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  • The Buddha and His Teachings
    • Chapter 1 The Buddha
    • Chapter 2 His struggle for enlightenment
    • Chapter 3 The buddhahood
    • Chapter 4 After The Enlightenment
    • Chapter 5 The invitation to expound the dhamma
    • Chapter 6 Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta
    • Chapter 7 The Teaching of the Dhamma
    • Chapter 8 The Buddha and his relatives
    • Chapter 9 The Buddha and his relatives
    • Chapter 10 The Buddha's chief opponents and supporters
    • Chapter 11 The Buddha's Royal Patrons
    • Chapter 12 The Buddha's Ministry
    • Chapter 13 The Buddha's daily routine
    • Chapter 14 The Buddha’s Parinibbāna (Death)
    • Chapter 15 What is Buddhism
    • Chapter 16 Some Salient Characteristics of Buddhism
    • Chapter 17 The Four Noble Truths
    • Chapter 18 Kamma
    • Chapter 19 What is kamma?
    • Chapter 20 The Working of Kamma
    • Chapter 21 Nature of kamma
    • Chapter 22 What is the Origin of Life?
    • Chapter 23 The Buddha on the so-called Creator
    • Chapter 24 Reasons to Believe in Rebirth
    • Chapter 25 The Wheel of Life – Paticca-Samuppāda
    • Chapter 26 Modes of Birth and Death
    • Chapter 27 Planes of Existence
    • Chapter 28 How Rebirth takes place
    • Chapter 29 What is it that is Reborn? (No-soul)
    • Chapter 30 Moral Responsibility
    • Chapter 31 Kammic Descent and Kammic Ascent
    • Chapter 32 A Note on the Doctrine of Kamma & Rebirth in the West
    • Chapter 33 Nibbāna
    • Chapter 34 Characteristics of Nibbāna
    • Chapter 35 The Way to Nibbāna (I)
    • Chapter 36 The Way to Nibbāna (II) Meditation
    • Chapter 37: Nīvarana or Hindrances
    • Chapter 38 The Way to Nibbāna (III)
    • Chapter 39 The State of an Arahant
    • Chapter 40 The Bodhisatta Ideal
    • Chapter 41 Pāramī – Perfections
    • Chapter 42 Brahmavihāra – The Sublime States
    • Chapter 43 Eight Worldly Conditions
    • Chapter 44 The Problems of Life
  • History of Buddhism
    • Buddha and Contemporary teachers
    • The qualities of Buddha that promote the spread of Buddhism
    • Spread of Buddhism in India & Buddha Early Disciples
    • Origin of monks settlements
    • The Evolution of Sangha
    • 1st Buddhist council
    • 2nd Buddhist Council
    • 3rd Buddhist Council
    • Supporters of Buddhism
    • The Bhikkhuni Order
    • Bhikkhuni Sanghamitta
    • Buddhism during reign of King Anawrahta in Myanmar
    • Buddhism in Cambodia
    • Buddhism in Sri Lanka (Venerable Mahinda)
    • Buddhism in Thailand (Ayutthaya period)
    • King Suddhodana (Buddha's Father)
    • King Asoka
    • King Devanampiya Tissa (Sri Lanka)
    • Lumbini
    • Mahasanghika School
  • Basic Buddhism Doctrine
    • 3 characteristics of existence
    • 3 evil roots
    • First noble truth
    • Four sublime abodes (Cattaro Brahma Vihara)
    • 4 Noble Truths
    • Noble Eightfold Path
    • 5 Aggregates
    • 5 Jhana Factors
    • 5 precepts and buddhist ethics
    • 10 Meritorious Deeds
    • Buddhist Ethics
    • Classification of Kamma
    • Death, Kamma and Rebirth
    • Kamma differentiates beings (Cula Kamma Vibhanga Sutta)
    • Cravings
    • Dasa-rājādhamma / 10 Royal Virtues
    • Dependent origination (Paticca Samuppada)
    • Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (First discourse)
    • Feelings
    • Hiri and Ottappa
    • Metta (Loving kindness)
    • Mindfulness
  • Digha Nikaya (Long Discourse)
    • DN 1 Brahmajala Sutta
    • DN 2 Samannaphala Sutta (The Fruits of the homeless life)
    • DN 3 Ambattha Sutta
    • DN 4 Sonadanda Sutta
    • DN 5 Kuttadanta Sutta
    • DN 6 Mahali Sutta
    • DN 7 Jaliya Sutta
    • DN 8 Mahasihanada Sutta: The Great Lion's Roar
    • DN 9 : Potthapada Sutta
    • DN 10 Subha Sutta: Morality, concentration and wisdom
    • DN 11 Kevaddha Sutta: What Brahma didn't know
    • DN 12 Lohicca Sutta : Good and Bad teachers
    • DN 13 Tevijja Sutta : The threefold knowledge (The Way to Brahma)
    • DN 14 Mahapadana Sutta: : The Great Discourse on the Lineage
    • DN 15 Mahanidana Sutta: The Great discourse on Origination
    • DN 16 Maha-parinibbana Sutta
    • DN 17 Mahasudassana Sutta: The Great Splendor, A King's Renunciation
    • DN 18: Janavasabha sutta: Brahma addresses the gods
    • DN 19 Mahagovinda Sutta: The Great Steward
    • Dn 20 Mahisamaya Sutta: The Mighty Gathering Devas Come to See the Buddha
    • Dn 21 Sakkapanha Sutta: Sakka's questions
    • DN 22 Mahasatipatthana Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Foundations of Mindfulness
    • DN 23: Payasi Sutta; Debate with a sceptic
    • DN 24: Patika suta: About Patikaputta The Charlatan
    • DN 25: Udumbarika-Sihanada Sutta: The Great Lion's Roar to the Udumbarikans
    • DN 26 Cakkavatti-Sihanada Sutta : The Lion's roar on the turning of the wheel
    • DN27 Aggañña Sutta: On Knowledge of Beginnings
    • DN 28 Sampasadaniya Sutta: Serene Faith
    • Dn 29 Pasadika Sutta: The Delightful Discourse
    • DN 30 Lakkhana Sutta: The Marks of a Great Man
    • DN 31. Sigalovada Sutta Advice to the lay people
    • DN 32 Atanatiya Sutta (The Atanata protective verses)
    • DN 33 Sangiti Sutta: The Chanting Together
    • Dn 34: Dasuttara Sutta: Expanding Decades
  • Majjhima Nikaya (Middle length discourse)
    • MN 1 Mulapariyaya Sutta (The Root of All Things)
    • MN 2 Sabbasava Sutta
    • MN 3 Dhammadayada Sutta (Heirs in Dhamma)
    • MN 4 Bhayabherava Sutta (Fear and Dread)
    • MN 5 Anangana Sutta (Without Blemishes)
    • MN 6 Akankheyya Sutta (If a Bhikkhu Should Wish)
    • MN 7 Vatthupama Sutta (The Simile of the Cloth)
    • MN 8 Sallekha Sutta (Effacement)
    • MN 9: Sammaditthi Sutta (Right View)
    • MN 10 Satipatthana Sutta: The Foundations of Mindfulness
    • MN 11 Culasihanada Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Lion's Roar
    • MN 12 Mahasihanada Sutta :The Greater Discourse on the Lion's Roar
    • MN 13 Mahadukkhakkhandha Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Mass of Suffering
    • MN 14 Culadukkhakkhandha Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Mass of Suffering
    • MN 15 Anumana Sutta: Inference
    • MN 16 Cetokhila Sutta: The Wilderness in the Heart
    • MN 17 Vanapattha Sutta: Jungle Thickets
    • MN 18 Madhupindika Sutta: The Honeyball
    • MN 19 Dvedhavitakka Sutta: Two Kinds of Thought
    • MN 20 Vitakkasanthana Sutta : The Removal of Distracting Thoughts
    • MN 21 Kakacupama Sutta: The Simile of the Saw
    • MN 22 Alagaddupama Sutta: The Simile of the Snake
    • MN 23 Vammika Sutta: The Ant-hill
    • MN 24 Rathavinita Sutta: The Relay Chariots
    • MN 25 Nivapa Sutta: The Bait
    • MN 26 Ariyapariyesana Sutta: The Noble Search
    • MN 27 Culahatthipadopama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant's Footprint
    • MN 28 Mahahatthipadopama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant's Footprint
    • MN 29 Mahasaropama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Simile of the Heartwood
    • MN 30 Culasaropama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Heartwood
    • MN 31 Culagosinga sutta: The shorter discourse in Gosinga
    • MN 32 Mahagosinga Sutta: The Greater Discourse in Gosinga
    • MN 33 Mahagopalaka Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Cowherd
    • MN 34 Culagopalaka Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Cowherd
    • MN 35 Culasaccaka Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Saccaka
    • MN 36 Mahasaccaka Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Saccaka
    • MN 37 Culatanhasankhaya Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Destruction of Craving
    • MN 38 Mahatanhasankhaya Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Destruction of Craving
    • MN 39 Maha-Assapura Sutta: The Greater Discourse at Assapura
    • MN 40 Cula-Assapura Sutta: The Shorter Discourse at Assapura
    • MN 41 Saleyyaka Sutta: The Brahmins of Sala
    • MN 42 Veranjaka Sutta: The Brahmins of Veranja
    • MN 43 Mahavedalla Sutta: The Greater Series of Questions and Answers
