Duncan Trussell Family Hour

733: Jack Kornfield

10 snips
Jan 19, 2026
Jack Kornfield, a renowned Buddhist teacher and author, joins to delve into profound topics. He reminisces about his father's death, sharing insights on near-death experiences and the mystery of consciousness. They explore the connection between birth and death, emphasizing children's innate playfulness and wisdom. Jack discusses the role of love in overcoming human suffering and highlights the importance of small, compassionate acts. He introduces his new book, which celebrates storytelling's power to transform lives and foster connection.
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INSIGHT

Birth And Death Share One Mystery

  • Birth and death are portals into the same mystery of consciousness and presence.
  • Jack Kornfield says we are consciousness that temporarily inhabits a body, not just our physical form.
ANECDOTE

Sitting With A Dying Father

  • Jack sat with his terrified father near death and shared his monastery and near-death experiences.
  • He told his dad to be open-minded and treat death as an experiment, saying, "if this happens, remember, I told you so."
INSIGHT

Children And The Transcendent Nature

  • Newborns and people near death reveal our transcendent nature and the play of consciousness.
  • Jack says some people are closer to the mystery and recognize we're woven into a living web beyond individual identity.
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