Paṭisota | From Mindful Insight to Heartfelt Wisdom

  1. Why is the Buddha called " satthā devamanussānaṃ "? The Buddha is the greatest teacher for both devas and humans. His teaching approach varies according to the individual, employing one of three methods: the gentle way, the harsh way, or a combination of both. Additionally, his teachings encompass a range of other important elements. (i) The sequence of topics he uses to introduce newcomers to Buddhism. Ānupubbikathā refers to a gradual or sequential teaching method in Buddhism, often used to introduce concepts progressively, making them easier to understand and integrate. This approach emphasizes starting with foundational ideas before moving on to more advanced teachings. 1. The Wonders of Generosity (Dāna):   Generosity is a powerful practice that cultivates compassion and strengthens community bonds. When we give without expecting anything in return, we experience a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. Generosity not only benefits others but also enriches our...

What is Reflection? Reflection is the ability to recognize and evaluate the intentions, outcomes, and drawbacks of our actions, speech, and thoughts before, during and after each activity. Evameva kho, rāhula, paccavekkhitvā paccavekkhitvā kāyena kammaṁ kattabbaṁ, paccavekkhitvā paccavekkhitvā vācāya kammaṁ kattabbaṁ, paccavekkhitvā paccavekkhitvā manasā kammaṁ kattabbaṁ  (Ambalaṭṭhikarāhulovādasutta MN 61) Rāhula, bodily (kāya) kamma should be done with reflection, verbal (vacī) kamma should be done with reflection, mental kamma (mano) should be done with reflection. Why is a lack of reflection an issue?  It leads to an inability to recognize the true nature of the mental states associated with our actions, speech, and thoughts, a condition known as apaccavekkhaṇā (not discerning the inherent qualities of phenomena). Importance of Reflection ( Iṭṭhadhammasutta AN 10.73) Here are ten roadblocks to the ten likable, desirable, and rare qualities in the world: 1. Wealt...

Belief in the existence/presence of  devās  is an integral aspect of   Sammā Diṭṭhi (right view).    According to the Culla Niddesa, there are several types of  devās :  - Uppatti Dev ā s : This category includes kings, queens, and other royal figures.   - Sammutī Dev ā s : These are the devas residing in the six heavenly realms.   - Visuddhi Dev ā s : This group encompasses arhants and Pacceka Buddhas, individuals who have attained high levels of spiritual purity.   - Devātideva : This is the supreme deva (Samm ā Samb uddha), regarded as the highest among the deities due to unparalleled purity.  This classification highlights the diverse nature of divine beings within Buddhist cosmology. 1.  Humans have the potential to embody  devā -like qualities. - Brahmavihāra (Aṭṭhakanāgara sutta MN 52) - By being good parents to your children. (Brahma sutta AN 4.63) - Couples (partners) can either live as if t...

  Dhammapda 35 (Sayings of the Dhamma) Citta (Thought) 35. Dunniggahassa lahuno, The thoughts, hard to manage, Yattha kāmanipātino; Flighty- alighting where it wishes- Cittassa damatho sādhu, One does well to tame. Cittaṁ dantaṁ sukhāvahaṁ. Disciplined thought brings happiness. Story: Aññatara bhikkhu vatthu

   1. Why is the Buddha called " lokavid ū "? The Buddha possesses a profound understanding of the world, encompassing all aspects of sensory experience. This includes a complete awareness of the arising and ceasing of all sensory phenomena, which reflects the depth of the Samma Sambuddha's knowledge. (see SN 35.23 Sabba Sutta)  - The Buddha teaches that true world exploration cannot be achieved alone through physical travel. For a deeper understanding, one must delve into the insights found in the Rohitassa Sutta (AN 4.45).  Download - Saṅkhāra World (3 main worlds and 31 realms):  Sensual 11 Material 16 immaterial 4. 2. Why is the Buddha called " Anuttaro Purisadamma S ā rathi "? The Buddha surpasses all beings in virtue, concentration, and wisdom, which is why he is called " anuttaro ."  The term " Purisadamma Sārathi " signifies his ability to guide and discipline even the most difficult individuals, whether human, animal, or non-human. F...

