Steve Hagen, an ordained Zen priest and author known for his insights into Buddhism and philosophy, dives into profound topics. He unpacks his book, discussing the concept of grand delusion—how our belief in the substantiality of existence shapes our reality. Hagen emphasizes the coexistence of two truths and the importance of realizing the mind's role in perception. He advocates for embracing uncertainty, the difference between perception and conception, and the transformative power of compassion in finding meaning and peace.
46:55
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
The Grand Delusion
The grand delusion is the belief in substantiality, that things exist as separate, independent entities.
This belief leads to suffering because it makes us focus on self-preservation and competition.
insights INSIGHT
Two Truths
There are two truths: conventional truth (relative, everyday reality) and ultimate truth (the lack of inherent substance).
These truths coexist; understanding this helps resolve the seeming contradiction of "no-self."
insights INSIGHT
Nature of Reality
Reality is a mental construct; what we perceive lacks inherent substance and cannot be grasped.
Awakening begins with recognizing this and letting go of the need to grasp or define reality.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
This anthology spans over sixteen centuries and includes works from 50 poets, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of soldiers and civilians during ancient Chinese conflicts. The poems explore themes of heroism, loss, and the human cost of war.
The Grand Delusion
What We Know But Don't Believe
Steve Hagen
In 'The Grand Delusion', Steve Hagen delves into the most basic assumptions of religion, philosophy, science, and technology. He offers fresh perspectives on questions like 'What does it mean to exist?' and 'What is reality?' by examining the way we ask questions and the assumptions we hold. The book draws on diverse sources to help readers move past a single unwarranted belief that underlies many age-old questions.
Buddhism plain and simple
Steve Hagen
In *Buddhism Plain and Simple*, Steve Hagen presents the core teachings of Buddhism in simple, everyday language. The book explores the Four Noble Truths, the Middle Path, mindfulness, and meditation, offering practical guidance for incorporating these principles into daily life. It emphasizes living with awareness and understanding the nature of life and suffering, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
Steve Hagen was ordained a Zen priest in 1979 and in 1989 he received Dharma Transmission (formal endorsement to teach) from Jikai Dainin Katagiri Roshi. He is the author of several books on Buddhism, science, and philosophy. These include Buddhism Plain and Simple, his most popular book. In his most recent book, The Grand Delusion, he applies breakthrough Eastern insights to seemingly indelible problems in Western science and philosophy. In 1997, he founded Dharma Field Meditation and Learning Center in Minneapolis, where he continues to serve as senior teacher.
But wait – there’s more! The episode is not quite over!! We continue the conversation and you can access this exclusive content right in your podcast player feed. Head over to our Patreon page and pledge to donate just $10 a month. It’s that simple and we’ll give you good stuff as a thank you!
Steve Hagen and I Discuss What We Know but Don’t Believe…
When you purchase products and/or services from the sponsors of this episode, you help support The One You Feed. Your support is greatly appreciated, thank you!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Steve Hagen you might also enjoy these other episodes:
The One You Feed 