    • MN 44 Culavedalla Sutta: The Shorter Series of Questions and Answers
    • MN 45 Culadhammasamadana Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on Ways of Undertaking Things
    • MN 46 Mahadhammasamadana Sutta: The Greater Discourse on Ways of Undertaking Things
    • MN 47 Vimamsaka Sutta: The Inquirer
    • MN 48 Kosambiya Sutta: The Kosambians
    • MN 49 Brahmanimantanika Sutta: The Invitation of a Brahma
    • MN 50 Maratajjaniya Sutta: The Rebuke to Mara
    • MN 51 Kandaraka Sutta: To Kandaraka
    • MN 52 Atthakanagara Sutta: The Man from Atthakanagara
    • MN 53 Sekha Sutta: The Disciple in Higher Training
    • MN 54 Potaliya Sutta: To Potaliya
    • MN 55 Jivaka Sutta: To Jivaka
    • MN 56 Upali Sutta: To Upali
    • MN 57 Kukkuravatika Sutta: The Dog-duty Ascetic
    • MN 58 Abhayarajakumara Sutta: To Prince Abhaya
    • MN 59 Bahuvedaniya Sutta: The Many Kinds of Feeling
    • MN 60 Apannaka Sutta: The Incontrovertible Teaching
    • MN 61 Ambalatthikarahulovada Sutta: Advice to Rahula at Ambalatthika
    • MN 62 Maharahulovada Sutta: The Greater Discourse of Advice to Rahula
    • MN 63 Culamalunkya Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Malunkyaputta
    • MN 64 Mahamalunkya Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Malunkyaputta
    • MN 65 Bhaddali Sutta: To Bhaddali
    • MN 66 Latukikopama Sutta: The Simile of the Quail
    • MN 67 Catuma Sutta: At Catuma
    • MN 68 Nalakapana Sutta: At Nalakapana
    • MN 69 Gulissani Sutta: Gulissani
    • MN 70 Kitagiri Sutta: At Kitagiri
    • MN 71 Tevijjavacchagotta Sutta: To Vacchagotta on the Threefold True Knowledge
    • MN 72 Aggivacchagotta Sutta: To Vacchagotta on Fire
    • MN 73 Mahavacchagotta Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Vacchagotta
    • MN 74 Dighanakha Sutta: To Dighanakha
    • MN 75 Magandiya Sutta: To Magandiya
    • MN 76 Sandaka Sutta: To Sandaka
    • MN 77 Mahasakuludayi Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Sakuludayin
    • MN 78 Samanamandika Sutta: Samanamandikaputta
    • MN 79 Culasakuludayi Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Sakuludayin
    • MN 80 Vekhanassa Sutta: To Vekhanassa
    • MN 81 Ghatikara Sutta: Ghatikara the Potter
    • MN 82 Ratthapala Sutta: On Ratthapala
    • MN 83 Makhadeva Sutta: King Makhadeva
    • MN 84 Madhura Sutta: At Madhura
    • MN 85 Bodhirajakumara Sutta: To Prince Bodhi
    • MN 86 Angulimala Sutta: On Angulimala
    • MN 87 Piyajatika Sutta: Born from Those Who Are Dear
    • MN 88 Bahitika Sutta: The Cloak
    • MN 89 Dhammacetiya Sutta: Monuments to the Dhamma
    • MN 90 Kannakatthala Sutta: At Kannakatthala
    • MN 91 Brahmayu Sutta: Brahmayu
    • MN 92 Sela Sutta: To Sela
    • MN 93 Assalayana Sutta: To Assalayana
    • MN 94 Ghotamukha Sutta: To Ghotamukha
    • MN 95 Canki Sutta: With Canki
    • MN 96 Esukari Sutta: To Esukari
    • MN 97 Dhananjani Sutta: To Dhananjani
    • MN 98 Vasettha Sutta: To Vasettha
    • MN 99 Subha Sutta: To Subha
    • MN 100 Sangarava Sutta: To Sangarava
    • MN 101 Devadaha Sutta: At Devadaha
    • MN 102 Pancattaya Sutta: The Five and Three
    • MN 103 Kinti Sutta: What Do You Think About Me?
    • MN 104 Samagama Sutta: At Samagama
    • MN 105 Sunakkhatta Sutta: To Sunakkhatta
    • MN 106 Anenjasappaya Sutta: The Way to the Imperturbable
    • MN 107 Ganakamoggallana Sutta: To Ganaka Moggallana
    • MN 108 Gopakamoggallana Sutta: With Gopaka Moggallana
    • MN 109 Mahapunnama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Full-moon Night
    • MN 110 Culapunnama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Full-moon Night
    • MN 111 Anupada Sutta: One by One As They Occurred
    • MN 112 Chabbisodhana Sutta: The Sixfold Purity
    • MN 113 Sappurisa Sutta: The True Man
    • MN 114 Sevitabbasevitabba Sutta: To Be Cultivated and Not To Be Cultivated
    • MN 115 Bahudhatuka Sutta: The Many Kinds of Elements
    • MN 116 Isigili Sutta- Isigili: The Gullet of the Seers
    • MN 117 Mahacattansaka Sutta: The Great Forty
    • MN 118 Anapanasati Sutta: Mindfulness of Breathing
    • MN 119 Kayagatasati Sutta: Mindfulness of the Body
    • MN 120 Sankharupapatti Sutta: Reappearance by Aspiration
    • MN 121 Culasunnata Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on Voidness
    • MN 122 Mahasunnata Sutta: The Greater Discourse on Voidness
    • MN 123 Acchariya-abbhuta Sutta: Wonderful and Marvellous
    • MN 124 Bakkula Sutta: Bakkula
    • MN 125 Dantabhumi Sutta: The Grade of the Tamed
    • MN 126 Bhumija Sutta: Bhumija
    • MN 127 Anuruddha Sutta: Anuruddha
    • MN 128 Upakkilesa Sutta: Imperfections
    • MN 129 Balapandita Sutta: Fools and Wise Men
    • MN 130 Devaduta Sutta: The Divine Messengers
    • MN 131 Bhaddekaratta Sutta: One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 132 Anandabhaddekaratta Sutta: Ananda and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 133 Mahakaccanabhaddekaratta Sutta: MahaKaccana and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 134 Lomasakangiyabhaddekaratta Sutta: Lomasakangiya and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 135 Cula Kamma Vibhanga Sutta
    • MN 136 Mahakammavibhanga Sutta: The Greater Exposition of Action
    • MN 137 Salayatanavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Sixfold Base
    • MN 138 Uddesavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of a Summary
    • MN 139 Aranavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of Non-Conflict
    • MN 140 Dhatuvibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Elements
    • MN 141 Saccavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Truths
    • MN 142 Dakkhinavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of Offerings
    • MN 143 Anathapindikovada Sutta: Advice to Anathapindika
    • MN 144 Channovada Sutta: Advice to Channa
    • MN 145 Punnovada Sutta: Advice to Punna
    • MN 146 Nandakovada Sutta: Advice from Nandaka
    • MN 147 Cularahulovada Sutta: The Shorter Discourse of Advice to Rahula
    • MN 148 Chachakka Sutta: The Six Sets of Six
    • MN 149 Mahasalayatanika Sutta: The Great Sixfold Base
    • MN 150 Nagaravindeyya Sutta: To the Nagaravindans
    • MN 151 Pindapataparisuddhi Sutta: The Purification of Almsfood
    • MN 152 Indriyabhavana Sutta: The Development of the Faculties
  • Samyutta Nikaya (Connected discourse)
    • PART I: The Book with Verses (Sagathavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Devata-samyutta: Connected Discourses with Devatas
      • ​Chapter 2 Devaputta Sutta: Connected discourse with young devas
      • ​Chapter 3 Kosala-Samyutta (With the Kosalan)
      • Chapter 4 Mara-samyutta (Mara)
      • Chapter 5 Bhikkhuni-Samyutta (With Bhikkunis)
      • Chapter 6 Brahma-Samyutta (With Brahmas)
      • Chapter 7 Brahmana- Samyutta (With Brahmins)
      • Chapter 8 Vangisa- Samyutta (With Vangisa)
      • Chapter 9 Vana-Samyutta (In the woods)
      • Chapter 10 Yakkha- Samyutta (With Yakkhas)
      • Chapter 11 Sakka-Samyutta (with Sakka)
    • Part II The Book of Causation (Nidana Vaggasamyutta) >
      • Chapter 1 Nidana Samyutta (On Causation)
      • Chapter 2 Abhisamaya-Samyutta (On the Breakthrough )
      • Chapter 3 Dhatu Samyutta (On Elements)
      • Chapter 4 Anamatagga Samyutta (On Without Discoverable Beginning​)
      • Chapter 5 Kassapa Samyutta (With Kassapa)
      • Chapter 6 Labhasakkara Samyutta (On Gains and Honor)
      • Chapter 7 Rahula-Samyutta
      • Chapter 8 Lakkhana-Samyutta (With Lakkhana)
      • ​Chapter 9 Opamma- Samyutta (With Similes)
      • Chapter 10 Bhikkhu-Samyutta (With Bhikkhus)
    • Part III The book of aggregates (Khandhavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Khanda Samyutta (On the aggregates)
      • Chapter 2 Radha Samyutta (With Radha)
      • Chapter 3 Ditthi Samyutta (On Views)
      • Chapter 4 Okkanti Samyutta (On Entering)
      • Chapter 5 Uppada Samyutta (On Arising)
      • Chapter 6 Kilesa Samyutta (On Defilements)
      • Chapter 7 Sariputta Samyutta (With Sariputta)
      • Chapter 8 Naga Samyutta (On Nagas)
