha-pāṭipada Sutta (MN53) – https://www.dhammatalks.org/suttas/MN/MN53.html

To access the video with presentation slides for this session, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep-NTAKzvP0 AND on Spotify as a video podcast

Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a Guided Meditation on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was delivered on 8 February 2020 as an hour-long session.

We "clean" the mind of the 16 mental stains and make a strong determination not to cultivate or breed these defilements. We also have an intention to correct our view if we are holding onto any wrong views that are blocking our Path.

Theruwan saranai. Blessings of the Triple Gem.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

To access videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is a Full Dhamma Session on the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97) - SAFEGUARDING THE MIND BY DWELLING WITH VIGILANCE. It was delivered on full moon poya (uposatha) on 4 July 2020 via Zoom to a meditation group.

(The audio has been edited to try to remove some of the background disturbances, however, please do your best to bear with the background sounds as we encountered some difficulties recording this during covid restrictions)*

In this Dhamma session, we:

— examined the translation of pamāda and appamāda
— looked at an overview to the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97)
— investigated what happens when we are negligent and what happens when we are vigilant
— highlighted the importance of putting a "security guard" in place to guard the sense doors
— went over the insight pathways
— contemplated negligence vs vigilance for each of the sense faculties

Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:

— Pamādādivagga (AN 1.82-83)
— Dutiyapamādādivagga (AN 1.115)
— Aparihāniya Sutta (AN 4.37)
— Uddhacca Sutta (AN 6.116)
— Sāmāvatīvatthu (Dhp 21)
— Mala Sutta (AN 8.15)
— Sambahulabhikkhuvatthu (Dhp 368-376)
— Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7)
— Tayodhamma Sutta (AN 10.76)
— Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61)
— Karaṇīyametta Sutta (Snp 1.8)
— Kummopama Sutta (SN 35.240)
— Nibbedhika Sutta (AN 6.63)
— Upanisa Sutta (SN 12.23)
— Bhayabherava Sutta (MN 4)
— Nivāpa Sutta (MN 25)
— Nandiyasakka Sutta (SN 55.40)
— Patiṭṭhita Sutta (SN 48.56)
— Rukkha Sutta (SN 45.152)

To read the whole Pamādavihārī Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/sn35.97/en/bodhi

Bohoma pin to the person who requested this talk.

An electronic copy of the "Diagrams outlining Dwelling in Negligence (pamādavihārī) vs Dwelling in Vigilance (appamādavihārī)" from the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97), discussed in this Dhamma Session have been posted (and pinned) to the Sutta Meditation Series Telegram channel (https://t.me/suttameditationseries)

A VIDEO of this FULL SESSION with presentation slides has been published to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5GPBDSg-0A

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This is the final episode in the 20-part session, which brings the complete session to an end with the Sharing of Merit and Blessings of our practice with all sentient beings.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a look into two teachings of the Buddha on what can be expected as the result of bad or unwholesome actions. The two suttas are Duccaritavipāka Sutta (AN8.40) and Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN135).

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Negligence (pamādo), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Vanity (mado), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. Examine the 3 kinds of vanity. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Arrogance (atimāno), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Conceit (māno), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Competition (sārambho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Stubbornness (thambho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Fraud (sāṭheyyaṃ), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Hypocrisy (māyā), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Stinginess (macchariyaṃ), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Envy (issā), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Disparaging (palāso), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Deropgation (makkho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Hostility (upanāho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Anger (kodho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Ill Will (byāpāda), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode takes a deep dive into Covetousness and Unequal Greed (abhijjhāvisamalobho), one of the 16 mental stains from the Vatthupama Sutta. We learn about how to meditate to abandon this mental stain or defilement with a gentle guided meditation.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode highlights some of the benefits of learning to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta and provides some tips and useful reminders before we delve deeper into this session.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access other videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message

Welcome to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.

This is part of a 20-part session on How to meditate on the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7) - the Buddha's Discourse on the Simile of the Cloth. It was conducted on 29 December 2020 for families, adults, and children.

To read the whole Vatthupama Sutta: https://suttacentral.net/mn7/en/bodhi

This episode introduces the sutta and gives an overview of what will be covered, and we hear some of the Buddha's words from the Vatthupama Sutta.

In the complete 20-part session we:

study the words of the Buddha in the Vatthupama Sutta;
discuss some of the benefits of learning this meditation;
'deep dive' into the 16 mental stains;
meditate on each of the 16 mental stains (guidance provided) to directly experience the fruits of this teaching; and
look into the Buddha's teachings on what to expect from bad actions

The complete session with presentation slides is available in full on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0o_w7MrdDrY

To access more videos and shorter clips, you can go to the Sutta Meditation Series YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrSrkvP4mJRPWyPGliNDuA

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/suttameditationseries/message