Explore every episode of the podcast Sutta Meditation Series
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| *EXTRACT* from The Third doorway to Nibbana — CONTEMPLATION OF MIND (cittanupassana) | 21 Sep 2024 | 00:14:24 | |
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. For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| *EXTRACT* Buddha's qualities: "unsurpassed trainer of persons to be tamed" — THE EIGHT DIRECTIONS | 28 Sep 2024 | 00:18:52 | |
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. For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| THE MASTERY OF BUDDHA'S INSTRUCTIONS (updated) | 29 May 2024 | 01:32:00 | |
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. For all enquiries - suttameditationseries@gmail.com | |||
| 6.3 THOSE WHO DELIGHT IN THE PEACE OF RENUNCIATION (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 31 May 2022 | 00:14:05 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 6.2 HOW THE BUDDHA FULFILLED THE HIGHER PERFECTION OF RENUNCIATION (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 28 May 2022 | 00:37:22 | |
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: Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| BUDDHIST PILGRIMAGE - Dhamma Q&A | 22 May 2022 | 01:00:09 | |
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:
Suttas referred to directly or indirectly:
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 | |||
| THE TRUE GOAL OF SPIRITUAL LIFE - with meditation practice (FULL DHAMMA SESSION, Vesak Poya) | 15 May 2022 | 02:27:15 | |
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:
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:
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 | |||
| DHAMMA-FOLLOWER, FAITH-FOLLOWER & STREAM ENTRY - Dhamma Q&A | 09 May 2022 | 00:43:57 | |
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:
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 | |||
| THE BENEFITS OF THOROUGHLY LEARNING THE DHAMMA | 06 May 2022 | 00:29:39 | |
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:
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 | |||
| THE STORY OF NANDA, THE HERDSMAN - Dhammapada verse 42 | 05 May 2022 | 00:14:35 | |
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, “Whatever an enemy would do to an enemy, Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:
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 | |||
| HOW TO LIVE LONGER | 01 May 2022 | 00:33:46 | |
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:
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 | |||
| WHAT IS THE IDEAL WAY TO LISTEN TO DHAMMA? | 27 Apr 2022 | 00:28:47 | |
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:
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 | |||
| THE STORY OF A BHIKKHU WHO WISHED TO TAME THE MIND - Dhammapada verse 35 | 26 Apr 2022 | 00:21:05 | |
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, “Difficult to subdue (control), Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:
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 | |||
| METTA LAB — Weekly Slow Session 06 — Karaniyametta Sutta (cont.) | 25 May 2024 | 01:10:53 | |
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 | |||
| 6.1 THE GREAT FRUIT AND BENEFIT OF OBSERVING THE UPOSATHA (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 22 Apr 2022 | 00:56:43 | |
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 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:
Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| APPLYING THE MEDICINE FOR THE FIVE HINDRANCES AND THE VITAKKASAṆṬHĀNA SUTTA - Dhamma Q&A | 19 Apr 2022 | 00:21:20 | |
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:
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 | |||
| CAN YOU GET TO THE HIGHER CONCENTRATION* OF MIND BY FOLLOWING A GUIDED MEDITATION? - Dhamma Q&A | 17 Apr 2022 | 00:05:20 | |
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 | |||
| CAN YOU CONFIRM WHEN TO APPLY THE SIGNS & WHEN IT'S APPROPRIATE TO SWITCH MEDITATION? - Dhamma Q&A | 17 Apr 2022 | 00:07:21 | |
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:
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 | |||
| TAMING THE MIND (FULL DHAMMA SESSION, Poya) | 16 Apr 2022 | 02:01:05 | |
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:
Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:
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=MI--iA79bMw Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| "DO NOT POLLUTE YOURSELF" | 15 Apr 2022 | 00:17:34 | |
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:
The extended talk on the Pamādavihārī Sutta (SN 35.97) can be heard in Episode 21 - https://bit.ly/3vh5Th3 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 | |||
| "ON RETREAT" | 10 Apr 2022 | 00:11:42 | |
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 | |||
| 6.0 BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON THE BLESSINGS OF RENUNCIATION (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 09 Apr 2022 | 00:38:49 | |
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:
Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| "ALL THE FEELS" | 01 Apr 2022 | 00:47:20 | |
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:
Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| Take a closer look at non-metta | 30 Mar 2022 | 00:36:34 | |
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:
Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| WHAT MAKES US HEIRS IN DHAMMA (Vesak livestream) | 23 May 2024 | 02:15:17 | |
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 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 | |||
| DEPOPULATION | 26 Mar 2022 | 00:26:28 | |
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:
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 | |||
| UNFAVOURABLE CONDITIONS FOR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE | 24 Mar 2022 | 00:32:58 | |
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:
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 | |||
| KNOWING WHAT BRINGS DOWNFALL & MAKING WISE CHOICES (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 21 Mar 2022 | 00:56:37 | |
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:
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 | |||
| WHAT BRINGS DOWNFALL? | 18 Mar 2022 | 01:16:08 | |
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:
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 | |||
