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3 Mar : Hindrances |
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Simon gives this week's talk on the hindrances. The Buddha taught that there are 5 mental states which regular hold us back in meditation. These are systemic and by recognising them we can set out minds free and achieve the type of inner silence and calm necessary for effective meditative concentration. The journey of letting go is a major part of the meditation experience and coming to understand our own mind.
The hindrances are;
1. Sensual Desire
2. Ill-will
3. Sloth & torpor
4. Restlessness & worry
5. Skeptical doubt
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10 Mar : 10 Paramis - 10 Virtues |
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In the past weeks we have looked at the defilements of the mind and the hindrances in meditation. This week, Nigel examines the 10 Virtues or Paramita - the mental states and habits which we can cultivate to liberate our minds. These are 'antidotes' to the darker or more scattered parts of our behaviour and become a foundation for stronger concentration and focussing our lives more on the types of mental behaviours that are conducive to happiness and liberation.
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17 Mar : Nibbana - ultimate liberation |
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The notion of 'nirvana' has entered Western languages and popular culture. It is sometimes associated with the Judeo-Christian-Islamic notion of heaven, other times it is associated with disconnecting from reality and 'zoning out'. Neither is particularly accurate. This week's dhamma talk explores what is meant in Buddhism by 'nibbana', the state of deathlessness, of liberation, of moving beyond the cycles of samsara and rebirth. It may be closer than you imagined... Chantal guides us in this dhamma discussion. Meditation follows.
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24 Mar : Happiness & Impermanence |
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Dé gives us a talk on one of the foundation characteristics of existence: anicca or impermanence. The Buddha taught how life has three defining characteristics: impermanence, suffering and non-self. Impermanence is one of the easiest to see and understand, but how do you put that realisation to work? Happiness can flow from seeing the impermanence of all conditioned things and be used throughout your life to cope with situations, both blissful and difficult.
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31 Mar : Buddhism - from Siddharta to Asoka |
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Lionel lends his deep knowledge of Buddhism to give an introduction to the evolution of Buddhism in its early years. His talk covers the period from the Parinibbana (passing into the deathless state) up to the reign of King Asoka, the first major sovereign to adopt Buddhism and apply it in national law and governance.
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