The Office of Siridantamahāpālaka

The path of dhamma (the truth or teachings) A healthy and legitimate path This path is likely to lead beings to the end of suffering, making it a legitimate and healthy route for anyone who is sufficiently wise and intelligent. Unlike humans, animals are trapped in their daily suffering and exist in confusion, living under constant threats and driven by instinct. They navigate a world filled with predators, aggression, fear, escapism, hatred, and violence without the ability to change their situation. Humans possess a unique capacity that animals do not. Firstly, we have the ability to conceive that escaping this suffering might be possible. Secondly, we can genuinely wish to escape it and actively seek a state of being or experience that is free from all forms of suffering. To achieve this escape, we have specific mental faculties, which are intrinsic to our human nature. These faculties allow us to differentiate between actions or thoughts that will assist us on this spiritual path a...

The Two Categories of Training There are two main types of meditation training: samatha and vipassanā. Definition: Samatha is a Pali term meaning "calm" or "peaceful." It represents a state of tranquility. Example: Think of a still lake; its calm surface reflects peace, just as the mind can reflect tranquility when free from disturbances. Practical Application: When you sit quietly and focus on your breath, you’re practicing samatha. It helps to calm your thoughts and feelings. Vipassanā Definition: Vipassanā means "insight." This practice focuses on understanding the true nature of reality. Example: Consider a clear glass; it lets you see what’s inside without distortion, just as vipassanā aims to see things as they truly are, free from illusions. Practical Application: During meditation, you may notice your thoughts and feelings without judgment, helping you see their impermanent nature. Understanding the difference: Samatha promotes calmness, whil...

The going forth Desiring the monastic path To become a bhikkhu, it is sufficient to want it! This is the main going forth. Acquiring basic requisites Once he has acquired a bowl, a set of three robes and a belt, the future bhikkhu takes the ten precepts of the sāmaṇera (if he has not done so already), because only a sāmaṇera can be incorporated into the saṃgha. Integration into the saṃgha Once this step is accomplished, the procedure of integration into the saṃgha can begin. The ten precepts Commitment to life «pāṇātipātā veramaṇi sikkhāpadaṃ samādhiyāmi.» «I will refrain from harming the life of others.» Respect for property «adinnādānā veramaṇi sikkhāpadaṃ samādhiyāmi.» «I will refrain from stealing the property of others.» Personal conduct «abrahmacariyā veramaṇi sikkhāpadaṃ samādhiyāmi.» «I will refrain from sexual practices.» «musāvādā veramaṇi sikkhāpadaṃ samādhiyāmi.» «I will refrain from lying.» Awareness and mindfulness «surāmeraya majjapamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇi sikkhāpadaṃ samādh...

Anatta, often translated by "non-self" or "non-resolution", is a fundamental concept in the Buddhism of Theravāda. He teaches that there is no permanent and immutable self -essence in human beings or other living creatures. Instead, what we consider to be "self" is in fact a collection of changing physical and mental processes, called the five aggregates (form, feeling, perception, mental formations and conscience). This understanding is crucial for the teachings of Theravāda and serves as a cornerstone of its ethical and philosophical framework. Anatta distinguishes Theravāda Buddhism from other Buddhist schools, in particular Mahāyāna, which emphasizes the notion of self, although in a different context, as the concept of "Buddha nature". In Theravāda texts, Anatta is intimately linked to impermanence teachings (Anicca) and suffering (Dukkha). According to the insight of the Buddha, clinging to the idea of ​​a permanent auto leads to suffering ...