      • Chapter 9 Supanna Samyutta (On Supannas)
      • Chapter 10 Ghandhabba Samyutta (On Ghandhabbas)
      • Chapter 11 Valahaka Samyutta (On Cloud Devas)
      • Chapter 12 Vacchagotta Samyutta (With Vacchagotta)​
      • Chapter 13 Jhana Samyutta (On Meditation)
    • Part IV The Book of Six Sense Bases (Salayatanavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Salayatana Samyutta (On Six Sense Bases)
      • Chapter 2 Vedana Samyutta
      • Chapter 3 Matugama Samyutta (On Women)
      • Chapter 4 Jambukhādaka Saṃyutta (With Jambukhadaka)
      • Chapter 5 Samandaka Samyutta (With Samandaka)
      • Chapter 6 Moggallana Samyutta (With Moggallana)
      • Chapter 7 Citta Samyutta (With Citta)
      • Chapter 8 Gamani Samyutta (To Headmen)
      • Chapter 9 Asankhata Samyutta: On the unconditioned
      • Chapter 10 Abyakata Samyutta (On the undeclared)
    • Part V The Great Book (Maha Vaggasamyutta) >
      • Chapter 1 Magga Samyutta (On the path)
      • Chapter 2 Bojjhanga Samyutta (On the factors of enlightenment)
      • Chapter 3 Satipatthana Samyutta (Establishments of Mindfulness)
      • Chapter 4 Indriya Samyutta (On the Faculties)
      • Chapter 5 Sammappadhana Samyutta (On the Right Strivings)
      • Chapter 6 Bala Samyutta (On the Powers)
      • Chapter 7 Iddhipada Samyutta (On the bases for Spiritual power)
      • Chapter 8 Anuruddha Samyutta (With Anuruddha)
      • Chapter 9 Jhana Samyutta (On the Jhanas)
      • Chapter 10 Anapana Samyutta (On Breathing)
      • Chapter 11 Sotapatti Samyutta (On Stream Entry)
      • Chapter 12 Sacca Samyutta (On the truths)
  • Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical discourse)
    • The Book of the Ones (Ekakanipāta) >
      • I Obsession of the mind. II Abandoning the hindrances, ​III Unwieldy & IV Untamed
      • V A Spike VI Luminous VII Arousal of Energy, VIII Good Friendship, IX Heedlessness & X Internal
      • XI Non-Dhamma, XII Not an offense, XIII One Person, ​XIV Foremost XV Impossible & XVI One thing
      • XVII Qualities Engendering confidence, XVIII Finger Snap, XIX Mindfulness directed to the body & XX The Deathless
    • The Book Of Twos (Dukanipata) >
      • I Entering upon the rains, II Disciplinary Issues, III Fools, IV Same-Minded & V Assembles
      • VI People, VII Happiness, VIII With a basis,IX Dhamma, X Fools & XI Desires
      • XII Aspiring XIII Gifts XIV Munificence
      • ​XV Meditative Attainment, XVI Anger , XVII Unwholesome repetition series, ​​XVIII Discipline Repetition Series, XIX Lust and so forth repetition series
    • The Book of Threes (Tikanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
    • The Book of Fours (Catukkanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • Fifth Fifty
    • The Book of Fives (Pancakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • Fifth Fifty
      • Sixth Fifty
    • The Book of Sixes (Chakkanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Sevens (Sattakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Eights ( Atthakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of The Nines (Navakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Tens (Dasakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • An Extra Fifty
    • The Book of Elevens (Ekadasakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
  • Khuddaka Nikāya
  • Dhammapada
    • Dhammapada Chapter 1 verse 1-20 (The twins)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 2 Verse 21-32 (Heedfulness)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 3 Verse 33-43 (Mind)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 4 Verse 44-59 (Flowers)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 5 Verse 60-75 (Fools)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 6 Verse 76-89 The Wise
    • Dhammapada Chapter 7 Verse 90- 99 The Arahant
    • Dhammapada Chapter 8 Verse 100-115 The thousands
    • Dhammapada Chapter 9 Verse 116-128 Evil
    • Dhammapada Chapter 10 Verse 129-145 Punishment
    • Dhammapada Chapter 11 Verse 146-156 Old age
    • Dhammpada Chapter 12 Verse 157-166: Self
    • Dhammapada Chapter 13 Verse 167-178 World
    • Dhammapada Chapter 14 Verse 179-196: The Buddha
    • Dhammapada Chapter 15 Verse 197-208: Happiness
    • Dhammapada Chapter 16 Verse 209-220: Affection
    • Dhammapada Chapter 17 Verse 221-234 : Anger
    • Dhammapada Chapter 18 Verse 235-255: Impurities
    • Dhammapada Chapter 19 Established Verse 256-272
    • Dhammapada Chapter 20 Verse 273-289 : The Path
    • Dhammapada Chapter 21 Verse 290-305: Miscellaneous
    • Dhammapada Chapter 22 Verse 306-319: Hell
    • Dhammapada Chapter 23 Verse 320-333: The Great
    • Dhammapada Chapter 24 Craving Verse 334-359
    • Dhammapada Chapter 25 The Monk Verse 360-382
    • Dhammapada Chapter 26 Brahmana Verse 383-423
  • Vinaya Pitaka
  • Abhidhamma
  • Great Disciples of the Buddha
    • Chief disciple Ven Sariputta
    • Chief disciple Ven Moggallana
    • Mahakassapa
    • Ananda
    • Anuruddha
    • Mahakaccana
    • Bhikkhuni Mahapajapati Gotami
    • Visakha and other Bhikkhunis
    • Aṅgulimāla
    • Anāthapiṇḍika
    • Shorter lives of the disciples
  • Ordination Procedure (Upasampadàvidhã )
    • Chapter 1 Upasampada
    • Chapter 2 The Vinaya
    • Chapter 3 Ordination Procedure
    • Chapter 4 Admonition Anusasana
    • Chapter 5 Preliminary Duties for a New Bhikkhu
    • Chapter 6 Daily chanting
    • Appendices
  • THE DHAMMA WAY
    • Why should we practise Mettā?
    • How to make Merits?
    • Do you cultivate the Four Divine Abodes?
    • Q&A on Buddhist’s Misconceptions
    • Will Buddhism disappear from the world?
    • Have you seen Relics?
    • Are there karmically genetic diseases?
    • What is the Buddhist approach to crime and punishment?
    • Let’s practise ‘Paccavekkhana’
  • Patipadā Venerable Ãcariya Mun’s Path of Practice
    • Chapter 1 Kammatthåna
    • Chapter 2 Training the Mind
    • Chapter 3 The White-robed Upåsaka
    • Chapter 4 More About Training & Venerable Ajaan Mun’s Talk
    • Chapter 5 Stories of Bhikkhus Who Practise
    • Chapter 6 The Ascetic Practices (Dhutangas)
    • Chapter 7 The Story of Venerable Ajaan Chob
    • Chapter 8 Bhikkhus of the “Modern Kind”
    • Chapter 9 About Beings in the Realm of Ghosts
    • Chapter 10 The Practice of the Dhutangas
    • Chapter 11 The Nature of Greed & Fighting Pain and Kilesas
    • Chapter 12 A Short Biography of Venerable Ajaan Khao
    • Chapter 13 Methods of Bhåvanå
    • Chapter 14 The Importance of Mindfulness
    • Chapter 15 The Kammatthåna Bhikkhus’ Ways of Behaviour
    • Chapter 16 The Customs of Kammatthåna Bhikkhus
    • Chapter 17 How Questions Differ in Samådhi & Paññå
    • Chapter 18 More on Behaviour & Dhamma Discussions
    • Chapter 19 The Story of Venerable Ajaan Brom
    • Chapter 20 Venerable Ajaan Mun’s Practice & His Methods of Teaching
  • Venerable Ãcariya Mun Bhýridatta Thera — A Spiritual Biography —
    • The Early Years
    • The Middle Years
    • A Heart Released
    • The Chiang Mai Years
    • Unusual Questions, Enlightening Answers
    • The Final Years
    • The Legacy
    • Appendix I
    • Appendix II
  • Things as they are
    • Introduction
    • From Ignorance to Emptiness
    • The Tracks of the Ox
    • The path of strength
    • The Savor of the Dhamma
    • The Middleness of the Middle Way
    • The Simile of the Horse
    • Principles in the Practice, Principles in the Heart
    • The Four Frames of Reference
    • The Work of a Contemplative
    • The Fangs of Ignorance
    • The Outer Space of Mind
    • To Be an Inner Millionaire
    • Every Grain of Sand
  • Arahattamagga Arahattaphala (The Path to Arahantship)
    • ARAHATTAMAGGA (The direct route to the end of all suffering)
    • ARAHATTAPHALA
    • ARAHATTAPATTA
    • APPENDIX
  • Forest Dhamma
    • Introduction
    • Wisdom Develops Samadhi
    • Samadhi I
    • Samadhi 2
    • Samadhi 3
    • Wisdom
    • The Funeral Desana
    • Dhamma Talk 1
    • The development of meditation
  • Paritta Chants
  • Dhamma Ebooks links
  • Autobiographies of Ajahns
  • Blog

