Podcasts about Shantideva

If you've ever felt like joy is just out of reach, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew—revealing how meaningful effort, not ease, might be the key to lasting fulfillment.In today's episode, I'm joined by Janet Ettele, a novelist, meditation practitioner, and devoted student of Buddhist philosophy whose mission is to bring timeless spiritual teachings to life through accessible, story-driven fiction. She is the author of a four-book series inspired by the six perfections of Buddhism, with her latest release, How Joyous Effort Works: The Energy to Benefit Others, featuring a foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Janet's writing blends insight and emotional depth, drawing from her background as a trained musician and Berklee College of Music graduate to create prose that is both lyrical and grounded. Her journey into Buddhism began at a Tibetan monastery just five miles from her home in Connecticut, where she continues to live, write, and teach with quiet dedication.Throughout this episode, Janet brings these influences to life, offering a grounded yet inspiring perspective on joy, effort, and spiritual growth. She shares how the teachings of Shantideva and her connection with Tibetan monks shaped both her personal evolution and the character arc of Troy, the protagonist of her series. Their parallel journeys reveal how challenges can become turning points when met with mindfulness and compassion. Janet's reflections on meditation, silence, and intentional action illustrate how spiritual practice translates into everyday life. With warmth and clarity, she reminds us that lasting joy doesn't come from striving for perfection, but from showing up—consistently, consciously, and with an open heart.Tune in to episode 210 of Joy Found Here as Janet Ettele shares how Buddhist wisdom, storytelling, and intentional effort can lead to inner peace and purposeful living. Learn how meditation and spiritual practice bring more clarity, joy, and connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The roots of Joyous Effort (3:35)From silence to spiritual seeking (6:23)Music, poetry, and the first steps toward Dharma (9:30)Finding her teacher—Just five miles away (11:20)What Joyous Effort really means (16:41)Compassion over judgment (19:15)From the Dalai Lama to DIY publishing (22:48)Building a daily practice with coffee (31:11)The unexpected joy of grandparenthood (34:34)Life is a patchwork, not a tapestry (38:49)A tribute to Aunt Gertrude (39:39)Connect with Janet Ettele:WebsiteInstagramFacebookXSpotifyLet's Connect:WebsiteInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Stone talks on the importance of relaxing your mind and how patience and relaxation give rise to enthusiasm. The talk is based on chapter 8 of Shantideva's Guide to a Bodhisattva's Way of Life. Ways of seeing your parents, how deep concentration arises through relaxation, and how to glide with breathing. Recorded at Centre of Gravity, Toronto on April 9, 2013.

Panic is never a solution. In moments of crisis or uncertainty, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and reactive. By cultivating equanimity, we can sidestep panic and instead approach challenges with a level head. This doesn't mean we ignore our feelings but rather that we create a mental framework that allows us to address issues rationally and calmly. Connecting with our inner stillness can lead to clearer thinking and more effective decision-making. All sentient beings fundamentally desire to be happy, healthy, and free from suffering. Despite the diversity of our circumstances, we are united by this common aspiration. This understanding fosters compassion and empathy towards ourselves and others. It reminds us that behind every reaction, there is likely a story of struggle and desire for peace. 

