Dhamma USA : November 2023

Ānapānasati Bhāvanā (Meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing)

Anapanasati Bhavana, or mindfulness of breathing, is a profound practice taught by the Buddha. It's a method that brings us closer to understanding the nature of our mind and the path to liberation.

The practice of Anapanasati begins with the simple act of observing the breath. As we sit in meditation, we focus our attention on the natural rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. The breath becomes our anchor, a point of concentration that allows us to develop mindfulness.

In the initial stages, we become aware of the breath entering and leaving the body. We notice its qualities - whether it's long or short, deep or shallow, smooth or erratic. This attentiveness to the breath cultivates a heightened sense of awareness and presence in the moment.

Anapanasati is not merely about breathing; it's about cultivating mindfulness in every aspect of our experience. As we progress in this practice, we start to observe the impermanent nature of the breath and, by extension, the impermanence of all phenomena. We learn to let go of attachments, understanding that everything is in a constant state of flux.

The next phase involves calming the breath and the mind. As we breathe in and out, we allow ourselves to relax, to let go of the mental chatter and distractions. This tranquil state helps us develop a deep sense of inner peace and clarity.

Through continued practice, Anapanasati leads us to deeper insights. We start to observe the interconnectedness of body and mind. We notice how our thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations are intertwined with the breath. This realization fosters a profound understanding of the mind-body relationship and how it influences our experiences.

As mindfulness strengthens, we move towards the exploration of the mind itself. We observe the arising and passing away of thoughts, feelings, and mental states without getting entangled in them. This detachment allows us to break free from habitual patterns, reducing suffering caused by attachment and aversion.

Ultimately, Anapanasati Bhavana leads us to the development of wisdom and insight. By observing the impermanent, unsatisfactory, and selfless nature of all phenomena, we gain a deeper understanding of reality as it is. This wisdom paves the way to liberation from suffering - the ultimate goal of the Buddha's teachings.

In our daily lives, the practice of Anapanasati Bhavana is not confined to formal meditation sessions. We can apply mindfulness of breathing in every moment - while walking, working, or interacting with others. It becomes a way of living, a constant reminder to be present, aware, and compassionate in all circumstances.

May the practice of Anapanasati Bhavana guide us towards inner peace, wisdom, and liberation from suffering. As we continue on this path, may we cultivate mindfulness and compassion not only for ourselves but for all beings.

Remember, the breath is always available to us as an anchor in the present moment. Let's embrace it with gratitude and dedication on our journey towards awakening.

Wealth according to Buddhism

In Buddhism, wealth is perceived through a different lens than in many other philosophies or cultures. Unlike conventional ideas of material abundance, wealth in Buddhism revolves around a different set of principles.

Imagine wealth not just in terms of possessions or material affluence, but rather as an internal state of being. Buddhism teaches us that true wealth lies in contentment, simplicity, and the freedom from excessive desires. The Buddha himself spoke extensively about wealth, emphasizing the importance of inner richness over external accumulation.

According to Buddhist teachings, real wealth is found in the treasure of a peaceful mind. It's about cultivating inner qualities like compassion, wisdom, and generosity. The richness of one's heart, the depth of understanding, and the ability to empathize with others constitute genuine wealth in Buddhism.

The Buddha highlighted that the pursuit of material wealth, while necessary to meet basic needs, should not be the sole focus of our lives. Instead, he encouraged a balanced approach—a middle way—wherein we fulfill our responsibilities and pursue our goals without becoming enslaved by the pursuit of wealth.

Generosity is another cornerstone of wealth according to Buddhism. Giving, without attachment or expectation, is considered a path to true abundance. By sharing our resources, time, and kindness with others, we cultivate a sense of richness that transcends material possessions.

In essence, Buddhism invites us to reconsider our definition of wealth. It urges us to seek contentment within ourselves, to cultivate qualities that bring genuine happiness and peace. True wealth in Buddhism is not measured by what we own, but by the depth of our inner fulfillment and our ability to positively impact the lives of others.

Brahmavihāra Practice: 4 Sublime States

The Four Brahmaviharas, or Divine Abodes, are foundational teachings in Buddhism, encompassing loving-kindness (Metta), compassion (Karuna), empathetic joy (Mudita), and equanimity (Upekkha). These states of mind are considered sublime because they represent the ideal conduct toward all living beings, resolving social tensions and promoting harmony in communities. They dismantle barriers, revive generosity, and foster unity against egotism.

Their divine nature is likened to Brahma, a deity devoid of hate, contrasting with other deities often depicted with anger or jealousy. Practicing these states aligns one with Brahma, potentially leading to rebirth in congenial realms. They are called "abodes" as they should become constant mental dwellings, ingrained in everyday life.

The Brahmaviharas are boundless, extending universally without discrimination. To achieve this boundless application, meditation—Brahma-vihara-bhavana—is essential. Meditative absorption (jhana) aids in developing these qualities deeply within and expanding their application limitlessly. Gradually, meditative practices dismantle barriers to their application, guiding practitioners from easier (e.g., directing loving-kindness towards respected individuals) to more challenging (e.g., extending it to enemies) scenarios.

