Free Buddhist Audio

Superficiality is acting from the surface of ourselves without thoroughness or care. We act from the intellect but not from our emotional depths. In this talk Akashamitra looks at how superficiality arises from an internally divided state of mind. He points the way to a more wholesome practise of the Dharma through a focus on personal transformation as the goal of everything we do. Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, 2019, as part of the series 'The Taste of Freedom' Revisited.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Breaking_the_Fetter_of_Superficiality_631.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sangharakshita goes to Buddhafield! A first for him, and a first for the fabulous Buddhafield Festival that takes place each year at the height of the English summer. This talk was given in a tent in Devon - and the sounds of this great Dharma celebration are everywhere around as Sangharakshita marks his entry to the 'Dharma Parlour' with a rolling set of thoughts and reminiscences and encouragements to practice. We move from India at the time of the peaceful revolution of 'untouchable' caste Hindus, to the famed hot-tubs of the festival itself. And we are introduced to the first 'three fetters' from the Buddha's teaching, the breaking of which will set us free. This is classic Sangharakshita - plenty to challenge and plenty to talk about around the fire afterwards.

With an excellent and thoughtful introduction by Kamalashila. 

Talk given at the Buddhafield Festival, Devon 2007.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Entering_the_Sangha_630.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Devotion and prayer, ritual and freedom, engagement and tradition, Bodhidasa explores the fascinating meanings behind our common traditions in modern Buddhism - from tea and tim-tams to puja, chanting and offering. Sourcing the Pali canon, Bodhidasa discusses the Three Fetters, and the pitfalls of superficiality, habit and vagueness that can hinder our progress on the path. How do we relate to blessing and purity in the spiritual life? Through a sense of reverence and engagement with symbol, can we connect our lives to the transcendental? 

Talk given at Sydney Buddhist Centre, 2015.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Breaking_the_Chains_629.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kamalashila describes the types of Shraddha (confidence, faith or esteem), and their place in Buddhist practice. Talk for Sangha Night at the West London Buddhist Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Shraddha_628.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Saddhanandi riffs off a talk that Sangharakshita gave to the Buddhist Society in 1975 entitled 'Enlightenment as Experience and Non-Experience'. She reflects on the content as well as the context, just what was happening with these early lectures by Sangharakshita, just six years after the first ordinations. Given on retreat at Adhisthana, 2022.

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Vajragupta (m)  explores the power of ideas to shape us, our lives and world, and even human history. As Buddhism comes to the West, is it taken on in a way that seems to fit with certain prevailing ideas and assumptions in our culture? What ideas and world-views lead to Enlightenment and the fullest expression of human potential, and what ideas and world-views may hinder? A talk fizzing with ideas to make you think and wonder… Part of the series What Is Nirvana and Do We Really Want to Get There? given at the Croydon Buddhist Centre, 2021.

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Vidyapala draws on various Pali suttas, and the Buddha's own life, to suggest ways we might move from suffering to faith in this talk given at Manchester Buddhist Centre, 2023.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_From_Suffering_to_Shraddha_625.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Drawing upon the myths in the life of the Buddha Satyapara explores the role the body plays when we take up Buddhist practice. She describes the Buddha as a child under a rose apple tree being deeply in touch with his surrounding and when calling upon the earth he gains confidence in his practice and overcomes his doubts. With these stories Satyapara invites us to trust our body. Given in Cambridge, UK, in the Young People's Evening, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_A_Body_of_Practice_624_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Bodhivajra talks about Enlightenment in a direct and very down-to-earth way, making the whole notion of Enlightenment more accessible, approachable, and relevant. Norwich Buddhist Centre, May 2015.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Energy_For_Enlightenment_623.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 6:33am EDT

Space, white light and the wisdom of the Dharmadhatu: Maitrivajri explores the qualities of Akasadatesvari. This talk was given on a retreat at Taraloka Retreat Centre on the Mandala of the Five Female Buddhas, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Akasadatesvari_and_the_Centre_of_the_Mandala_622.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Suryagupta concludes the five Buddha mandala with a talk on the historical Buddha and on Vairocana. In this talk Suryagupta weaves the story of the historical Buddha with themes from her own life and in doing so encourages us to honour the bigger questions of what it means to be alive. Using the Buddha as her example, Suryagupta invites us to step onto the path... and quest!

This talk was given at the London Buddhist Centre, 2019, as part of the series The Symbolic World of the Five Buddha Mandala.

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Dharmashalin explores the stupa, the different elements (earth, water, air, fire and space) and how we can work with them in our Dharma life. Dharmashalin gives several useful, funny and down-to-earth examples to help us pick the low hanging fruits in the spiritual life. This talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Energy_and_the_Symbolism_of_the_Stupa_620.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Through the lense of Upaya 'the skilful means' of the Bodhisattva, Parami explores the seemingly contradictory themes of withdrawal and engagement on the Bodhisattva path. She demonstrates how they are synthesised by drawing on the last four stages of the spiral / transcendental path and how they culminate in the arising of the bodhicitta!

This talk was given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2023

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What is a Pure Land? And how do you create one? What is the true meaning of the Buddhas skilful means. With characteristic aplomb Padmavajra unpacks the esoteric teachings of one of Buddhism's greatest Sutras.

This talk was given at London Buddhist Centre, 2015.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Skilful_Means_of_Vimalakirti_618.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 11:33am EDT

Kalyanaprabha introduces us to the world of the Mahayana. Through the Sutra of the Golden Light, we discover what a sutra is and even why it is relevant to us today. This talk was given at Birmingham Buddhist Centre, 2023.

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The Parables of the Rain Cloud, and the Parable of the Sun and Moon both tell us that spiritual development is an organic process of growth, and that the Dharma nourishes all impartially, though people follow different patterns of development.

Sangharakshita delivered this talk as part of the series Parables, Myths and Symbols of Mahayana Buddhism in the White Lotus Sutra, 1971.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Symbols_of_Life_and_Growth_616.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vijayamala addresses the 2022 UK & IE Triratna Buddhist Order convention, exploring what breaking through and seeing the nature of reality means for us as an Order. The Buddha went forth to seek an end to suffering, to go beyond what binds us to the samsaric world. The theme of this event also encompasses ‘going beyond’ and the ways in which we are approaching that as an Order.

Part of the series Going Forth, Going Beyond: 2022 UK & Ireland Order Convention, 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Order_Approaches_to_Insight_615.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Maitreyabandhu explores the path to insight in the context of Triratna's system of practice. He does this by exploring the three myths of self-development, self-surrender and self-discovery, as well as spiritual death and spiritual rebirth in the dharma life. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2019.

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In this first of four talks on 'The Cosmic Mythic Vision of the Mahayana' Jvalamalini explores the faculties of mythos and logos, how they're conditioned by historical context, a suggestion from neuroscience about how imaginal practice might work, and how the integrated Imagination perceives wisdom beyond words. Talk given at Bristol Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Approaching_a_Magical_World_613.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Modern Dharma Challenges: Building Sangha in a rootless society with Subhuti. The third of three special evenings with Subhuti, the LBC's President and a renowned teacher of fifty years experience. What does a Buddhist life look like in practice? Where can we hope to get and what are the essential teachings that will get us there? Come along for meditation and a series of exciting new talks - a real highlight. Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, 2022.

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Paradigms are the shared ideas in the minds of society, the deepest set of views and beliefs about how the world works. Dhammadinna draws on the teachings of Sangharakshita and applies her lived experience in the Triratna Buddhist Order to explore the first verse of the Dasadhamma Sutta - I am no longer living according to worldly aims and values.

This is the second talk in a series of six entitled: The Order as Practice: Shifting Paradigms, given at Adhisthana, 2015, looking at how different the Spiritual Community is from our surrounding culture and how our Going for Refuge shifts paradigms.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Order_As_Practice_611.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In a London basement, fifty-one years ago a new Buddhist Movement was forged. Founded on the active principle behind an often empty ritual of 'Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels', this Movement has become a dynamic worldwide community of Buddhist practitioners. Just how did Sangharakshita, through the Triratna Community and Order, transform the recitation of the words 'I go for Refuge...' into a path of deeper meaning and purpose? Bodhidasa borrows symbols from Western Magickal traditions and Catholicism to explore the power, resonance and wisdom of the Three Jewels. 

This talk was given on Triratna Day at Sydney Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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"Tread softly because you tread on my dreams." In this talk, Viryadevi gives her take on what is asked of us when we commit to creating a buddhaland - a collective spiritual life together. Drawing on two of the myths that have shaped the life and imagination of the Order - the 1,000 Armed Alalokitesvara and Chapter 1 of the Vimalakirti Nirdesa - she asks whether things going wrong, either on an individual or personal level, have a place in our collective imagination. She also suggests ways that our relationship to our founding bodhisattva, Sangharakshita, could become more mature.

Talk given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Avalokitesvaras_Tears_609.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

At the Order Convention in 1989 Nagabodhi gave a talk: 'Living in Interesting Times' in which he explored some of the challenges facing our Order in the coming years as our internal and external conditions changed. He returned to the theme at an Order event in 2003, and then most recently with this talk given at the Order Convention in 2016: "Living in Interesting Times; Now it's Really Getting Interesting". As well as reviewing whether any of his predictions came true, Nagabodhi outlines some thoughts on what might be in store for us as the coming years unfold.

Talk given at the 2016 Order Convention at Adhisthana.

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In this 2007 talk, Sangharakshita helps celebrate the 40th anniversary of the FWBO (as well as the 60th anniversary of his own 'Going Forth'). With characteristic clarity and conviction, he shares his reflections on the history of the Movement and Order he founded, as well as some pertinent thoughts on the future. If you've never heard him before - and just to put this in context - the first talk we have in our archive by Sangharakshita was given in 1965! And here we are, 40+ years on and still going strong... Amazing!

Talk given at the Birmingham Buddhist Centre, April 2007.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Looking_Back_And_Forward_607.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Dharmadipa shares reflections on the third part of Dhardo Rimpoche's Motto ‘Radiate Love’. Beginning with the significance of the Metta Bhavana meditation practice, he explores the Bodhisattva Ideal, connecting teachings from the "Mind Training" tradition with Shunyata and the Mahayana Sutras. Finally Dharmadipa explores how the three parts of the Motto hang together and support each other. 

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2021.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Radiate_Love_606.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

This is a fine talk by Dayanandi on the essential relationship between meditation and the proper seeing of Reality, here described as an opening into the beauty and truth and reality of life itself.

Given at the Taraloka/Tiratanaloka Great Gathering, 2000.

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Kamalashila, author of 'Buddhist Meditation: Tranquillity, Imagination, Insight', introduces the fifth perfection, dhyana, in a series at the West London Buddhist Centre, 2012.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dhyana_Paramita_The_Perfection_of_Meditation_604.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Bodhilila's first talk as part of the 'Poetics of Awakening' retreat. Looking at the symbolic and practical aspects of practice she considers how meditation itself is an expression of ourselves as a way to change through, moment by moment, being who we are in the light of the Dharma. An encouraging and inspiring approach to sitting aligned to the nature of things.

Get more resources on 'The Poetics of Awakening' Home Retreat with Paramananda and Bodhilila

Given at West London Buddhist Centre, 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_On_the_Poetics_of_Awakening_603.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Paramananda in this free-ranging talk, explains how the moon's soft light represents compassion, and recites three moon poems that evoke messages of self-knowledge and the regular tides or rhythms of being human. This talk was given at West London Buddhist Centre, 2016.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Moon_602.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How do you become a Bodhisattva? Upon the Awakening of the Bodhi Heart (Bodhichitt-otpada). In this lecture Sangharakshita defines the Bodhichitta, and describes how one can prepare for its arising through the observance of Shantideva's Supreme Worship and Vasubhandu's Four Factors. Talk given in 1969 as part of the series entitled: Aspects of the Bodhisattva Ideal

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Awakening_of_the_Bodhi_Heart_601_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 7:16am EDT

Jvalamalini offers suggestions to bear in mind when reading the Bodhicaryavatara, and a few reflections from the text on how to regard self and others. 

"In the same way that the hands and other limbs are loved because they form part of the body, why are embodied creatures not likewise loved because they form part of the universe?" 

"‘If I give, what shall I enjoy?’ Such concern for one’s own welfare is fiendish. ‘If I enjoy, what shall I give?’ Such concern for the welfare of others is divine."

This talk was given at Bristol Buddhist Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Reflections_From_the_Bodhicaryavatara_600.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

"Taking this image of the human form the Bodhicitta transmutes it into the priceless image of the Jewel of the Conqueror. Grasp tightly this highly potent elixir, known as the Bodhicitta, which must be thoroughly worked." 


In this talk on Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara Padmavajra speaks of Sangharakshita's evocation of the Bodhicitta. Here, he discusses some of the verses of the first chapter, especially of verse ten, in which the Bodhicitta is likened to the highly potent quicksilver elixir of the alchemist, capable of transforming the worst of things into the Bodhicitta. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, April 2020, as part of the series Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara.

***

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Parami offers a clear, insightful and practical guide to the classically challenging Wisdom chapter of the Bodhicaryavatara. She places the chapter in context of the Bodhisattva Path and. with consistent warmth and humour, illuminates this part of the text for those who have been struggling with it. 

This talk was given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Wisdom_in_the_Bodhicaryavatara_598.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vajrapriya takes us into this radical and classic wisdom-text which goes to the heart of how to become free, and how to help the world become free. Enigmatic, speaking to our depths, undermining any fundamentalism or limiting views about ourselves, it asks us to dive deep into the nature of experience, looking, for ourselves, to see truly the way things are. This talk was recorded on the Four Sanghas Retreat Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2022.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Heart_Sutra_597.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

This is the culmination of Buddhist practice – but what is it and why is it so vitally needed in our lives and in the world? Subhadramati offers perspective, depth and encouragement on the Dharma path.

This talk was given at London Buddhist Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Wisdom_596.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vishvapani explores the dynamic vision of Urgyen Sangharakshita in setting up a new Buddhist movement in the West, and asks how we might relate to him now. Voices and stories, told and untold, come echoing through as Vishvapani makes the case that a deeper examination of Sangharakshita's teaching and approach reveals a deeper rhythm to his life and work that is relevant to everyone practicing in Triratna today.

A talk given at Adhisthana on the men's UK & Ireland Area Order weekend, November 2022.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_A_Deeper_Rhythm_595.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Advayasiddhi explores two chapters from Santideva's passionate and challenging text: The Bodhicaryavatara. Chapter 4 focuses on Vigilance Regarding the Awakening Mind, while Chapter 5 explores The Guarding of Awareness.

This talk was recorded at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2022.

***

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We practice the Dharma so that we can transcend our self-clinging, thereby resolving our own suffering and contributing to the resolution of suffering in the world. This is the fundamental purpose of the Triratna Community.

Subhuti returns to Padmaloka after many years to delve into the fundamental principles behind Integration, Positive Emotion, Spiritual Receptivity, Spiritual Death, and Spiritual Rebirth, finding in each new and deeper significance. He invites his hearers to apply them deeply in their own lives. 

This talk is part of a series The Five Aspects of the Dharma Life given on a retreat at Padmaloka Retreat Centre for men who have asked for ordination, 2013.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Higher_Context_593.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Buddha spoke to everybody, from homeless wanderers to kings. So when King Ajatassattu wants to go to war against the Vajjian people, he asks the Buddha's advice! In this engaging talk, Vajratara unpacks the Buddha's reply, as he explains the 'seven things' which should be in place in order for a society to prosper and not decline. How might this teaching be interpreted in modern day terms, and what can it tell us about how we can help the dharma spread through society as a whole?

This talk was given at Bristol Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Buddhas_Conversations_with_Kings_592.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

From communist to Buddhist.... Vimalavajri talks of her personal involvement in the spheres of politics, feminism and Buddhism.  Using Indra's net as a classic Buddhist image of interconnectedness, the talk explores what the dharma might have to say about social or political action, and asks what helps when we feel overwhelmed or stuck in ill-will.  If we really see Indra's net, we will connect more deeply with life at all levels and our action will be more joyful and wholehearted.

This talk was given at Bristol Buddhist Centre, 2017.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Only_Connect_591_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vajragupta (m) offers a Buddhist myth of the asuras, the Titan realm on the Wheel of Life, as a way of seeing and understanding the social and political times we are living through. In this myth, the Buddha appears in the realm of the asuras holding a sword. What does that symbolize? Vajragupta suggests it can be seen as a sword of fearlessness, a sword of truth and wisdom, a sword of justice, and the sword of the archetypal "king".


This talk was given at Cardiff Buddhist Centre, 2022.

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What does it mean to be part of a Sangha? What does true harmony mean alongside the inevitability of conflict? Srivati addresses these questions with help from the monks at Kosambi, the six memorable qualities of a Bikkhu, and the seven knowledges of the stream entrant.

This talk is from the Dharmachakra Archives, given in 2002.

***

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Amoghavajra takes us back 2,500 years to the Kingdom of Magadha in Northern India to the birth of a boy called Kassapa. He grows up happily and as he gets older he becomes less and less worldly. Kassapa marries Bhadda who has equally renunciant tendancies. They both go forth together.

Kassapa meets the Buddha, becomes his disciple and gains Enlightenment. He is known as a superb meditator and was foremost among the bhikkus for practising austerities. According to Amoghavajra's story, one of the teachings that the Buddha gave to Kassapa was to attend to whatever gladdens the heart. So, Amoghavajra asks us, what is it that gladdens your heart?

Talk given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2010.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Tale_of_Maha-Kassapa_588.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Dhammamegha speaks about Sangha as Dharma practice and how spiritual community and friendship with the admirable are part of our heritage in Triratna.

Talk given on the Triratna International Gathering at Adhisthana, 2017.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Difference_That_Makes_a_Difference_587.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 11:00pm EDT

Dhivan offers this short discourse showing the Buddha addressing a group of people called the Kalamas, who have heard all too many religious teachers telling them what to think, even when it contradicts what the last teacher said. The Buddha instead advises them how to judge for themselves about religion. He also teaches them how to practice the brahma-vihara meditations, and to think for themselves how effective they are.