                Download

  Download

  Dhammapda 33-34 (Sayings of the Dhamma) Citta (Thought) 33. Phandanaṁ capalaṁ cittaṁ, The restless, agitated thought, dūrakkhaṁ dunni vārayaṁ; Hard to protect, hard to prevent, Ujuṁ karoti medhāvī, The sage makes straight, usukāro'va tejanaṁ. As a fletcher the shaft of an arrow 34.  Vārijo'va thale khitto, Like a fish out of water, okamokata ubbhato; Thrown on dry ground, Pariphandati'daṁ cittaṁ, This thought agitates, māradheyyaṁ pahātave. Trying to escape Mara's command (Hence should one abandon the realm of Mara). Story: Meghiya bhikkhu

  Dhammapda 32 (Sayings of the Dhamma) Appamāda ( Diligence) 32. Appamāda rato bhikkhu, The monastic who delights in diligence pamāde bhayadassi vā; And fears negligence Abhabbo parihānāya, Is incapable of backsliding nibbānasseva santike. And is quite close to Nibbana Story: Nigamatissa bhikkhu

                      The Pali word for sensual pleasure is " kāma ," while the term for lust is " kāmarāga ." There are two forms of kāma . 1.  Vatthu kāma  (Sensual pleasure as an object): The actual objects of sensual pleasure themselves, such as sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touch and thoughts. Vatthu Kama focuses on the sensory experiences available in the world. While these objects are not inherently defiled, greed to them can lead to Kilesa K ā ma if one becomes greedy. 2.  Kilesa kāma (Sensual pleasure as a defilement): This refers to the greed for sensual pleasures that lead to mental defilements.  Being able to enjoy sensual pleasures is indeed a blessing   However, due to certain akusala kamma, the mind may not naturally incline toward the enjoyment of fine food, clothing, vehicles, or the five refined forms of sensual stimulation ( na uḷāresu pañcasu kāmaguṇesu bhogāya cittaṁ namati ), a...

  1. Why is the Buddha called " arahaṃ "? - breaker of the spokes of the wheel of samsara ( ārakattā arahaṃ ) - destroyer of the akusala enemies, wielding the weapon of wisdom ( paññāsatthena arīnaṃ hatattāpi arahaṃ) - the one most worthy of the requisites ( paccayādīnaṃ arahattāpi arahaṃ) - the Buddha never engages in any akusala, even in secret ( pāpakaraṇe rahābhāvatopi arahaṃ) 2. Why is the Buddha called  " sammāsambuddho "? Sammā sāmañca sabbadhammānaṃ buddhattā (The Buddha acquired all the essential Dhamma expertise through five key avenues.) (i) The Buddha fully knew all that needed to be known. (abhiññeyye dhamme abhiññeyyato buddho) (ii) The Buddha completely realized everything that was meant to be fully understood. (pariññeyye dhamme pariññeyyato) (iii) The Buddha entirely relinquished all that needed to be given up. (pahātabbe dhamme pahātabbato) (iv) The Buddha fully realized all that is meant to be realized. (sacchikātabbe dhamme sacchikātabbato) (v)...

1. How should we understand Sakka in the context of the Dhajagga Sutta, as well as in other teachings within the Dhamma? Please see additional information  here.  2. Who is Pajāpati?  Pajāpati is a significant deity in Hindu mythology, often regarded as the "Lord of Creatures" or the "Creator." He is associated with creation and the universe, symbolizing the generative force behind all life. Pajāpati is sometimes identified with Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism, and is revered for his role in establishing order and progeny. In various texts, he is depicted as a wise and benevolent figure, often involved in cosmic and natural processes, and serves as a protector of the dharma (cosmic law and order). 3. Who is Varuṇa? Varuṇa is an ancient deity in Hindu mythology, associated primarily with water, the oceans, and the celestial sphere. He embodies the concepts of order, truth, and justice, serving as a guardian of moral and cosmic law (ṛta). Often depicted as a ...