222 - The Two Buckets: A Simple Way to Solve Life's Problems Hi everyone, it's Jill from the North Woods! In this episode, I'm sharing one of the biggest life lessons I ever learned—the concept of putting problems into two buckets: things I can change and things I cannot. This idea, rooted in the Serenity Prayer, has helped me navigate everything from growing up with an alcoholic parent to financial struggles, career changes, and even weight loss. I'll take you through the history of this powerful mindset, from ancient Greek philosophers to modern problem-solving techniques, and share real-life examples of how shifting my focus has made all the difference. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to tackle life's challenges, this episode is for you. The Serenity Prayer and How It Shaped My ThinkingI first learned the Serenity Prayer in my teens while attending Alateen, a support group for children of alcoholics. This simple yet profound message helped me reframe my struggles, allowing me to focus on what I could change instead of feeling powerless over what I couldn't. The Long History of This WisdomThe idea of separating problems into what's within our control and what isn't has been around for centuries. I share insights from historical figures like Epictetus, Solomon ibn Gabirol, and Shantideva, all of whom recognized the power of focusing on what we can control. Real-Life Applications of the Two Buckets Approach-Growing Up with an Alcoholic Parent – I couldn't stop my dad from drinking, but I could create a full, active life outside of that challenge.-Politics & Global Issues – I can't change everything, but I can vote, volunteer, and contribute where I can.-Financial Stability & Retirement Worries – Social Security's future is uncertain, but I can prepare by saving more and making smart financial decisions.-Weight Loss & Health – I once thought my weight was out of my control until I found new solutions and the right support. Re-Evaluating What's in Your “Can't Change” BucketSometimes, we assume a problem is out of our hands when it's really not. I share examples of creative problem-solving—like how a simple change (adding mirrors) made people stop complaining about slow elevators. The key is to step back, get a new perspective, and challenge assumptions. Takeaways:✅ Put problems into two buckets: Can you change it or not?✅ Focus on action instead of worrying about things beyond your control.✅ Re-evaluate your buckets over time—something that seemed unchangeable might have a solution you haven't seen yet.✅ Seek outside advice when you feel stuck—sometimes an expert or a fresh perspective can make all the difference.✅ If something is in the "can change" bucket, take the first step today. This mindset shift has helped me reduce stress and solve problems more effectively, and I hope it helps you too. Now, I challenge you—think about a problem in your life right now. Which bucket does it belong in? Let me know what you think! Email me at Jill@startwithsmallsteps.com, comment on my channel, or share this episode with someone who might need it. Thanks for listening, and have a great week! https://startwithsmallsteps.com/the-two-buckets-a-simple-way-to-solve-lifes-problems/ Jill's Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallstepspodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

[This episode originally aired on March 14, 2023]  The great teacher Shantideva emphasized the importance of vigilance, of protecting our minds  •  at the same time, tremendous emphasis is placed on maintaining an open, welcoming mind  •  so what's the difference between vigilance and just closing our mind in a negative or unhelpful way?  •  one way of looking at this is to think of your mind as a house  •  inside your house are your children or maybe a safe with all your resources in it  •  someone knocks on the door, and you have to decide whether to let them in  •  you want to be willing to accommodate what comes at you, but you also want to be willing to reject that which is threatening something as precious as your little children or the sanity of your own mind  •  but we're not just closing off anything that's bothering us; in this case, we're only closing off the many ways we run away from our own inherent awakening  •  the qualities of mindfulness and awareness are powerful and precious, but they are easily lost; that is why vigilance is so important. 

Geoffrey Shugen Arnold, Roshi - ZMM - 11/20/24 - Drawing from the wisdom chapter of Shantideva's teachings and other sources, Shugen Roshi brings out the subtle distinctions between craving-as-a-hindrance and aspiration. By seeing into the true nature of all reality, we can free ourselves from the endless cycles of clinging and attachment without needless confusion about what we call “the self,” and live within our true home.

Dharma talk given Sunday, November 17, 2024.

Geoffrey Shugen Arnold, Roshi - ZMM - 10/26/24 - Gateless Gate, Case 37 - Selflessness is what makes a paramita a “perfection.” To explore  the wisdom paramita, Shugen Roshi takes up Shantideva's description of the two truths of the relative and absolute. The two truths describe a reality in the mind of one who does not grasp on to appearances as real, and therefore is not in conflict with anything. In this perfect wisdom, when there is nothing to actually hold on to, what remains? Everything! These two truths are a foundational aspect of the Mahayana Buddhist path.

Geoffrey Shugen Arnold, Roshi - ZMM - 9/25/24 - Early teachings of Shantideva speak of mindfulness and related teachings of Asaṅga emphasize faith as a basis or foundation of practice. Shugen Roshi explains how this faith and mindfulness can lead to conviction and confidence in our capacity, and the energy of mindfulness can deepen our aspiration and joy in the path.

