Month: November 2024

Growth

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Growth

Once there was a female disciple of the noble ones, a seeker on the path of awakening. She longed to understand the essence of life and grasp what was truly excellent within herself. Guided by the teachings of wisdom, she embarked on a journey of noble growth, cultivating five essential qualities that would transform her heart and mind.

The Five Pillars of Noble Growth

Conviction
Her journey began with conviction, a steadfast faith in the truth of the noble path. She believed in the guidance of the awakened ones, the law of cause and effect, and the possibility of liberation. This faith was not blind; it was rooted in her own experience, growing stronger each time she aligned her actions with the principles of compassion and truth.

Virtue
With conviction as her foundation, she embraced virtue. She lived a life of moral integrity, refraining from harm, dishonesty, and selfishness. Each act of kindness, each word spoken with care, became a step on the path to peace. Virtue was her armor against the chaos of the world, protecting her heart and inspiring those around her.

Learning
Hungry for understanding, she delved into the teachings, listening attentively to wise words, reflecting deeply, and putting what she learned into practice. Through learning, her mind expanded, shedding ignorance like a tree in autumn sheds its leaves. Each lesson was a seed of insight, taking root and flourishing as wisdom.

Generosity
Her heart opened wide, and she became known for her generosity. Whether it was a coin to a beggar, a meal to the hungry, or simply the gift of her time and presence, she gave freely and joyfully. Her generosity was not merely an offering of material goods; it was the sharing of herself—a smile, a kind word, a gesture of love.

Discernment
As her practice deepened, she cultivated discernment. She learned to see clearly, to distinguish between what was fleeting and what was eternal, between what bound her to suffering and what led to freedom. With discernment, she became her own guide, walking the path with wisdom and grace.

Transforming Through Noble Growth

Growing in these five ways, she transformed herself. She was no longer weighed down by doubt or fear. Instead, she moved through the world with a serene confidence, knowing she was cultivating what truly mattered.

Her days were filled with simple acts of mindfulness. When she spoke, her words carried kindness. When she worked, her actions were infused with purpose. When she rested, her heart was at peace. Through her growth, she discovered that the essence of life was not found in external achievements but in the quiet refinement of the heart.

A Light in the World

Her noble growth did not go unnoticed. Those around her were drawn to her serenity, her compassion, and her wisdom. They asked her, “How have you found such peace?”

She replied, “It is through conviction, virtue, learning, generosity, and discernment that I have grown. These are the treasures of the noble ones, available to all who seek them.”

Her words were like a lamp in the darkness, guiding others toward the same path. She became a source of inspiration, not through power or wealth, but through her unwavering commitment to what is good and true.

The Essence Within

She grows in conviction and virtue,
discernment, generosity, and learning.
Her life becomes a reflection
of the noblest qualities.

A virtuous female lay disciple,
such as this,
takes hold of the essence
right here within herself.

Her journey teaches us that noble growth is not an achievement but a continual unfolding. Each moment offers an opportunity to grow, to refine, and to grasp what is essential.

Through her, we see that the noble path is not distant or unattainable. It is here, in the choices we make each day, in the love we give, and in the wisdom we cultivate.

And so, the story of her noble growth becomes a story for us all—a reminder that within each of us lies the potential to grow, to awaken, and to grasp what is truly excellent in life.

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/11/29/growth/

Dwellings

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Dwellings

One serene afternoon, as the sun cast its golden rays over the forest monastery, the Blessed One, surrounded by his disciples, addressed them with a voice calm yet imbued with profound authority.

“Monks, today I shall teach you the nine step-by-step dwelling-attainments. These are the paths by which the mind ascends to liberation, shedding layer after layer of bondage. Listen well and pay close attention, for I shall speak.”

“Yes, Lord,” the monks replied in unison, their palms pressed together in respectful homage.

After a brief silence, the Blessed One began:

“And what, monks, are the nine step-by-step dwelling-attainments? These are the stages of gradual release, where the mind lets go of its attachments and enters ever-deeper states of peace and clarity. Let me explain them to you.

The First Attainment: The Cessation of Sensual Resolves

“Wherever sensual resolves cease, and those who continually abandon them dwell—truly, I tell you, by this, those venerable ones are free from hunger, unbound, having crossed over to the far shore.

