Key concept in Indian philosophy and Eastern religions, with multiple meanings
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This reading for contemplation/meditation about the nature of the citta has been excerpted from several discourses given by Acharya Maha Boowa.Ajahn Maha Boowa or Bua (1913–2011) was one of the most revered Thai Forest masters of the 20th century, a direct disciple of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. Known for his uncompromising practice and penetrating insight, he dedicated his life to the realization and teaching of the Dhamma in its most direct, experiential form.Ajahn Maha Boowa emphasized the centrality of the citta (heart-mind)—the luminous, knowing essence underlying all experience. Through rigorous meditation, he described how defilements (kilesas) obscure this innate clarity, and how disciplined mindfulness and wisdom can dismantle these obscurations layer by layer. His teachings often highlighted the distinction between the knowing awareness and the phenomena that arise within it, pointing practitioners toward a direct recognition of the unconditioned.He spoke vividly about the battle with the kilesas, encouraging fearless investigation of craving, self-identity, and attachment, and stressing that true freedom lies in complete release from these forces. Ajahn Maha Boowa's guidance combined fierce determination with deep compassion, urging practitioners to verify the Dhamma for themselves through sustained practice rather than mere intellectual understanding.Through his teachings and the establishment of Wat Pa Baan Taad, he helped preserve and revitalize the Thai Forest tradition, leaving a legacy of profound meditative instruction centered on direct realization of Nibbāna.Further information about this tradition and teacher can be found here: https://forestdhamma.org/_______________________________
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on February 28, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:25 - GUIDED MEDITATION 22:14 - DHAMMA TALK (SN 55.3 WITH DĪGHĀVU--PT 1) 28:25 - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES (SN 55.3 WITH DĪGHĀVU--PT 1) 45:11 - DHAMMA TALK (SN 55.3 WITH DĪGHĀVU--PT 2) 54:30 - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES (SN 55.3 WITH DĪGHĀVU--PT 2) 1:08:04 - DHAMMA TALK (SN 55.54 SICK) 1:20:30 - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES (SN 55.54 SICK) From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
27 January 2026 Ajahn Munissara joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
10 February 2026 Ajahn Brahmali joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
(Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge) Practicing the Noble 8 fold path can lead to experiencing a lot of joy in our practice and daily life. Joy serves as a basis & support for awakening; as a signpost to our progress, and an anti-dote to suffering
Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge) Practicing the Noble 8 fold path can lead to experiencing a lot of joy in our practice and daily life. Joy serves as a basis & support for awakening; as a signpost to our progress, and an anti-dote to suffering
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge) Practicing the Noble 8 fold path can lead to experiencing a lot of joy in our practice and daily life. Joy serves as a basis & support for awakening; as a signpost to our progress, and an anti-dote to suffering
Episode #490: Matt Walton, a political theorist and scholar of Buddhism and politics in Myanmar, and author the acclaimed Buddhism, Politics and Political Thought in Myanmar, argues that Burmese political life cannot be understood through secular or Western democratic frameworks alone. He contends that struggles over democracy, authority, nationalism, and pluralism in the country unfold within a shared Theravāda Buddhist moral universe whose internal logics remain consistent even as they produce sharply divergent political outcomes. Ethical life, political legitimacy, and social order are deeply embedded in Buddhist moral reasoning, shaping how political ideas are articulated and contested. In his undergraduate years, he developed an interest in meditation, which took shape during his first visit to Myanmar. Initially going as a backpacker, he joined a demanding 21-day vipassanāretreat in the Mahāsi lineage in the Sagaing Hills. That retreat proved pivotal for him both as practitioner and professionally, sparking his interest how embodied Burmese Buddhism plays out in social, cultural and political spheres. Subsequent travels through Myanmar helped crystalize his awareness that democratic aspirations and rights discourse in the region operate within Buddhist concepts of causality, responsibility, and ethical conduct rather than liberal political theory. He devoted himself to the study of Burmese language, Buddhist philosophy, and political thought. Central to Walton's analysis is the relationship between lokī, the mundane sphere, and lokuttara, the supramundane orientation toward insight and liberation. These are not opposing realms but relational categories that structure political reasoning. Burmese discourse recognizes that ethical practice depends on material conditions, while also warning that excessive supramundane focus can undermine worldly governance. Political legitimacy emerges from negotiating this tension. Walton shows how Buddhist texts can generate competing political interpretations, supporting both hierarchical authority and participatory responsibility. Across history—from U Nu and Aung San to Ledi Sayadaw, Buddhist nationalism, and contemporary pluralist debates—Walton emphasizes that the same moral universe underlies empowerment and violence alike. Understanding this coherence, he insists, does not imply moral endorsement but is essential for grappling with Myanmar's political crisis and imagining more inclusive futures. Walton cautions against assuming secularism would offer a neutral alternative, noting that secular governance elsewhere remains shaped by Christian histories, and instead calls for explicit, critical engagement with Buddhist moral reasoning to identify resources for genuinely inclusive coexistence.
