Ajahn Brahm: unbelievable meditation secrets

Western comedian Ajahn Brahm (BSV); Dhr. Seven, Amber Larson (eds.), Wisdom Quarterly

Methods of relaxation; handling unwholesome thoughts; powerful force of kindness

(BSV Dhamma Talks, June 13, 2015) What is the "secret" to success in meditation, for attaining the "meditative absorptions" or jhanas and "right-stillness" or samma-samadhi?

Once upon a time the wandering ascetic Siddhartha made a strong determination that he would not get up from his seat under a tree even if his blood should dry up until he won enlightenment. It didn't work and could never work until one genuinely gives up, lets go, and allows "meditation" (jhana) to happen. Rediscovering the purifying absorptions and allowing himself to experience sensuality-free pleasure (piti, joy) that derives from them, Siddhartha was well on his way to awakening.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Ajahn Brahmavamso Mahathera (lovingly known to most as Ajahn Brahm) was born Peter Betts in London, England, on August 7, 1951. He came from a working-class background and won a scholarship to study theoretical physics at Cambridge University in the late 1960s.

After graduating from Cambridge, he taught high school for one year before travelling to Thailand to become a Buddhist monk and train with Ajahn Chah Mahathera ("Great Elder"). While still in his years as a junior monk, he was asked to undertake the compilation of an English language guide to the Buddhist Monastic Code (the Vinaya), which later became the basis for monastic rules in many Theravada monasteries in Western countries.

Find this video useful? Remember to subscribe (DhammaTalks) and forward it to friends who would benefit from Dharma Teachings.

BUDDHIST CENTRE

While registered as a Buddhist not-for-profit association, the Buddhist Society of Victoria (BSV) welcomes members of all backgrounds and religions. Located in Melbourne, the East Malvern center hosts programs that guide members on meditation as well as practical Buddhist teachings for kids, teenagers, and adults.

The spiritual advisor is Ajahn Brahm, abbot of Bodhinyana Monastery located in Western Australia. For more information: bsv.net.au.

FOREST MONASTERY

Newbury Buddhist Monastery is 70 minutes from the heart of Melbourne city. The magnificent landscape and tranquil surroundings offer an inspiring backdrop for seclusion and meditation. With its establishment, both male and female spiritual aspirants can seek out full ordination.

This supports the cultivation of Buddhist teachers who in return share Dharma teachings across the world. Support the building projects at: supportnbm.bsv.net.au