“Now, imagine a person burdened by the weight of craving, their mind restless, chasing after sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and touches. If someone were to ask, ‘Where do sensual resolves cease? And where do those who continually abandon sensual resolves dwell? I do not know; I do not see,’ they should be told:

“‘Friend, there is a case where a monk, quite secluded from sensuality and unskillful mental qualities, enters and remains in the first jhāna—rapture and pleasure born of seclusion, accompanied by directed thought and evaluation. That is where sensual resolves cease, and where those who continually abandon sensual resolves dwell.’

“Picture this monk: seated in meditation beneath a towering tree, their robes still as the breeze whispers through the leaves. Their mind, unshackled from desire, glows with serenity, like a lamp undisturbed by wind.

“Surely, a sincere person, upon hearing these words, would say, ‘Very good!’ Delighting in and approving of the statement, they would pay homage, raising their hands palm-to-palm over their heart, and honor this truth.”

The Blessed One paused, allowing the monks to absorb the teaching. A moment of profound silence settled over the gathering, broken only by the distant chirping of birds.

The Second Attainment: The Stilling of Directed Thought and Evaluation

“Wherever directed thought and evaluation cease, and those who continually abandon them dwell—truly, I tell you, by this, those venerable ones are free from hunger, unbound, having crossed over to the far shore.

“Consider a mind that has tasted the joy of seclusion but still hums with the activity of thought, questioning and analyzing. If someone were to ask, ‘Where do directed thought and evaluation cease? And where do those who continually abandon directed thought and evaluation dwell? I do not know; I do not see,’ they should be told:

“‘Friend, there is a case where a monk, with the stilling of directed thought and evaluation, enters and remains in the second jhāna—rapture and pleasure born of concentration, unification of awareness free from directed thought and evaluation, with internal assurance. That is where directed thought and evaluation cease, and where those who continually abandon them dwell.’

“Imagine this monk: their mind, no longer scattered by inquiry, becomes like a still pond, its surface unbroken, reflecting the infinite sky. They sit in quiet confidence, their awareness unified, their joy deepened by this state of pure concentration.

“And again, a sincere person, hearing this, would say, ‘Very good!’ Delighting in and approving of the statement, they would pay homage and honor this teaching with reverence.”

The Third Attainment: The Fading of Rapture

“Wherever rapture ceases, and those who continually abandon rapture dwell—truly, I tell you, by this, those venerable ones are free from hunger, unbound, having crossed over to the far shore.

“Imagine the ecstasy of deep meditation—powerful, but still a wave in the ocean of the mind. If someone were to ask, ‘Where does rapture cease? And where do those who continually abandon rapture dwell? I do not know; I do not see,’ they should be told:

“‘Friend, there is a case where a monk, with the fading of rapture, remains equanimous, mindful, and alert, and senses pleasure with the body. They enter and remain in the third jhāna, of which the noble ones declare: “Equanimous and mindful, they have a pleasant abiding.” That is where rapture ceases, and where those who continually abandon rapture dwell.’

“Picture this monk: the vibrant joy of earlier meditations now quieted, replaced by serene equanimity. They sit like a mountain, unmoved by the passing winds of emotion, their mind calm and poised.

“A sincere person, upon hearing this, would again say, ‘Very good!’ They would bow deeply, honoring this profound truth.”

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/11/22/dwellings/

Results

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Results

“Monks, gather close, for I will speak of the weight of our actions. Know that each act, no matter how small, creates ripples across time and space, shaping not only our lives but the lives that follow. Just as a drop of dye colors an entire pot of water, so too does each action influence the mind and soul. Listen well to understand the paths that lead to suffering and the ways to free oneself from their snares.

“Consider the taking of life, monks. When one becomes accustomed to extinguishing the spark of life, they open a door to dark realms. The desire to harm, once indulged, grows stronger, binding the heart with cords of cruelty. Such actions bring one to places where suffering is endless—hells of unimaginable pain, lives spent as hunted animals, or realms where souls wander, craving what they can never obtain. Even when one returns to the human realm, the stain remains. A person who once took life may find themselves plagued by sickness and danger, their lifespan shortened as if it were withering before their eyes.

“To cleanse this tendency, monks, cultivate compassion. Let each being be precious in your eyes, from the tiniest insect to the grandest creature. Reflect upon the sacredness of life, and understand that each creature clings to existence, just as you do. Practice metta, loving-kindness, toward all beings, extending it even to those who might harm you. For as you protect life, you weave a shield of gentleness around yourself, creating conditions for health, longevity, and peace.