Talk given at Bristol Buddhist Centre as part of a series of four talks entitled Discourses from the Pali Canon, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Discourse_to_the_Kalamas_586.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Friendships hold the sangha together, genuine personal connections, that support spiritual practice. Weaving in contemporary poetry with teachings from the Buddhist tradition, Ratnaprabha explores the nature of harmonious community by taking us through the Sangha Section of the TiratanaVandana.

A talk for Sangha Day given at the West London Buddhist Centre, Nov 2011.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Saluting_The_Sangha_585__.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Through recounting the story of the Buddha’s Enlightenment and his subsequent communication about it, Ratnadeva traces the significance and depth of the Buddha’s teaching of karma, as well as addressing the complexities and common misconceptions that can often arise when we approach the topic.

This talk was given at Buddhafield, as part of the series Seeds of the Heart: Talks from the Dharma Parlour, 2022.

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How can we equip ourselves to co-operate in collective action and play? How do we work with negative emotions and polarized views? Many of us long to be in deeper communication and relationships with others, but in order to do that we need to create the necessary conditions for community to arise. Drawing on the Buddha’s teaching, as well as political and social thinkers, Dhammamegha looks at the tender and necessary ground for sustained action towards the deepening of our practice of community. 

This talk was given in the Dharma Parlour tent at Buddhafield, as part of the series Seeds of the Heart: Talks from the Dharma Parlour, 2022.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Seeding_Community_583_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this wide ranging talk, Amalayodhin gives an introduction to the history and symbol of the cremation grounds. Given on a summer men's Great Gathering at Padmaloka, the talk covers topics such as death, taking responsibility and avoiding blame and resentment. He draws out the necessity of seeking out those places that demand more of us then we can give in our current form, and in process break and reform as more potent, loving and effective beings.

Given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2022.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Places_that_Break_You_582_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vidyasakhi vividly draws us into the magical world of the Eight Cremation Grounds where Padmasambhava tamed demons and engaged in his Bodhisattva training. Vidyasakhi is a musician and Padmasambhava practitioner with a background in storytelling. She has used these skills to dramatise The Life and Liberation of Padmasambhava and is a very good guide into the symbolism of this sacred space.

This talk was given at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Cremation_Ground_581_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Surata wanders delightfully all over the subject of 'freedom' in the context of life in a Buddhist Order. He discusses freedom of mind, freedom of choice, freedom of heart, as well as the dangers of group behaviour in communities and the joys of sharing in an ideal. Personable and disarming as ever...

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2005

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Freedom_580.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kusalasara explores the significance of the Dakinis - a strong symbol of freedom. This talk was given at London Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Leaping_into_the_Unknown_with_the_Dakinis_579_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Buddha said that just as the taste of the ocean has but one taste, the taste of salt, so the Buddha's teaching has one taste, the taste of freedom. Liberation, freedom or emancipation are the essence of the Buddha's vision. In this wide ranging talk Padmavajra explains the conditions necessary to secure this heart's release.

This talk is part of the series 'The Taste of Freedom' Revisited given at London Buddhist Centre, 2019.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Ultimate_Freedom_578.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Spiritual freedom arises when your heart and mind is transformed. In order to live in a world that is harmonious, that’s loving, that’s enabling us to all fulfill our potential, then we all must be working for freedom in some way, working for our own and others, whoever they are. Suryagupta draws out the meaning of Freedom through the story of Nelson Mandela.

A two-week seminar with the (then) brand new chair of the London Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Freedom_577.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Maitreyabandhu draws out the deeper meaning and finer detail of five different poems, each around the theme of death with the final poem focusing on spiritual rebirth.

By discussing the background of the poems and poets, the intricacies of their structure, and bringing in a Buddhist interpretation of the themes raised in the poems, Maitreyabandhu shows us the importance and profundity of poetry and how it can help us to explore Dharmic themes more deeply.

This talk was given Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the System of Dharma Training retreat, December 2018.

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Here and Now

Ratnaghosha explores the Buddha's teaching of Spiritual friendship being the whole of the spiritual life. The talk is wide ranging, going into what spiritual friendship is and also how Buddhism sees the nature of reality. This talk was given at Nottingham Buddhist Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Reality_of_Spiritual_Friendship_575.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Practice in the Modern World

Is work just a necessity or a source of fulfillment? Is a career a hindrance or a support to our happiness and unfoldment as individuals? Should we be aiming at getting the ‘right work/life balance’ or moving beyond such distinctions? Keturaja explores Buddhist teachings on right livelihood and reflects on their relevance for us today. This talk was given at Cambridge Buddhist Center, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Why_Right_Livelihood_574.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Letting In the Light

Kalyanamati explores six ways in which we can work with our energies in order to transform our emotional depths in line with our deepest vision. This talk was given at the East Anglian Men's Event at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Transformation_573_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Spiritual Friendship in Action

Vidyadaka speaks here on the second part Dhardo Rimpoche's motto 'Cherish the Doctrine, Live United, Radiate Love' by exploring how we actually do this and drawing out deeper aspects of its meaning. Firstly, we need to live united with ourselves, then learn to live united with others, with our teachers and with reality.
Covering themes such as the true individual, spiritual friendship, vertical communication, and renunciation, this talk was given at
Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2021.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Live_United_572.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Love of Power

Behind this title we find the first Buddhist ethical precept and Sangharakshita’s distinction between operating in the Love Mode and operating in the Power Mode. A beautiful and engaged talk, responsive to her audience, where Kulanandi draws inspiration from the book The Ten Pillars of Buddhism, by Sangharakshita. 

Talk given at Stockholm Buddhist Centre, 2014. 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Power_of_Love_571.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Buddhism and Nature

Vajragupta explores the Buddhist attitude to nature. We live in a time of threat to the ecosystem. How can human beings live with more love and appreciation of the natural world? What does Buddhism have to offer?
Talk given at Manchester Buddhist Centre, 2011.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_We_Live_in_a_Beautiful_World_570.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Beauty As the Fourth Laksana

In this talk, Punyamala takes us through the rich mandala of practice we can follow by reflecting on the laksanas. She then describes the path of beauty and how we can move from contemplating mundane beauty to the beauty of the enlightened state.

This talk was given during the Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana, December 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_In_Beauty_May_I_Walk_569.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Life of the Buddha

In this talk, Padmavajra explores the themes of beauty and love in the story of the life of the Buddha. He looks at the importance of nature, the arts, ethics, meditation and friendship in the journey to becoming one with Beauty.

This talk was given at the Mid-Essex Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Beauty_Love_and_the_Dharma_Life_568.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sraddhagita explores in a quietly effective, down-to-earth way one of the great central images of Mahayana Buddhism, usually associated with the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.

This talk was given at the London Buddhist Centre, 2007.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Jewel_in_the_Lotus_567.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Mind is the most remarkable thing in the universe, it is the greatest treasure. We’re still discovering the mysteries of the human mind. Buddhism says again and again, what you think and what you do matters. Everything you do matters.

Live from Buddhistisches Tor Berlin, Maitreyabandhu unfolds the theme of What the World Needs Now on a day celebrating our Dharma community's contribution to the world. Triratna Day, April, 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_What_the_World_Needs_Now_-_Triratnas_Gift_566.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sagaramati explores the meaning of the word Dharma as Reality or Truth, as well as Buddhist Teaching. He then dives deep into the fundamental, key, essential Buddhist doctrine, Conditioned Arising, the principle which unifies the whole of the Dharma.


Talk given at the London Buddhist Centre Dharma Day Festival, 2008.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Conditioned_Arising_565.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Parami focuses on the significance of the seven weeks after the Buddha’s enlightenment and draws out the relevance for us today. When we experience the freedom from something that has held us back the energy that is released is extraordinary and requires time for absorption.
This talk was given on Buddha Day at North London Buddhist Centre, May 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_After_the_Enlightenment_564.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In a talk for Buddha day, Ratnaprabha takes us through the realisations that came to the Buddha during his all night meditation under the Bodhi tree, culminating in the vision of the morning star, the Star of Healing. Its light was the first sight of the Awakened One, a light symbolising the illumination of awareness itself.

Talk given at the West London Buddhist Centre, 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Star_of_Healing_563.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Paramananda celebrates the Buddha's long struggle leading up to his Enlightenment. This talk was given in celebration of Buddha Day at West London Buddhist Centre, 2012.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Becoming_a_Sage_562.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

This talk, dedicated to the Cedar Tree outside Adhisthana, is a tribute to the Earth. Drawing out connections of Buddhism with Nature, Maitridevi explores the question about how Buddhism flourishes and thrives in a new culture. This is the first of two talks given on the Women's Area Order Weekend - A Love Song to the Earth - held at Adhisthana, March 2022.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Imagining_the_Earth_561.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Subhuti offers a brilliantly evocative and personal call to connection, across all boundaries and conditionings. ***

What the World Needs Now: Triratna's Gift is a day celebrating our Dharma community's contribution to the world. A vision of truth, communicated in a culture of kalyana mitrata (beautiful friendship) for the benefit of all.

For more inspiring Dharma from the day + access to live events year round on Buddhism, meditation, mindfulness and culture, visit:

thebuddhistcentre.com/triratna-gift

***

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Drawing on 40 years of experience as an Order Member, Surata confidently and uncompromisingly expounds his understanding of 'The Deepest Revolution', referring to both the Buddhist tradition and his own personal experience. Given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Going_For_Refuge_-_The_Deepest_Revolution_559.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Maitreyi explores why we have an Order and what's involved in becoming ordained into the Triratna Buddhist Order.

This is a talk given on a weekend retreat for women mitras at
Tiratanaloka Retreat Centre, 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Why_Ordination_Why_An_Order_558.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

When we Go for Refuge, we can only Go for Refuge to that which is lokuttara - 'beyond the world'. In the third talk in this series, Satyaraja speaks of the need for a total orientation of our being towards Enlightenment through setting up conditions (pratitya samutpada), and the development of the Five Spiritual Faculties.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2021.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_For_the_Attainment_of_Enlightenment_557.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

This is a talk on creativity as a way of life, especially when that life is in flux and the ground of our being is shifting. Through her own poetry and reflections on writing and art, Srivati evokes an aesthetic path into the very heart of Reality.


Talk given at Taraloka Retreat Centre, Great Gathering 2000.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Beauty_as_a_Gateway_to_Wisdom_556.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Founded on the active principle behind an often empty ritual of 'Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels', this Movement has become a dynamic worldwide community of Buddhist practitioners. Just how did Sangharakshita, through the Triratna Community and Order, transform the recitation of the words 'I go for Refuge...' into a path of deeper meaning and purpose?

Bodhidasa borrows symbols from Western Magickal traditions and Catholicism to explore the power, resonance and wisdom of the Three Jewels.

First delivered on Triratna Day 2019 at Sydney Buddhist Centre.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Bell_Book_and_Candle_555.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vajratara offers a provocative, fully engaged and fully engaging take on the Dharma and the challenges that face us on the Path. We approach the great figure of Padmasambhava - the 'Second Buddha' - through his famous meeting with the King of Tibet. There's plenty to consider in this thoughtful interpretation of the central story - with lots of light relief too, as the Refuges are explored with walk-ons from Nirvana (the band!), Samuel Johnson, Scrooge and the Beckhams. 

Talk given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2007

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Padmasambhava_and_the_King_of_Tibet_554.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The seven line prayer to Padmasambhava is a big feature in many teachings/ practices coming from the Tibetan tradition. Dharmashalin offers a taster of what it might mean for us and how we might relate to it.

Talk given at Birmingham Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Invocation_of_Padmasambhava_553.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Padmolka takes us through the first section of this inspiring text from The Life and Liberation of Padmasambhava. We hear about the Great Guru subduing the demons of Tibet and the circumstances around the time when this teaching is given. Padmasambhava is asked for a short, practical teaching which can be learned by heart to help Queen Nang Chung to practice the Dharma and ultimately lead her to Buddhahood. 

This talk was given at the Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2010.

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In this introduction to Padmasambhava, Vidyadaka guides us through the symbolism of Padmasambhava's appearance on a lotus, in the centre of Lake Dhanakosa. We hear about the qualities of the lake, the land of Uddiyana, King Indrabhuti's plight and uncover their deeper meanings and relevance to our own life. Vidyadaka also describes Padmasambhava, his own initial discovery of him and Bhante's first glimpse of the Great Guru in Darjeeling.

This talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, January 2022.

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Sanghadevi looks at the relationship between Buddhist confession and forgiveness and the ability to see into the nature of reality.

Talk given at the Triratna [Western] Buddhist Order Women's Convention, 1999.

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In this talk Dassini looks at the individual nature of practising ethics, the need for metta in response to guilt, how to make a confession effective, and the Four Powers of Confession. 

Talk given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2018. 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Confession_549.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The first talk in Padmavajra’s wonderful series on the Dhammapada, the most popular of early Buddhist texts. All of the Buddha's core teachings are here - held in heart and mind there's more than enough in the Dhammapada to take us as far in our practice as we can imagine, and then on beyond...

Talk recorded at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007, as part of the series The Dhammapada - the Buddha's Way of Truth.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Essential_Revolution_548.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

What is it to have a Big Future, how do prevailing cultural values influence us and our engagement with the Dharma? One answer is to engage as wholeheartedly as we are able to with building Sangha and sharing our lives with others. If we are less self preoccupied and more concerned about others we will find personal happiness and be a force for good in the world. 

Dharmashalin speaking at BigFutureBuddhaNow, the 7th annual BIG Young Buddhists weekend, 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Less_of_Me_More_of_We_547.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk Satyakirti explores a set of ways through which we can work with fear in our practice, particularly through love and friendship. Using the Angulimala Sutta as an example, he explains how even the greatest fears can be overcome, and how a Buddha is entirely free from fear.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2019, as part of the Sub35s Fearless Love retreat.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Moving_Through_Fear_Into_Love_546.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Narottama delights with a very poetic and personal talk about how friendship is vital to our happiness and spiritual development as human beings.

Talk given at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, 2010.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Nature_of_Friendship_545.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

When we pay attention to our own experiences of suffering and joy, this can be a starting point to connecting in love with others. Dayajoti offers a personal entry into recognizing and practicing the Brahma Viharas - love, compassion, joy, equanimity. 

Talk given during the setup for Buddhafield Festival on the theme 'Fire in the Heart', 2013.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Compost_for_Love_544.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Suryagupta explores crisis and conflict in the life of the Buddha and what we can learn when responding to conflict in our own lives.

Talk given at the London Buddhist Centre, 2017.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Conflict_and_Crisis_543.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Satyapara leads us in an evocation of the alchemical Buddha drawing out the mythic dimension through receptivity and imagination.

Talk given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2018.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Alchemical_Buddha_542.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here Padmavajra explores a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself.

This is the seventh talk in an eight part series entitled Themes from Gampopa's Jewel Ornament of Liberation given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2008.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Perfecting_Generosity_Ethics__and_Patience_541.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

After exploring the relationship between the transcendental (lokuttara) and historical time, Saccanama looks at the challenges facing us at this particular point in history. Individualism and materialism present challenges both to our society and to our practice of the Dharma. Put them together and we have a form of capitalism which is so dominant that it becomes impossible to imagine any other system. Set against this, the Dharma is always challenging.

This talk is part of the series Challenging Dharma for Challenging Times given at the Nottingham Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Here Samantabhadri expertly and imaginatively tackles the theme of Wisdom, using the verses in the third section of Tsongkhapa's short text on the "Three Principal Aspects of the Path." Dharma themes of the laksanas, suffering, niyamas, self - and no-self - are interwoven with more personal reflections, and with thought-provoking quotations - ".... emptiness, activity and compassion are not three things, but one thing looked at from three different points of view...." 

This is the third of three talks based on Tsongkhapa's text given on the UK Women's Order Mitra Event at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2009.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Path_of_the_Buddhas_Delight_539.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Maitrisara explores the vipallasas, the topsy turvy views as a way to explore how our delusions inhibit our efforts in spiritual practice. She begins with an overview of what Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels means and why frameworks to explore delusion (like the topsy turvy views) can help us. She illustrates the topsy turvy views with examples from her own life. 

This talk was given on a retreat for women mitras in the MidWest Region, 2019.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Going_For_Refuge_What_Gets_In_The_Way_538.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Viveka explores the fourth tetrad of the Anapanasati Sutta: “inquiry into the experience of wisdom” particularly applying the contemplations of impermanence, fading away, cessation and relinquishment to the experience of mind and awareness itself. 

This talk is part of the series Anapanasati Sutta: Instructions for Awakening given at Adhisthana, 2019.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Inquiry_Into_the_Experience_of_Wisdom_537.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A personal talk where Punyamala shares her reflections on impermanence, particularly in the context of family life. Weaving in poetry and real life examples, Punyamala looks at the question of how to stay open in the midst of impermanence and death, without falling into despondency. Punyamala describes how she has sought to live a meaningful life, fully open to reality.

This talk was given on an ordination training retreat at Tiratanaloka Retreat Centre, 2019.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Love_is_Proved_In_the_Letting_Go_536.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Prakasha takes us through the verses on transference of merit and self surrender from Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara, and communicates the feeling of the complete letting go of a Bodhisattva. Talk given at Shrewsbury Triratna Buddhist Group, 2018.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Awakening_Bodhicitta_535.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Karunagita introduces four types of letting go - of the weight of past harmful actions, holding our conditioning lightly, of expectations and of physical holding in the body - in this talk at Dhanakosa for the 2017 New Year women mitra retreat. The retreat theme was Padmasambhava’s advice to Queen Ngang Chung.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Letting_Go_534.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Padmavajra offers a deep set of reflections on these aspects of the Spiritual Path using Sangharakshita's poem 'Advent'; the contemplation of impermanence, death and our lack of any 'self-lordship'; Lahiji's vision of 'the black light'; bewilderment; and the concept of becoming reborn in the Bodhisattva.