Welcome to The Nonlinear Library, where we use Text-to-Speech software to convert the best writing from the Rationalist and EA communities into audio. This is: Introduction to suffering-focused ethics, published by Center for Reducing Suffering on September 1, 2024 on The Effective Altruism Forum. By Simon Knutsson and Magnus Vinding This text is a general introduction to suffering-focused ethics. We describe different types of suffering-focused ethical views and explain some of the reasons why we find suffering-focused views reasonable. We also bring up and discuss some common misunderstandings and objections, and briefly cover some practical implications. 1. The core of suffering-focused ethical views In essence, suffering-focused ethical views give a foremost priority to the reduction of suffering.[1] According to such views, there is something especially important or urgent about alleviating and preventing suffering. Usually, the primary concern is severe suffering rather than discomforts. A simple example of a clearly suffering-focused view is the view that our only moral obligation is to reduce suffering as much as we can. Yet there are many types of suffering-focused views, as we will see in the next section. For instance, there can be differences in how strongly suffering is prioritised, as well as differences in terms of which considerations besides suffering are taken into account. Which views count as being suffering-focused? There is no sharp line that delineates exactly when a view is suffering-focused or not; it is a matter of degree. Still, it is useful to observe that there is a diverse group of ethical views according to which the reduction of suffering has a foremost priority.[2] 2. Different types of suffering-focused views Suffering-focused views can come in all the shapes and sizes that moral views come in. Some say that all that matters is the consequences of our actions. Others talk about character and virtues such as compassion, or about separate moral principles that need to be balanced against one another (for example, one principle about reducing suffering and another principle about respecting individual autonomy). Still others are less theoretical and leave more to moral judgement given the particulars of a situation.[3] There are many examples of suffering-focused views in both historical and contemporary ethical traditions. We are most familiar with Western sources and talk mostly about those, but there are also Eastern traditions that are suffering-focused. For instance, some of the main strands of Buddhist ethics give special priority to the reduction of suffering.[4] This includes the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, in which 8th-century philosopher Shantideva argued that we should "dispel the pains of all".[5] Below, we describe some examples of suffering-focused ethical views. We try to convey the diversity that exists and we focus on views that can be found in the literature (as opposed to merely possible views). 2.1 Consequentialist views When a suffering-focused view is impartial and only concerned with minimising suffering or ill-being, it is a form of (strong) negative utilitarianism.[6] The most popular version of that view is probably the view that one should minimise the total amount of suffering, or especially minimise the amount of extreme suffering.[7] Negative utilitarian views, like the one just mentioned, are members of the large family of consequentialist views, but there are other suffering-focused consequentialist views besides negative utilitarianism. For example, a view according to which one should reduce other bad things besides suffering, such as injustice, would be another variant of (strong) negative consequentialism. There are also suffering-focused consequentialist views that give a moral role to positive well-being or positive final value (the positive value something has for its own sake). According to these views, consequences for positive well-being or positiv...

 In his first talk on Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara Padmavajra speaks of Sangharakshita's evocation of the Bodhicitta. He goes on to talk about his discovery of the Bodhicarayavatara and what is known of the life of Shantideva. The main part of the talk is Padmavajra's discussion of some of the verses of the first chapter of the Bodhicaryavatara, especially of verse ten, in which the Bodhicitta is likened to the highly potent quicksilver elixir of the alchemist, capable of transforming the worst of things into the Bodhicitta. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre as part of the series Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara, 2020. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favorite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

Geoffrey Shugen Arnold, Roshi - ZMM - 8/11/24 - Habits of mind, which in the beginning of practice seem untameable, can be grounded through awareness, and that's just the start of learning to be at ease with the mind. We come to appreciate our own ability to settle and to realize our capacity to experience the inherent steadiness of mind. With help from Shantideva and the contemporary Buddhist monk-scholar Anālayo, Shugen Roshi outlines ways to practice, and seeing into the nature of all reality.

Shantideva's Dedication Prayer is one of H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama's favourite dedications, extracted from Chapter 10 of the Bodhicharyavatara of Master Shantideva. Treasured by Buddhists of all traditions, The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara) is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment and to generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience. This text has been studied, practiced, and expounded upon in an unbroken tradition for centuries. Presented in the form of a personal meditation in verse, it outlines the path of the Bodhisattvas--those who renounce the peace of individual enlightenment and vow to work for the liberation of all beings and to attain buddhahood for their sake. Shantideva was a scholar in the eighth century from the monastic university Nalanda, one of the most celebrated centers of learning in ancient India. According to legend, Shantideva was greatly inspired by the celestial bodhisattva Manjushri, from whom he secretly received teachings and great insights. Music: Wings of an Angel - Amitābha Buddha - with loving thank to 'Wings' for his gifts of music.

‘Just as I love and cherish my body, which is divided into many limbs, so I should love and cherish this whole world, which is divided into many beings.' So says Shantideva in his famous ‘Guide to the Path of Awakening'. In this talk Vadanya will explore what Shantideva tells us about the wisdom teaching of ‘anatman' – often translated as ‘no-self' – and look at how this apparently negative doctrine opens up a positive and inspiring vision of connectedness. Given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2024. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favorite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

Dharma talk given by Daniel Scharpenburg, May 26, 2024. Music by Barefoot Bran Music.