In this episode, we explore how we can learn to be present with our own pain.Thoughts or questions you'd like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
At the celebration of Lunar New Year of the Fire Horse
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on February 21, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - DHAMMA TALK : - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on February 21, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - DHAMMA TALK : - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
Ajahn Dhammasiha talks about the importance of 'Beautiful, Admirable Friendship' (Kalyānamittatā) for our Dhamma progress. "Having good spiritual friends is 100% of the holy life" (The Buddha, Saṃyutta Nikāya/Connected Discourses 45.2)Ajahn points out the connection with the 4 Factors of Stream Entry (Sotāpattiyangāni):Association with Good Persons (Sappurisa-saṃseva) Hearing the True Dhamma (Saddhamma-savanaṃ)Wise Attention (Yoniso Manasikāra) Practising Dhamma in Line with Dhamma (Dhammānudhamma-patipatti)Number one is personal contact with someone who has realized the Dhamma. Personal association with an Arahant or Streamenterer, even if only for a short time, is the first of four conditions to realize the Dhamma oneself. Ajahn Dhammasīha encourages us not to completely substitute that personal association with youtube, reading and listening to recordings. Without the personal contact, we may miss out on a crucial factor for gaining the vision of Dhamma ourselves.Dhammagiri Forest Hermitage:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsOur email Newsletter:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsletterLatest Photoshttps://latest-pics.dhammagiri.netOur Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dhammatalksatdhammagiri8724#buddhism #friendship #goodfriends #buddhistwisdom #dhammatalk #dhamma #streamentry #sotapatti
Welcome back to the Sutta Meditation Series Podcast.This is a recording of a half-day Dhamma Program held with a group of kalyanamittas back in June 2025.We meditated on the 16 mental stains covered in the Vatthupama Sutta (MN7), and ended with a a shorter (steps 1 to 7) guided metta meditation using the Karaniymetta Sutta (Snp 1.8).Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranaiTo 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
In this talk, we explore Vedana (feeling) as a key mental factor in Buddhist meditation and daily life. The teacher explains how feelings arise as pleasant, unpleasant, neutral, and how they are classified in different ways in the teachings of the Buddha. By learning to observe feelings with mindfulness, listeners discover how to prevent craving and aversion, understand impermanence, and break the cycle of suffering through Satipatthana Vipassana practice. YouTube Video LinkYouTube Channel Link Website:www.satipatthana.caDonations and Memberships
In this episode, we focus on anger - why we often find our anger unmanageable and how to slowly use it as a way to grow into wiser, more capable people.Thoughts or questions you'd like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
Ajahn Dhammasiha talks about the importance of 'Admirable Friendship' for our spiritual progress. 'Kaḷyāṇa Mittatā' can be translated as 'Beautiful Friendship', 'Noble Friendship' or 'Good Spiritual Friendship'. It means a friend who causes our wholesome qualities like virtue, generosity, kindness and wisdom to increase when we associate with them, because they have developed these qualities themselves. Such a friend in a 'Kaḷyāṇa Mitta'. The opposite, a bad friend that causes us to get more angry, stingy and deluded, is called a 'Pāpa Mitta'. Bad Friendship is 'Pāpa Mittatā'. Underlining the crucial importance of good friendship for our Dhamma practice, the Buddha once famously said to Venerable Ānanda: "Having good spiritual friends is 100% of the holy life" (Saṃyutta Nikāya/Connected Discourses 45.2)Dhammagiri Forest Hermitage:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsOur email Newsletter:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsletterLatest Photoshttps://latest-pics.dhammagiri.netOur Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dhammatalksatdhammagiri8724#buddhism #friendship #goodfriends #buddhistwisdom #dhammatalk #dhamma
In this talk, we explore the Buddhist teaching of Anattā (non-self) as it appears in everyday life. Through simple examples like eating, seeing, aging, and thinking, the speaker explains how mind and body function through cause and effect rather than a permanent “self” or soul. Listeners are encouraged to observe daily experiences mindfully to develop a direct, experiential understanding of non-self and deepen their meditation practice. YouTube Video LinkYouTube Channel Link Website:www.satipatthana.caDonations and Memberships
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussikā, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussikā, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
On this episode, Matt continues our review of the Octet Chapter, or the Book of Eights, with the final chapter Sn 4:16 To Sāriputta, located in the Sutta Nipāta, in the fifth book of the Pali Canon, the Khuddaka Nikāya. This part of the Canon holds some of the earliest teachings of the Buddha, cutting to the heart of his Dhamma. We will wrap up the Book of Eights with a recap and integration class on February 28th. Details and past classes can be found at Classes - Cross River Meditation. Should you have any questions, or wish to join us via Zoom, please Contact us via our website. If you are subscribed to our Podcast on Podbean, iTunes, or Spotify you will receive notifications when new episodes are posted.
