Ajahn Sumedho Podcast by Amaravati Investigating the Inner Tyrant
Nov 30, 2025
Ajahn Sumedho, a renowned Senior Theravādan Buddhist teacher, dives deep into the concept of the inner critic, describing it as a conditioned, language-based thought process. He emphasizes the importance of observing thoughts rather than identifying with them to reduce reactivity. Ajahn discusses the pitfalls of positive thinking and societal conditioning, urging listeners to investigate their experiences directly. He highlights the significance of silence between thoughts and the liberation found in recognizing one's true nature, free from the constraints of labels and judgment.
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Identity Is A Conditioned Construction
- Our identity is constructed from unstable, conditioned thoughts and body-identifications.
- The 'inner tyrant' is the critical thinking function that constantly judges and reinforces that false identity.
Investigate Thoughts From The Witness Position
- Investigate your thoughts rather than blindly believing them; see thinking as impermanent constructs.
- Take the position of the witness to observe thinking without identifying with it.
Use The 'Who?' To Interrupt Thought
- Investigate the silence between thoughts by asking 'Who?' or 'Who thinks?' to interrupt habitual thinking.
- Use that silence as a practice object and let the inner critic lose its grip.