Chapter 29 What is it that is Reborn? (No-soul)

​“Neither the same nor yet another.”
– Visuddhi Magga

Apart from mind and matter, which constitute this so-called being, Buddhism does not assert the existence of an immortal
soul, or an eternal ego, which man has obtained in a mysterious way from an equally mysterious source.
A soul which is eternal must necessarily remain always the same without any change whatever. If the soul which is
supposed to be the essence of man is eternal, there could be neither a rise nor a fall. Nor could one explain why “different
souls are so variously constituted at the outset.”

To justify the existence of endless felicity in an eternal heaven and unending torment in an eternal hell, it is absolutely
necessary to postulate an immortal soul.
“It should be said,” writes Bertrand Russell, “that the old distinction between soul and body has evaporated, quite as much because ‘matter’ has lost its solidity as because mind has lost its spirituality.

Psychology is just beginning to be scientific. In the present state of psychology belief in immortality can at any rate claim no support from science.” (Religion and Science, p. 132.)
According to the learned author of the Riddle of the Universe:10 “This theological proof that a personal creator has breathed an immortal soul (generally regarded as a portion of the Divine Soul) into man is a pure myth. The cosmological proof that the ‘moral order of the world’ demands the eternal duration of the human soul is a baseless dogma.

​The teleological proof that the ‘higher destiny’of man involves the perfecting of his defective, earthly soul beyond
the grave – rests on a false anthropism. The moral proof – that the defects and the unsatisfied desires of earthly existence must be fulfilled by ‘compensative justice’ on the other side of eternity – is nothing more than a pious wish. The ethnological proof – that the belief in immortality, like the belief in God, is an innate truth, common
to all humanity – is an error in fact.

The ontological proof – that the soul, being a simple, immaterial, and indivisible entity cannot be involved in the corruption of death – is based on an entirely erroneous view of the psychic phenomena it is a spiritualistic fallacy.
All these and similar ‘proofs of athanatism’ are in a parlous condition; they are definitely annulled by the scientific criticism of the last few decades.”​
​If nothing in the form of a spirit or soul passes from this life to the other, what is it that is reborn?
In this question it is taken for granted that there is some thing to be reborn.

A few centuries ago it was argued – “Cogito. ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am). True, but first it has to be proved that
there is an “I” to think. We say that the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, although we know that actually it is not so. We have to admit that one cannot strike an identical place twice although to all appearance one has done so.
Everything changes so soon. For no two moments are we identically the same.

Buddhists agree with Bertrand Russell when he says: “There is obviously some reason in which I am the same person
as I was yesterday, and, to take an even more obvious example, if I simultaneously see a man and hear him speaking, there is some sense in which the I that sees is the same as the I that hears.” 

Until recently scientists believed in an indivisible and indestructible atom. “For sufficient reasons physicists have reduced
this atom to a series of events; for equally good reasons psychologists find that mind has not the identity of a single continuing thing but is a series of occurrences bound together by certain intimate relations. The question of immortality, therefore, has become the question whether these intimate relations exist between occurrences connected with a living body and other occurrences which take place after that body is dead.”

As C.E.M. Joad says in The Meaning of Life: “Matter has since disintegrated under our very eyes. It is no
longer solid; it is no longer enduring; it is no longer determined by compulsive laws; and more important than all it is no longer known.”

The so-called atoms, it seems, are both “divisible and destructible.” The electrons and protons that compose atoms “can meet and annihilate one another, while their persistence, such as it is, is rather that of a wave lacking fixed boundaries, and in process of continual change both as regards shape and position, than that of a thing.”

Bishop Berkley, who showed that this so-called atom was a metaphysical fiction, held that there existed a spiritual substance called a soul.
Hume in his search after a soul declares:
“There are some philosophers who imagine we are every moment intimately conscious of what we call our self: that we feel its existence and its continuance in existence and are certain, beyond the evidence of a demonstration, both of its perfect identity and simplicity. For my part, when I enter most intimately into what I call myself, I always stumble on some particular perception or other– of heat or cold, light or shade, love or hatred, pain or pleasure. I never can catch myself at any time without a perception, and never can observe anything but the perception…” 
Bergson says: “All consciousness is time existence; and a conscious state is not a state that endures without changing. It is a change without ceasing; when change ceases, it ceases; it is itself nothing but change.”

Watson, a distinguished psychologist, states: “No one has ever touched a soul, or has seen one in a test tube, or has in any way come into relationship with it as he has with the other objects of his daily experience. Nevertheless to doubt its existence is to become a heretic, and once might possibly even had led to the loss of one’s head. Even today a man holding a public position dare not question it.” 

Dealing with this question of soul, Prof. James writes: “This soul-theory is a complete superfluity, so far as according
for the actually verified facts of conscious experience goes. So far no one can be compelled to subscribe to it for definite scientific reasons.

“This me is an empirical aggregate of things objectively known 
The I which knows them cannot itself be an aggregate, neither for psychological purpose need it be considered to be an unchanging metaphysical entity like the soul, or a principal like the pure Ego viewed as out of time. It is a thought, at each moment different from that of the last moment, but appropriative of the latter, together with all that the latter calls its own. All the experimental facts find their place in this description, unencumbered with any hypothesis save that of the existence of passing thoughts or states of mind.” 
He concludes his interesting chapter on the soul with the words: “And in this book the provisional solution which we
have reached must be the final word”:
“The thoughts themselves are the thinkers.”
And this is an echo of the very words of the Buddha from 2,500 years ago in the valley of the Ganges.

Buddhism, teaching a psychology without a psyche, resolves the living being into mind and matter (nāma-rūpa) which are in a state of constant flux. In the ancient days the Indian sages too believed in an indivisible atom which they called Paramānu. According to the ancient belief 36 Paramānus constitute one Anu; 36 Anus,none Tajjāri; 36 Tajjāris, one Ratharenu. The minute particles of dust seen dancing in the sunbeam are called Ratharenus. One
Paramānu is, therefore, 1/46,656th part of a Ratharenu.

With His supernormal vision the Buddha analysed the Paramānu and declared that the Paramānu consists of interrelated forces known as Paramatthas or essentials of matter. These Paramatthas are Pathavi, Āpo, Tejo, and Vāyo. Pathavi. means the element of extension, the substratum of matter. Without it objects cannot occupy space. The qualities of hardness and softness which are relative are two conditions of this same element.
​
Āpo is the element of cohesion. Unlike pathavi it is intangible. It is this element which makes the scattered atoms of matter
cohere and gives us the idea of body. When solid bodies are melted, this element becomes more prominent in the resulting
fluid. This element is found even in minute particles when solid bodies are reduced to powder. The element of extension
and cohesion are so closely interrelated that when cohesion ceases extension disappears.
​
Tejo is the element of heat. Cold is also a form of tejo. Both heat and cold are included in tejo because they possess the
power of maturing bodies or, in other words, it is the vitalising energy. Preservation and decay are due to this element.
Unlike the other three essentials of matter this element, also called utu, has the power to regenerate by itself.