"...May I be a guard for those who have no protector, A guide for those who journey on the road.For those who wish to go across the water, May I be a boat, a raft, a bridge..."This week, I am reading a reflection from Shantideva from the 8th century AD.Reflection Questions:Which metaphor most resonates with your work?Consider asking a donor which metaphor resonates with them about your work.To read:  Shantideva BodhisattvaThis work has entered the public domain.To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com.Music credit: Woeisuhmebop

Olá ouvinte! O fim de ano chegou e com ele fizemos uma pausa para pensar no que 2023 representou para nós, do que tiramos dos dias de vida que ganhamos e como gastamos o nosso tempo. Falamos sobre as coisas que nos irritaram (não foram poucas) e do que nos fez bem. Muito obrigado pela boa vontade com que nos ouviram e desejamos a todos um ótimo 2024. _______________________________________ Site: https://ocastdosespiritos.libsyn.com Instagram: @ocastdosespiritos   Youtube: https://bit.ly/ocastdosespiritos  _______________________________________ Referências: MCRAVEN, William H. Arrume a sua cama: Pequenas coisas que podem mudar a sua vida... E talvez o mundo. . Editora: ‎ Academia. MCRAVEN, William H. O código do herói: Lições aprendidas das vidas que vivemos. Editora: ‎ Academia; 1ª edição USARSKI. Frank. O budismo e as outras: Encontros e desencontros entre as grandes religiões mundiais.  Editora Ideias & Letras; 3ª edição (30 novembro 2009). EPSTEIN, Mark. Terapia zen: Quando a psicologia e o budismo se encontram no divã. Editora: ‎ Vestígio; 1ª edição. EPSTEIN, Mark. Pensamentos sem pensador: Psicoterapia pela perspectiva budista. Editora: ‎ Gryphus Editora; 2ª edição SHANTIDEVA, Atcharya.Engajamento na Ação Bodisatva. (apenas ebook disponível). BACHELOR, Stephen. Budismo sem crenças. Editora: ‎ Palas Athena; 1ª edição. BACHELOR, Stephen. Confissões de um Ateu Budista. Editora: ‎ Pensamento; 1ª edição. Meditações. Marco Aurélio. Editora: ‎ Edipro; 1ª edição HOLIDAY, Ryan. A Vida dos Estoicos: A Arte de Viver, de Zenão a Marco Aurélio. Editora: ‎ Intrínseca; 1ª edição. BREWER, Judson. Desconstruindo a ansiedade: Um guia para superar os maus hábitos que geram agitação, preocupação e medo. Editora: ‎ Editora Sextante. HARRIS, Dan. 10% mais feliz: Como aprendi a silenciar a mente, reduzi o estresse e encontrei o caminho para a felicidade - Uma história real. Editora: ‎ Editora Sextante. NESTOR, James. Respire: A nova ciência de uma arte perdida. James Nestor. Editora: ‎ Intrínseca  

Back by popular demand, Deborah Eden Tull joins Tenzin for a timely conversation about how to hold space and stay present in deeply challenging times. Recorded at the beginning of the renewed conflict between Israel and Hamas, this episode shares deep insight on how we can navigate polarization and difficulty with compassion and engagement with our shared humanity.

Shantideva (8th Cent. - 8th Cent.)Translated by Lionel David Barnett (1871 - 1960) Shantideva is particularly renowned as the author of the Bodhicaryavatara (sometimes also called the Bodhisattvacaryavatara). An English translation of the Sanskrit version of the Bodhicaryavatara is available online, as well as in print in a variety of translations, sometimes glossed as "A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way Of Life" or "Entering the Path of Enlightenment." It is a long poem describing the process of enlightenment from the first thought to full buddhahood and is still studied by Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhists today.It has ten chapters dedicated to the development of bodhicitta (the mind of enlightenment) through the practice of the six perfections (Skt. Pāramitās). The text begins with a chapter describing the benefits of the wish to reach enlightenment. The sixth chapter on the Pāramitā of patience (Skt. Kṣānti, kshanti) is considered by many Buddhists to be the pinnacle of writing on this subject and is the source of numerous quotations attributed to Śāntideva. Tibetan scholars consider the ninth "Wisdom" chapter to be one of the most succinct expositions of the Madhyamaka view. The tenth chapter is used as one of the most popular Mahāyāna prayers. ( Wikipedia) Genre(s): Other religions, Asian Antiquity Language: English --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/librivox1/support

