Category Archives: Practice

What is enlightenment?

By Paul | Published: January 5, 2010
It’s not an original question. Immanuel Kant asked “What is enlightenment?” in an essay published in 1784. I don’t think Kant had Buddhism in mind, but still, it’s a question worth considering. In a previous post I wrote about The Island: An Anthology of the Buddha’s Teachings on Nibbana, by Ajanhs Pasanno and Amaro. Nibbana/nirvana is [...]
Also posted in Buddhism, Delusion, Dhamma, Eightfold Path, Four Noble Truths, Nibbana, The Buddha | 4 Comments

New Year’s intentions

By Paul | Published: January 2, 2010
I don’t recall ever having made New Year’s resolutions. I may have at one time, but the idea of it – no matter how well intended – seems just a lot of wishful thinking. (I do intend, however, to lose the five pounds I gained over the past couple of weeks.) Just the same, I think [...]
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Creating the causes and conditions of spiritual growth

By Paul | Published: August 21, 2009
In a recorded Dhamma talk given by Ajahn Jayasaro I listened to recently, he said it’s ineffective to use meditation and other forms of practice as a means to get something or somewhere. Rather, what’s important is to use one’s practice to create the causes and conditions for spiritual growth. That’s it: Just create the [...]
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Upasika Renewal at Abhayagiri

By Paul | Published: June 18, 2009
Sunday, while many are celebrating Father’s Day, I will be at Abhayagiri Monastery participating in the annual Upasika Renewal Day. I’ll be traveling there tomorrow with several others from Portland Friends of the Dhamma. It will be my first visit to Abhayagiri. We plan to arrive by 5:30, in time to share tea and conversation with [...]
Also posted in Buddhism, Meditation, Upasaka | Leave a comment