In this talk, we explore the forty types of supramundane (lokuttara) consciousness and how they arise through insight meditation. The teacher explains the relationship between jhāna, path consciousness, and fruition consciousness, showing how different meditation approaches can lead to the same stages of awakening. By understanding these mental processes, listeners gain insight into non-self (anattā) and learn how Buddhist psychology supports deep mindfulness and spiritual development. YouTube Video LinkYouTube Channel Link Website:www.satipatthana.caDonations and Memberships
13 January 2026 Venerable Jhayako joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
3 Febuary 2026 Ajahn Sampa joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
In this episode, we talk about why compassion rather than frustration, is the best foundation for true inner change.Thoughts or questions you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
On this episode, Jen continues our review of the Octet Chapter, or the Book of Eights, with Sn 4:15 The Rod Embraced, located in the Sutta Nipāta, in the fifth book of the Pali Canon, the Khuddaka Nikāya. This part of the Canon holds some of the earliest teachings of the Buddha, cutting to the heart of his Dhamma. We will be working through this chapter for the next couple of weeks. Details and past classes can be found at Classes - Cross River Meditation. Should you have any questions, or wish to join us via Zoom, please Contact us via our website. If you are subscribed to our Podcast on Podbean, iTunes, or Spotify you will receive notifications when new episodes are posted.
Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Insight Meditation Society - Forest Refuge) Practicing the 4 protective meditation namely- Reflection on the qualities of the Buddha or Dhamma or Sangha; Reflection on metta, reflection of body parts (visible ones); reflection on death causes and protect us from: Doubt, Attachment, Aversion, Laziness, respectively.
In this episode, we talk about how we can face being mindful of the world - its good and particularly its bad, when searching for peace in our lives through mindfulness.Questions or thoughts you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.
Ajahn Dhammasiha talks about the emotion that is called 'Saṃvega' in Pali, 'Spiritual Shock'. Saṃvega, spiritual urgency, doesn't feel nice, it's not a pleasant feeling. However, it is beneficial, as it urges us to practise the Dhamma with commitment and dedication. When we're experiencing pain and grief from loss and disappointments, we can transform this painful emotion into Saṃvega by contemplating the Buddha's teaching: We contemplate that, indeed, all conditioned formations are impermanent and thus ultimately disappointing. We contemplate that the Buddha has shown us the method, the Noble 8fold Path, to go beyond all conditioned phenomena and experience the total freedom from old age, sickness, death & suffering, Nibbāna. Contemplating thus, the grief is transformed into saṃvega, and we feel strong urgency to practise Dhamma to free ourselves from suffering.Dhammagiri Forest Hermitage:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsOur email Newsletter:https://www.dhammagiri.net/newsletterLatest Photoshttps://latest-pics.dhammagiri.netOur Youtube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@dhammatalksatdhammagiri8724#suffering #grief #loss #bereavement #spiritualurgency #buddhism #buddhistwisdom
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on 31st of January, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - GUIDED MEDITATION 21:27 - DHAMMA TALK 58:47 - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES
(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies)
On this episode, Brian continues our review of the Octet Chapter, or the Book of Eights, with Sn 4:14 Quickly, located in the Sutta Nipāta, in the fifth book of the Pali Canon, the Khuddaka Nikāya. This part of the Canon holds some of the earliest teachings of the Buddha, cutting to the heart of his Dhamma. We will be working through this chapter for the next couple of weeks. Details and past classes can be found at Classes - Cross River Meditation. Should you have any questions, or wish to join us via Zoom, please Contact us via our website. If you are subscribed to our Podcast on Podbean, iTunes, or Spotify you will receive notifications when new episodes are posted.