Here Suryaka offers reflections on the third verse of Triratna's Sevenfold Puja, Salutation, by exploring the range of possible responses we can have to Buddhism, from contentment with worldly life, to intellectual agreement with Buddhism, or to the wholesale devotion exemplified by Shantideva. This is the third talk in a series at the Manchester Buddhist Centre on the Sevenfold Puja, 2010. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favorite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

Jody Hojin Kimmel, Sensei - ZCNYC - 10/15/2023 - How do we walk the path of peace in this life, especially in times of great conflict and violence? How do we practice intimacy with our tendency to create conflict in our actions, words, and thoughts? And how do we manifest (as Shantideva puts it) "May even acts of harm help the violent to awaken"?

Review on the first four verses of Chapter 9 of Shantideva's text.

In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of ‘Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas'. Leigh reveals his upcoming solo retreat plans and personal meditation goals and considers why it is that he continues to meditate after so many decades of practice. Leigh recalls his career as a computer programmer and draws analogies from the computer world to the workings of human beings on the Dharma path. Leigh expresses his views on AI, in particular whether or not AI will replace meditation teachers, and goes on to explore what makes a great meditation teacher and what makes a bad one, as well as the importance of heart connection when leading retreats, and answers the question ‘how enlightened should someone be before they can teach meditation?. Leigh also shares an exchange he had with an AI in which he asks questions about jhana meditation and evaluates the AI's answers. Leigh goes on to offer his take on Shinzen Young's ultrasound neuromodulation research and questions the possibility of its efficacy to bring about meaningful spiritual progress. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify. … 01:20 - Why does Leigh still go on solo meditation retreats? 06:15 - How has meditation changed Leigh's life? 06:42 - Leigh's meditation goals 08:30 - Why do intermediate and advanced practitioners stop practicing? 11:42 - The early days of computer programming 14:40 - Working as a computer programmer 18:09 - Writing a Tibetan-Tibetan dictionary for Tsoknyi Rinpoche 21:33 - Building his own DOS box 23:41 - Overlaps between computer programming and meditation 26:47 - Pros of cons of computer metaphors for describing humans and the Dharma 28:53 - KISS and other computer metaphors for meditation 32:02 - Buddhist fundamentalism and the doctrine of rebirth 34:41 - Did the Buddha really believe in rebirth? 38:21 - The lies of the Buddha 42:32 - Is Buddhist fundamentalism compatible with enlightenment? 45:46 - Does belief in rebirth prevent enlightenment? 49:02 - The immortality project 49:26 - Did Buddhism degrade or evolve? 53:34 - Mahayana writers who Leigh enjoys 54:07 - Why Leigh loves Shantideva's chapter on dedication 55:55 - Computers and Buddhism 58:33 - Will AI replace human programmers? 01:05:15 - Will AI teach meditation better than human teachers? 01:06:54 - What makes a really good meditation teacher 01:10:22 - Leigh asks AI dharma questions: what is the cause of dukkha? 01:13:41 - How do I know if I'm practicing jhana correctly? 01:15:05 - Why are the jhanas important? 01:16:23 - How can I tell whether I'm in 3rd of 4th jhana? 01:17:15 - How does one go from 4th to 5th jhana? 01:17:49 - Trouble entering the 1st jhana 01:19:12 - The human connection in meditation interviews 01:19:54 - How to establish a heart connection with your meditation students 01:23:11 - Is AI better than a mediocre meditation teacher? 01:26:30 - What makes a bad meditation teacher? 01:30:13 - How to spot a teacher with an agenda 01:32:56 - Why Leigh dislikes the Mahasi noting practice 01:34:53 - How enlightened should a meditation be? 01:40:12 - How Leigh tests Westerners who claim full enlightenment 01:42:17 - Buddhist faith claims vs other religions 01:48:28 - Buddhist vs Christian faiths 01:51:09 - Leigh challenges Shinzen's attempts to use ultrasound to induce nirodha 01:52:05 - How stream entry really works 01:54:13 - Using ultrasound to induce jhana states 01:56:23 - Does Leigh see any use in Shinzen's research? 01:57:42 - Could ultrasound jumpstart mediocre and fearful meditators? 02:01:20 - The spiritual path is about letting go … Previous episodes with Leigh Brasington: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=brasington To find our more about Leigh Brasington visit: - http://www.leighb.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 6 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/vgxT53bKkDoTwitter: @shastaabbey

Commentary to verses 6-8 of Chapter 9, "Wisdom," of Shantideva's "Engaging in the Bodhisattva's Deeds."