Talk given at Padmaloka Buddhist Centre, 2013, as part of a series of three talks entitled The Stages of the Path.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Spiritual_Death_Spiritual_Rebirth_533.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Parami urges us to embrace loss, because it is inevitable, but equally so, don’t close yourself off to love. Accepting that everything that arises will pass, and yet everything that arises is precious that will give rise to a love that spreads throughout the cosmos.

Talk given at the Newcastle Buddhist Centre, 2021.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Love_and_Loss_532_01.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Nagasiddhi takes us into the mind and heart of the new Buddha after his awakening – as he explores this new territory within, and with others he encounters setting out on the next stage of his journey into liberation.

Talk given as part of the series ‘In the Footsteps of the Buddha’ during the April 2021 home retreat from Rivendell Retreat Centre hosted by The Buddhist Centre Online.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Stabilising_Insight_531_01.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Dayajoti explores the hindrance of self-doubt, including seeing it as an expression of fundamental delusion, addressed by the clear seeing of reality. 

This talk is part of the series Body of Bliss: Ways into Samādhi, hosted online by Buddhafield, 2021.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Self_Doubt_530_01.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

There is no insight without compassion, and no compassion without insight. Ratnaghosha elucidates the path of transformation as one of expanding more and more into embodying love in all its forms.

This talk was given at the Mid Essex Buddhist Centre, 2021.

***

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Insight_Meditation_and_Empathy_529_01.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Samantabhadri speaks on ritual and its place and potential within the Triratna Community. She explores ritual as personal experience and in relation to going beyond a fixed self, to the collective, to the imagination, to compassion and to our longing for the transcendental. 

Samantabhadri, visiting from Taraloka Retreat Centre, gave this keynote talk at Nottingham Buddhist Centre, 2016.

***

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The Four Noble Truths contain the whole of the Buddha's teaching. They set out a clear and direct vision of the true nature of Reality. In this talk, Jnanadhara unfolds the meaning behind these seemingly simple four pithy teachings. With poetry and personal anecdotes, he draws us into the immense depth and mystery behind these teachings and shows us a glimpse of what the Buddha was communicating 2,500 years ago. 

Given in the Dublin Buddhist Centre, January 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Best_of_Truths_527.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Do we reflect on the Bodhicitta? Is it optional, a mystical goal we can take or leave? How does it become a motivating force in our lives?

Sangharakshita has described the Bodhicitta as a myth or symbol that galvanises our energies, something that makes sense of our lives, something emotionally moving that stirs us on a deep level. How are we to connect with that myth? Vajratara takes us on a journey of a deepening engagement with the Bodhicitta, evoking the Bodhicitta through 3 myths.

Talk given on an ordination retreat at Tiratanaloka Retreat Centre, July 2021.

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Karunavajra gives a talk at the about Vajrasattva, and how he can help and inspire us in these times of transition. Vajrasattva is a beautiful Buddha figure embodying essential Dharma truths. He symbolises the teaching that we are in possession of enormous riches and we don’t realise it.

Given at Birmingham Buddhist Centre for Dharma Day, July 2021.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Vajrasattva_Getting_Back_to_Normal_525.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here Jnanavaca discusses how Tantric Buddhism is concerned with the direct experience of who we are and what we can become. Its aim is to help us realize our potential by transforming the energy locked in by old habits, fears, and views.

Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Power_of_Initation_524.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A very intriguing trip by Satyanandi through the myriad worlds of consideration that arise when view, experience and reality meet. Her starting point is science and its various models for how the universe works - from mechanism to quantum physics. But soon we are in wider territory, looking at radical interconnectedness and the nature of mind as it meets the world.

Talk given at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2005.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_How_to_See_the_World_523.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

What does Buddhism have to say about death and dying? How can this be applied to life? Prasannavira shares how he has been influenced by the Root Verses of the Six Bardos from the Bardo Thodol, the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Talk given at Windhorse:Evolution, once a large Buddhist team-based 'right livelihood' business based in the UK, 2013.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Taking_the_Path_Exactly_How_it_Appears_522.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Buddha was a problem solver looking at suffering and the release from suffering. Here, Vijayasri introduces us to metta, the basic teaching of the Buddha, by exploring the first chapter of Living with Kindness by Sangharakshita. She considers the Karaniya Metta Sutta, looks at the work of Buddhaghosa, and investigates the ideas of metta as a strongly positive emotion, a rational emotion and as wisdom. The session finishes with some questions for reflection.

This talk was given at Croydon Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Living_with_Loving_Kindness_521.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kamalashila explores the centrality of mindfulness to the Buddhist path. He discusses the concept of intoxication, with reference to the 5th Precept and the Sutra of Golden Light. Kamalashila then considers the four foundations of mindfulness from the Satipatthana Sutta and concludes that mindfulness is the basis of metta and allows us to embrace the realm of truth and beauty.

This talk was given at Croydon Buddhist Centre, 1996. This talk was made available by the Croydon Digital Archive Project, turning crumbling cassette tape recordings into digital format.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Importance_of_Mindfulness_520.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sahajatara gives an honest and enthusiastic exploration of the speech precepts. This talk is down-to-earth and with humour!

This talk was given on a retreat for Mitras at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2018 and is part of the series entitled Ethics: Resonating with Reality.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Speech_Precepts_519.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vimalasara gives a thorough talk on the third precept, exploring some of the issues we all need to reflect on if we are to live life more fully with simplicity, contentment and stillness. Relevant to modern day living, this talk also signposts some of the issues that women and queer people have to contend with when reflecting on this precept.

Talk given at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2013.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Third_Precept_518.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Buddhist generosity is ideally ongoing all the time, a simple application of our ethical principles - a flow of time, energy, money, and so on, in the direction of your heart-felt values. Giving is one of the key practices of a Buddhist, and one of the delights of the Spiritual Community. Ratnaghosha evokes how this is an area of activity that is crucial to an effective practice of the Dharma and the living of the Bodhisattva life.

This talk was given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Open_Handed_Generosity_517.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

With his usual warmth, clarity and good humour, Prajnaketu explores the mental events of hatred and love with great detail and personal reflections.

“Not by hatred are hatreds ever pacified in the world, by love are they pacified, this is the eternal law.”

~ Dhammapada

In the presence of suffering or pain, our sense of self is often diminished as we come to realize our efforts to control our experience to avoid pain don’t work. On the contrary, wishing ourselves and others well in the ups and downs of life, one is practicing the softening of the barriers between self and other and filling that space with love.

This is one of several talks given during a retreat entitled Mind in Harmony at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Hatred_and_Love_516.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

What are the particular challenges we face in the 21st Century? There are many, and Vajradevi focuses on the mind precepts and our use of technology. This talk is linked with Akuppa's talks on '21st Century Bodhisattva' and drawing on the book '21 Lessons for the 21st Century' by the historian Yuval Noah Harari.

This talk was given as part of a series at Shrewbury Triratna Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Ethical_Challenges_in_the_Modern_World_515.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Bodhisattvas work tirelessly and heroically to create a Buddhafield for the benefit of all beings. Padmavajra explores the opening verses of the Dhammapada and their far reaching implications including how we create not only our own happiness or suffering through our actions, but also how we create worlds, worlds of suffering or worlds conducive to human growth and even freedom.

Talk given during the February Great Gathering weekend at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Fearless_Creativity_The_Bodhisattva_Warrior_514.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Parami introduces our four-fold lineage and shows how the lineage of inspiration underpins them all. Now that Bhante has died our responsibility to keep this flame burning is more important than ever.

This talk is part of the series Talks from Women's Private Preceptors' Retreat given at Adhisthana, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Carrying_the_Flame_of_Inspiration_513.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In the first weeks after his Enlightenment, the Buddha stayed alone near the Bodhi tree, assimilating his profound discovery and enjoying its bliss. But from the first moment he encountered another human being, the force of his compassion led him to revolt against the social hierarchies of his day. In this impassioned talk at the London Buddhist Centre's 2021 Buddha Day celebrations, Subhuti explores the nature of social conditioning. In doing so, he calls for greater efforts to understand differing experiences and an attempt to relate on the basis of the Buddha's radical vision for humankind.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Buddhas_Social_Revolution_512.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vajragupta considers how the sangha reaches out into the world, looking at three areas: loving-kindness and common humanity, community and service, and wisdom in an age of information overload.

A talk given on an online weekend retreat with Croydon Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sangha_as_a_Gift_to_the_World_511.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vidyatara shares her reflections on practice during a time of Lockdown as part of the Birmingham Buddhist Centre's year on the 8-fold path (2021). She particularly evokes and draws on the classic teaching of Bahiya and asks how to apply it to these conditions.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Lessons_from_Lockdown_510.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Arthapriya explores the characteristics of a person who is a good communicator - having empathy for others, deeply listening, and drawing each other out into deeper presence with one another.

This is a talk given as part of the Year of Spiritual Community talks at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Echoes_from_the_Deep_509.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this moving and rousing talk, Dhammachari Amoghasiddhi illustrates how the Dhamma can radically transform people's lives, liberating them from a hellish existence, particularly in India.

Using the examples of his own life, as well as the lives of Bhante Sangharakshita, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and others, he explains that if we want to live a meaningful life, we must open up to the suffering of others and do everything we can to help alleviate their suffering.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre on the Bodhisattva Ideal Retreat in July 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Bodhisattva_Ideal_in_India_508.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Is there an inner attitude we can adopt that will naturally lead to the creation of Sangha? Satyadhara poses this question - and addresses it - in his talk on the second Mainland Europe Young Buddhist Convention. He shares his personal experience of being in a small Sangha near Frankfurt in Germany, and draws upon Asangha’s Yogacharabhumi to explore the conditions necessary for building Sangha.

Talk given on the second Mainland Europe Young Buddhist Convention in Valencia, Spain, in July 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Creating_Sangha_from_Within_507.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Bhadra offers this insightful and thorough exploration of the Five Buddha Mandala through the lens of the gap between feeling and craving. Here we are able to transform the mental poisons (illustrated by the six realms) into the Wisdom of the each of the Five Buddhas.

Talk given at Bristol Buddhist Centre, 2017, the last in a series on the Wheel of Life.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Gap_and_the_Five_Buddha_Mandala_506.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vajrasattva is associated with purity and with the time of death. Aryajaya helps us to engage more deeply with the meaning and symbolism of Vajrasattva.

Talk given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2017.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Vajrasattva_505.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Once again at the Centre of the Mandala, we meet Vairocana. How do we balance the teachings of effort and openness? One way is through the image of the Sun and relaxed being, the practice of the Dharma is simply to come back. Yet, of course, this requires effort.

Another question is the balance between practical and mythical approaches: Can we hold both at once? What do we give significance to? What do we make real ? Can we open to a world of richer and deeper meaning?

Vessantara gave this talk as part of the series The Mandala of the Five Buddhas at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2012 Winter Retreat.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sitting_at_the_Centre_of_the_Mandala_504.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vaddhaka can usually be relied on to give a pretty great talk - and this is no exception. Here we have a real treat - a terrific, energetic exploration of the green Buddha of the north: Amoghasiddhi (Dundubishvara), the Unobstructed One. This is kind of a multi-media affair - listen for the 13th Century Spanish processional music in honour of the Virgin, and a blast of Sibelius too! Marvellous.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter Retreat, 2001.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Lord_of_the_Midnight_Sun_503.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Saddhaloka introduces us to Amitabha, the red Buddha of the West who represents and inspires the highest love of all...

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter Retreat, 1997.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Amitabha_502.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kusalasara evokes the jeweled born Buddha of the South, Ratnasambhava – golden yellow in color bringing messages of generosity, abundance and beauty.

This talk is part of the series The Symbolic World of the Five Buddha Mandala given at the London Buddhist Centre's 2019 Winter Retreat.

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Direct download: Ratnasambhava_Stories_of_Gold__Generosity.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Settle back and touch base with this very enjoyable and, at times, inspiring talk by Saddharaja on the great blue Buddha of the eastern quarter of the mandala - the Unshakeable One, the Imperturbable Akshobya. This is particularly good because it departs from standard fare on the figure. We get a great reading from Wordsworth, a stimulating discussion of ethics and their relationship to issues of doubt and self-confidence, as well as a meeting with a wooly mammoth… Listen out too for a terrific story about standing inside a mountain which communicates something essential about the depth of presence and mystery Akshobya is all about.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter Retreat 2001.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Akshobya_500.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Imagine being with the Buddha, imagine the emotional effect of being that close to the Buddha. Bodhinaga draws out stories from the life of the Buddha that point to the importance of imagination as we engage with our aspiration for Enlightenment.

This talk is part of the series entitled Faces of Enlightenment given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Buddha_with_a_Thousand_Faces_499.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

What memories stay with you year after year? Which breath do you wish you could take again? Whose smile is the most beautiful? What is this love that you talk about?

Saraha returns to Birmingham to speak at Sangha Night, having taught the Dharma there previously for over a decade before moving to Ecodharma in Spain a few years ago. In this talk he speaks with his usual passion and inspiration, illuminating many questions for further reflection on what is of value in our lives. Talk given in 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Thank_God_Its_Empty_498.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How might we respond, as Buddhists, to the emerging environmental crises facing the planet? Starting from where his earlier talk, "Saying Goodbye to the Earth," leaves off, Gunopeta explores the implications of what happens when we open our hearts to our deep emotional response to these crises. With the aid of guided meditation, poetry, ritual, and our felt connection to nature and the holiness of place, we can learn to "touch the Earth with love." From this, we enter into a relationship with the Earth out of which gratitude, a sense of responsibility, sympathetic joy, equanimity, and energy emerge in a positively reinforcing spiral, which in turn moves us to join with others in altruistic action on behalf of the Earth and all its beings. This talk was originally given as part of the on-line Touching the Earth retreat, sponsored by Aryaloka Buddhist Center and the Portsmouth (New Hampshire) Buddhist Center, November 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Touching_the_Earth_with_Love_497.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Karaniya Metta sutta is the focus for Parami's exploration of working with anger, working with polarisation in our relationships and in the world. She uses the lesson of the extremes in this current moment in history as a launching pad for insight into the nature of love.

She gave this talk to the gathered Triratna Buddhist Community in Scotland at their New Year gathering online. It has the flavour of a call to practice and to give closer attention to how we relate with those we love and those we find challenging.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Revolutionary_Power_of_Love_496.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk, Satyakirti explores a set of ways through which we can work with fear in our practice, particularly through love and friendship. Using the Angulimala Sutta as an example, he explains how even the greatest fears can be overcome, and how a Buddha is entirely free from fear.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre in December 2019 as part of the Sub35s 'Fearless Love' retreat.

This talk is part of the series Fearless Love.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Moving_through_fear_into_love_495.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Amritamati talks about how we can practice simplicity in our lives: whatever our lifestyle is or whatever we want our lifestyle to be, from parenting to becoming a celibate 'Anagarika'. This talk was given on a weekend retreat at Tiratanaloka Retreat Centre for women who are training for Ordination, 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Simplicity_of_Lifestyle_494.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Karunagita, author of A Path for Parents (Windhorse publications 2005), gave this talk at the first weekend retreat for mothers held at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2014. Here, she introduces the gifts of parenting, including the development of patience, maturity, opening to love and the development of wisdom through direct experience of the three laksanas, as well as the inherent challenges such as lack of time and how they can be approached.

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If a talk could ever be described as beautifully bracing, this is it! Amaragita brings a sharp-edged mind and a long-term perspective to the whole question of what practice is.

As you might expect, she also brings humour, warmth and kindness too, qualities that more than balance out the penetrating clarity and sometimes challenging questioning underpinning this exploration of the possibility of practice - for all and especially for those raising families at any stage of life.

Amaragita offers three principles for considering the possibilities of deepening into the Dharma in any situation, and they are are worth remembering - or as she says, remembering to remember! Great, gently radical words that are bold enough to imagine and even assume the possibility of a more compassionate future for all beings.

Talk given as part of the 2015 Mothers Retreat at Taraloka Retreat Centre.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Possibility_of_Practice_492.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Imaginal Faculty....what is it and why does it matter in our spiritual lives? Taravandana offers a personal perspective on her journey and experience of it in her practice. She offers guidance and pointers on how to open up further to the Imaginal Faculty in our own practice.

A talk given as part of a day for women training for ordination, Manchester Buddhist Centre, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Imaginal_Faculty_491.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here, Ratnaprabha discusses the value of using images and the imagination to become more emotionally involved in practice. Is an image of a Buddha or Bodhisattva used in meditation real or not?

Talk given at West London Buddhist Centre, 2015.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sharpening_the_Image_490.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A self-proclaimed 'doctrine follower', Nagasuri challenges herself to speak on the basis of her faith in the Buddha,and does so with moving eloquence. Personal, full of devotion, she shares over 30 years of being in contact with the Buddha and explains how the grace of the Buddha's blessings has opened her heart time and time again.

Talk given at the Women's International Order Convention 2011.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Buddha_Vandana_489.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk Padmavajra contemplates Beauty in different areas of Dharma life, including the beauty of people, of ethics, of friendship, community and 'institutions', and of wisdom. He also looks at the relationship between metta, formless beauty and the yidam, as well as knowing what beauty really is and 'the pregnant man'.

This talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the Spring Short Order retreat in March 2019.

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Starting with a story from the Rastrapalapariprccha-Sutra, Vajratara draws out the significance of Sangharakshita's paper on the Fourth Laksana. This is the path of beauty, from contemplation of ugliness to the gateway of liberation called 'the beautiful'. To be on the path of beauty, we don't merely enjoy beauty, we have to surrender ourselves to that beauty.

Talk given at Tiratnaloka Retreat Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Surrendering_to_a_Greater_Beauty_487.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How will you conceive of yourself as becoming like the Buddha? Saccanama explores the three myths of spiritual life, that of self-development, that of self-surrender, and that of self-discovery.

Recorded at the Swedish Summer Retreat at Dharmagiri, July 2019.