“Now, think of the act of stealing. When one grows accustomed to taking what is not given, they foster a spirit of greed and entitlement. Such actions, indulged in, lead to lives of poverty, rebirth as creatures that scavenge and struggle, or realms where beings eternally reach for what they cannot have. Even upon returning to human form, one who has stolen may find themselves constantly losing wealth, possessions, or opportunities. It is as if a hole opens within them, through which all they gather slips away.

“To overcome this craving, practice generosity. Give freely and joyfully, whether it be a coin, a kind word, or the gift of your time. Learn the art of letting go, understanding that true wealth is not in possessions but in a spirit unburdened by greed. The more you give, the more you create conditions for abundance to flow back to you, and in this way, you transform the very nature of your existence.

“Then there is illicit sexual behavior. When one pursues physical desires without regard for others’ well-being, they plant seeds of betrayal, jealousy, and disharmony. Such acts, when pursued as a habit, lead to lives dominated by rivalry and revenge, or rebirth as creatures driven by primal instincts. Even as a human, one who has followed this path may find themselves ensnared in webs of jealousy, mistrust, and heartbreak. Their relationships become fragile, unable to bear the weight of deceit.

“To counter this, cultivate respect and self-control. See others not as objects of desire but as fellow travelers in this journey. Practice contentment and guard your mind against temptations that arise. Treat each relationship as a sacred bond, nurtured with trust and respect. As you honor others, you will find yourself surrounded by relationships filled with harmony, loyalty, and understanding.

“Speaking falsehoods is a grave misdeed, monks. When one becomes accustomed to lying, reality itself begins to unravel. Lies drag the mind into confusion, creating an endless web of deceit. Such actions lead to realms of illusion and misery, to rebirth as creatures where deception reigns. Even as a human, one who lies may find themselves doubted, mistrusted, and falsely accused. It is as if the very world mirrors their own untruths back to them.

“To purify the mind, embrace truthfulness. Let your words align with reality, and speak only that which is genuine and beneficial. Speak with the intention to uplift, never to mislead. By embracing truth, you build a foundation of trust, and you open the doors to wisdom, clarity, and peace.

“Divisive tale-bearing is another perilous path. When one becomes a bearer of discord, separating friends and allies, they plant seeds of loneliness and isolation. This act leads to realms of alienation, to rebirth in forms where connection is absent, and even as a human, such a person finds themselves abandoned, with friendships easily broken and trust hard to come by.

“To counteract divisiveness, practice words that unify and connect. Speak in ways that build bridges, that heal wounds, and that bring others together. Let your words be a balm to those in conflict, fostering harmony and friendship. As you cultivate unity, you will find yourself surrounded by friends and loved ones, your life enriched by bonds that cannot be broken.

“Harsh speech, monks, is another door to suffering. When one becomes accustomed to harsh, angry words, they grow a heart hardened by bitterness. Such speech, indulged in, leads to realms where cruelty abounds, or rebirth in forms where gentleness is unknown. Even in human form, one who has spoken harshly finds themselves surrounded by discordant sounds, unable to enjoy the beauty of kind words and laughter.

“To transform this, speak with gentleness. Let your words soothe, uplift, and encourage. Choose to be kind, even when others are harsh, and in time, you will find that gentleness returns to you, as your life is filled with words that comfort and inspire.

“Then there is frivolous chattering. When one becomes lost in empty speech, their mind drifts, unanchored. Such speech leads to realms of meaninglessness, rebirth in forms where purpose is absent. Even as a human, one who chatters idly may find that their words carry no weight, that others hear but do not listen.

“To remedy this, cultivate meaningful speech. Speak only that which is valuable, and let your words serve a purpose. Whether teaching, consoling, or sharing joy, let each word have substance. This way, your speech becomes a vessel of wisdom, and others will listen to you with open hearts.

“Lastly, consider the drinking of fermented and distilled liquors. When one indulges in substances that cloud the mind, they surrender their clarity and judgment. This path leads to lives marked by confusion, or rebirth as creatures wandering in ignorance. Even as a human, one who drinks excessively finds their mind disturbed, their thoughts disordered, and their peace shattered.