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 5 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZEDqQ2xTO_YTwitter: @shastaabbey

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 4 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/541rLTpQQ48Twitter: @shastaabbey

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 3 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/R5OwG3AsT6YTwitter: @shastaabbey

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 2 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/UaVh487nX3sTwitter: @shastaabbey

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. This is talk 1 of 6 (not including the introduction).YouTube: https://youtu.be/v-yLdp9M-gsTwitter: @shastaabbey

Rev. Master Meian Elbert, Abbess of Shasta Abbey, leads a retreat during the week of August 20, 2023. The retreat is focused on a discourse delivered by the 8th century monk named Shantideva called 'Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra'  or in English, 'The Way of the Bodhisattva'. YouTube: https://youtu.be/i-foGFWRUwATwitter: @shastaabbey

The mind is the creator of everything—all happiness and suffering. Thus, gaining control over the mind is the only real and reliable way to live a happy, peaceful life. Buddha said that "we make our destiny, “therefore, control yourself.”   To tame the mind, a practitioner relies on mindfulness. Although "mindfulness" is a broadly used term, its original meaning in Buddhist texts means remembering the right actions and avoiding the wrong ones. During meditation, this involves remembering and remaining on the meditation objective you've chosen. For example, when doing a breathing meditation like counting the breath, mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of the breath. However, in daily life, mindfulness means remembering our planned practice and staying aware of what our body, speech, and mind are up to!  Mindfulness refers to knowing what's going on in your body, speech, and mind and being mindful of your actions, words, and thoughts. When we're mindful, we're not acting on autopilot. How does controlling the mind protect us from suffering? The purpose of mindfulness is to control our minds and, therefore, our actions. According to Buddhist teachings, our harmful past actions, or karma, lead to misfortunes and dangers. An intention in the mind always precedes these actions, so negative karma comes from an uncontrolled mind. On the other hand, a disciplined mind restrains us from harmful actions and encourages virtuous behavior, keeping us safe. The Indian Buddhist master Shantideva said that taming our minds won't necessarily save us if we are attacked by a tiger, lion, or elephant. But it will prevent us from accumulating the karma that would lead to such dangers in the future.  How does controlling the mind lead to all happiness? All good qualities come from the mind, including the six perfections of a Bodhisattva: generosity, ethical discipline, patience, joyful effort, concentration, and wisdom. From good habits in the mind, like these, arise good intentions, so we give to others. We are patient and kind. We make an effort to meditate and so forth, creating good actions or karma. From good karma comes every happiness we experience, as Taylor Swift sings in her song “Karma:” “Karma is the breeze in my hair on the weekend Karma's a relaxing thought Aren't you envious that for you it's not? Sweet like honey, karma is a cat Purring in my lap 'cause it loves me” Good karma ripens as anything from having a mind predisposed to happiness, generosity, or patience, to pleasant experiences like seeing a beautiful sunset. Training our minds in good habits leads to positive actions, which directly leads to our moments of happiness and their causes. Admonish yourself.  Control yourself.  O bhikkhu, self-guarded and mindful,  You will live happily. (379)    Oneself, indeed, is one's own protector.  One does, indeed, make one's own destiny.  Therefore, control yourself  As a merchant does a fine horse. (380) --Buddha, The Dhammapada Links to References Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. (Kindle). Shambala, Boston and London, 2011 (Link) Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy .of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=379 Find us at the links below:  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Facebook Group:Join our private group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox Website: Buddhismforeveryone.com

Shantideva on giving up childish behavior and following in the steps of the wise

How Shantideva's verses can be misunderstood, leading to unsound conclusions.

Commentary on Shantideva's verses that explain how to exchange self and others.

The great teacher Shantideva emphasized the importance of vigilance, of protecting our minds  •  at the same time, tremendous emphasis is placed on maintaining an open, welcoming mind  •  so what's the difference between vigilance and just closing our mind in a negative or unhelpful way?  •  one way of looking at this is to think of your mind as a house  •  inside your house are your children or maybe a safe with all your resources in it  •  someone knocks on the door, and you have to decide whether to let them in  •  you want to be willing to accommodate what comes at you, but you also want to be willing to reject that which is threatening something as precious as your little children or the sanity of your own mind  •  but we're not just closing off anything that's bothering us; in this case, we're only closing off the many ways we run away from our own inherent awakening  •  the qualities of mindfulness and awareness are powerful and precious, but they are easily lost; that is why vigilance is so important.  