This talk is part of the series ‘To Place the Heart Upon’ - Exploring Faith in Buddhism.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Faith_the_Crisis_of_Self_and_Self-Surrender_486.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Subhuti considers the significance of Sangha day falling on the cusp of winter, and the importance of the seasons in human life. He recalls the genesis of Sangha day from the time of the Buddha, and considers it's relevance for us here in the 21st century.

Ultimately Subhuti focus on the Sangha jewels itself; its vital importance for the individual practitioner and as a real sign of hope for this world.

Talk given for the Sangha Day Celebration at London Buddhist Centre, 2012.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dwelling_in_the_Presence_of_the_Buddha_485.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The social and political landscape is changing. Societies are, on the one hand, fragmenting whilst, on the other, unifying within a growing culture of consumerism and individualism. How can we create a community that is unified and diverse, exemplifying real values and being a force for good in the world? Suryagupta, current chair of the London Buddhist Centre, inspires us all to shine the light of the Dharma in the world.

This keynote talk was given to launch the year of study and practice at the London Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Shining_the_Infinite_Light_of_Wisdom_484.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kuladharini explores what it's like to be an example of the fourth sight in the world, to be a visible embodiment of dharma practice. Using the metaphors of the begging bowl, robes and shaved head she shares three ways in which she has gone forth as a visible example of a dharma farer.

Talk given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, 2009.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Visibility_483.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

'Serenity, freedom from disease, joy and long life, the happiness of an emperor, prosperity; these the patient person receives while continuing in cyclic existence.'

Padmavajra's sixth talk on the Bodhicaryavatara explores Shantideva's thorough exploration of the perfection of patience. In this chapter, Shantideva brings our attention to the seriousness of the faults of hatred and anger.

He shows how such states of mind arise and gives a number of ways in which patience can be cultivated in relation to the various sufferings inherent in life, especially towards those who cause us - or our nearest and dearest - harm. It is clear that the practice of patience requires tremendous faith, strength and vision if it is to be perfected.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-__The_More_They_Beat_Us_The_Louder_We_Sang_482.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Padmasambhava is a potent symbol of transformation. Maitreyi shows us how evoke the help, energy and vision we need to change our lives.

Talk given part of the London Buddhist Centre's Padmasambhava Day Festival, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Heart_Advice_from_the_Lotus_Born_481.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

After exploring the historical and mythical aspects of Padmasambhava, Prakasha offers insights into how the Tantric Guru of Tibet, Padmasambhava, is relevant to us, here, today, now.

This is the third in a series of talks give on Padmasambhava Day, 2019, for the Shrewsbury Triratna Buddhist Group.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhsit_Audio_-_How_Padmasambhava_is_Relevant_to_Us_480.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Buddhist ethics are not about conforming to a set of conventions, not about ‘being good’ in order to gain rewards. Instead, living ethically springs from the awareness that other people are no different from yourself. You can actively develop this awareness, through cultivating love, clarity and contentment, which can ultimately help us to come into greater harmony with all that lives.

Arthapriya, a Public Preceptor who lives in Cambridge, takes a personal and Dharmic look at what it means to go beyond guilt. Talk given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, January 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Beyond_Guilt_479.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Subhadramati explores the nature of impermanence as part of the London Buddhist Centre's week-long exploration of Mind Reactive / Mind Creative for the 2018 Urban Retreat.

This talk is part of the series Mind Reactive / Mind Creative.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Monster_of_Impermanence_478.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk, Padmavajra explores the Altruistic dimension of Going for Refuge - The Bodhisattva Ideal - through Bhante's poem 'The Guardian Wall'.

He particularly explores the line in the poem: 'The loveliest Bodhisattvas are the anonymous' and what this means for somebody aspiring to practice the great ideal of the Bodhisattva.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the 'Bodhisattva Ideal' retreat in January 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Loveliest_Bodhisattvas_477.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Saddharaja explores self-sacrifice as a component of the Bodhisattva Ideal  introduces Chapter 18 The Chapter on the Tigress. He goes on to explore compassion and altruism, and how we can develop these by letting go of attachment and hatred, and thereby gaining true freedom.

The third of four talks given during the Open Retreat at Padmaloka Retreat Centre in October 2019.

This talk is part of the series The Sutra of Golden Light.

 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Compassion_in_a_Chaotic_World_476.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Maitrivasin talks about awakening deep powerful energies that move us along the path to freedom. By engaging warrior energy to tackle the doubt or distractions of habitual ways we bring all of our volition on the side of positive growth and progress towards Enlightenment.

This talk is part of the series The Path of Awakening based on the Bodhicaryavatara given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre June, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Stirring_the_Depths_475.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Candrika explores how we might work with the mythic dimension in our current situation of pandemic. There is so much going on in our local and global community. Candrika takes us through the wisdom and symbolism of the Five Buddha Mandala to help us make sense of the world, helping us to work with difficult feelings of fear, disruption, despair.

Talk given as part of the Glasgow Buddhist Centre, Scotland, April 2020.

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Here Akuppa explores the story of who you are and how you come to create the story of you. We need a different story. Living from a truer story of our luminosity and what happens when we come together on the basis of our luminous mind/heart.

This is Part 1 of two talks given by Akuppa to the Triratna Buddhist Community in Scotland online gathering in June 2020.

Listen to Part 2 of this series Transforming Self and World Part 2: Buddhist Politics

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Luminous_Mind_473.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Subhadassi talks about dharma practice in challenging times, drawing on poetry & literature (Pablo Neruda & Franz Kafka) and the Perfection of Wisdom Tradition (especially the Heart Sutra). We also bump into the householder Vimalakirti, Subhadassi's wife & children, the Diamond Sutra, Compassion, the Three Lakshanas & Hakuin along the way.

Talk given for Brighton Buddhist Centre Dharma Day, July 2020.

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This is the seventh talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'.

The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter 2008

This talk is part of the series Themes from Gampopa's Jewel Ornament of Liberation.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Perfecting_Generosity_Ethics_and_Patience_471.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Using verses from both the Dhammapada and the Bodhicaryavatara, Vairocana  maps out the Buddhist practice of patience, from restraint to positive emotion.

This is the fourth talk in a series on the Six Paramitas at the Glasgow Buddhist Centre in the summer of 2012.

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Virya is the energetic counterpart to the patience of Ksanti; it is energy in pursuit of the good. Bodhinaga  tells us how we can develop this noble vigour, which brings strength and courage like that of a virtuous knight. He guides us through counteracting the four 'enemies of virya' before introducing the Four Powers: ethical sources of energy to power the Dharma life.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019.

This talk is part of the series The Path of Awakening.

 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Hey_You_469.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Viriya expresses itself in action, with attentiveness, care and enthusiasm. Saddhanandi  shares from her personal training and experience as an artist to elucidate the meaning of Virya, drawing out the aspect of training the mind to develop positive mental states.

Talk given at Glasgow Buddhist Centre, GBC Rainy Season, March 2020.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Virya_A_Path_of_Transformative_Action_468_.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

What is peace? And what does peace mean for Buddhists? Is it just the absence of war and conflict; guns and screaming? Or is it also the deep silence that arises when the mind and heart are in harmony - a positive state of mind that can be cultivated both personally and collectively, where good and evil don't exist as concepts? Parami explores these questions and more with great compassion and wisdom.

Given by at Manchester Buddhist Centre, 2011 in the series Buddhism and the Big Questions.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Buddhism_and_Peace_467.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How do we relate to the Buddha? Sangharakshita has emphasised the importance of connecting with him as a historical figure. Through personal example and stories Dharmashalin asks the question, do we even see the Buddha as a kind old man? Maybe that would be a good start…

Talk given at Birmingham Buddhist Centre (UK), 2014.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Buddha_Just_a_Kind_Old_Man..._466.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How do we construct our world? Collective experiences impact on our personal views and experiences. Mahayana texts offer us the opportunity to interrupt our usual way of perceiving and thinking about the world. Suryagupta explores the extraordinary character, Vimalakirti, and his teaching of The Great Love – the love that is great compassion, the love that is never exhausted, the love that is giving, the love that is morality, the love that is tolerance, the love that is happiness.

From Dharma Night at the London Buddhist Centre, UK. Monday 19th June 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Great_Love_465.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

“The creative mind loves when there is no reason to love.” Sangharakshita

Viryajyoti gives the second talk in a series on Compassion for a Modern Word on a theme close to her heart. The Bodhisattva aim is to free all beings from suffering – what about here and now in the 21st century? What is radical kindness? What would it be like to be radically kind?

The Buddha represents the spiritual ideal of Buddhism and through his life and teaching he exemplified a path of increasing selflessness, loving-kindness and a deep desire to help people achieve liberation. So how do we follow the example of the Buddha in our own time? In this age of modernity, what would the total, radical response of a Buddha to the world look like? And is it still possible to be liberated from the world while choosing to work for its good? 

Talk given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Radical_Kindness_in_a_Violent_World_464.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vessantara shares reflections that emerged during his three year retreat, namely a poignant opportunity to let go of self reference and enjoy the simple awareness of the present moment.

This talk was given at the Triratna Buddhist Order European Order Gathering at Wymondham College August 25, 2012.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Spiritual_Receptivity_and_Just_Sitting_463.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Visuddhimati explores how we really need to know ourselves deeply and experientially to allow us to let go into the deep mystery at the heart of the mandala. She shares her reflections on initiation, spiritual death and rebirth, inspired by a Rilke poem. Using the structure of the Rilke poem she explores how engaging with images and allowing them to unfold their meaning within us, allows us to let go into wisdom.

The mandala symbolism is explained with an emphasis on the significance of the circles of protection, including the circle of the 8 great cremation grounds which we may pass through on our journey into the heart of the mandala. Visuddhimati gives a personal account of the process of turning towards experience, making the darkness conscious in meditation, just sitting in the cremation grounds, and how this opens up the entrance to the bright clear light at the heart of the mandala.

A talk given on the Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana, March 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Initiation_Into_the_Heart_of_the_Mandala_462.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Drawing on his book on the Buddha, Vishvapani explores the connection between awareness of our immediate experience and seeing the true nature of existence.

Talk given at Cardiff Buddhist Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Mindfulness_and_Insight_461.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Karunagita explores emptiness through Padmasambhava’s advice to Queen Ngang Chung:

During the time of insight which is surrounded by a calm, gentle aura, openness and appearance are inseparable. The six senses come forth, though appearance and voidness are inseparable;
this is the real foundation, without which no means exists.

Talk given at Dhanakosa Retreat Center, 2017.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Appearance_and_Emptiness_are_Inseparable_460.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Nagabodhi offers his reflections on the Buddha’s enlightenment. What is it are we actually trying to achieve? How intensely are we cultivating and experiencing metta, friendship, kindness, compassion, patience and love?

This talk is part of the series The Bridge, the Path and the Goal  given at Adhisthana, 2019.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Letting_Go_and_Insight_459.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk, Moksatara  explores what karma really means and how we can work with this law of the universe to leave behind the 'snakes and ladders' game of repetitive ups and downs, moving instead on a liberating path of growth. By understanding the importance of conditionality and ethics, we can take charge of our lives and move in the direction we want to go.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, January 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Tumble_Dryer_of_Karma_458.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Concise and essential, Satyaraja draws out practical and profound aspects of the four Brahmaviharas, considering them as both meditation practices and as realms that we can occupy. This is the second talk in a series of four talks on the topic of karuna, compassion.

From the series Brahmaviharas and the Awakening of the Bodhi Mind given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre Winter Retreat, 2016.

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A stirring and penetrating talk by Dhammadinna around the image that a Bodhisattva's compassion runs as deep as their very bones. Nagarjuna, Milarepa and others add their voices as Dhammadinna makes an emotionally resonant but clear-eyed attempt to lay out the ground of a practice that is moving towards the development of Bodhichitta. Why bother? she asks us, and shows how open-heartedness can respond realistically and well to suffering in our own lives and in the lives of others.

Talk given at the Triratna (Western) Buddhist Order Convention, 2009.


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Ratnaguna gives us ten pieces of advice from the Buddha that speak to the isolation we're experiencing whilst the world is in lockdown.

The talk was given via Zoom, following the temporary closure of Manchester Buddhist Centre due to the Coronavirus pandemic, April 3, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dharma_Wonderous_Strange_455.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vilasamani  gives an introduction to the twelve links on the wheel of life, specifying how the spiral path emerges from the gap between feeling and craving. Talk given at West London Buddhist Centre, 2016.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Wheeling_Spiralling_and_the_Fork_in_the_Road_454.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here we have Maitreyi talking about communicating through symbols, this time round through the hub of the wheel of life. Talk given at Mid Essex Buddhist Centre, February 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Communicating_Through_Symbols_-_The_Wheel_453.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vadanya launches a series of talks on three great Buddhist symbols that describe the way things are: the wheel of life, the spiral path, and the ultimate goal of Enlightenment. Together they form a guide to escape from the ultimate vicious circle into the complete freedom and fulfilment of Awakening.

Here, Vadanya explores on the wheel by describing the symbolism of each of the four concentric rings which make up this rich representation of samsara, the never-ending repetition of habitual patterns in which it feels our life is lived for us. 

The scenes described within the wheel help us to recognise the states of mind we inhabit and offer guidance towards healthier realms from which we can make real progress. Ultimately the aim is not to conquer the world but to go beyond it altogether, escaping the wheel and enter upon the spiral path, the threefold path of ethics, meditation and wisdom.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Wheel_The_Spiral_and_The_Goal_452.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Instead of the traditional description of the Fourth Noble Truth - the Eightfold Path - Saccanama  explores Sangha as a means to counter the individualism of our times. What exactly is the true meaning of Sangha? And how can the mysterious ‘third order of consciousness’ or Bodhicitta help us to transcend our preoccupation with ourselves? He looks at three stories from Buddhist tradition that explore the true meaning of Sangha - the Anuruddhas, the Pure Land and the passage from the Vimalakirti Nirdesa about the 500 Licchavi youths. Concluding the series as a whole, he shares some personal experiences of Sangha.

This talk is part of the series Challenging Dharma for Challenging Times given at Nottingham Buddhist Centre, 2020.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sangha_as_the_Way_to_the_End_of_Dukkha_451.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Kalyana Mitrata is spiritual friendship, even 'the lovely intimacy', the need for close and supportive connections with others in treading the path. Ratnaprabha  explores why the Buddha said spiritual friendship is 'the whole of the Buddhist Life'. Is it as important now as it was in the Buddha's time? Is a Kalyana Mitra the same thing as a guru or teacher? How can we make the intimate connections in our lives really stimulating and nourishing? How do we learn to communicate kindly and openly?

Talk given at West London Buddhist Centre, 2013.

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Vajratara introduces the theme of spiritual friendship or kalyana mitrata. What is spiritual friendship? How is it distinguished from ordinary friendship? How can we make friends? What is the difference between vertical and horizontal friendship? Using stories, personal anecdotes and images she introduces the overall theme to prepare for more talks in this series, which focusses on the tantric rites and friendship.

This talk is part of the series Spiritual Friendship and the Tantric Rites, given at a Tiratanaloka/ Buddhafield retreat for women who have asked for ordination within the Triratna Buddhist Order, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Spiritual_Friendship_and_the_Tantric_Rites_449.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Ratnaghosha reflects on how friendships and connections are woven into the tapestry of his life, how other people give our lives a sense of richness and abundance. In the sangha, people are passing on the Dharma through their relationships – living, breathing Dharma is passed on through spiritual friendship. The Buddha was the original spiritual friend, exemplifying for us that Enlightenment demands communication.

From a series of talks given during the Year of Kalyana Mitrata at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2013.

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Satyajyoti introduces the tantra: Buddhism to set life aflame through deep personal transformation of our direct experience. Out with abstractions and theory, it's time to act 'as if your turban was on fire!' In the words of Sangharakshita, 'making Buddhism respectable is the last thing we should do'. 

In her introductory talk, Satyajyoti outlines five key principles of Tantric Buddhism and explains the tantric equivalents of the three Buddhist refuges, the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Tantra_for_the_Modern_World_447.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

When we approach the Dharma and looking at Buddhism try to imagine the people from who it comes, the communities from which it arises. In the origins of Indian Tibetan Buddhism there isn’t a lot of material available, and there are lots of secrets!

Padmavajra rounds out a series of talks at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre (UK, 2017) on the Tantric Path with this thought-provoking investigation into the spiritual intimacies of Buddhist sangha.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Imagining_the_Tantric_Gathering_446.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Moksatara introduces the dakini, the tantric embodiment of what's possible when all of our energy is completely engaged, alive and flowing. These beings of limitless space have complete freedom of mind, fierce energy and a full emotional engagement with life.

In order to meet the dakinis we must travel to where they dwell: the cremation grounds, where bodies are taken to be burnt. The deepest, darkest energies to be transformed are associated with fear. By deliberately plunging into crucial situations which mirror these burning grounds, old ways are forced to change and we are compelled to grow.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, November 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Burning_Ground_445.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

HHere Saddharaja describes the rainy season in India and its role in the origin of confession practice in Buddhism. He goes on to describe the different kinds of confession practice, their benefits and how they totally differ from confession in other religions. 

He also introduces the The Sutra of Golden Light's nexus, Chapter 3, The Chapter on Confession with it's great import and beauty.

The second of four talks given during the Open Retreat at Padmaloka Retreat Centre in October 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Holding_Ourselves_Up_to_the_Golden_Light_444.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Buddha's Parinirvana marks the final passing of the Buddha two and a half millennia ago. It is an opportunity not just to contemplate on impermanence, but also to rejoice in the example of the Buddha’s life and in the precious opportunity our own lives present us with.

Dhammadinna delivers in this talk given at Parinirvana Festival at London Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Tiny_Splash_of_a_Raindrop_443.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Vishvapani beautifully explores Sangharakshita's poem 'Padmaloka' in which he looks forward to his own death.

It's a poem about death, rebirth and nature, and Vishvapani connects it to other poetry which it echoes.