Spatial expansion involves starting with familiar environments and progressively extending these qualities to encompass broader spheres—from family to the entire world. Compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity follow similar practices, with variations in the selection of individuals.

Attaining Brahmavihara-jhanas aims to prepare the mind for liberating insight into the impermanent, suffering, and insubstantial nature of phenomena. These states pave the way for a purified, tranquil mind capable of insight.

Two methods—practical conduct and methodical meditation—complement each other. Meditation enhances the spontaneity of these qualities, while practical application diminishes resentment and tension, aiding meditation. Bridging the gap between daily life and meditative practice fosters steady progress.

Repeated reflection on the qualities, benefits, and dangers of their opposites aids in their meditative development. The mind inclines towards what is consistently contemplated, emphasizing the importance of persistent reflection on these virtues.

The Brahmaviharas serve as guiding principles, offering a path to cultivate a harmonious and compassionate way of living, ultimately contributing to personal well-being and creating a more peaceful world.

4 Sublime States/Abodes (Brahmavihara)

The Brahmaviharas, also known as the Four Divine Abodes or Sublime States, are a cornerstone of Buddhist teachings, emphasizing virtues and practices that cultivate a wholesome way of being in the world. These four qualities—loving-kindness (Metta), compassion (Karuna), empathetic joy (Mudita), and equanimity (Upekkha)—are considered sublime attitudes that bring about profound transformation within individuals and in their interactions with others.

Mettā - Loving Kindness

Loving-kindness, or Metta, is the foundational practice among the Brahmaviharas. It involves the boundless wish for the happiness, well-being, and peace of oneself and all beings. Metta encourages the cultivation of a compassionate and open heart, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and goodwill towards oneself and others. By practicing Metta meditation, individuals aim to dissolve barriers of prejudice and hostility, nurturing a deep sense of empathy and care for all sentient beings.

Karuṇā - Compassion

Compassion, or Karuna, is the empathetic response to the suffering of others. It involves the recognition of pain, distress, or anguish experienced by oneself or others, accompanied by the sincere desire to alleviate this suffering. Karuna arises from a profound understanding that suffering is an inherent part of the human condition and extends the wish to help alleviate that suffering in any way possible. It encourages acts of kindness, support, and understanding toward oneself and all beings, fostering a more compassionate world.

Muditā - Empathetic/Sympathetic Joy

Empathetic joy, or Mudita, celebrates the happiness, success, and well-being of others. It is the ability to genuinely rejoice in the accomplishments, good fortune, and positive experiences of oneself and others without envy or resentment. Mudita arises from a selfless and generous mindset, allowing individuals to transcend feelings of jealousy or competition and instead share in the joy and happiness of those around them.

Upekkhā - Equanimity

Equanimity, or Upekkha, is a balanced and even-minded state of mind in the face of life's ups and downs. It involves maintaining mental calmness, stability, and tranquility regardless of external circumstances. Upekkha does not imply indifference; rather, it embodies a deep understanding of the impermanent nature of existence. It allows individuals to respond to situations with clarity and wisdom, free from attachment and aversion, fostering a sense of inner peace and harmony.

The cultivation of the Brahmaviharas is not merely an intellectual exercise but a way of life that requires practice, mindfulness, and dedication. Through meditation, reflection, and conscious effort, individuals can gradually develop these sublime qualities, transforming their attitudes and behaviors toward themselves and others.

In summary, the Brahmaviharas—loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity—are guiding principles that encourage individuals to cultivate a more compassionate, empathetic, and harmonious way of living. By embodying these virtues, individuals can contribute positively to their own well-being and to the well-being of the world around them, fostering a more peaceful and compassionate society.

MN 20: Vitakkasanthana Sutta:

The Relaxation of Thoughts

The Vitakkasanthana Sutta, as spoken by the Blessed One at Savatthi in Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery, outlines five methods to address and manage unwholesome thoughts. Here are the highlighted methods along with corresponding similes:

Shifting Attention to Skillful Themes: If unskillful thoughts arise while focusing on a particular theme, the monk redirects attention to a skillful theme. This method is likened to a skilled carpenter using a small peg to dislodge a larger one.

Scrutinizing Drawbacks of Unwholesome Thoughts: When unskillful thoughts persist, the monk examines their drawbacks, acknowledging their unskillfulness, blame, and stressful nature. This method is likened to a person being horrified by an unsuitable adornment like a carcass hanging around their neck.

Paying No Mind to Unwholesome Thoughts: If unskillful thoughts continue, the monk disregards them entirely. This method is compared to someone consciously averting their eyes from undesirable sights.

Relaxing Thought-Fabrication: If unskillful thoughts persist, the monk attends to the relaxation of thought-fabrication regarding those thoughts. This process is compared to a person adjusting their physical posture from grosser to more refined positions.

Beating Down Unwholesome Thoughts: If unskillful thoughts still arise, the monk intensely and actively suppresses and restrains them with firm determination. This method is likened to a strong individual dominating and subduing a weaker person in a conflict.

The sutta emphasizes that a monk who masters these methods gains control over thought sequences, enabling the ability to think or not think specific thoughts at will. This mastery leads to the severance of craving, liberation from fetters, and the cessation of suffering and stress.