Dharma Roads

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In this episode I talk about the Four Noble Truths – one of the central teachings of the Buddha. I also try to explain why there is so much emphasis on non-attachment in Buddhism and what is meant by ‘attachment’ or ‘craving’, and ‘non-attachment.’

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In this short talk I am going to describe what in Buddhism are often referred to as the Three Marks of Existence. These three marks, or conditions, of existence are considered as central tenets of the Buddha’s teaching within most Buddhist schools. The first mark of existence is impermanence – anicca; the second is anatta – often referred to as non-self; and the third is dukkha – usually translated as suffering.

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In this episode, I suggest that we consider eco-grief as one of many forms of suffering (dukkha in Buddhism) arising from the transient nature of existence and from our insatiable desires or attachments to things and sensations. I'll look at two aspects of eco-grief: on the one hand, a feeling of loss at what is passing, dying or being degraded; and on the other hand, a deepening anxiety about a chaotic and fearful future. I'll argue that, in order to act in a mindful, wise and compassionate manner, we need to combine clear-sighted realism with a positive and creative attitude. I'll suggest that we need to focus on what we can do now to change minds and behaviour, rather than allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by an imagined future, however bleak we may imagine it to be. 

This talk was first given at Exeter University, UK, in February 2020 – just before the Covid pandemic started to affect our lives. 

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In this episode I explain why the Podcast is called Dharma Roads, rather than Dharma Road. I also talk about notions of truth and suggest that it may be helpful to think in terms of what is useful, rather than trying to decide what is true or false. I am not suggesting that there are no truths, but that there are many truths.

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In this first episode I explain what the word 'dharma' usually means in Buddhism and why the podcast is titled, 'Dharma Roads.' I suggest that there are many roads to wisdom and peace and that in the twenty-first century we have access to a global storehouse of teachings and traditions. What is important is that we learn from these teachings and traditions in order to transform our daily lives into a dharma road of peace, compassion and understanding.