58 (Day) Notes | Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3) | Sutta Study @ Buddhist Maha Vihara, Brickfields | Bhante Dr. G. Chandima

 

1. What is the meaning of "Dhamma"? Are there various contextual interpretations of the term?

2. What was the state of the Dhamma before the Buddha's emergence? (Nagara Sutta SN 12.65)

3. Why did the Buddha initially hesitate to teach or share the Dhamma after his enlightenment? (Mahākhandhaka KD 1)

4. Why is the Buddha's Dhamma not considered a divine revelation?

It transcends both revelation and legendary speculation with theological implications; instead, it represents the enduring Truth that prevails throughout the Universe—a unique discovery by the Buddha. (Kesamuttisutta, AN 3.65), (Alagaddūpamasutta MN 22).

5. Why is the Buddha's Dhamma referred to as "svākkhāto"?

The Dhamma is masterfully expounded by the Teacher; it is excellent in its beginning, middle, and end. It is free from contradictions and interpolations, maintaining a steadfast and direct path. Just as every drop of ocean water shares the singular taste of salt, the Dhamma consistently embodies the one and only taste of Nibbanic bliss. It is genuine in both letter and spirit. The foundation of the Dhamma begins with Sila, which represents right conduct, upon which ‘Samadhi’—a state of mental tranquility—is built. Following this, Panna, or wisdom, emerges once ‘Samadhi’ is firmly established.

6.  Why is the Buddha's Dhamma referred to as "sandiṭṭhiko"?

"sandiṭṭhiko" conveys that when the Dhamma is thoroughly studied and sincerely practiced, its beneficial effects become evident here and now. For instance, even a wicked individual—a genuine curse to both himself and society—can find refuge in the Buddha and the Dhamma, leading to the end of his troubles and miseries. A striking example is Emperor Asoka, who, after embracing Buddhism, transformed from the tyrannical ruler known as Candasoka into the just and compassionate Dhammasoka.

7.  Why is the Buddha's Dhamma referred to as "akāliko"?

"akāliko" signifies that the beneficial effects of practicing the Dhamma are immediate and not delayed. Despite the passage of time since its pronouncement, the Dhamma remains ever fresh and relevant, aligning even with contemporary scientific thought. Truth, by its very nature, is timeless. The Dhamma embodies this timeless Truth, revealing the reality that underlies all phenomena in Samsara. In essence, the Dhamma teaches that the world is inherently unsatisfactory, with greed as its unavoidable cause.The remedy for this unsatisfactoriness lies in the eradication of greed, achievable through the practice of the Noble Eightfold Path, a set of eight skillful factors that guide one toward liberation.