This talk was given a week after Sangharakshita's death in November 2018 at Cardiff Buddhist Centre.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sangharakshita_Foresees_His_Death_442.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Punyamala explores the Buddhist teachings of impermanence and shares reflections on how to live with the fact of death, using her recent experience of death.

This is the Second in a series of four talks given on the four reminders given at Taraloka Retreat Centre called Reflection: A Path of Wisdom.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Impermanence_of_this_Body_441.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Saccanama offers this thought-provoking talk exploring insight into anatta. What happens when one loses control and renounces the self? 

Recorded at the Swedish Summer Retreat at Dharmagiri Retreat Centre, July 2019.

This talk is part of the series ‘To Place the Heart Upon’ - Exploring Faith in Buddhism.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Faith_Insight_and_Transcending_the_Self_440.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

When things go wrong in our life we can see them as an obstacle to an ideal spiritual life feel we should be leading. But there's another way of looking at difficulties, and instead of trying to get rid of difficulties, we could be welcoming them as opportunities. 

 Vajratara  draws on the Tibetan Mind Training tradition, as well as the Pali Suttas to examine how we can make adversity our teacher and the ground in which wisdom and compassion can grow.

Given at Cardiff Buddhist Centre, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Working_with_Adversity_439.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A series of personal exchanges with Subhuti about the central issues of life.  Subhuti is among the most prominent and experienced of Western Buddhists. He has spent the past forty-odd years practising the Buddha’s teachings and travelling the world helping make it possible for others to do the same. 

Hosted by Subhadramati during his Presidential visit to the London Buddhist Centre, which he was instrumental in founding in 1978.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Why_Do_I_Suffer_438.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Jnanavaca  explores the myths and parables of the glorious White Lotus Sutra. This week he unpacks the wisdom of the parable of the Burning House. Includes some questions from the audience.

Dharma Night at the London Buddhist Centre, April 6th 2015.


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After considering the history and the meaning of the title, Sangharakshita provides a summary of The White Lotus Sutra's dramatic structure, with brief explanations of the significance of certain details.

Talk given in 1971.

This talk is part of the series Parables, Myths and Symbols of Mahayana Buddhism in the White Lotus Sutra.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Drama_of_Cosmic_Enlightenment_436.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Parami evokes the reality of interconnectedness in relation to the second Dasadhamma - My life is dependent on others. I am sustained by the gifts of others - She talks about how the experience of interconnectedness is supported by wisdom, and results in compassionate activity.

This talk is part of the series The Order as Practice: Shifting Paradigms given at Adhisthana, 2015.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Shifting_to_Indras_Net_435.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Ratnaguna shares with us his great love for the Vimalakirti Nirdesa, a Buddhist Mahayana text he's gone back to again and again and again since 1979. He explores how a Bodhisattva should regard living beings, or how they should develop the Great Love for them, according to the mysterious character Vimalakirti. 

Talk given at Stockholm Buddhist Center, 27 May 2013.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Great_Love_-_Vimalakirti_Nirdesa_434.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Drawing on Bhante's paper on the Ten Pillars from 1984, the Dhammapada and the Mind Turning teachings, Dhammadinna talks about the paradigm shift we make in our ethical practice from power mode to love mode, and the renunciation of power and blame through which we enter into experience of forgiveness and ksanti.

This talk is part of the series The Order as Practice: Shifting Paradigms.

 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Changing_Power_to_Love_433.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here we have Dharmashalin exploring the question: Who is Milarepa and more importantly how is he relevant to us? He's an incredibly rich character, but what stands out first and foremost is the profound example of transformation, redemption even, that he found in the course of his life. This brings hope to all of us, he changed so we can change…

Talk given at Birmingham Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Redemption_is_Possible_432.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Saddhanandi is the Chair of Adhisthana and a preceptor. She was for many years the Chair of Taraloka retreat centre. She was a close friend of Bhante Sangharakshita and is noted for her warmth, friendliness and skills as a Dharma teacher. It is a real treat to have her at Sangha Night to share her thoughts on the Buddha Shakyamuni.

This talk is part of the series Buddhas and Bodhisattvas given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 2019.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Shakyamuni_431.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sanghamani with a great second talk from the 2019 Triratna International Gathering. Her theme on this Alchemy of the Dharma weekend is how we can transform ourselves in order to transform our communities. And she leads with fearlessness in discussing her own work and practice in this regard.

As a fundraiser at the cutting edge of the practice of connection – trying to forge a sense of mutually vital relationship with strangers (who are not necessarily pleased to find you at their door!) – Sanghamani calls on her rich experience of helping people move beyond their own fear. She also shares some moving accounts of her own transformation from an isolated, angry, pained young adulthood into someone who has dedicated her life to a path of love and its exemplification. In this she stands before us as a “luminous pearl” of that commitment to live in harmony with others. 

Recorded at Adhisthana, August 2019.

This talk is part of the series Alchemy of the Dharma (Triratna International Gathering 2019).

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Transforming_Sangha_430.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A wonderful first talk of the 2019 International Gathering, whose theme is 'Alchemy of the Dharma'. The utterly delightful Ratnaguna takes us through the true miracle of transforming ourselves via magic of a practice in which we also learn to let ourselves change. 

This is a beautiful, reflective, funny take on the challenges of the Dharma life. Ratnaguna's breadth of reference is itself a joy: taking in Greek philosophy, Hans Christian Andersen, and writings on the nearness of death to life in any moment. All pointing to, opening into, an experience of freedom and deep beauty.

Listen out for his rendition of the Ugly Ducking song!

Recorded at Adhisthana, August 2019.

This talk is part of the series Alchemy of the Dharma (Triratna International Gathering 2019).

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Transforming_Self_429.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

What is the Bodhicitta and how do we become receptive to it? Vajratara talks about the paradox behind the Bodhicitta: how it is an experience beyond any personal attainment, yet it arises in us. How can we hold both perspectives?

Using the framework of the '3 myths' of the Dharma life, Vajratara evokes the qualities and attitudes we develop to prepare ourselves for the Bodhicitta. A journey around the Suttas and Sutras, stories and poetry, evoking the development of the Bodhicitta.

Talk given at Tiratnaloka Retreat Centre (2018) for women who have asked for ordination and assumes some previous study on the Bodhicitta and Bodhisattva Path.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Myth_of_the_Bodhicitta_428.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

In this talk, Sarvananda looks at how our engagement with the arts can help us move from literal mindedness to an imaginative engagement with Buddhist myth and symbol.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the 2019 East Anglian Men's Retreat.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_From_Literal_to_Liberated_Mind_427.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The Buddha said the world is on fire, fueled by our greed hatred and delusion. Jnanavaca explores how we can raise ourselves to meet the challenges faced by humankind on both an individual and global basis. 

Can Metta be cultivated so that in can burn brightly with the brilliant flames of peace?

Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, 2019.
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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Peace_is_a_Fire_426.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

To succeed at anything, we need to think; to go about it in a way that's actually going to work. Vadanya examines different metaphors that help us to bring our reasoning and wisdom into action to make spiritual progress. He highlights the importance of creating the right conditions to grow and flourish, particularly the importance of spiritual friendship.

Part 5 in the 'Path to Awakening' Sangha night series at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Using_Your_Head_425.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

The first of four talks given by Ratnaguna during the annual Padmaloka Open Retreat. The theme of the retreat was 'For Heroic Spirits Intended...' and was based around the Ratnaguna Samcayagatha-a profound Mahayana Sutra.

A new translation by Sraddhapa of the text was used for the first time during the retreat. You can find this text at Sraddhapa's website where donations can be made to support this important translation work. 

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre in 2018 as part of the series For Heroic Spirits Intended.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_For_Heroic_Spirits_Intended_424.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

 How do we transcend conflicts and contradictions? 

Vilasamani explores the conundrums of Buddhist practitioners in the Vimalakirti Sutra, and bring some of them up-to-date, in a talk to the West London Buddhist Centre Sangha night.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dharma_Door_of_Non-Duality_423.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Touching on the themes of righteous indignation, spiritual bypassing, empathy, non-violent communication, envy and exploring apology, confession and working with betrayal,Santavajri poses the question as to whether we can forgive ourselves and move towards unconditional love for all beings. An exploration of verses 4, 5 and 6 of the Eight Verses for Training the Mind.

Talk given at the Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana, December 2018 as
 of the series Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Forgiveness_and_Happiness_422.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Amalaketu explores freedom through images and stories from the Chappanakopama Sutta, the discourse on the simile of the 6 animals, and shows how Buddhism is the way to ultimate liberation.

Talk given at the East Anglian Mens Retreat, Padmaloka May 2012.

 

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Finding_Freedom_421.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Suryagupta delivers a powerful, passionate account of the figure of the Dakini who represents perfect freedom.

London Buddhist Centre’s contemporary series on Sangharakshita’s classic 1979 lecture 'The Taste of Freedom'.
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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dancing_with_the_Dakinis_420.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Padmavajra visited the London Buddhist Centre to give a talk on Sangharakshita’s classic 1979 lecture 'The Taste of Freedom'.

Just as the mighty ocean has but one taste, the taste of salt, even so the Dharma-vinaya (Buddhism) has but one taste, the taste of Freedom.

(from 'The Udana'). 

Talk given June 2019


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Ultimate_Freedom_419.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Sanghadevi offers this substantial and inspiring talk on the praises of Pingiya, from the chapter entitled The Way to the Beyond from the Sutta Nipata. This is the final talk in a series entitled The Buddha in the Pali Canon given at Cambridge Buddhist Centre (UK) 2015.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Way_to_the_Beyond_418.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here we have Akuppa exploreing how someone practising the Dharma might respond if they found themselves in 'Hell and Other Ordinary Places' - including prison and public buses! One of a series of talks on the theme of 'A Force for Good in the World', given in the Dharma Parlour at the 2010 Buddhafield Festival in Somerset, UK.

There are also very worth sharing: Shambala Warrior verses written by Akuppa, 2005.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_A_Shambala_Warrior_in_Hell_417.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

How can Buddhists respond to the climate emergency? Vishvapani uses the Parable of the Burning House from the Lotus Sutra to suggest our responsibilities' and finds the values we need to guide us in the Five Precepts.

Given at Cardiff Buddhist Centre on Dharma Day, July 2019.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Climate_Precepts_in_the_Burning_House_416.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Partisan politics, hurricanes and earthquakes, mass shootings, nuclear threats … our world at times feels like a living nightmare. How do we as Buddhists respond, individually and as a sangha? And how do we keep our sanity?

“Practice During Times of Chaos and Uncertainty” given by Sunada on Sangha Day at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, Newmarket, NH, November 2017.
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It's often very difficult to keep up with the challenges of a Buddhist practice. If we are truly to make progress in our Buddhist practice, we have to take into account our surroundings, our environment, where we live, where we work, where we socialize. Transforming our own lives and minds is at the core of our practice, but to do that effectively we also need to look at transforming, remaking, rebuilding the world and communities around us. 

Taking inspiration from The Vimalakirti Nirdesa, Padmavajra offers instructions for how to create a Buddhaland.

1. Make yourself

2. Gather wisdom

3. Make friends

4. Make a world together

5. Revere the mystery


Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, 2017.


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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Build_a_Buddhaland_414a.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Subhuti shares his reflections on Urgyen Sangharakshita in the days following his death and funeral ceremony. He explores the double response to Sangharakshita as an effective Dharma teacher and former of Sangha alongside the various difficulties and paradoxes in his life.

The two last papers Sangharakshita wrote, completed just over two weeks before he died, examine the three main paths of Buddhism, among other things, and thereby offer three different ways of understanding his own role as teacher. This helps us to understand both his human personality and his significance for us.

This talk is part of the series Who is Urgyen Sangharakshita?

Talk given at London Buddhist Centre, November 29, 2018.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Sangharakshita_As_Teacher_413.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here is a talk by Punyamala on Dilgo Khyentse Rimpoche, (1910-1991) one of Sangharakshita’s main eight teachers. Forced to flee Tibet in 1959, Dilgo Khyentse Rimpoche was an accomplished meditation teacher, scholar and holder of the Nyingma lineage, the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism. Punyamala offers a brief history of his life, his connection with Sangharakshita and a set of reflections on his teachings.

Talk given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 29th August 2006, as part of a series on the Refuge Tree of the Triratna Buddhist Order.



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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dilgo_Khyentse_Rimpoche_412.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here's a forthright and passionate talk by Vajratara, taking as its starting point the great contemporary Tibetan teacher (sometimes also written 'Chatral Sangye Dorje') and his relationship to practice in Triratna, rooted in his giving of the Green Tara practice to Sangharakshita.

The main focus, however, is the need to practice the Dharma for others as part of a meaningful community, and Vajratara argues her case with a balance of down-to-earth humour and uncompromising vision.

Talk given at the Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2007

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Chetul_Sangye_Dorje_411.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

A lovely talk given by Nagabodhi on Triratna Day at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, with an introduction by Dayalocana.

Here, Nagabodhi recounts his favorite memories of his time with Dhardo Rinpoche in Kalimpong, expresses his feelings about the strengthening power of stupa building for centers, and ties it all together with a reminder of the central role of sangha in the Triratna Community. Lovely introducation and conclusion by Dayalocana.

Talk given on Triratna Day, April 2014 at Aryaloka Buddhist Center.

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_Dhardo_Rinpoche_Stupa_Building_and_Sangha_410.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Part 5 in the Faces of Enlightenment Sangha night series at the Sheffield Buddhist Centre.

Bodhinaga gives a talk on the Buddha Amitabha and the Metta Bhavana loving-kindness meditation.

Recorded at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 21/05/19

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Direct download: Free_Buddhist_Audio_-_The_Path_of_Kindness_409.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Our FBA Podcast this week is entitled Forgiveness and Happiness.
Santavajri explores verses 4, 5 and 6 of the Eight Verses for Training the Mind. She begins with her realisation that a motivator for her spiritual practice has been a quest for happiness.

Touching on the themes of righteous indignation, spiritual bypassing, empathy, non-violent communication, envy, and exploring apology, confession and working with betrayal, Santavajri poses the question: can we forgive ourselves and move towards unconditional love for all beings?

Talk given at the Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana, December 2018

This talk is part of the series Women's Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana.

Direct download: Podcast408.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Here Padmavajra speaks about the stages of spiritual death and rebirth. How to prepare for them, how they can be seen in all the stages of the path, as well as where they lead.

Talk given on a Kula Gathering at Padmaloka, 2012.

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Direct download: Podcast407.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioCheck out this week’s FBA PodcastWhat’s Race, Gender, Sexuality and Skin Color Got to Do with Non-Self by Vimalasara.

A timely and thought-provoking talk given at a People of Color (POC) day-long retreat at San Francisco’s East Bay Meditation Center 2019. The East Bay Meditation Center hosts teachers from all lineages to teach the Dharma to their POC, LGBTQI2, Differently Abled and Scent Free Communities.

Talk given February 2019 in San Francisco.

Direct download: podcast404.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:55am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn today’s FBA Podcast this week: 21st Century Bodhisattva Saravantu explores the role of active engagement in the world’s problems, and the various pitfalls along the way, into which activists can so easily fall. This talk launches a series of talks entitled “The 21st Century Bodhisattva”, inspired by Akuppa’s module in the Dharma Training Course.

Direct download: podcast403.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:24am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioEnjoy our FBA Podcast this week: Communicating the Dharma Through the Arts – Show Don’t Tell by Sarvananda.

Be prepared for the unexpected in this very funny – and by turns wrongfooting – personal exploration of why the Arts are vital to the development of a genuine Buddhist community. Sarvananda discusses as background his attempts to find a synthesis between the Arts and spiritual life, leading to his current work as a successful playwright.

But it is in the three departures from a traditional Dharma talk that we glimpse something else – the crucial show-don’t-tell aspect of the title. Suffice to say, if you have not heard Stand-Up Tragedy, Dharma Ventriloquism, or a Ukulele Lady Visualisation before, best turn on your heart and your ears…

Direct download: podcast402.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:06am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is an important talk entitled Mindfulness and the Creative Disruption of Bias by Viveka.

Viveka explores the theme of racism from the perspective of the Dharma and what the Buddha had to say about complex conditionality. A timely look at understanding – and ultimately undoing – the patterns that lead to prejudice and bias, of all kinds.

Specifically, this talk investigates:

- Opening to the inter-personal, organizational, and societal conditioning that perpetuates racial bias.

- Understanding ‘implicit bias’, which is how thoughts, feelings, emotions, and actions are influenced (largely unconsciously) by exposure to stereotypes and fears about targeted social groups.

- How can the mechanics of ‘implicit’ bias be disrupted by the power of mindfulness?

Talk given at San Francisco Buddhist Center, June 2016.

thebuddhistcentre.com/sanfrancisco

Direct download: podcast401.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:42am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk on Radical Inclusivity by Singhashri.

What does Buddhism have to do with belonging? What does belonging have to do with Buddhism? We live in a pluralistic society, where many cultures coexist while maintaining their cultural differences. One of the main concerns of our day is how we continue to create a sense of belonging, amid so much difference. For Triratna, we might ask ourselves, how do we create spaces where all feel welcome, regardless of age, race, nationality, class, gender, sexual identity, physical ability and even religion? And as we deepen our commitment and involvement, how do we honour the unique experiences and gifts of each individual, while also seeking a ground of connection based on the Dharma? Sangharakshita has said:

The Dharma should be communicated to as many people as possible and this means communicating the Dharma in as many different ways as possible…Avalokitesvara has a thousand hands, and each of the thousand hands holds a different object. Similarly, Order members of particular temperaments have different talents, aptitudes, and capacities, and in making their respective contributions to the life and work of the Order they should allow – you should allow – those talents, aptitudes, and capacities full scope.

Join us in an exploration of what the Dharma might have to say about radical inclusivity.

This talk was given at the London Buddhist Centre’s Transforming Self and World group in April, 2017. The morning included a led meditation and enquiry, a main talk and discussion, and a closing meditation. To access the meditations, please visit Free Buddhist Audio.