Vāyo is the element of motion. Movements are caused by this element. Motion is regarded as the force or the generator
of heat. “Motion and heat in the material realm correspond respectively to consciousness and Kamma in the mental.”

These four are the fundamental units of matter and are invariably combined with the four derivatives – namely, colour
(vanna), odour (gandha) taste (rasa), and nutritive essence (ojā). The four elements and the derivatives are inseparable and
interrelated, but one element may preponderate over another, as for instance, the element of extension preponderates in
earth; cohesion, in water; heat, in fire; and motion, in air.

Thus, matter consists of forces and qualities which are in a state of constant flux. According to Buddhism matter endures
only for 17 thought moments.

Mind, the more important part in the complex machinery of man, consists of fifty-two mental states. Feeling or sensation
(vedanā) is one, perception (saññā) is another. The remaining fifty are collectively called volitional activities (samkhārā),
a rendering which does not exactly convey the meaning of the Pāli term. Of them volition or cetanā is the most important
factor. All these psychic states arise in a consciousness (Viññāna).

According to Buddhist philosophy there is no moment when one does not experience a particular kind of consciousness,
hanging on to some object whether physical or mental. The time limit of such a consciousness is termed one thought moment.

Each thought-moment is followed by another. Thus the succession of mental states contains a time element. The rapidity of the succession of such thought-moments is hardly conceivable.
Each unit of consciousness consists of three instants (khana). They are arising or genesis (uppāda), static or development
(thiti) and cessation or dissolution (bhanga).

Immediately after the cessation stage of a thought-moment there occurs the genesis stage of the subsequent thought moment. Each momentary consciousness of this ever-changing life process, on passing away, transmits its whole energy, all the indelibly recorded impressions, to its successor. Every fresh consciousness consists of the potentialities of its predecessors together with something more. There is therefore a continuous flow of consciousness like a stream without any interruption.

The subsequent thought-moment is neither absolutely the same as its predecessor since its composition is not identical –
nor entirely different – being the same stream of life. There is no identical being, but there is an identity in process.
It must not be understood that consciousness is in bits joined together like a train or a chain. On the contrary, “it constantly flows on like a river receiving from the tributary streams of sense constant accretions to its flood, and ever dispensing to the world around it the thought-stuff it has gathered by the way. It has birth for its source and death for its mouth.

Here occurs a juxtaposition of fleeting states of consciousness but not a superposition of such states, as some appear to
believe. No state once gone ever recurs – none absolutely identical with what goes before. These states constantly change,
not remaining the same for two consecutive moments. Worldlings, enmeshed in the web of illusion, mistake this apparent
continuity to be something eternal and go to the extent of introducing an unchanging soul (the supposed doer and observer of all actions) into this ever-changing consciousness.

The four kinds of psychic phenomena, combined with the physical phenomena, form the five aggregates (pañcak-khanda),
the complex-compound termed a living being. One’s individuality is the combination of these five aggregates.

We see a vast expanse of water in the sea, but the water of the ocean consists of countless drops. An infinite number of
particles of sand constitutes the sea-beach, but it appears as one long sheet. Waves arise and dash against the shore, but,
strictly speaking, no single wave comes from the deep blue sea to lose its identity on the shore. In the cinematograph we
see a moving scene, but to represent that motion a series of momentary pictures must appear on the screen. 

One cannot say that the perfume of a flower depends on the petal or on the pistil or on the colour, for the perfume is in
the flower.

In the same way one’s individuality is the combination of all the five aggregates. The whole process of these psycho-physical phenomena which are constantly becoming and passing away, is at times called, in conventional terms, the self or attā by the Buddha; but it is a process, and not an identity that is thus termed.

Buddhism does not totally deny the existence of a personality in an empirical sense. It denies, in an ultimate sense (paramattha saccena), an identical being or a permanent entity, but it does not deny a continuity in process. The Buddhist philosophical term for an individual is santati, that is, a flux or continuity.

This uninterrupted flux or continuity of psycho-physical phenomena, conditioned by Kamma, having no perceptible
source in the beginningless past nor any end to its continuation in the future, except by the Noble Eightfold Path, is the
Buddhist substitute for the permanent ego or eternal soul in other religious systems.

How is rebirth possible without a soul to be reborn? Birth, according to Buddhism, is the arising of the khandas,
the aggregates or groups (khandhānam pātubhāvo). Just as the arising of a physical state is conditioned by a
preceding state as its cause, so the appearance of these psycho- physical phenomena is conditioned by causes anterior to
its birth. The present process of becoming is the result of the craving for becoming in the previous birth, and the present
instinctive craving conditions life in a future birth.

As the process of one life-span is possible without a permanent entity passing from one thought-moment to another,
so a series of life-processes is possible without anything to transmigrate from one existence to another.

The Buddhist doctrine of rebirth should be differentiated from the theory of reincarnation which implies the transmigration of a soul and its invariable material rebirth.
In the Milinda Pañha and Visuddhi Magga the Venerable Nāgasena and Buddhaghosa have employed several similes
to illustrate the truth that nothing transmigrates from one life to another.

The simile of the flame is very striking. Life is compared to a flame. Rebirth is the transmitting of this flame from one
group to another. The flame of life is continuous although there is an apparent break at so-called death.

King Milinda questions:
“Venerable Nāgasena, does rebirth take place without anything transmigrating?
“Yes, O King. rebirth takes place without anything transmigrating.
“Give me an illustration, Venerable Sir.
“Suppose, O King, a man were to light a light from light pray, would the one light have passed over to the other light?
“Nay, indeed, Venerable Sir,
“In exactly the same way, O King, does rebirth take place without anything transmigrating.
“Give me another illustration.
“Do you remember, O King, having learnt, when you were a boy, some verse or other from your teacher of poetry?
“Yes, Venerable Sir.
“Pray, O King, did the verse pass over to you from your teacher?
“Nay, indeed, Venerable Sir.
“In exactly the same way, O King, does rebirth take place without anything transmigrating.”
​
Again King Milinda questions:
“Venerable Nāgasena, what is it that is born into the next existence?​
​“O King, it is mind and body that is born into the next existence.
“It is this same mind and body that is born into the next existence?
“O King, it is not this same mind and body that is born into the next existence, but with this mind and body, O King, one does a deed – it may be good, or it may be evil – and by reason of this deed another mind and body is born into the next existence.

“Venerable Sir, if it is not this mind and body that is born into the next existence, is one not freed from one’s evil deeds?
“If one were not born into another existence, one would be freed from one’s evil deeds but, O King, inasmuch as one is born into another existence, therefore is one not freed from one’s evil deeds.
“Give me an illustration.
“O King, it is as if a man were to take away another man’s mangoes, and the owner of the mangoes were to seize him, and show him to the king and say – ‘Sire, this man hath taken away my mangoes’; and the other were to say, ‘Sire, I did not take away his mangoes. The mangoes which this man planted were different from those which I took away. I am not liable to punishment.’ Pray, O King, would the man be liable to punishment?

“Assuredly, Venerable, Sir, he would be liable to punishment.” For what reason?
“Because, in spite of what he might say, he would be liable to punishment for the reason that the last mangoes were derived from the first mangoes.
“In exactly, the same way, O King, with this mind and body one does a deed – it may be good, or it may be bad – and by reason of this deed another mind and body is born into the next existence.
Therefore is one not freed from one’s evil deeds.”
The Venerable Buddhaghosa elucidates this intricate point by citing the similes of echo, light, impression of a seal, and reflection in a mirror.

A modern writer illustrates this process by a series of billiard balls in close contact.
“If, for instance, another ball is rolled against the last stationary ball, the moving ball will stop dead, and the foremost stationary ball will move on. The first moving ball does not pass over, it remains behind, it dies; but it is undeniably the movement of that ball, its momentum, its Kamma, and not any newly created movement,which is reborn in the foremost ball.” 