“To cultivate clarity, monks, embrace mindfulness and temperance. See the mind as a precious, delicate instrument, one that must be cared for with wisdom. Reject substances that cloud judgment and practice awareness in every moment, letting each thought and action flow from a mind that is clear, sharp, and focused.

“Remember, monks, that every deed sows a seed. Our actions are not mere whims; they are forces that shape the entire fabric of our existence. Just as a skilled gardener chooses each seed with care, so too must you choose your actions wisely. Plant seeds of kindness, truth, compassion, and wisdom, and they will grow into a life of peace and fulfillment.

“And so, dear monks, walk this path with awareness, cultivating virtues that elevate the mind and heart. For each good deed, each kind word, and each mindful action serves as a beacon, guiding you away from suffering and towards the shores of enlightenment, where peace and joy await.”

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/11/14/results/

The Visit to the New Hall

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The Visit to the New Hall

Once, the Blessed One was staying among the Sakyans in Kapilavatthu, at the Banyan Park. During this time, the people of Kapilavatthu had just completed building a new reception hall, which had not yet been used by any contemplative, brahmin, or even by anyone in human form. Eager to invite a blessing, the Kapilavatthu Sakyans approached the Blessed One. They respectfully bowed and, after seating themselves nearby, said, “Lord, our new reception hall is ready. No one has used it yet, and we would be honored if you would be the first to do so. Afterward, we too will use it, and this will be for our long-term welfare and happiness.”

The Blessed One quietly agreed with a nod. Sensing his acceptance, the Sakyans rose, bowed, and left to prepare the hall. They spread rugs across the floor, arranged seats, placed a water vessel, and lit an oil lamp, ensuring everything was ready for his arrival. Then, they returned to the Blessed One, bowed, and stood respectfully to one side. They announced, “Lord, the hall has been fully prepared. Please do as you see fit.”

With that, the Blessed One adjusted his robe, took his bowl and outer robe, and, along with the community of monks, went to the hall. After washing his feet at the entrance, he entered and took his seat facing east, with his back to the central post. The monks, too, washed their feet and entered, sitting with their backs to the western wall, facing east, with the Blessed One at the center. The Sakyans sat along the eastern wall, facing west, so that everyone was gathered respectfully around the Blessed One.

Throughout the night, the Blessed One spoke to the Sakyans, sharing the Dhamma with words of guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. At one point, he turned to Ven. Ānanda and said, “Ānanda, my back aches. Please continue sharing with the Sakyans about the path for those in training.”

Ven. Ānanda replied, “Certainly, Lord.” The Blessed One then lay down on his side, mindful and alert, in a resting position.

Turning to the Sakyans, Ven. Ānanda explained: “A noble disciple who is training in the path practices with diligence. Such a person is virtuous, guarding the senses, moderate in eating, dedicated to wakefulness, endowed with seven noble qualities, and capable of attaining the four jhānas—states of deep concentration that bring peace and joy in the present.

“First, a noble disciple is steadfast in virtue, following the precepts with discipline, training with awareness of even the slightest faults. Second, such a disciple guards the doors of the senses, neither grasping at sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touches, nor ideas that would lead to unwholesome states. In seeing or hearing, they remain restrained and calm.

“Third, a disciple of noble qualities knows moderation in eating, taking food only for sustaining the body, not for indulgence or appearance. Fourth, they practice wakefulness by keeping the mind clear and alert, balancing rest and mindfulness day and night.

“Fifth, this noble disciple has conviction in the path, trusting the Blessed One’s enlightenment. Sixth, they feel a natural sense of shame and remorse when facing the thought of misconduct in body, speech, or mind. Seventh, they are learned, having heard and retained the teachings, discussing and reflecting on them deeply.

“These qualities are the foundation of a well-trained mind. When cultivated, they allow one to experience the four jhānas, states of increasing calm and happiness.”

Ven. Ānanda continued to explain how, through this training, a noble disciple gains clarity of mind and can even recollect past lives, understand the effects of karma on the journeys of beings, and reach the peace of full liberation.

When the Blessed One arose, he commended Ānanda’s words to the Sakyans. “Good, good, Ānanda,” he said. “What you have shared with the Sakyans about those in training is indeed well-spoken.”

The Sakyans were overjoyed, grateful for the Blessed One’s visit and Ven. Ānanda’s guidance, taking the teachings to heart for their long-term welfare and happiness.

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/11/07/the-visit-to-the-new-hall/