Direct download: podcast400.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:30am EDT

Speaking in a marquee on the June 2012 Women’s National Order Weekend at Taraloka and in a landscape dedicated to the Five Jinas, Samantabhadri explores positive emotion in our system of practice. Her themes are: pliancy and loosening boundaries; the imagination; insight; our collective life; the shade and the light of our spiritual lives.

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Direct download: Podcast406.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 5:40pm EDT

Delve into the fundamental principles behind Integration in Triratna’s System of Practice with this week’s FBA Podcastentitled The Five Aspects of Dharma Life - Integration by Subhuti. With integration we begin by taking fully responsibility for our karmic agency.

This is the third talk in a series of eight from the System of Practice retreat at Padmaloka for men who have asked for Ordination.

Subhuti invites his hearers to find new and deeper significance with the fundamental principles behind Integration, Positive Emotion, Spiritual Receptivity, Spiritual Death, and Spiritual Rebirth.

This talk is part of the series The Five Aspects of the Dharma Life.

Subscribe to the FBA podcast

Direct download: Podcast405.mp3
Category:Buddhism -- posted at: 5:26pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a rousing, uncompromisingly radical talk from Maitriveer-Nagarjuna entitled The Lion’s Roar Of Doctor Ambedkar (with translation in Hindi).

Taking up the theme of the Convention, the great “Lion’s Roar” of the Buddha, Maitriveer-Nagarjuna evokes the fire that drove Doctor Bimrao Ambedkar to work tirelessly on behalf of the so-called Dalit “Untouchable” people in order to free them from the evils of the Hindu caste system. He reframes Doctor Ambedkar as a radical for the ages, of greater and broader relevance for a world where the forces that oppose liberation at all levels seem stronger than ever.

Listen and be inspired and uplifted! Jai Bhim!

This talk was given to start the 2018 Triratna Buddhist Order Convention at Bodhgaya in India and is part of the series The Lion’s Roar: Talks from the International Order Convention.

Direct download: Podcast399.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:02am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is by Vajratara entitled Dr Ambedkar and His Importance For the Future of Buddhism.

Vajratara argues that Dr Ambedkar is not just relevant for India or for the oppressed, but essential for modern Buddhism all over the world, challenging us to move beyond a comfortable Buddhism that fits neatly into modern consumer society. The talk was given at a retreat at Rivendell for young people comparing the teachings of Dr Ambedkar and Sangharakshita, 2014.

Direct download: Podcast398.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:43am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the mass conversion to Buddhism of Dr Ambedkar and thousands of his followers, Nagabodhi tells the story of Ambedkar and the role that Sangharakshita was to play in supporting the nascent Buddhist movement of ex-Untouchables.

This week’sFBA Podcast by Nagabodhi, Dr Ambedkar and Sangharakshita, was given at North London Buddhist Centre, 2016.

Direct download: Podcast397.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:35am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast Subhuti offers The Significance of Dr Ambedkar In the West.

Speaking during a festival day in 2010 held to celebrate the life of Dr Ambedkar, Subhuti speaks about what significance Dr Ambedkar has outside India.

The main thrust of the talk is a list of three reasons why someone might convert to Buddhism, enumerated by Dr Ambedkar but applied to our situation in the West. Perhaps the most important is Dr Ambedkar’s insights into the need for society to be grounded in Ethics that are ‘sacred and universal,’ obviously he felt the Dhamma was the best expression of that.

The final section of the talk covers the importance of being engaged in wider society; this has topical relevance with the forthcoming General Election. Subhuti encourages to engage with the democratic process and make the Buddhist voice, calling for awareness and ethicality, be heard.

Direct download: Podcast396.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:22am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioAll bona fide Buddhism is Activism. We want to make the world better right? The issue is energy; how can we cultivate energy in pursuit of the good. In this week’s FBA Podcast, entitled The 4 Gifts, Padmavajra considers 5 fundamental aspects of Virya – known as Energy for Enlightenment.

Direct download: Podcast395.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:13am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast is by Padmasuri entitled The Buddha Was a Friend As We Can Be a Friend. The fourth and final in our series of talks to mark the Year of Kalyana Mitrata at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: Podcast394.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:34pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this weeks FBA Podcast we offer In Conversation with Subhuti. Suryagupta converses with Subhuti about his life and practice. Subhuti has been the President of the London Buddhist Centre for over 30 years and was part of the original team who built the LBC in the 1970s.

Direct download: Podcast393.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:26pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is by Maitreyi entitled Spiritual Friendship and the Heart’s Release. Our teacher Sangharakshita has said: “It is in friendship (maitri) that we may find the emotional equivalent of the intellectual understanding of the doctrine of ‘no self’”. The gift of these teachings can help us move beyond self-clinging into a deeper and far more mysterious connection with one another; a Greater Love.

This was the keynote talk given at Taraloka for the 2018 Great Gathering (Order Members and GFR mitras).

Direct download: Podcast392.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:03pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast by Danadasa is entitled Faith and Wisdom. In this Buddhist path of transformation, how we relate to practice has a profound effect upon that which unfolds. How do we relate to the idea of path and goal? How do we relate to effort? How do we relate to not knowing? During this 4-week Sangha Night series, Danadasa will explore what is meant by a wise relationship to practice through the perspective of the 5 spiritual faculties, which are mindfulness, conviction, energy, meditation, and discernment.

This talk is part of the series The Five Spiritual Faculties.

Direct download: Podcast391.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:53pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast by Sangharakshita a is entitled The Conscious Evolution of Man: Right Effort. Discussing the evolution of consciousness, this lecture explains that at the stage of reflexive consciousness, deliberate effort is required for any further progress. Right Effort is fourfold: preventing and eradicating the unskilful, and cultivating and maintaining the skilful.

Talk given in 1968 as part of the series The Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path.

Direct download: Podcast390.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:40pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast by Dayasagara is entitled Quietly Revering the Unfathomable – Reflections On Guhyaloka. In the sparkling and wonderful talk, Dayasagara evokes the magic and mystery around his ordination, his time in ‘the secret valley’, and his new Dharma name.

Direct download: Podcast389.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:42pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast entitled Urban Metta Bodhilila talks about how city life offers constant opportunities for practising metta in quite challenging situations and can provide a crucible for our spiritual practice, particularly our ethical practice.

Direct download: Podcast388.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:51pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast, this week is called A Field of Kindness by Sona.
A talk on kindness, the quality of caring and the Bodhisattva Ideal, given at the Stockholm Buddhist Center, on 5 September 2005.

Direct download: Podcast387.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:01pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast, this week is called The Richly Endowed Buddha of the Southern Realm by Dhammadinna.

Third in a series of talks given on the 2012 Triratna International Retreat. For more talks, videos, photos etc from the retreat see www.thebuddhistcentre.com and navigate to page ‘internationalretreat’

Direct download: Podcast386.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:12pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast, this week is called Self Compassion For the Sake of All Beings. Munisha gave this talk in English to a Swedish audience, 5th March 2016, Dhammagiri Retreat Center, Sweden.

Direct download: Podcast385.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:08pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is entitled The Sevenfold Puja: Worship by Maniraja. The Sevenfold Puja – drawn from the Bodhicaryavatara – is the main devotional ceremony of the Triratna Buddhist Community.

This talk is the second in the series on the Puja, given Manchester Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: Podcast384.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:02pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioCan ritual help us put the conditions in place through which bodhicitta may arise? In this week’s FBA Podcast Using Ritual to Cultivate Bodhicitta Vijayasri explores our reactions to the idea of ritual and how rituals can become meaningless. We then look at the concept of ritual as “entering into a realm of the imagination where we encounter Buddhas and Bodhisattvas”.

This talk was given at the Croydon Buddhist Centre in April 2016 as part of our regular Saturday morning sangha class, the first in the theme of “Transforming Self and World”, in which ritual was explored as a method of putting conditions in place through which bodhicitta may arise.

Direct download: Podcast383.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:42pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is the first talk in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on ‘The Diamond Sutra’ entitled Taking Mind to its Limits. We are taken through the work stage by stage, and here we begin with the opening scenes and the text itself as a revelation of Reality…

Talks given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004

This talk is part of the series The Diamond Sutra – Taking Mind to its Limits.

Direct download: Podcast382.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:33pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast, Bhadra introduces the archetypal magician, Padmasambhava, in a talk called The Art of Ritual and Descent, given at a day for men in Bristol, UK. He uses episodes from the magician’s life to illustrate how engaging the imagination through ritual and being willing to make the journey of descent are key elements of a fruitful practice.

Direct download: Podcast381.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:29pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is entitled The Disappearing Buddha by Sangharakshita. The Buddha adopted the appearance and speech of his different audiences, and gave discourses on the Dharma which instructed, inspired, fired, and delighted. Then he would just disappear and leave them wondering, ‘Who is the Buddha?’
Talk given in 1994.

Direct download: Podcast380.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:25pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is called Bright Blue Sky, Deep Blue Sea by Suryadarshini.

Amitabha is one of the most well-known archetypal Buddhas, whose qualities of love and compassion attract myriad practitioners and devotees.

Suryadarshini shares her personal connections with Amitabha, from superheroes to phoenixes, and also explores traditional symbols and imagery of the red Buddha of the West.

Direct download: Podcast379.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:02pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is by Kulaprabha entitled Her Two Hands Are the Two Truths. This is the second in a four-part series by Kulaprabha on Nagarjuna’s ‘Lines Written to Tara.’

Direct download: Podcast378.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:03pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a cracking and wonderfully detailed talk called Vajrapani – Energy Unlimited by Vessantara, author of ‘Meeting the Buddhas’. He is the ideal person to introduce us to the complex and fascinating Tantric figure of Vajrapani – ‘Lord of Secrets’, embodiment of ”virya’ (Energy in Pursuit of the Good). Vessantara’s style is familiar and well-earthed, and therefore eminently well suited to material that bristles with electricity and is not always so easy to communicate. We get the origin and development of the Tantra itself, as well as of this key figure who meets the impermanent nature of Reality head-on and embodies the tremendous possibilities of change. Look out too for a great introduction about darts…!

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2003

Direct download: Podcast377.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:40am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Padmavajra entitled The Motive. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa’s ‘Jewel Ornament of Liberation’.

The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter 2008

This talk is part of the series Themes from Gampopa’s Jewel Ornament of Liberation.

Direct download: podcast376.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:16am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Mahamati entitled Actualizing the 1000 Armed Avalokiteshvara. The third of four talks given on the Padmaloka May National Order weekend- Mahamati talks on actualizing the myth of the Order- symbolised in the 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara.

Direct download: podcast375.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:52am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Vajratara entitled The Power of the Archetypal Realm given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre on 29th May 2007 as part of a series of talks on Buddhist Symbols.

Direct download: podcast374.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:18am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Padmavajra entitled The Bodhicitta – A supra-personal spiritual force.

This is the second in a series of five talks given on a Going for Refuge retreat at Padmaloka called Living From The Bodhicitta.

Padmavajra explores some aspects of Sangharakshita’s insights into the Bodhicitta, as well as how we might live a life devoted to living from the Bodhicitta.

Direct download: podcast373.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:25am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Ratnaprabha entitled Sowing Seeds In the Soil of the Mind – The Alaya.

The alaya, or storehouse consciousness, is the Buddhist equivalent of the unconscious mind. It is like a garden, in which every experience and action sows a seed which may later sprout and create our unfolding life. This talk describes how this relates to the six sense awarenesses, the mind as a sense, and the contaminated mind which reads everything in terms of self and not self. Mindfulness finds a creative path between leaving the alaya on autopilot, and allowing the contaminated mind to interfere and fill the garden with weeds and rubbish.

Direct download: podcast372.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:43am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is called Mind and Mental Events by Subhuti.

These five omnipresent mental events (sarvatragas) constitute the basic mechanics of the mind; if you are conscious, they are present.

1. Feeling-tone (vedana)

2. Recognition (or conceptualisation) (samjna)

3. Directionality of mind (cetana)

4. Contact (sparsa)

5. Egocentric demanding (manaskara)

From this we can conclude that:

1. All our experience is feeling-toned. The more conscious we are of this, the less we will react and be driven by our likes and dislikes.

2. We are always interpreting our experience with varying degrees of accuracy and depth. We can make an ongoing effort to raise the level of our experience.

3. The mind is always moving towards things. We can use cetana skilfully to move in the direction of Going for Refuge by practising the precepts etc. But we need to want to go in that direction.

This talk is part of the series Mind and Mental Events (Subhuti 2001).

Direct download: podcast371.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:22am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is calledThe Buddha Beyond Siddhartha by Dassini.

The first half of the talk looks at the Buddha’s early life and his battle with and the defeat of Mara. Then Dassini looks at the traditional Buddhist concept of time, and the division of time into Kalpas, inconceivably lengthy periods of time.

The talk concludes by looking at the Dharma niyama, the order of conditionality through which the attainment of Enlightenment is possible.

Please not that as this talk progresses there is some sound disturbance that gets louder as the talk goes on. Apologies for this.

Direct download: podcast370.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:14am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is calledAnapanasati – Contemplation of Feelings given by Guhyavajra during the 2016 Anapanasati retreat at Padmaloka.

The Anapanasati meditation practice and Four Foundations of Mindfulness are woven into a system of practice which when developed and cultivated is of great fruit and great benefit.

Based on the Buddha’s principal discourse on the subject found in the Anapanasati sutta of the Pali Canon, we explore our human experience rooted in the six senses; from the perspective of body, feeling and mind in the context of mindfulness with breathing.

This talk is part of the series Anapanasati.

Direct download: podcast369.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:50am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is calledThe Sangha Context of the Anapanasati Teaching, a talk given by Shubha at the London Buddhist Centre’s Women’s Night Class, Nov 21st 2013.

Drawing out the full sutra where the Anapanasati teaching is given speaks to the sangha context as a condition for insight.

Direct download: podcast368.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:55am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is called Inquisitive Mind, Thinking and Awakening. Here Yashobodhi talks about the relationship between thinking and insight. As long as we have a brain, we will have thoughts. Some of these thoughts are helpful. Some not so much. Becoming aware of thoughts is a good start. Whatever next?

Direct download: podcast367.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:05pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is called From View to No View by Jnanavaca on views and the need for a positive emotional engagement with those views.
London Buddhist Centre in 2007

Direct download: podcast366.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:38pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is called Training in the Six Paramitas: Shila – The Essence of Ethics by Padmavajra. This is the fifth talk in a six-part series by Padmavajra exploring the Perfection of Wisdom and specifically the practice of the Six Perfections. The usual order of the practices is reversed, so here we turn to the key issue of “Ethics”.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 as part of the series Training in the Six Paramitas.

Direct download: podcast365.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:19am EDT

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Direct download: podcast364.mp3
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Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast, Working with Energy In the Bodhicaryavatara, Suryamati explores the theme of Virya (energy) in Santideva’s Bodhicaryavatara. Talk given at Sangha Night, Sheffield Buddhist Centre on 29th April 2008. Part of a series on Great Buddhist Texts.

Direct download: podcast363.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:12pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast today is brought to you by Vaddhaka entitled The Evolution of the Bodhisattva Ideal. In this elegant description of the evolution of the Bodhisattva Ideal Vaddhaka draws on his extensive reading and study, and picks out Jan Nattier’s writing in particular. Given at Sangha Night at Stockholms Buddhistcenter, 8 March 2010.

Direct download: podcast362.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:54am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is by Sangharakshita from 1971. The Myth of the Return Journey has a theme which resonates with many similar stories in world literature. Here its important elements are related to the personal quest for meaning.

This talk is part of the series Parables, Myths and Symbols of Mahayana Buddhism in the White Lotus Sutra.

Direct download: podcast361.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:32am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast, The Bodhisattva’s Practice – Six Perfections, Ratnaghosha, just back from four weeks of solitary retreat, explores the Six Perfections and how we practice them.

Direct download: podcast360.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:04am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Saccanama called Faith: the Key to the Mystery of Life. Saccanama speaks with passion, clarity and intelligence, weaving ideas with personal examples in this high quality talk.

Direct download: podcast359.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:36pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Ratnaprabha called Likes and Dislikes. On the Wheel of Life, the whole person is symbolised by a boat with passengers, the five skandhas. Ratnaprabha focuses especially on our habit energies, and our habitual preferences. Are we ruled by our likes and dislikes? Is there a creative response? How to the five Buddhas fit in?

Direct download: podcast358.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 2:00pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Subhuti called Beyond Karma – The Dharma Niyama. In this, the final installment of Subhuti’s three-part Ramble around Reality we go beyond the realm of Karma as we glimpse the glory of the Dharma Niyama.

Direct download: podcast357.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:13pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a wonderful Interview with Parami, Tiratna’s International Order Convener. Karunagita invites Parami to share snapshots from her decades in Triratna, starting with ordaining seven Mexican women the week before and going back through time and locations, roles, challenges, delights and contributions, including Spain to Glasgow and London in the late 1970s.

Recorded at the NLBC monthly women’s class in May 2017.

Direct download: podcast356.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:04pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast, is a new talk on Writing As Spiritual Practice. Drawing on her experience as a poet, Varasahaya discusses creativity, imagination, and the writing process as a spiritual practice. She reads some of her poems, and explains the process by which they came to birth, and what she learnt about letting go of self as she grappled with writing. An excellent and very accessible talk given to Sangha night at the West London Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: podcast355.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:03pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast, Shifting to Indras Net, Parami evokes the reality of interconnectedness in relation to the second Dasadhamma – My life is dependent on others. I am sustained by the gifts of others – She talks about how the experience of interconnectedness is supported by wisdom, and results in compassionate activity.
This talk is part of the series The Order as Practice: Shifting Paradigms.

Direct download: podcast354.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:55pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast, Letting Go of What Isn’t There is a gentle and insightful talk by Dhammarati on the Anapanasati Sutta given at the LBC’s Dharma Day festival on July 12th 2009.