In like manner – to use conventional terms the body dies and its Kammic force is reborn in another without anything transmigrating from this life to the other. The last thought-moment of this life perishes conditioning another thought-moment in a subsequent life. The new being is neither absolutely the same – since it has changed nor totally different – being the same stream of Kamma energy. There is merely a continuity of a particular life-flux; just that and nothing more.
​​​​​​​​​Reference: 
The Buddha and His Teachings by Venerable Nārada Mahāthera
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  • The Buddha and His Teachings
    • Chapter 1 The Buddha
    • Chapter 2 His struggle for enlightenment
    • Chapter 3 The buddhahood
    • Chapter 4 After The Enlightenment
    • Chapter 5 The invitation to expound the dhamma
    • Chapter 6 Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta
    • Chapter 7 The Teaching of the Dhamma
    • Chapter 8 The Buddha and his relatives
    • Chapter 9 The Buddha and his relatives
    • Chapter 10 The Buddha's chief opponents and supporters
    • Chapter 11 The Buddha's Royal Patrons
    • Chapter 12 The Buddha's Ministry
    • Chapter 13 The Buddha's daily routine
    • Chapter 14 The Buddha’s Parinibbāna (Death)
    • Chapter 15 What is Buddhism
    • Chapter 16 Some Salient Characteristics of Buddhism
    • Chapter 17 The Four Noble Truths
    • Chapter 18 Kamma
    • Chapter 19 What is kamma?
    • Chapter 20 The Working of Kamma
    • Chapter 21 Nature of kamma
    • Chapter 22 What is the Origin of Life?
    • Chapter 23 The Buddha on the so-called Creator
    • Chapter 24 Reasons to Believe in Rebirth
    • Chapter 25 The Wheel of Life – Paticca-Samuppāda
    • Chapter 26 Modes of Birth and Death
    • Chapter 27 Planes of Existence
    • Chapter 28 How Rebirth takes place
    • Chapter 29 What is it that is Reborn? (No-soul)
    • Chapter 30 Moral Responsibility
    • Chapter 31 Kammic Descent and Kammic Ascent
    • Chapter 32 A Note on the Doctrine of Kamma & Rebirth in the West
    • Chapter 33 Nibbāna
    • Chapter 34 Characteristics of Nibbāna
    • Chapter 35 The Way to Nibbāna (I)
    • Chapter 36 The Way to Nibbāna (II) Meditation
    • Chapter 37: Nīvarana or Hindrances
    • Chapter 38 The Way to Nibbāna (III)
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  • Digha Nikaya (Long Discourse)
    • DN 1 Brahmajala Sutta
    • DN 2 Samannaphala Sutta (The Fruits of the homeless life)
    • DN 3 Ambattha Sutta
    • DN 4 Sonadanda Sutta
    • DN 5 Kuttadanta Sutta
    • DN 6 Mahali Sutta
    • DN 7 Jaliya Sutta
    • DN 8 Mahasihanada Sutta: The Great Lion's Roar
    • DN 9 : Potthapada Sutta
    • DN 10 Subha Sutta: Morality, concentration and wisdom
    • DN 11 Kevaddha Sutta: What Brahma didn't know
    • DN 12 Lohicca Sutta : Good and Bad teachers
    • DN 13 Tevijja Sutta : The threefold knowledge (The Way to Brahma)
    • DN 14 Mahapadana Sutta: : The Great Discourse on the Lineage
    • DN 15 Mahanidana Sutta: The Great discourse on Origination
    • DN 16 Maha-parinibbana Sutta
    • DN 17 Mahasudassana Sutta: The Great Splendor, A King's Renunciation
    • DN 18: Janavasabha sutta: Brahma addresses the gods
    • DN 19 Mahagovinda Sutta: The Great Steward
    • Dn 20 Mahisamaya Sutta: The Mighty Gathering Devas Come to See the Buddha
    • Dn 21 Sakkapanha Sutta: Sakka's questions
    • DN 22 Mahasatipatthana Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Foundations of Mindfulness
    • DN 23: Payasi Sutta; Debate with a sceptic
    • DN 24: Patika suta: About Patikaputta The Charlatan
    • DN 25: Udumbarika-Sihanada Sutta: The Great Lion's Roar to the Udumbarikans
    • DN 26 Cakkavatti-Sihanada Sutta : The Lion's roar on the turning of the wheel
    • DN27 Aggañña Sutta: On Knowledge of Beginnings
    • DN 28 Sampasadaniya Sutta: Serene Faith
    • Dn 29 Pasadika Sutta: The Delightful Discourse
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    • DN 31. Sigalovada Sutta Advice to the lay people
    • DN 32 Atanatiya Sutta (The Atanata protective verses)
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  • Majjhima Nikaya (Middle length discourse)
    • MN 1 Mulapariyaya Sutta (The Root of All Things)
    • MN 2 Sabbasava Sutta
    • MN 3 Dhammadayada Sutta (Heirs in Dhamma)
    • MN 4 Bhayabherava Sutta (Fear and Dread)
    • MN 5 Anangana Sutta (Without Blemishes)
    • MN 6 Akankheyya Sutta (If a Bhikkhu Should Wish)
    • MN 7 Vatthupama Sutta (The Simile of the Cloth)
    • MN 8 Sallekha Sutta (Effacement)
    • MN 9: Sammaditthi Sutta (Right View)
    • MN 10 Satipatthana Sutta: The Foundations of Mindfulness
    • MN 11 Culasihanada Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Lion's Roar
    • MN 12 Mahasihanada Sutta :The Greater Discourse on the Lion's Roar
    • MN 13 Mahadukkhakkhandha Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Mass of Suffering
    • MN 14 Culadukkhakkhandha Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Mass of Suffering
    • MN 15 Anumana Sutta: Inference
    • MN 16 Cetokhila Sutta: The Wilderness in the Heart
    • MN 17 Vanapattha Sutta: Jungle Thickets
    • MN 18 Madhupindika Sutta: The Honeyball
    • MN 19 Dvedhavitakka Sutta: Two Kinds of Thought
    • MN 20 Vitakkasanthana Sutta : The Removal of Distracting Thoughts
    • MN 21 Kakacupama Sutta: The Simile of the Saw
    • MN 22 Alagaddupama Sutta: The Simile of the Snake
    • MN 23 Vammika Sutta: The Ant-hill
    • MN 24 Rathavinita Sutta: The Relay Chariots
    • MN 25 Nivapa Sutta: The Bait
    • MN 26 Ariyapariyesana Sutta: The Noble Search
    • MN 27 Culahatthipadopama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant's Footprint
    • MN 28 Mahahatthipadopama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant's Footprint
    • MN 29 Mahasaropama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Simile of the Heartwood
    • MN 30 Culasaropama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Heartwood
    • MN 31 Culagosinga sutta: The shorter discourse in Gosinga
    • MN 32 Mahagosinga Sutta: The Greater Discourse in Gosinga
    • MN 33 Mahagopalaka Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Cowherd
    • MN 34 Culagopalaka Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Cowherd
    • MN 35 Culasaccaka Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Saccaka
    • MN 36 Mahasaccaka Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Saccaka
    • MN 37 Culatanhasankhaya Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Destruction of Craving
    • MN 38 Mahatanhasankhaya Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Destruction of Craving
    • MN 39 Maha-Assapura Sutta: The Greater Discourse at Assapura
    • MN 40 Cula-Assapura Sutta: The Shorter Discourse at Assapura
    • MN 41 Saleyyaka Sutta: The Brahmins of Sala
    • MN 42 Veranjaka Sutta: The Brahmins of Veranja
    • MN 43 Mahavedalla Sutta: The Greater Series of Questions and Answers
    • MN 44 Culavedalla Sutta: The Shorter Series of Questions and Answers
    • MN 45 Culadhammasamadana Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on Ways of Undertaking Things
    • MN 46 Mahadhammasamadana Sutta: The Greater Discourse on Ways of Undertaking Things
    • MN 47 Vimamsaka Sutta: The Inquirer
    • MN 48 Kosambiya Sutta: The Kosambians
    • MN 49 Brahmanimantanika Sutta: The Invitation of a Brahma
    • MN 50 Maratajjaniya Sutta: The Rebuke to Mara
    • MN 51 Kandaraka Sutta: To Kandaraka
    • MN 52 Atthakanagara Sutta: The Man from Atthakanagara
    • MN 53 Sekha Sutta: The Disciple in Higher Training
    • MN 54 Potaliya Sutta: To Potaliya
    • MN 55 Jivaka Sutta: To Jivaka