  Please refer to the text and translation of the Dhajagga Sutta (SN 11.3) provided here.

  Day 48 An Overview of the Āḷavaka Sutta (SN 10.12) Day 49 Best Wealth, True Happiness, Best Taste and Best Life Day 50 Crossing the Akusala Floods and Samsara, Overcoming Dukkha and Purifying Oneself Day 51 How to Gain Wisdom, Wealth, Good Reputation, Friends, and Peace of Mind for Next Life Day 52 Review

What is self-kindness? Self-kindness is the practice of treating yourself with the same compassion, care, and understanding that you would offer a friend. It involves acknowledging your feelings and struggles without harsh judgment, fostering a positive inner dialogue, and prioritizing your well-being. By being gentle with yourself, you can cultivate resilience and promote emotional healing. Three Main Areas to consider about Self-Kindness 1.Recognizing worth 2. Acknowledging needs 3. Positive self-talk 5 Benefits of Self-Kindness Self-kindness can reduce anxiety and stress Self-kindness can boost self-esteem Being gentle with yourself can increase your overall happiness Self-kindness can enhance stress management Self-kindness can improve your resilience The journey toward self-kindness is an ongoing process and every small step counts.  10 Ways to Practice Self-Kindness Compliment yourself Practice gratitude toward yourself Speak to yourself with kindness Reflect on your day Prio...

  Dhammapda 31 (Sayings of the Dhamma) Appamāda ( Diligence) 31. Appamāda rato bhikkhu, The monastic who delights in diligence pamāde bhayadassi vā; And fears negligence Saṁyojanaṁ aṇuṁ thūlaṁ, Burning subtle and gross fetters, ḍahaṁ aggīv'a gacchati. Advances like a fire. Story: Aññatara bhikkhu

  Dhammapda 30 (Sayings of the Dhamma) Appamāda ( Diligence) 30. Appamādena maghavā, With (Diligence), Indra ( sakka ) Devānaṁ seṭṭhataṁ gato; Became the greatest of the deities. Appamādaṁ pasaṁsanti, The deities praise diligence, Pamādo garahito sadā. Forever rejecting negligence. Story:   Magha Vatthu Notes: In the Samyutta Nikaya (11:11) , it is recounted that when Sakka was a human being, he made and adhered to seven vows. As a result of these commitments, he was reborn as Sakka. His vows were as follows: 1. As long as I live, may I support my parents. (Yāvajīvaṁ mātāpettibharo assaṁ) 2. As long as I live, may I respect my elders. (yāvajīvaṁ kule jeṭṭhāpacāyī assaṁ) 3. As long as I live, may I speak gently. (yāvajīvaṁ saṇhavāco assaṁ) 4. As long as I live, may I avoid divisive speech. (yāvajīvaṁ apisuṇavāco assaṁ) 5. As long as I live, may I maintain a generous and charitable mind at home, delighting in giving and sharing, and free from stinginess. (yāvajīvaṁ vigatamalamac...

  Clear knowing arises from mindfulness of breathing ( ānāpānasati ) and then accompanies mindfulness throughout all four satipaṭṭhānas. Understanding  Sampajañña (Clear Knowing) Sampajañña is crucial in Buddhist meditation, referring to the ongoing mental process of monitoring one's body and mind. In Breath Meditation, it helps detect states of laxity (too less viriya ) and excitation (too much viriya ). It frequently pairs with mindfulness as "mindfulness and clear knowing" (Pāli: sati sampajañña ). For effective right mindfulness, sati must be integrated with sampajañña ; together, they enable mindfulness to achieve its true purpose. How important is Clear Knowing ( Sampajañña )? According to the Avijjā Sutta (AN 10.61) , a lack of mindfulness (bare attention or sati ) and clear knowing ( sampajañña ) stem from unwise attention ( ayoniso manasikāra ), lack of trust, neglecting true teachings, and associating with individuals lacking integrity. Essentially, without cl...