Direct download: podcast353.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:21pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast, Spiritual Death and Radical Transformation is a rousing talk by Maitreyabandhu that goes into where Buddhism begins: with ourselves as we are and with the awake Buddha. But we don’t really know either ourselves or the Buddha. He emphasises that we don’t know because we so easily assume we know, or fix or lessen the goal. So what do we do? There are three approaches we need to balance and four things we have to do, to close the gap between the awake Buddha and us who are as yet unawake. Given at Sangha Night, 13 May 2013.

Direct download: podcast352.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is by Triratna’s International Order Convenor, Parami, speaking on one of her favorite topics: The Group and the Spiritual Community. Parami has lived and worked within Triratna for many years of her life. Sangha is very important to her and her years of experience will help us to get a clearer idea of what makes a spiritual community, rather than a positive group.

Direct download: podcast351.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:39am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast, Three Ways to Insight – Working with the 3 Prajnas Subhuti considers afresh this traditional teaching of cultivating insight through hearing, reflecting and meditating.

Direct download: podcast350.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:15am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is entitled The Meaning of Spiritual Community Revisited by Mahamati. One of the talks given at Padmaloka during the 2016 ‘Urgyen’ retreat.

The retreat was part of the celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the founding of Padmaloka, and aimed to explore the life and teachings of our founder Urgyen Sangharakshita.

Direct download: podcast349.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is entitled The Buddhas Noble Quest by Dhivan.

In this talk given at a Sangha evening at Bristol Buddhist Centre, Dhivan considers what we can learn from the story of the noble quest of the Buddha. This story is recounted in the Discourse on the Noble Quest (Ariyapariyesana-sutta) in the Middle-length Discourses (Majjhima-nikaya). In it we can almost believe we are hearing a memory of the Buddhas own words, as he recounts his going forth, his study under great meditation teachers, his eventually leaving them, his austerities, and finally his awakening. Dhivan draws out some of the continuing significance of the story of the noble quest, as a kind of blueprint for the model of the Dharma life as heroic self-development.

Direct download: podcast348.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:02am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is entitled The Importance of Mindfulness by Kamalashila.

In this talk from September 1996, Kamalashila explores the centrality of mindfulness to the Buddhist path. He discuses the concept of intoxication, with reference to the 5th Precept and the Sutra of Golden Light. Kamalashila then considers the four foundations of mindfulness from the the Satipatthana Sutta and concludes that mindfulness is the basis of metta and allows us to embrace the realm of truth and beauty.

Croydon has been home to FWBO or Triratna Buddhist communities and centres since 1968. Many early talks by well known speakers were recorded, both at Aryatara, since 1979, and at the new Croydon Centre from 1981. These are now being transferred from their crumbling cassettes to digital format, as part of the Croydon Digital Archive Project, and are being made available to everyone.

This talk is in good condition but starts and ends abruptly.

Direct download: podcast347.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:39am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is entitled Sangharakshita, the Unenlightened Englishman by Ratnaprabha. A 1989 film on Sangharakshita was embarrassingly titled The Enlightened Englishman. He may not be enlightened, but he has had a fascinating life and a very positive influence on a huge number of people. This talk gives an account of his life, work and teachings, including personal reminiscences. It introduce a series on Sangharakshita.
This talk is part of the series Sangharakshita and his approach to Buddhism.

Direct download: podcast346.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 10:06am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast FBA Podcast is part four of a series of talks on the Triratna Vandana by Subhuti entitled Sangha Vandana. The most striking point from this talk is the importance of taking the Sangha refuge as the possibility of an Ideal Society. It is so easy to get dis-illusioned with people and groups. Yet human relationships are such an integral part of our lives we need some vision that more is possible – the arya sangha exemplify this as they relate to each other on the basis of metta as opposed to self grasping and egoistic desire.

Direct download: podcast345.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:44pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast FBA Podcast is a fabulous talk by Jnanavaca called The Wisdom of Words. The spiritual community, the Sangha, is the ideal context in which we can practise the Dharma. It is also a force for good in the world and an ideal in its own right. But how is the Sangha sustained? Continuing our exploration of ‘The Four Sangharavastus’ (or Means of Unification of the Sangha). Jnanavaca launches the year with a keynote talk on the second of these, Kindly Speech.

Direct download: podcast344.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:13pm EDT

Free Buddhist Audio…There is poetry as soon as we realize there is nothing… Continuing the series celebrating the unique contribution of Urgyen Sangharakshita to modern Buddhism, Akasamitra explores his key teaching of Mind Reactive – Mind Creative in this week’s FBA Podcast.

Direct download: podcast343.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:59pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is by Parami, entitled The Path to Buddhist Engagement. This talk was given at the Manchester Buddhist Centre on Triratna Night, 27 June 2016, during Buddhist Action Month – BAM!

Direct download: podcast342.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:44pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn our FBA Podcast this week is by Mahasiddhi, entitled: Maitri, Friendship and Meaning – Being a Buddhist Chaplain In a Non-Buddhist Setting. As part of taking the Dharma into the world, Mahasiddhi talks about his experience as a Buddhist Chaplain and how the Dharma supports and informs his practice with mainly non-Buddhist patients. Mahasiddhi has been practising chaplaincy for nearly four years starting as a volunteer then for nearly past two years has been the Buddhist Chaplain at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

Direct download: podcast341.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:04am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn our FBA Podcast this week is by Vajratara, entitled: Kshanti (Patience): A Response to the Modern World. This talk was given in Sheffield at a unique time in British politics. A few days before, the UK had voted in a referendum to leave the European Union. At a time of political turmoil with reported hate crimes increasing by 57% since the referendum, Vajratara asks how can we have a Buddhist response to political change? How can we respond particularly to the rise of ‘ugly’ nationalism and hate crimes? Does kshanti mean doing nothing, or can it lead to more creative action?

Direct download: podcast340.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:49am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn our FBA Podcast this week we hear from Ratnaprabha on Gender and Sexuality In Buddhism. In this very rich and well researched talk at the Stockholms Buddhistcenter (13 June 2011) Ratnaprabha traces the view of gender and sexuality in Buddhism. He addresses these topics in an open and inquiring way, not afraid of treading on ground that many others shy away from; and he raises many new questions. Rich food for further thought.

Direct download: podcast339.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:26am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn our FBA Podcast today, Prasadachitta delivers a beautiful set of reflections on his personal practice in Whirlpools and Clear Water. This talk by Prasadachitta is like a beautiful stillness amid the whirl of a full Order Convention. His conversational style gradually brings forth the depth of reflection behind it. And the integrity of his personal practice bubbles easily to the surface when, with humility and good humour, he shares his own experience of working across two very human tendencies that have a bearing on friendship. ??

His evocation of the river – now full of whirlpools as it flows through the Neurotaloka, now becalmed as eddies meet and resolve themselves – and his inclusion of poems from Kathleen Raine and Naomi Shihab Nye make this a genuinely lyric talk. Like a closely observed discourse on consciousness meeting Walt Whitman and finding things, in the end, go along just fine…??

With an introduction by Danadasa. Con traduccion en Espanol.??Recorded outdoors at Chintamani Retreat Centre, Mexico, as part of the 2015 Triratna Buddhist Order Pan-American Convention.

Direct download: podcast338.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:09am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn our FBA Podcast today, The Muni and the Moonlight, Vajrasara reflects on the Buddha, his victory over pleasure and pain, and how we might bring him alive in our lives. Talk given May 2011 at Bristol Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: podcast337.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:39am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a delightful talk in which Sangharakshita looks at his own poem ‘Sripada’, the translation of which gives the title:Footsteps of Delight. Evoking the more mythical side of his own spiritual quest, he challenges us in ours with an often good humoured look at what it is to Go for Refuge to the Buddha and his teaching in the context of vibrant spiritual community.
With concluding remarks by Dharmachari Kulananda.
Talk given in 2001.

Direct download: podcast336.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:11am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOur FBA Podcast this week is a dynamic talk by Vadanya calledIs the Buddha Dead for Us?. In this talk on the Buddha’s parinirvana, Vadanya explores how we can use our imagination to have a real living connection with the Buddha, and how we can make our own future potential for enlightenment a source of strength and guidance in our present lives.
Talk given at a Men’s Event, Padmaloka Retreat Centre, October 2011.

Direct download: podcast335.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:45am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast entitled Reverencing the Buddha – I Bow to No One Dead Or Alive Mahamani gives an incredibly passionate talk on reverencing the Buddha. Drawing on her own experiences of struggling to understand the place of ritual in Buddhism, Mahamani guides us on her own path to finally bowing before the Buddha.

Direct download: podcast334.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:33am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn this week’s FBA Podcast Padmavajra describes how we practice the Dharma so as to create Love, respect and unity within our community and the wider world. Creating Love, Respect and Unity given at the Mens Event titled Beyond Isolation, Building the Buddha Land.

Direct download: podcast333.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:22am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThe wonderful Dhammadinna brings us this week’s FBA Podcast entitled Seven Point Mind Training. This is the first of seven talks in a series based on Atisha’s famous ‘The Seven Points of Mind Training’, and influenced both by Chekawa’s commentary and Langri Tangpa’s ‘Eight Verses for Training the Mind’.
This talk was given on April 7th, 2008 and is part of the series Seven Point Mind Training.

Direct download: podcast332.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:04am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Maitreyabandhu entitledSpiritual Death and Radical Transformation. In this rousing talk Maitreyabandhu goes into where Buddhism begins: with ourselves as we are and with the awake Buddha. But we don’t really know either ourselves or the Buddha. He emphasises that we don’t know because we so easily assume we know, or fix or lessen the goal. So what do we do? There are three approaches we need to balance and four things we have to do, to close the gap between the awake Buddha and us who are as yet unawake. Given at LBC Sangha Night, 13 May 2013.

Direct download: podcast331.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:39am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Vessantara entitledThe Empty Boat. Early navigators were able to traverse vast distances using intuitive messages from the sun, wind, stars. Going for refuge is kind of a journey that needs ongoing mindfulness, a vision of the goal
The second in a series of four talks by Vessantara exploring Going for Refuge is an accessible talk on the Insight aspect.
From the four-part series, Aspects of Going for Refuge, given at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre in early 2016.

Direct download: podcast330.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:26am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioParami delivers this week’s FBA Podcast entitledLiving In The Greater Mandala. She brings this theme alive in the most human, poetic, and inspired of ways.

Her range is broad as she evokes the mandala itself, and the profound, playful path of the Bodhisattva. Calling forth Rumi and Hafiz, the great Buddhist Perfection of Wisdom texts, Keats, Yeats, Robert Hass, and Kenneth White, she illustrates what it looks and feels like to live dedicated to the wellbeing of all as the most natural thing in the world.

As always with Parami, her great experience shines through in this talk – a terrific encouragement to anyone thinking of integrating this perspective of joy into the challenge of everyday life…

Recorded in Adelaide, Australia, October 2015 for the 2015 Triratna International Urban Retreat.

Direct download: podcast329.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:05am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’s FBA Podcast is a talk given by Vajrapriya entitledDescend with the View, Ascend with the Conduct. Vajrapriya makes the link between this saying, and Sangharakshita’s explanation of the Noble Eightfold Path as a path of Vision and Transformation; talks about what it means to ascend with the view; and to descend with the conduct; and explores the signs that we’re not keeping these two directions of practice in balance.

Direct download: podcast328.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:52am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioWe are delighted to bring in Jnanavaca for today’s FBA Podcast entitled The Texture of Reality. In this talk, he explores the notions of conditioned and unconditioned reality, and the relationship between the two.

Direct download: podcast327.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:37am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioVajratara headlines our FBA Podcast for today with a talk entitled Metta and the Path of Insight. Given on a Young Womens’ Weekend at Taraloka, she discusses how the practice of metta can be more than just the simple cultivation of loving-kindness and positive emotion, and how it can also be a window into deeper truths about the nature of reality.

Direct download: podcast326.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioFrom a landmark talk of the same name, our FBA Podcast today is from Parami entitled The Lineage of Inspriation. Here Parami speaks about the lineage of inspiration, one of the four lineages Sangharakshita has handed on to the Triratna Order and movement; lineages of teachings, practices, institutions and inspiration. She evokes the importance of the lineage of inspiration in this burning world, and talks about her own sources of inspiration since she came into contact with the movement in 1977, sharing quotes from a number of Bhante’s early talks which had a profound impact on her.

Direct download: podcast325.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioOurFBA Podcast today is from Ratnaguna entitled From Karma Niyama to Dharma Niyama, a talk given at the Manchester Buddhist Centre on a Day for Men in Training for Ordination, 13 March 2016.

Direct download: podcast324.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:12am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn today’sFBA Podcast Shifting to Indras Net Parami evokes the reality of interconnectedness in relation to the second Dasadhamma – My life is dependent on others. I am sustained by the gifts of others – She talks about how the experience of interconnectedness is supported by wisdom, and results in compassionate activity. This is the fourth talk of The Order as Practice – Shifting Paradigms retreat.

Direct download: podcast323.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:59am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn today’s FBA Podcast Beyond Heaven and Hell Vajrasara shares her ideas for managing the highs and lows of the 8 Worldly Winds. Talk given October 2011 at Bristol Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: podcast322.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:05am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is entitled Wayfinding by Vessantara. A rich talk using the metaphor of wayfinding to navigate our way across the sea of suffering to the safe refuge of the Buddha Dharma. The first of 4 talks exploring Going For Refuge given on Sangha Night at Cambridge Buddhist Center.

Direct download: podcast321.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:49am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is possibly one of Padmavjra’s best talks given at Padmaloka. Compassion.
This. Given during the October Men’s event 2012.

Direct download: podcast320.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:43am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is so provocative we don’t even need a description. Who Hates the Metta Bhavana? by Jnanavaca. Week two of a five week seminar on the Metta Bhavana practice at the London Buddhist Center.

Direct download: podcast319.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:31pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioIn today’s FBA Podcast, Evolution, Capitalism and the Buddha Vaddhaka argues that capitalist economics is based upon a narrow evolutionary view associated with social Darwinism and a distorted interpretation of the survival of the fittest. So the question is then: Can modern approaches to evolution help to develop a new approach to economics more in line with buddhist values?

Stockholm Sweden, 22 of February 2016

Direct download: podcast318.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:17pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast recounts the harrowing and revelatory tale of Kisa Gotami in a talk entitled “A Life-Changing Encounter” by Jvalamalini.

In the story, Kisa Gotami’s grief for her dead child is completely transformed after her contact with the Buddha through the experience of compassion and insight, leading her to a life of spiritual commitment and renunciation.

Direct download: podcast317.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 10:21am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioPart of a series from Cambridge Buddhist Centre on the Six Distinctive Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community, today’s FBA Podcast from Aryajaya is entitled “Commitment is Key“. Here she discusses Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels, a thread that runs through all Buddhist traditions but which is drawn out strongly as a central principle in the Triratna tradition.

Direct download: podcast316.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 10:20am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is entitled “The Way to the Beyond” by Vimalavajri. Here she offers some reflections on how the Mahaparinibbana Sutta gives us glimpses of awakening by looking at three topics: Ananda’s request for last instructions, the Buddha’s comforting of Ananda’s grief, and the mystery of the Parinirvana itself.

Direct download: podcast315.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 10:19am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioContinuing with our journey through the Five Buddha Mandala, we find ourselves at the centre with Vairocana. Today’s FBA Podcast is entitled Sitting At the Centre of the Mandala by Vessantara.

How do we balance the teachings of effort and openness? One way is through the image of the sun and relaxed being. The practice of the Dharma is simply to come back. Yet of course this requires effort.

Another question is the balance between practical and mythical approaches : can we hold both at once? What do we give significance to? what do we make real ? can we open to a world of richer and deeper meaning?

This is the eleventh and last talk of Padmaloka’s 2012 Winter Retreat and is part of the series The Mandala of the Five Buddhas.

Direct download: podcast314.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:31pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioContinuing around the mandala, we now enter the realm of story and imagination with a journey to the northern realm. In today’s FBA Podcast we move around to the North to meet Amoghasiddhi: Courage and Creativity. Amoghasiddhi is also connected with Spiritual Rebirth, we hear how this relates to insight, becoming more than we are, and the way in which we draw up courage and creativity to transform ourselves and maybe make a difference in the world.
This talk is part of the series The Mandala of the Five Buddhas.

Direct download: podcast313.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:11am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioContinuing around the mandala, in today’s FBA Podcast we meet Amitabha in a talk by Padmasuri simply called Amitabha.

Direct download: podcast312.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:00am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioContinuing around the mandala, we enter the realm of Ratnasambhava, the golden Buddha of the South. In “A Personal Take On Upekkha, this weeks FBA Podcastby Ratnavandana.

Continuing the series of personal talks on each of the Brahma Viharas from the 2015 Rainy Season Retreat, Ratnavandana shares an intensely honest, psychologically intimate, beautifully forensic history of her personal relationship to the practice of upekkha (equanimity) throughout her spiritual life. We hear about ways to assess what is going on in the subtler realms of our experience – and how to look to move beyond them so we too can live like a river…

Direct download: podcast311.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:55am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioHaving now entered the mandala, we begin in the East with Akshobya on the theme of Integration with “The Five Aspects of Dharma Life – Integration”, this weeks by FBA Podcast. Subhuti delves into the fundamental principles behind Integration and invites his hearers to apply them deeply in their own lives. We begin by taking fully responsibility for our karmic agency. This talk is part of the series The Five Aspects of the Dharma Life.

Direct download: podcast310.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:32am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioFor the next month or so we’ll be entering the mandala with a variety of talks and reflections from members of the Triratna Buddhist Order. We’ll begin at the beginning with “Entering the Mandala” by Vessantara for the first FBA Podcast in this series. Vessantara introduces Mandalas, in terms of personal, symbolic and specifically buddhist representations. He then invites us to enter the Mandala as a initiatory voyage of discovery and development, making reference to the System of Practice and the need to balance effort with openness.
This talk is part of the series The Mandala of the Five Buddhas.