    • MN 56 Upali Sutta: To Upali
    • MN 57 Kukkuravatika Sutta: The Dog-duty Ascetic
    • MN 58 Abhayarajakumara Sutta: To Prince Abhaya
    • MN 59 Bahuvedaniya Sutta: The Many Kinds of Feeling
    • MN 60 Apannaka Sutta: The Incontrovertible Teaching
    • MN 61 Ambalatthikarahulovada Sutta: Advice to Rahula at Ambalatthika
    • MN 62 Maharahulovada Sutta: The Greater Discourse of Advice to Rahula
    • MN 63 Culamalunkya Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Malunkyaputta
    • MN 64 Mahamalunkya Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Malunkyaputta
    • MN 65 Bhaddali Sutta: To Bhaddali
    • MN 66 Latukikopama Sutta: The Simile of the Quail
    • MN 67 Catuma Sutta: At Catuma
    • MN 68 Nalakapana Sutta: At Nalakapana
    • MN 69 Gulissani Sutta: Gulissani
    • MN 70 Kitagiri Sutta: At Kitagiri
    • MN 71 Tevijjavacchagotta Sutta: To Vacchagotta on the Threefold True Knowledge
    • MN 72 Aggivacchagotta Sutta: To Vacchagotta on Fire
    • MN 73 Mahavacchagotta Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Vacchagotta
    • MN 74 Dighanakha Sutta: To Dighanakha
    • MN 75 Magandiya Sutta: To Magandiya
    • MN 76 Sandaka Sutta: To Sandaka
    • MN 77 Mahasakuludayi Sutta: The Greater Discourse to Sakuludayin
    • MN 78 Samanamandika Sutta: Samanamandikaputta
    • MN 79 Culasakuludayi Sutta: The Shorter Discourse to Sakuludayin
    • MN 80 Vekhanassa Sutta: To Vekhanassa
    • MN 81 Ghatikara Sutta: Ghatikara the Potter
    • MN 82 Ratthapala Sutta: On Ratthapala
    • MN 83 Makhadeva Sutta: King Makhadeva
    • MN 84 Madhura Sutta: At Madhura
    • MN 85 Bodhirajakumara Sutta: To Prince Bodhi
    • MN 86 Angulimala Sutta: On Angulimala
    • MN 87 Piyajatika Sutta: Born from Those Who Are Dear
    • MN 88 Bahitika Sutta: The Cloak
    • MN 89 Dhammacetiya Sutta: Monuments to the Dhamma
    • MN 90 Kannakatthala Sutta: At Kannakatthala
    • MN 91 Brahmayu Sutta: Brahmayu
    • MN 92 Sela Sutta: To Sela
    • MN 93 Assalayana Sutta: To Assalayana
    • MN 94 Ghotamukha Sutta: To Ghotamukha
    • MN 95 Canki Sutta: With Canki
    • MN 96 Esukari Sutta: To Esukari
    • MN 97 Dhananjani Sutta: To Dhananjani
    • MN 98 Vasettha Sutta: To Vasettha
    • MN 99 Subha Sutta: To Subha
    • MN 100 Sangarava Sutta: To Sangarava
    • MN 101 Devadaha Sutta: At Devadaha
    • MN 102 Pancattaya Sutta: The Five and Three
    • MN 103 Kinti Sutta: What Do You Think About Me?
    • MN 104 Samagama Sutta: At Samagama
    • MN 105 Sunakkhatta Sutta: To Sunakkhatta
    • MN 106 Anenjasappaya Sutta: The Way to the Imperturbable
    • MN 107 Ganakamoggallana Sutta: To Ganaka Moggallana
    • MN 108 Gopakamoggallana Sutta: With Gopaka Moggallana
    • MN 109 Mahapunnama Sutta: The Greater Discourse on the Full-moon Night
    • MN 110 Culapunnama Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on the Full-moon Night
    • MN 111 Anupada Sutta: One by One As They Occurred
    • MN 112 Chabbisodhana Sutta: The Sixfold Purity
    • MN 113 Sappurisa Sutta: The True Man
    • MN 114 Sevitabbasevitabba Sutta: To Be Cultivated and Not To Be Cultivated
    • MN 115 Bahudhatuka Sutta: The Many Kinds of Elements
    • MN 116 Isigili Sutta- Isigili: The Gullet of the Seers
    • MN 117 Mahacattansaka Sutta: The Great Forty
    • MN 118 Anapanasati Sutta: Mindfulness of Breathing
    • MN 119 Kayagatasati Sutta: Mindfulness of the Body
    • MN 120 Sankharupapatti Sutta: Reappearance by Aspiration
    • MN 121 Culasunnata Sutta: The Shorter Discourse on Voidness
    • MN 122 Mahasunnata Sutta: The Greater Discourse on Voidness
    • MN 123 Acchariya-abbhuta Sutta: Wonderful and Marvellous
    • MN 124 Bakkula Sutta: Bakkula
    • MN 125 Dantabhumi Sutta: The Grade of the Tamed
    • MN 126 Bhumija Sutta: Bhumija
    • MN 127 Anuruddha Sutta: Anuruddha
    • MN 128 Upakkilesa Sutta: Imperfections
    • MN 129 Balapandita Sutta: Fools and Wise Men
    • MN 130 Devaduta Sutta: The Divine Messengers
    • MN 131 Bhaddekaratta Sutta: One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 132 Anandabhaddekaratta Sutta: Ananda and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 133 Mahakaccanabhaddekaratta Sutta: MahaKaccana and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 134 Lomasakangiyabhaddekaratta Sutta: Lomasakangiya and One Fortunate Attachment
    • MN 135 Cula Kamma Vibhanga Sutta
    • MN 136 Mahakammavibhanga Sutta: The Greater Exposition of Action
    • MN 137 Salayatanavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Sixfold Base
    • MN 138 Uddesavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of a Summary
    • MN 139 Aranavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of Non-Conflict
    • MN 140 Dhatuvibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Elements
    • MN 141 Saccavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of the Truths
    • MN 142 Dakkhinavibhanga Sutta: The Exposition of Offerings
    • MN 143 Anathapindikovada Sutta: Advice to Anathapindika
    • MN 144 Channovada Sutta: Advice to Channa
    • MN 145 Punnovada Sutta: Advice to Punna
    • MN 146 Nandakovada Sutta: Advice from Nandaka
    • MN 147 Cularahulovada Sutta: The Shorter Discourse of Advice to Rahula
    • MN 148 Chachakka Sutta: The Six Sets of Six
    • MN 149 Mahasalayatanika Sutta: The Great Sixfold Base
    • MN 150 Nagaravindeyya Sutta: To the Nagaravindans
    • MN 151 Pindapataparisuddhi Sutta: The Purification of Almsfood
    • MN 152 Indriyabhavana Sutta: The Development of the Faculties
  • Samyutta Nikaya (Connected discourse)
    • PART I: The Book with Verses (Sagathavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Devata-samyutta: Connected Discourses with Devatas
      • ​Chapter 2 Devaputta Sutta: Connected discourse with young devas
      • ​Chapter 3 Kosala-Samyutta (With the Kosalan)
      • Chapter 4 Mara-samyutta (Mara)
      • Chapter 5 Bhikkhuni-Samyutta (With Bhikkunis)
      • Chapter 6 Brahma-Samyutta (With Brahmas)
      • Chapter 7 Brahmana- Samyutta (With Brahmins)
      • Chapter 8 Vangisa- Samyutta (With Vangisa)
      • Chapter 9 Vana-Samyutta (In the woods)
      • Chapter 10 Yakkha- Samyutta (With Yakkhas)
      • Chapter 11 Sakka-Samyutta (with Sakka)
    • Part II The Book of Causation (Nidana Vaggasamyutta) >
      • Chapter 1 Nidana Samyutta (On Causation)
      • Chapter 2 Abhisamaya-Samyutta (On the Breakthrough )
      • Chapter 3 Dhatu Samyutta (On Elements)
      • Chapter 4 Anamatagga Samyutta (On Without Discoverable Beginning​)
      • Chapter 5 Kassapa Samyutta (With Kassapa)
      • Chapter 6 Labhasakkara Samyutta (On Gains and Honor)
      • Chapter 7 Rahula-Samyutta
      • Chapter 8 Lakkhana-Samyutta (With Lakkhana)
      • ​Chapter 9 Opamma- Samyutta (With Similes)
      • Chapter 10 Bhikkhu-Samyutta (With Bhikkhus)
    • Part III The book of aggregates (Khandhavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Khanda Samyutta (On the aggregates)
      • Chapter 2 Radha Samyutta (With Radha)
      • Chapter 3 Ditthi Samyutta (On Views)
      • Chapter 4 Okkanti Samyutta (On Entering)
      • Chapter 5 Uppada Samyutta (On Arising)
      • Chapter 6 Kilesa Samyutta (On Defilements)
      • Chapter 7 Sariputta Samyutta (With Sariputta)
      • Chapter 8 Naga Samyutta (On Nagas)
      • Chapter 9 Supanna Samyutta (On Supannas)
      • Chapter 10 Ghandhabba Samyutta (On Ghandhabbas)
      • Chapter 11 Valahaka Samyutta (On Cloud Devas)
      • Chapter 12 Vacchagotta Samyutta (With Vacchagotta)​
      • Chapter 13 Jhana Samyutta (On Meditation)
    • Part IV The Book of Six Sense Bases (Salayatanavagga) >
      • Chapter 1 Salayatana Samyutta (On Six Sense Bases)
      • Chapter 2 Vedana Samyutta
