Shamatha-Vipassana Meditation – Right Meditation
The article and talk introduces The Truth Of Happiness Dhamma Study and the first weeks’ study of Shamatha-Vipassana meditation. Information on The Truth Of Happiness book and dhamma study is …
Fall 2015 Dana Dinner
Our Fall 2015 Dana Dinner was another beautiful expression of community and great generosity of spirit! Thank you all for your mindful presence and generosity. Thank You Julie Klein and all of the staff at Lovin’ Oven. Thank You Matt Branham for your mindfulness,...When Dhamma Practice Is Stressful
Often “Buddhist” practice is initially engaged with as a response to the unsatisfactory nature of life. This begins to develop Right View but meditation and Dhamma practice should not create additional stress…
The Jhanas – Meditative Absorption
The Buddha described four levels of meditative states that are known as “jhanas.” These are not to be taken as mind states to achieve. The jhanas are simply an explanation of different levels of concentration. Much is made in the commentaries regarding the importance of achieving these states and the intense effort needed to reach the more “advanced” levels. There is no relative importance to any of these states except to point to the experience of deepening concentration…
Paradox and the Dhamma
Engaging in the dhamma and taking true refuge in the dhamma does not begin with recognizing the paradox of attempting to “save all sentient beings” but with the realistic and achievable goal…
Contentment and Gratitude in Practice
The refined mindfulness developed through whole-hearted engagement within the Eightfold Path brings the qualities of mind of contentment and gratitude…
The Mindfulness of Bahiya
The Buddha was serene, at peace. Bahiya placed himself at the Buddha’s feet and asked: “Teach me the Dhamma Awakened one. Teach me the Dhamma for my long-term welfare and lasting happiness…
Brahma-Vihara’s Four Sublime Mind States
There are four sublime states of mind that are taught by the Buddha. These are perfected mind-states that reflect an enlightened view of humanity…
Understanding Anicca, Anatta, and Dukkha
Anicca, impermanence, Anatta, not-self, and Dukkha, stress, unsatisfactoriness, are the three linked characteristics of life in the phenomenal world…
Right Mindfulness
Mindfulness in the context of The Four Noble Truths is to abandon the distraction of stress arising from craving clinging, and remain focused on The Eightfold Path…