Direct download: podcast309.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:03am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is entitled “Sanghakaya and the Heart’s Release” by Maitreyi. She describes having somewhat of an epiphany on first hearing the term ‘Sanghakaya’ in a talk by Subhuti in India. It seemed to give expression to a whole direction and momentum of her life and practice, while simultaneously both deepening and opening out the mystery of the enlightened mind, expanding beyond any sense of individual consciousness or attainment. This talk is about the Sangha Jewel and it’s place in the spiritual life, given at the Manchester Buddhist Centre on Triratna Night, 14 December 2015.

Direct download: podcast308.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:30am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is a tribute to our teacher, Bhante Sangharakshita, given by Parami entitled “Revisiting the New Society”, the third talk of The Order as Practice – Shifting Paradigms retreat. Parami talks about the first verse of the Dasadhamma Sutta – “I am no longer living according to worldly aims and values.” She revisits Bhantes vision of the New Society, sharing her inspiration and love for the radical and transformative power of the Dharma.

Direct download: podcast307.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:14am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioToday’s FBA Podcast is a tribute to our teacher, Bhante Sangharakshita, given by Padmavajra entitled “Glimpses of the Mythic Life of Sangharakshita”.

Urgyen Sangharakshita, the founder of the Western Buddhist Order, is many things to many people. Yet all inspiration and controversies aside, he is first and foremost a follower of the Buddha’s way and his own evocations of his personal practice give many clues as to the nature of a committed Dharma life.
Here Padmavajra, one of his closest disciples, offers his own perspective on Sangharakshita as a practitioner with a rich sense of the mythic context pervading all his thinking about the Buddha and his teaching.

Talk given in 2008.

Direct download: podcast306.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:03pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioWe’ve been inspired to share writings and poems by Bhante Sangharakshita this month. Our FBA Podcast today, “Sangharakshita – Facing Mount Kanchenjunga”, is a delightful talk from 1991. Sangharakshita starts by reading an extract from the new volume of his autobiography, Facing Mount Kanchenjunga. He follows this by talking about and reading eight poems that he composed in Kalimpong which give a real feel for his appreciation of the place but also for his worries about the effect of logging in the mountains.

The talk was given on November 28, 1991, in Croydon Buddhist Centre as part of the book launch for his autobiography.

Croydon has been home to FWBO or Triratna Buddhist communities and centres since 1968. Many early talks by well known speakers were recorded, both at Aryatara, since 1979, and at the new Croydon Centre from 1981. These are now being transferred from their crumbling cassettes to digital format, as part of the Croydon Digital Archive Project, and are being made available to everyone.

Direct download: podcast305.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:43pm EDT

Free Buddhist AudioWe’ve been inspired to share poems by Bhante Sangharakshita this month. Our FBA Podcast today is an unusual, early, talk from Sankharakshita which will be new to most people. “Sangharakshita – Reading Poems About Friendship”. Bhante was invited by the Croydon Arts Centre, in 1990, to choose, discuss and read poems about friendship. His selection ranges from the Epic of Gilgamesh to 20th century poets and clearly shows Sangharakshitas love of poetry and his desire to share this with other people.

The tape begins with an introduction by Dharmaruci, includes the Pearl Fishers friendship duet sung by Jussi Bjorling and Robert Merril and concludes with a personal reflection on Sangharakshita by Nagabhodi, as a book launch for A Taste of Freedom.

Croydon has been home to FWBO or Triratna Buddhist communities and centres since 1968. Many early talks by well known speakers were recorded, both at Aryatara, since 1979, and at the new Croydon Centre from 1981. These are now being transferred from their crumbling cassettes to digital format, as part of the Croydon Digital Archive Project, and are being made available to everyone.

The tape quality reflects its age, the sound is slightly distorted, but clear, during the readings and more distorted during the duet.

Direct download: podcast304.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:36pm EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast features Ratnaghosha in a talk entitled “An Ever Widening Circle”. Given as the key note talk at Sangha Day at the Cambridge Buddhist Center, launching the Year of Spiritual Community for 2014 and laying out a vision for the Sangha.

Direct download: podcast303.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:17pm EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast features Vajratara in a talk entitled “Buddhism and the Modern World”. Given on a retreat for young women training for Ordination, Vajratara describes the topical issues of the time and asks what the Buddhist response is. The refugee crisis, the rise of Jeremy Corbyn, the effects of neo liberal capitalism and environmental denigration; all point to a change in the way we see each other and the world. We live at a time where the world is opening to a new way of living. This new way of living is indicated both by the Buddha and, in modern times, by Sangharakshita.

Direct download: podcast302.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:44pm EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast features Jnanavaca in a talk entitled “Mind Over Matter”. Most people think of science as insisting that only dead matter really exists as a substrate of everything in the universe, and that mind is something that does not have the same reality as matter. However modern physics shows that matter itself is not made up of definite things, and that it may even be influenced by being observed by a conscious mind. Jnanavaca describes evidence from the double slit experiment, and draws lessons for seeing through the illusion of personal separateness and discovering the imperative of kindness.

Direct download: podcast301.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 11:25pm EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In the final installment of our long-running series on the Six Emphases of Triratna, this week’s FBA Podcast features Padmakumara in a talk entitled “What is Triratna Buddhism?”.

Padmakumara wraps it all up neatly with his own perspectives on what Triratna’s approach to Buddhist principle and practice is.

Direct download: podcast300.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In his typical engaging speaking style, Padmavajra illuminates the Triratna emphasis on spiritual friendship in this week’s FBA Podcast, with “Triratna Emphases – Spiritual Friendship”.

Wrapping up the last of the Six Emphases of Triratna that we’ve been featuring over many weeks, Padmavajra gives a through overview of the importance of companions on the Buddhist path.

Direct download: podcast299.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, Dayabhadra is the distinguished speaker with “Triratna Emphases – The Arts”.

Dayabhadra gives us a comprehensive look at the importance of the arts in the spiritual life, one of the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community.

Direct download: podcast298.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, Subhuti gives a very comprehensive introduction to one of the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community with “The History of and Value in Team-Based Right Livelihood”.

Subhuti gives a rousing talk on some of the history behind team-based Right Livelihood within the Triratna Buddhist Movement. He then goes on to explain why it is so important; because it represents an opportunity to live a ‘full’ Buddhist life for ourselves and present society with an alternative to consumerism and the myth of progress through buying a bigger TV.

Direct download: podcast297.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast features a talk by Manjuvajra on one of the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community - “The Triratna Emphasis on a Unified Order”.

Here, Manjuvajra highlights the fact that involvement and membership of the Triratna Buddhist Order is open to all, irrespective of gender, colour, sexual orientation, lifestyle, or any other personal characteristic.

Direct download: podcast296.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, Dhammarati gives an excellent talk on one of the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community with “The Triratna Emphasis on Going for Refuge”.

In this talk Dhammarati explores Going for Refuge and its central emphasis in the Triratna Buddhist Order, bringing in the story of his own spiritual journey as an example of finding one’s unique response. He also looks to historical sources to identify some of the ways we can deepen our connection practically and experientially.

Talk given on the Men’s Going for Refuge Retreat at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, 2013

Direct download: podcast295.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, Manuvajra discusses critical ecumenicism – one of the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community – with “The Ecumenical Emphasis in Triratna”.

In principle, and in contrast with other approaches to contemporary Buddhism, any approach to the Dharma that conduces to a deepening of spiritual practice is valued in the Triratna context with a critical eye towards what constitutes fundamental Buddhism, and what works in practice.

Direct download: podcast294.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, Sangharakshita gives a full introduction to the Six Emphases of the Triratna Buddhist Community with “Forty Years On – The Six Emphases of the FWBO”.

Marking the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Triratna Buddhist Community (formerly the Western Buddhist Order), he has some great reminisences about the early days, and is on top form as he considers the uniting factors of this diverse group of people who are engaged with the project of discovering Buddhism all over again for the modern world.

Direct download: podcast293.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, “The Individual and Community” Dhammarati explores the central importance the Triratna Buddhist Order places on communication and connection as a means of personal transformation and the basis from which we influence the world. This gives us the significance of the Triranta Buddhist Order as a community of individuals trying to change themselves and have a positive impact on society making them a nucleus of a new society.

Talk given at the Dharmapala College seminar on the New Society, 2010.

Direct download: podcast292.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 1:00am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’s FBA Podcast, “Revering and Relying Upon the Dharma” Subhuti reflects on his recent conversations with Bhante which gave rise to his article: ‘Revering and Relying upon the Dharma: Sangharakshita’s approach to Right View’.

A talk given at the Triratna Buddhist Order Combined European Order Weekend at Wymondham College 21 August 2010.

Direct download: podcast291.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:48am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast is a tender and moving talk by Paramananda entitled “The Nature of Transformation”. Transformation is basically allowing the protective shell of self to dissipate. This shell only falls away if you come into relationship with your real, impermanent, fragile, vulnerable nature and soften into that or open up to that.

Direct download: podcast290.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:32am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast, “Discipleship”by Dhammadinna. This talk was given at the Triratna Buddhist Order December 2014 Women’s UK and Ireland Area Order Weekend at Adhisthana on 6 December 2014.

Direct download: podcast289.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:11am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast, “The Diamond Sutra”, is a talk given my Sangharakshita in 1969. If one does not want to ‘get caught in the grip of reality’, one should leave this great text alone! The Perfection of Wisdom Discourse that ‘Cuts Like a Diamond’…

N.B. Reference for this lecture: Buddhist Wisdom Books, translated by E. Conze. (Allen & Unwin, 1958)

Direct download: podcast288.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:26am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast, is brought to us by Padmavajra called “Padmasambhava and the Magic Of Compassion”. Padmavajra is an ideal person to introduce Padmasamabhava, the great Tantric guru of Tibet. He is both a devotee and a good storyteller – a winning combination as we are brought into vivifying contact with the origins and mysteries of this central Vajrayana figure.

Please note, there is some audio skipping on this recording for a couple of minutes at around the 45 minute point. Oddly, the sense can still be followed.

Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2006

Direct download: podcast287.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:02am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast, “Breaking the Bonds of Selfhood Through Serving the Dhamma (with translation in Hindi)” by Parami. Here is a strong, beautiful talk by Parami from the final day of the Triratna Buddhist Order’s International Convention 2013 in India, bringing us back to the task in hand as members of the Order and as Buddhists: engaging with breaking the fetters and weakening the hold that self-clinging exerts upon our minds and our ways of seeing things.

Parami brings alive the possibilities in notions about how collective practice manifests (Order chapters, the Bodhisattva Ideal at ordination, ‘sanghakaya’) but grounds the whole thing movingly in her evident love of the Order and her inspiration at being gathered with so many sisters and brothers under one sky.

Talk given at Bodh Gaya, International Order Convention, February, 2013.

Direct download: podcast286.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:19am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast, “Yidams” is a talk given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre in 2007 by Padmavajra. As we approach the full moon of July, Buddhists around the world will be celebrating Dharma Day, the marking of the Buddha’s first teaching. We decided to fast forward several hundred years after the Buddha’s lifetime to introduce a host of Bodhisattva’s who emerged to help spread the Dharma throughout the world. Beginning with this full talk, we will follow over the next few weeks with talks, mantras and more in our Dharmabytes Podcast to introduce Tara, Manjusri, Vajrapani, Ksitigarbha, Avalokitesvara and Padmasambhava.

Direct download: podcast285.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:44am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio ‘The dharma changes lives, it has changed our own and it can change others.’ This week’s FBA Podcast is a talk by Dharmashalin he called: “Reaching Out – Communicating the Dharma From Our Appreciation, Courage and Conviction.” Buddhism is a communication, the Buddha, gained Awakening and shared his experience with others which has led us to be here today. This is the origins of Outreach, taking the Dharma to others.

I have started working for the Birmingham Buddhist Centre to do just that, continuing a strong tradition here of taking the Dharma out. But, that communication needs to be grounded in our own awareness and appreciation of what we have benefitted from.

We can all cultivate this awareness and in fact any time we take the risk to tell others about our values – that is a moment of outreach. All of us associated with the Centre can do this, and together we can help spread the Dharma more and more widely.

Direct download: podcast284.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:34am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’s FBA Podcast entitled “Buddhism and the Language of Myth” is part of the series Ritual and Devotion in Buddhism by Sangharakshita. Buddhism is the most rational of religions. But it appeals no less to the heart than to the head, using the language of myth to do so. Examples are four ‘myths’ from the Buddha’s biography, here correlated with four of Jung’s archetypes.

Direct download: podcast283.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:59am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’sFBA Podcast entitled “Here Be Dragons: Pitfalls, Disasters and Dead-Ends on the Spiritual Quest” by Vessantara. A hugely enjoyable piece – and something a little bit different from the average Dharma talk. For here we have the Buddhist path laid out in terms of Arthurian legend and the Quest for the Holy Grail. Knights, chivalry, adventures and disasters – it’s all here. And, of course, true wisdom where the gallant, sometimes errant, hero least expects to find it. Just like in a story…

Talk given at the Western Buddhist Order Men’s National Order Weekend, August 2002

Direct download: podcast282.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:43am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio This week’sFBA Podcast entitled “The Heroic Ideal in Buddhism” is a 1969 talk by Sangharakshita. Buddhism is sometimes seen as weak or negative. Using examples from the Pali Canon and Mahayana texts, this lecture shows that, on the contrary, heroic and positive qualities are essential in the Buddhist spiritual aspirant’s quest for Enlightenment.

Direct download: podcast281.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:17am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’sFBA Podcast, “Walking On Lotuses”, Punyamala offers a personal talk on receptivity on the anniversary of her seven year review as a private preceptor. To learn more about joining the Triratna Buddhist Order, see The Buddhist Centre Online.

This talk was given by Punyamala on the Triratna Buddhist Order European Order Gathering at Wymondham College August 26 2012. The theme of the gathering was Spiritual Receptivity.

Direct download: podcast280.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:11am EDT

Free Buddhist Audio In this week’sFBA Podcast, “Parables From the White Lotus Sutra – the Burning House”, Jnanavaca kicks off a new seminar series exploring the myths and parables of the glorious White Lotus Sutra. In this talk he unpacks the wisdom of the parable of the Burning House. Dharma Night at the LBC, April 6th 2015

Direct download: podcast279.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:56am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioHow do we know? This week’s FBA Podcast is the first of three rambles from Subhuti, entitled “Knowledge of Reality – Ramble One”. Subhuti draws inspiration from Europe’s first Buddhist, Schopenhauer, and India’s ancient Yogachara. With immaculate clarity Subhuti takes us deep into the nature of mind and beyond. Talk given at the London Buddhist Centre in October 2014.

Direct download: podcast278.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:48am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’sFBA Podcast, “Sowing Seeds In the Soil of the Mind – The Alaya” by Ratnaprabha.

The alaya or storehouse consciousness is the Buddhist equivalent of the unconscious mind. It is like a garden, in which every experience and action sows a seed which may later sprout and create our unfolding life. This talk describes how this relates to the six sense awarenesses, the mind as a sense, and the contaminated mind which reads everything in terms of self and not self. Mindfulness finds a creative path between leaving the alaya on autopilot, and allowing the contaminated mind to interfere and fill the garden with weeds and rubbish.

Direct download: podcast277.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:17am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’sFBA Podcast is a talk from Vadanya entitled “Stirring the Depths.” From the depths of ourselves to the depths of the universe, Vadanya reminds us that to be fulfilled we need to live a life in harmony with the nature of reality Using images, mantra, mythic stories to bring us into the depths of our experience, this beautiful talk was given on a men’s ordination training retreat at Padmaloka.

Direct download: podcast276.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:30am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioThis week’sFBA Podcast is a talk from Parami on “Buddha Day (2012).” Celebrating the Buddha’s Enlightenment on the full moon day in May, Parami delivers an inspiring talk marking this occasion at the Birmingham Buddhist Centre.

Direct download: podcast275.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:20am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioWe’ve all read the words of the Buddha – but what did he SOUND like? What might it have been like to actually hear him…? In ourFBA Podcast: this week, Ratnaguna gives us a beautifully imaginative and well-researched evovation of the Buddha entitled:“The Voice of the Buddha.” Talk given on the 2012 Triratna International Retreat, under the overall theme ‘Imagining the Buddha.’

Direct download: podcast274.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:09am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioDhammarati brings us this week’sFBA Podcast entitled: “The Triratna Emphasis On Going For Refuge.” Dhammarati explores Going for Refuge and its central emphasis in the Triratna Buddhist Order here, bringing in the story of his own spiritual journey as an example of finding one’s unique response. He also looks to historical sources to identify some of the ways we can deepen our connection practically and experientially.
Talk given on the Men’s Going for Refuge Retreat at Aryaloka Buddhist Center, 2013, Part 1 of a 4-part series.

Direct download: podcast273.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:01am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioDharmashalin brings us this week’s FBA Podcast: “An Introduction to the Triratna Community.” A broad overview of the conditions and history behind the Triratna Buddhist Community, comes with a healthy side order of questions about narrative and how we tell stories.

Direct download: podcast272.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:46am EDT

Free Buddhist AudioWe are delighted to share this week’s FBA Podcast entitled, “Introduction to the Brahma Viharas.” Here, Ratnavandana beautifully introduces the Brahma Viharas as an integrated set of practices flowing from metta – loving kindness. Her central image is that of a tree, deep rooted and spreading its canopy wide as she evokes a profound, personal connection to the cultivation of the sublime abodes – loving kindness, compassion, joy with others, and equanimity.

Ratnavandana also leads a guided meditation on cultivating a connection to the Brahma Viharas.

This talk was given as part of the 2015 Rainy Season Retreat at Bristol Buddhist Centre. The full archive of this retreat is available on The Buddhist Center Online.

Direct download: podcast271.mp3
Category:FBA Podcast -- posted at: 12:31am EDT