      • Chapter 3 Matugama Samyutta (On Women)
      • Chapter 4 Jambukhādaka Saṃyutta (With Jambukhadaka)
      • Chapter 5 Samandaka Samyutta (With Samandaka)
      • Chapter 6 Moggallana Samyutta (With Moggallana)
      • Chapter 7 Citta Samyutta (With Citta)
      • Chapter 8 Gamani Samyutta (To Headmen)
      • Chapter 9 Asankhata Samyutta: On the unconditioned
      • Chapter 10 Abyakata Samyutta (On the undeclared)
    • Part V The Great Book (Maha Vaggasamyutta) >
      • Chapter 1 Magga Samyutta (On the path)
      • Chapter 2 Bojjhanga Samyutta (On the factors of enlightenment)
      • Chapter 3 Satipatthana Samyutta (Establishments of Mindfulness)
      • Chapter 4 Indriya Samyutta (On the Faculties)
      • Chapter 5 Sammappadhana Samyutta (On the Right Strivings)
      • Chapter 6 Bala Samyutta (On the Powers)
      • Chapter 7 Iddhipada Samyutta (On the bases for Spiritual power)
      • Chapter 8 Anuruddha Samyutta (With Anuruddha)
      • Chapter 9 Jhana Samyutta (On the Jhanas)
      • Chapter 10 Anapana Samyutta (On Breathing)
      • Chapter 11 Sotapatti Samyutta (On Stream Entry)
      • Chapter 12 Sacca Samyutta (On the truths)
  • Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical discourse)
    • The Book of the Ones (Ekakanipāta) >
      • I Obsession of the mind. II Abandoning the hindrances, ​III Unwieldy & IV Untamed
      • V A Spike VI Luminous VII Arousal of Energy, VIII Good Friendship, IX Heedlessness & X Internal
      • XI Non-Dhamma, XII Not an offense, XIII One Person, ​XIV Foremost XV Impossible & XVI One thing
      • XVII Qualities Engendering confidence, XVIII Finger Snap, XIX Mindfulness directed to the body & XX The Deathless
    • The Book Of Twos (Dukanipata) >
      • I Entering upon the rains, II Disciplinary Issues, III Fools, IV Same-Minded & V Assembles
      • VI People, VII Happiness, VIII With a basis,IX Dhamma, X Fools & XI Desires
      • XII Aspiring XIII Gifts XIV Munificence
      • ​XV Meditative Attainment, XVI Anger , XVII Unwholesome repetition series, ​​XVIII Discipline Repetition Series, XIX Lust and so forth repetition series
    • The Book of Threes (Tikanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
    • The Book of Fours (Catukkanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • Fifth Fifty
    • The Book of Fives (Pancakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • Fifth Fifty
      • Sixth Fifty
    • The Book of Sixes (Chakkanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Sevens (Sattakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Eights ( Atthakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of The Nines (Navakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
    • The Book of Tens (Dasakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
      • Second Fifty
      • Third Fifty
      • Fourth Fifty
      • An Extra Fifty
    • The Book of Elevens (Ekadasakanipata) >
      • First Fifty
  • Khuddaka Nikāya
  • Dhammapada
    • Dhammapada Chapter 1 verse 1-20 (The twins)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 2 Verse 21-32 (Heedfulness)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 3 Verse 33-43 (Mind)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 4 Verse 44-59 (Flowers)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 5 Verse 60-75 (Fools)
    • Dhammapada Chapter 6 Verse 76-89 The Wise
    • Dhammapada Chapter 7 Verse 90- 99 The Arahant
    • Dhammapada Chapter 8 Verse 100-115 The thousands
    • Dhammapada Chapter 9 Verse 116-128 Evil
    • Dhammapada Chapter 10 Verse 129-145 Punishment
    • Dhammapada Chapter 11 Verse 146-156 Old age
    • Dhammpada Chapter 12 Verse 157-166: Self
    • Dhammapada Chapter 13 Verse 167-178 World
    • Dhammapada Chapter 14 Verse 179-196: The Buddha
    • Dhammapada Chapter 15 Verse 197-208: Happiness
    • Dhammapada Chapter 16 Verse 209-220: Affection
    • Dhammapada Chapter 17 Verse 221-234 : Anger
    • Dhammapada Chapter 18 Verse 235-255: Impurities
    • Dhammapada Chapter 19 Established Verse 256-272
    • Dhammapada Chapter 20 Verse 273-289 : The Path
    • Dhammapada Chapter 21 Verse 290-305: Miscellaneous
    • Dhammapada Chapter 22 Verse 306-319: Hell
    • Dhammapada Chapter 23 Verse 320-333: The Great
    • Dhammapada Chapter 24 Craving Verse 334-359
    • Dhammapada Chapter 25 The Monk Verse 360-382
    • Dhammapada Chapter 26 Brahmana Verse 383-423
  • Vinaya Pitaka
  • Abhidhamma
  • Great Disciples of the Buddha
    • Chief disciple Ven Sariputta
    • Chief disciple Ven Moggallana
    • Mahakassapa
    • Ananda
    • Anuruddha
    • Mahakaccana
    • Bhikkhuni Mahapajapati Gotami
    • Visakha and other Bhikkhunis
    • Aṅgulimāla
    • Anāthapiṇḍika
    • Shorter lives of the disciples
  • Ordination Procedure (Upasampadàvidhã )
    • Chapter 1 Upasampada
    • Chapter 2 The Vinaya
    • Chapter 3 Ordination Procedure
    • Chapter 4 Admonition Anusasana
    • Chapter 5 Preliminary Duties for a New Bhikkhu
    • Chapter 6 Daily chanting
    • Appendices
  • THE DHAMMA WAY
    • Why should we practise Mettā?
    • How to make Merits?
    • Do you cultivate the Four Divine Abodes?
    • Q&A on Buddhist’s Misconceptions
    • Will Buddhism disappear from the world?
    • Have you seen Relics?
    • Are there karmically genetic diseases?
    • What is the Buddhist approach to crime and punishment?
    • Let’s practise ‘Paccavekkhana’
  • Patipadā Venerable Ãcariya Mun’s Path of Practice
    • Chapter 1 Kammatthåna
    • Chapter 2 Training the Mind
    • Chapter 3 The White-robed Upåsaka
    • Chapter 4 More About Training & Venerable Ajaan Mun’s Talk
    • Chapter 5 Stories of Bhikkhus Who Practise
    • Chapter 6 The Ascetic Practices (Dhutangas)
    • Chapter 7 The Story of Venerable Ajaan Chob
    • Chapter 8 Bhikkhus of the “Modern Kind”
    • Chapter 9 About Beings in the Realm of Ghosts
    • Chapter 10 The Practice of the Dhutangas
    • Chapter 11 The Nature of Greed & Fighting Pain and Kilesas
    • Chapter 12 A Short Biography of Venerable Ajaan Khao
    • Chapter 13 Methods of Bhåvanå
    • Chapter 14 The Importance of Mindfulness
    • Chapter 15 The Kammatthåna Bhikkhus’ Ways of Behaviour
    • Chapter 16 The Customs of Kammatthåna Bhikkhus
    • Chapter 17 How Questions Differ in Samådhi & Paññå
    • Chapter 18 More on Behaviour & Dhamma Discussions
    • Chapter 19 The Story of Venerable Ajaan Brom
    • Chapter 20 Venerable Ajaan Mun’s Practice & His Methods of Teaching
  • Venerable Ãcariya Mun Bhýridatta Thera — A Spiritual Biography —
    • The Early Years
    • The Middle Years
    • A Heart Released
    • The Chiang Mai Years
    • Unusual Questions, Enlightening Answers
    • The Final Years
    • The Legacy
    • Appendix I
    • Appendix II
  • Things as they are
    • Introduction
    • From Ignorance to Emptiness
    • The Tracks of the Ox
    • The path of strength
    • The Savor of the Dhamma
    • The Middleness of the Middle Way
    • The Simile of the Horse
    • Principles in the Practice, Principles in the Heart
    • The Four Frames of Reference
    • The Work of a Contemplative
    • The Fangs of Ignorance
    • The Outer Space of Mind
    • To Be an Inner Millionaire
    • Every Grain of Sand
  • Arahattamagga Arahattaphala (The Path to Arahantship)
    • ARAHATTAMAGGA (The direct route to the end of all suffering)
    • ARAHATTAPHALA
    • ARAHATTAPATTA
    • APPENDIX
  • Forest Dhamma
    • Introduction
    • Wisdom Develops Samadhi
    • Samadhi I
    • Samadhi 2
    • Samadhi 3
    • Wisdom
    • The Funeral Desana
    • Dhamma Talk 1
    • The development of meditation
  • Paritta Chants
  • Dhamma Ebooks links
  • Autobiographies of Ajahns
  • Blog