In this talk, we explore the relationship between Noble Persons (Ariya) and Mental Defilements (Kilesa) in Theravāda Buddhism. Using the framework of the ten fetters, the teaching explains how each of the four stages of enlightenment—Stream-Enterer, Once-Returner, Non-Returner, and Arahant—progressively eradicates or weakens specific defilements.The episode clarifies which fetters are abandoned at each stage, how moral purity and insight deepen, and why only the Arahant fully uproots all unwholesome consciousness. A practical and illuminating guide for understanding one's spiritual progress on the path to liberation.YouTube Video LinkYouTube Channel Link Website:www.satipatthana.caDonations and Memberships
(Barre Center for Buddhist Studies)
Episode #476: Minnthonya, a deeply committed Burmese monk, recounts his remarkable journey from traditional monastic education to becoming a key figure in Myanmar's resistance movements. Initially drawn to the Buddhist path as a young boy, he studied under teachers who encouraged a deep engagement with both Buddhist scriptures and broader knowledge. It was this education that opened his eyes to the true political situation in his country, where the military regime had not only oppressed the people but also controlled religious institutions. As a teenager, Minnthonya's desire to change Myanmar grew, and he began organizing underground reading groups with fellow monks to discuss the country's dire political situation. Despite the regime's brutal repression, he and his peers covertly shared political writings and inspired others to question the status quo. His efforts culminated in his leadership role during the 2007 Saffron Revolution, where monks took to the streets, reciting the Metta Sutta, demanding freedom from military oppression. One of their key actions was the "Patta Nekku Sanna"—a symbolic boycott of the military's offerings, which united the monks in their defiance against the regime.Forced into exile after the regime's crackdown, Minnthonya continues his activism from Thailand, setting up libraries, education centers, and organizing resistance efforts among exiled Burmese communities. His commitment to the Dhamma has never wavered, as he believes that true Buddhist teachings must address the suffering of the people. For him, the fight for democracy and justice is inseparable from the spiritual path. He continues to advocate for both inner and outer peace, teaching that monks have a duty to stand up against oppression and that the path to freedom lies not only in meditation but also in courageous action against injustice.“We never believe in the military regime!” he exclaims. "For a very long time, [the military] has been destroying our Buddhism. They've killed many monks, sent countless others to jail, and destroyed monasteries—even now!”
What does it mean to be alone without feeling lonely? In this episode, Venerable Sumangala reflects on solitude, companionship, and the inner stability needed to stand confidently on our own. Drawing from Buddhist teachings and lived experience, she shares why learning to be at ease with oneself is essential for mental freedom, emotional resilience, and genuine connection with others.✨ Key Takeaways:
In this episode, we talk about how we can keep our hope for ourselves and for humanity alive even when things feel dire.Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
Be skeptical if there's really any spirit involved, and first investigate other possible explanations Do NOT use 'black magic' or any other negative energy based on anger of fear against the spirit The best protection is very pure 5 precepts and stong mettā (loving kindness). This is good for ourselves always and in any case, whether the 'ghosts' are real or not Sharing merits & chanting Dhamma dedicated to the ghost can help them to move on to a better plane of existence Ajahn Dhammasiha is asked if someone we know could be reborn as a ghost and then cause us problems. When we hear such stories, or experience something strange ourselves, we shouldn't immediately assume that there's really a spirit around. Often, when people think they are troubled by ghosts or evil spirits, the real reason for their problems is actually something else. For example mental disorders, even psychosis, or simply projection of internal psychological tensions to an imaginary external cause. However, if after careful analysis of any other possible causes one still is convinced that there is a ghost or spirit causing issues, the protection is very pure 5 precepts and strong loving kindness. Purtiy of virtue manifests in the spiritual real much more visible and physical than in the human world, and it would be difficult for a ghost to cause any harm to a truly virtuous person. Well developed mettā can manifest as a blinding light to malicious spirits, they can't even get close. In fact, it's very difficult for ghosts to influence the coarse physical reality we live in as humans at all, other than perhaps a strange sound, or an apparition of some hazy shape (in particular to those sensitive to extrasensory perception), or similar quite subtle manifestations. Ghosts rather deserve our compassion, as they are in a rebirth caused by stinginess, egotism and materialism, and now suffer from deprivation of fundmental needs like food and drink, that can only be relieved by the compassion of others. WebsiteOur Spotify PlaylistsNewsletterDhammagiri Youtube ChannelPics#ghosts #spirits #ghost #spirit #metta #dhammatalk #buddhism #precepts
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on 24th of January, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis.