| A CONTEMPLATION ON "WHAT IS HAPPINESS? WHAT IS SUFFERING?" | 13 Mar 2022 | 00:22:17 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 5.6 SIMPLIFIED POTALIYA SUTTA Guided Meditation - Developing Wisdom (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 08 Mar 2022 | 00:53:38 | |
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:
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) 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 | |||
| THE GREAT DREAMS OF KING PASENADI OF KOSALA | 06 Mar 2022 | 00:46:52 | |
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 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 | |||
| Diffusing the war in our mind… | 02 Mar 2022 | 00:23:05 | |
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 not with the challenging and divisive conditions in the world (external). Some of the suttas referred to directly or indirectly:
Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| 5.5 HOW TO MEDITATE ON THE SIMILES IN THE POTALIYA SUTTA - SIMPLIFIED VERSION (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 27 Feb 2022 | 00:45:56 | |
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:
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 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 | |||
| 5.4 SENSUAL PLEASURES, POVERTY & DEBT (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 22 Feb 2022 | 00:52:45 | |
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:
Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| METTA LAB — Weekly Slow Session 05 — Karaniyametta Sutta (cont.) | 18 May 2024 | 01:23:20 | |
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 — (to be updated) 00:00 Metta Lab - Karaṇīyametta Sutta - 18 May 2024 05:43 Quick recap 09:13 What is noble washing? 13:24 Guided meditation - up to prudent 40:36 Courteous (appagabbho) 41:27 How do we become courteous? 48:27 How do we not yearn to associate with families or groups (kulesvananugiddho)? 55:38 Understanding supramundane loving kindness, right view (not me and mine) activates the noble eightfold path 1:11:14 Not do the slightest wrong (not to fall from skilled states, not backslide) 1:12:08 Understanding the three kinds of authority helpful to not being reproved or blamed 1:18:26 "May all beings be happy" 1:22:21 Sharing the merit & blessings The focus is on developing *supramundane* loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.
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 | |||
| 5.3 THE STORY OF BĀLANAKKHATTA FESTIVAL - Dhammapada verses 26-27 (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 20 Feb 2022 | 00:40:01 | |
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
Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
... 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 | |||
| BENEFICIAL TALK (FULL DHAMMA SESSION, Poya) | 16 Feb 2022 | 01:41:51 | |
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:
Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| WHO ARE OUR ROLE MODELS? - Venerable Nanda Thera (foremost who guard the sense doors) | 10 Feb 2022 | 00:37:36 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 4.11 THE REALM OF NĀGAS - Dhamma Q&A (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 10 Feb 2022 | 00:18:59 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 5.2 REPROGRAMMING THE PLEASURE SEEKER (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 06 Feb 2022 | 00:49:36 | |
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:
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 | |||
| How do you start your day? | 04 Feb 2022 | 00:15:01 | |
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 | |||
| 5.1 STORIES ON WHAT IS BELOVED - Dhammapada verses 212-216 (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:28:38 | |
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:
Some of the suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| 5.0 BUDDHA'S GRADUAL INSTRUCTIONS TO LAY PEOPLE ON DANGER IN SENSUAL PLEASURES (YOUTH DHAMMA SESSION) | 31 Jan 2022 | 01:04:08 | |
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:
Suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this session:
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 | |||
| 4.10 DETAILS OF THE FORMLESS REALMS - Dhamma Q&A cont. (Youth Dhamma Session) | 28 Jan 2022 | 00:40:47 | |
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:
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=TreKSicViMc Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||
| THE STORY OF NIGAMAVĀSITISSA THERA - Dhammapada verse 32 | 25 Jan 2022 | 00:27:44 | |
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, “A bhikkhu who delights in vigilance Other suttas that are mentioned directly or indirectly in this talk:
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 | |||
| METTA LAB — Weekly Slow Session 03 — Karaniyametta Sutta (cont.) | 28 Apr 2024 | 01:01:17 | |
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 — (to be updated) 00:00 Metta Lab - Karaṇīyametta Sutta -27 April 2024 05:35 Session begins 09:59 Quick recap 12:23 Transcending of unskilled states applying the Saṅkhadhama Sutta (SN 42.8) 28:05 Guided meditation up to easy to instruct 36:53 Gentle (mudu) 38:00 How do we become gentle? 44:57 Short meditation - gentle 49:25 Not arrogant (anatimānī) vs arrogant 53:05 How do we become humble or not arrogant? 56:39 Short meditation - not arrogant 1:03:53 Good friendship helps to abandon what is unwholesome 1:05:54 Sharing the merit & blessings The focus is on developing *supramundane* loving kindness in accordance with the Buddha's teachings in the Pali Canon.
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 | |||
| HOW TO CONTEMPLATE NEGLIGENCE VS VIGILANCE THROUGH EACH SENSE FACULTY (Extract from Full Dhamma Session) | 23 Jan 2022 | 00:43:18 | |
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 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 | |||
| WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT INSIGHT FROM YOUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE LAST YEAR? - Part 2 | 20 Jan 2022 | 00:16:23 | |
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 | |||
| HAPPINESS & JOY (FULL DHAMMA SESSION, Poya) | 19 Jan 2022 | 02:27:34 | |
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:
Some of the suttas covered directly or indirectly in this session:
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=X8k_jSE6sdY Blessings of the Triple Gem. Theruwan saranai | |||