This talk explores the emergence of the Bodhisattva Ideal in the Mahayana tradition. Nagapriya discusses the historical context in which this basic concept developed, its ties to early Buddhist texts, and what the bodhisattva's life entails, on both the mundane and cosmic levels. Here, he shares a reading on forbearance from the Bodhicaryavatara by Shantideva.  Excerpted from the The Ideal of Universal Awakening given at Manchester Buddhist Centre, as part of the series Visions of Mahayana Buddhism, 2009. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting! Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favourite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

How do you become a Bodhisattva? Upon the Awakening of the Bodhi Heart (Bodhichitt-otpada). In this lecture Sangharakshita defines the Bodhichitta, and describes how one can prepare for its arising through the observance of Shantideva's Supreme Worship and Vasubhandu's Four Factors. Talk given in 1969 as part of the series entitled: Aspects of the Bodhisattva Ideal *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favorite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

"Taking this image of the human form the Bodhicitta transmutes it into the priceless image of the Jewel of the Conqueror. Grasp tightly this highly potent elixir, known as the Bodhicitta, which must be thoroughly worked."  In this talk on Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara Padmavajra speaks of Sangharakshita's evocation of the Bodhicitta. Here, he discusses some of the verses of the first chapter, especially of verse ten, in which the Bodhicitta is likened to the highly potent quicksilver elixir of the alchemist, capable of transforming the worst of things into the Bodhicitta. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, April 2020, as part of the series Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast:  On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting! Subscribe using these RSS feeds or search for Free Buddhist Audio or Dharmabytes in your favourite podcast service! Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone: donate now! Follow Free Buddhist Audio: YouTube  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Soundcloud

Norman gives his third talk on Shantideva on Patience from a "Bodhisattva's Way of Life" chapter 6, Stephen Batchelor edition. "Suggested donation: $7 https://bit.ly/donate-edz-online-teachings We cannot continue offering teachings online without it. Thank you! https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/edz.assets/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/27075621/Shantideva-on-Patience-Talk-3-A-Guide-to-the-Bodhisattvas-Way-of-Life.mp3

Norman gives his second talk on Shantideva on Patience from a "Bodhisattva's Way of Life" chapter 6, Stephen Batchelor edition. "Suggested donation: $7 https://bit.ly/donate-edz-online-teachings We cannot continue offering teachings online without it. Thank you!   https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/edz.assets/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/19141444/Shantideva-on-Patience-Talk-2-A-Guide-to-the-Bodhisattvas-Way-of-Life.mp3

Norman gives his first talk of a three part series of Shantideva's teachings on "Patience" from "A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" chapter 6. Suggested donation: $7 https://bit.ly/donate-edz-online-teachings We cannot continue offering teachings online without it. Thank you! https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/edz.assets/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/13152852/Shantideva-Patience-Talk-1-from-A-Guide-to-the-Bodhisatttvas-Way-of-Life.mp3

Chris Fortin gives a talk on "Shantideva and Bodhicitta, the Awakening Heart-Mind" to the December Everyday Zen All Day Sitting. Suggested donation: $7 https://bit.ly/donate-edz-online-teachings We cannot continue offering teachings online without it. Thank you! https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/edz.assets/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/19114413/Shantideva-and-Bodhicitta-Awakening-Heart-Mind-Chris-Fortin-All-Day-Sitting-December-2022.mp3

This week we're revisiting a favourite Awake in the World podcast episode. Michael discusses Chapter 5 of the Shantideva and the way negative emotional mood swings cannot hold together for very long without thoughts. How we have to inject stories into our moods to keep them afloat; and the practices for transforming anger. Recorded on February 26, 2013.

Norman gives his talk on Shantideva's "Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" to the November 2022 All Day Sitting at Green Gulch Farm. https://s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/edz.assets/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/27152558/Shantidevas-_Guide-to-the-Bodhisattvas-Way-of-Life.mp3

When we're being selfish, our actions are motivated by attachment to our happiness, reputation, opinion, expectations being met, etc. As we practiced after the last episode, we again practice cherishing others as an opponent to attachment. This time, however, we try to motivate our practice of cherishing others by a wish for all living beings to be happy and free from suffering. The following story and accompanying verses of the Buddha illustrate how living beings are trapped in a cycle of suffering and uncontrolled rebirth. The escape route is enlightenment. So the motivation for our practice of cherishing others can go as deep as the wish to become enlightened yourself. For who else can point to the escape route?   The Story of a Young Sow   “While residing at the Veluvana monastery, the Buddha uttered Verses (338) to (343) of this book, with reference to a young sow.   On one occasion, while the Buddha was on an alms-round at Rajagaha, he saw a young dirty sow and smiled. When asked by the Venerable Ananda, the Buddha replied, "Ananda, this young sow was a hen during the time of Kakusandha Buddha. As she was then staying near a refectory in a monastery she used to hear the recitation of the sacred text and the discourses on the Dhamma. When she died she was reborn as a princess. On one occasion, while going to the latrine, the princess noticed the maggots and she became mindful of the loathsomeness of the body, etc. When she died she was reborn in the Brahma realm as a puthujjana brahma but later due to some evil kamma, she was reborn as a sow. Ananda! Look, on account of good and evil kamma there is no end of the round of existences." (Translated by  Daw Mya Tin, M.A.)   The following verses were spoken by Buddha after this discussion with Ananda.   Verse 341: In beings, there flows happiness that is smeared with craving; those beings attached to pleasure and seeking pleasure are, indeed, subject to birth and ageing.   Verse 342: People beset with craving are terrified like a hare caught in a snare; held fast by fetters and bonds they undergo dukkha (round of rebirths) again and again, for a long time.   Verse 343: People beset with craving are terrified like a hare caught in a snare. Therefore, One who wishes to free himself from craving should eradicate craving.   -Buddha, The Dhammapada   May I be a protector for the protectorless  A guide for those on the path A boat, a raft, a bridge for those who wish to cross the flood May I be a light in the darkness A resting place for the weary A healing medicine for all who are sick A vase of plenty, a tree of miracles And for the boundless multitudes of living beings May I bring sustenance and awakening Enduring like the earth and sky Until all beings are freed from sorrow And all are awaken —by Shantideva, Buddhist sage 700 A.D., India   We take a practical step in that direction and make the intention to cherish others. With the mantra “May you be happy”, may you be free of suffering”  References with Links   Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=338 Find us at the links below:  https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone Join our private group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/ https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox

Jody Hojin Kimmel, Sensei - Zen Center of New York City, Fire Lotus Temple, Sunday 10/23/2022 - Hojin Sensei speaks about Shantideva's "The Way of the Bodhisattva" as a deep teaching about our true nature. She brings alive the meeting point of our Bodhisattva vows and our growing edges, the absolute and the relative, emptiness and form.

Opening with a guided "Seven Limb of Practice" meditation Robert Thurman in this episode gives an all levels teaching on the Four Noble Truths and the transformational practice of the exchange of self for others or Lojong. Episode includes an explanation of the yoga of positive evolutionary action and how acting transcendentally and shift our understanding of reality and emotional interrelationship with all beings, friend, foe and loved ones.  Concludes with an overview of the Bodhisattva vow as taught by Shantideva for those of all backgrounds, faiths and traditions. “Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.” – Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet” This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com. Mind Reform: Becoming the Engine of Happiness for All - Ep. 308 via www.shutterstock.com.

There are lots of reasons to be angry right now. It's often said that if you're not outraged, you're not paying attention. But according to scholar Allison Aitken, anger only leads to further harm, no matter how justified it may feel in the moment. As a professor of philosophy, Aitken believes that Buddhist texts offer valuable resources for working with our anger and healing contemporary divisions. Drawing from the work of the eighth-century Indian philosopher Shantideva, she positions compassion as a substitute attitude for anger and lays out methods for moving beyond righteous rage. In this episode of Tricycle Talks, Tricycle's editor-in-chief, James Shaheen, sits down with Aitken to talk about how anger distorts our perceptions, why anger can be so seductive, and how we can transform our rage into compassion.

When we pray for the strength to protect others, I believe that we magnetize more Light into our lives, that inclusive prayer has extra sway in the universe. Because it's universal law–to give is to receive. A very powerful prayer for these times is the Shantideva Prayer. It helps impress on our psyches that WE ARE TOGETHER in everything, in all life's experiences. From that heart center, our perceived “sides” and polarities start to dissolve and crumble (may they dissolve and crumble with Godspeed!).