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on 24th of January, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis.
On this episode, Brian continues our review of the Octet Chapter, or the Book of Eights, with Sn 4:13 The Great Array, located in the Sutta Nipāta, in the fifth book of the Pali Canon, the Khuddaka Nikāya. This part of the Canon holds some of the earliest teachings of the Buddha, cutting to the heart of his Dhamma. We will be working through this chapter for the next several weeks. Details and past classes can be found at Classes - Cross River Meditation. Should you have any questions, or wish to join us via Zoom, please Contact us via our website. If you are subscribed to our Podcast on Podbean, iTunes, or Spotify you will receive notifications when new episodes are posted.
Episode #471: Sebastian Copija's journey from being a Buddhist monk to embracing lay life is a story of deep introspection and balance. Monastic life had afforded him security and structure, but Sebastian felt detached from the broader world. So after ten years as a monk in Thailand and Myanmar, he disrobed, and returned to Europe to care for his parents.Lay life introduced him to new ways to apply his practice, including re-engaging in relationships. The challenges of navigating the strong and sometimes messy emotions that often accompany social and personal interactions has become an essential aspect of his practice, testing his ability to stay open-hearted amidst everyday struggles. He speaks of his present, romantic relationship as a spiritual partnership, focusing on mutual support and non-attachment.Sebastian emphasizes that the lay path is not a lesser one, requiring mindfulness and insight just as being a monastic does. He is now a lay Dhamma teacher in Poland, focusing on integrating mindfulness into daily life and creating supportive community environments where students openly share their challenges and growth. “When you disrobe, it's just gone! Ten years of your life is gone, and suddenly, the only thing you have is the clarity of the Dhamma you've developed. It's not the robes that define my practice but the application of Dhamma to every moment of life.”
Even though we feel that the truth is very far from us, it can be found in the ordinary, everyday moments of our normal lives. This is where the real growth happens.Thoughts or questions you would like to share? Email me at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
16 December 2025 Ajahn Mudito joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
(Karuna Buddhist Vihara) This dhamma talk, guided meditation, comments, questions and responses was offered on 17 January, 2026 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - GUIDED MEDITATION 19:37 - DHAMMA TALK 56:14 - COMMENTS, QUESTIONS & RESPONSES From January 4th to April 2nd 2026 the regularly scheduled Saturday morning program taught by Ayya Santussika, will take many of the suttas referenced in "Mindfully Facing Disease and Death" by Bhikkhu Anālayo as their basis. For those who want to dive deeply into this material, you may want to read the book as we discuss the suttas, listed below. Jan 10 SN 22.1 Nakula's Father Chapter 2 Jan 17 SN 36.6 An Arrow Chapter 3 Jan 24 SN 22.88 With Assaji Chapter 10 Jan 31 SN 22.89 With Khemaka Chapter 11 Feb 7 AN 10.60 With Girimānanda Chapter 12 Feb 14 SN 3.22 Grandmother and SN 47.13 With Cunda Chapters 13 & 14 Feb 21 MN 143 Advice to Anāthapiṇḍika Chapter 16 Feb 28 SN 55.3 With Dīghāvu and SN 55.54 Sick Chapters 17 & 18 Mar 7 SN 36.7 The Infirmary (1st) Chapter 19 Mar 14 AN 6.56 With Phagguna Chapter 20 Mar 21 SN 35.74 Sick (1st) and SN 41.10 Seeing the Sick Chapters 21 & 22 Mar 28 DN 16.31, 34-36 The Buddha's Last Words Chapter 23
In this episode, filmed on location in Kathmandu, Nepal, I am joined by Buddhist nun Guruma Dhamma Vijaya. Guruma recalls her childhood in Kathmandu Valley, the religious life of her Newar Vajrayāna family, and why she turned to Theravāda Buddhism and took ordination as a nun. Guruma recounts her extensive training in Mahasi and Goenka meditation styles, compares tantric techniques to ānāpānassati, and offers her understanding of the essence of Buddhist teaching. Guruma details her educational journey, describes her life-changing encounter with feminism while studying in the USA, and tells the story of obtaining a PhD on the subject of Buddhist Feminism. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep344-nepali-buddhist-nun-guruma-dhamma-vijaya Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - Homage to Buddha, Dhamma, Saṅgha 01:54 - Blessing and welcome 02:33 - Question etiquette in different cultures 03:17 - Guruma's Newar childhood in Kathmandu Valley 06:11 - Guruma's education pathway to PhD 06:36 - Family dynamics 07:30 - First meeting with Buddhist nuns 09:46 - From Vajrayāna to Theravāda 11:12 - Desire to be a nun 12:48 - Attending a teaching by the Dalai Lama in Bodhgaya 13:54 - The loss of the bhikkhunī ordination lineage 14:28 - Becoming a nun 17:54 - 4 years of study in Taiwan 19:20 - Meditation and further studies in Burma and India 20:02 - Studying meditation under Mahasi Sayadaw and S.N. Goenka 26:37 - Mahasi vs Goenka 27:37 - 4 points of Goenka meditation 29:10 - Ānāpānassati meditation is the Buddha's teaching 29:55 - Guruma's practie 30:51 - Vajrayāna vs Theravāda 36:27 - Body mantras and Vajrayāna threats 39:15 - Choosing Ānāpānassati over Vajrayāna 43:23 - Freedom from suffering 45:38 - The essence of Buddhist teaching 47:25 - Encountering feminism 54:58 - Messy status of nuns in Nepal 01:03:02 - Theravāda revival 01:05:39 - Tragic reason why Guruma's teacher became a nun 01:08:14 - Buddhist pilgrimage sites 01:08:54 - Life is precious and exhortation to practice 01:1341 - Dedication prayer and blessing … Kathmandu Interviews playlist: - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlkzlKFgdknwvU82dU487LhF_mF4AkGek&si=4U8rRVEHKA4Z28oF Find out more about Guruma here: - http://tartaruspress.com/russell-rampa.html - https://www.arthurmachen.org.uk/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Episode #468: Friedgard Lottermoser, born in Berlin in 1942, first came to Burma in 1959 when her stepfather was sent there on contract. What began as an expatriate posting soon turned into a lifelong spiritual journey, as she became one of the very few Westerners to study closely with the renowned meditation master Sayagyi U Ba Khin at the International Meditation Center (IMC) in Rangoon. At IMC, Friedgard encountered a teaching environment unlike anything she had known. U Ba Khin emphasized the direct observation of saṅkhāras—mental forces—teaching that liberation lay not in theory but in carefully watching the mind and body in real time. Friedgard recalled how his presence alone could anchor those around him, and how he often combined meticulous discipline with compassion and mettā. Her own training was rigorous. She sat thirteen courses at IMC, more than most Burmese were ever allowed, and experienced periods of deep absorption that were both transformative and challenging. She once became ill but refused medicine, convinced that meditation itself would cure her—an ethos that many disciples shared, with sesame oil and turmeric serving as the only remedies at the center. She also witnessed U Ba Khin heal himself of a severe eye infection by meditating directly into the pain, as well as accounts of him easing snake bites and tuberculosis among students through focused awareness and compassion. Friedgard's life intertwined with other close disciples, such as Mother Sayama, whose delicate meditative states required careful support, and Ruth Denison, who once received “mental healing” from U Ba Khin across continents. Looking back, she emphasized that U Ba Khin never sought breadth but depth—he believed only those with strong spiritual potential would be drawn to him. Foreigners like Friedgard were the exceptions, allowed to stay longer and carry the Dhamma forward, especially after the military regime blocked U Ba Khin from traveling abroad.
(Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center) The story of turning into the skid to grow in wisdom and the journey of the Buddha's awakening
09 December 2025 Venerable Ananda joins the Armadale Meditation Group online live. Armadale Meditation Group (AMG) teaches you about meditation. The classes generally begin with chanting the Metta Sutta, meditation instructions, meditating together, asking questions, and, if time allows, a Dhamma talk. These weekly Tuesday night teachings are via Zoom from Bodhinyana or Dhammasara Monastery. For the AMG zoom link and more details: https://bswa.org/location/armadale-meditation-group/ Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube
1st January 2026 Ajahn Bodhidhaja hosted this week's meditation session at the Roleystone Family Centre. Roleystone Meditation Group's weekly classes are about an hour in length and usually includes meditation instructions, meditating together, questions & answers and a Dhamma talk. The sessions are led by a Buddhist monk from Kusala Hermitage in Roleystone (Buddhist Society of WA). Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube