Abhayagiri Talks

Chanting blessings (paritta chanting) is a regular feature of Buddhist monastic life. Ajahn Jotipālo reflects upon this practice, telling several stories and emphasizing the power of truth. This talk was offered on June 17, 2015 at Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery. Download File

Beginning the day with a guided meditation, Ajahn Pasanno describes how to use in and out breathing to settle and brighten the body and mind. This guided meditation was offered on the daylong retreat “Desire or Aspiration: Can a Buddhist Want Anything?” at Spirit Rock Mediation Center on June 14, 2015. Download File

In the first talk of the day, Ajahn Pasanno differentiates between skillful and unskillful desire, distinguishing between two Pali words that are translated as desire: taṇhā, which is a cause of suffering, and chanda, which is one of the Four Bases of Success. The Bhujima Sutta (MN 126) states that the success of one's spiritual endeavor depends on skillfully directed effort rather than wishing for realization. This talk was offered on the daylong retreat “Desire or Aspiration: Can a Buddhist Want Anything?” at Spirit Rock Mediation Center on June 14, 2015. Download File

The second meditation period emphasizes listening to the mind, listening to desire. This guided meditation was offered on the daylong retreat “Desire or Aspiration: Can a Buddhist Want Anything?” at Spirit Rock Mediation Center on June 14, 2015. Download File

In the first question and answer session, Ajahn Pasanno responds to questions regarding the Bodhisatta's motivation for going forth, intention versus desire, a difficult family situation, habits that cause suffering, cures for burnout, and whether sexuality is a negative desire. This question and answer session occurred on the daylong retreat “Desire or Aspiration: Can a Buddhist Want Anything?” at Spirit Rock Mediation Center on June 14, 2015. Download File