Ajahn Cittapala reflects on SN 22.1, the Nakulapita Sutta, explaining how an aging, afflicted body does not have to mean an afflicted, suffering mind. She shows how the not self nature of the body means that we can let go of identification with it, and hence be free of sorrow and suffering.
Ajahn Cittapala examines right effort, suggesting that it is an attunement to harmony. She explains that going against the way things are creates tension, and that it is helpful to arise a sense of zeal to develop wholesome states and be able to abandon unwholesome ones.
On the occasion of Anagārikā Nadine’s ordination ceremony, Ajahn Cittapala reflects on the aspiration a new anagārikā might have, and on the potential pitfalls and suffering that she might face.
As Cittaviveka’s winter retreat draws to a close, Ajahn Cittapala reflects on the central role of right view in the Buddha’s teaching. She examines how all other path factors are influenced and dependant on right view, and examines how to distinguish between and develop its mundane and supramundane aspects.
The habit of identifying with our experience and views is distressing because experiences and views change. This is the story of a woman who happened to find the good Dhamma: a teaching about the “Five Khandhas” (Groups of Clinging) which opened her eyes about the nature of our suffering and prepared the way for her to be ordained as a Buddhist Nun.
Given on the occasion of an anagarikā going-forth ceremony at Cittaviveka on Sanghamitta Day in December 2022. Sanghamitta’s aspiration is still alive!
Ajahn Cittapala likens meditation to sawing a log, and explains how difficulties can arise if one’s attention is too rigid. By maintaining a wider awareness, she shows how the process of becoming is seen for what it is, and not mistaken to be a house building self.