Delving into the concept of miracles and their connection to mindfulness in Buddhism, discussing examples of miraculous occurrences in early texts, exploring the transformative power of mindfulness, highlighting the importance of recognizing the miracles in everyday life, expressing gratitude to listeners and discussing the importance of generosity.
22:18
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Quick takeaways
Miracles in Buddhist practice can be seen as transformative experiences that happen within a Dharma context.
The true miracle teaching in Buddhism is the miracle of the Dharma itself, not supernatural or extraordinary occurrences.
Deep dives
The Concept of Miracles in Buddhist Practice
In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the topic of miracles in the context of Buddhist practice. They discuss the idea of miracles and how it relates to the practice of mindfulness. While some traditional practitioners believe in supernatural miracles, the hosts emphasize the importance of distinguishing between supernatural claims and the miracles that can happen within a Dharma context. They also touch upon the Buddha's attitude towards miracles, highlighting that the true miracle teaching is the miracle of the Dharma itself. The hosts encourage listeners to recognize the everyday miracles in life and the transformative power of practice in bringing about positive change.
Revisiting the Notion of Miracles
The hosts delve deeper into the notion of miracles and how it aligns with Buddhist teachings. They emphasize that the practice of mindfulness and meditation can lead to wonderful and amazing experiences, but caution against seeking grandiose or extraordinary miracles. Instead, they invite listeners to appreciate the ordinary moments and shifts in perception that occur during the practice. By recognizing and reflecting on these transformative experiences, the hosts suggest that the concept of the ordinary becoming extraordinary or the extraordinary becoming ordinary can be seen as a form of miracle in itself.
Miracles as Extraordinary Results of Practice
In this final part of the podcast, the hosts discuss the benefits and outcomes of diligent practice. They highlight the idea that the positive results gained from practicing the Dharma are not external miracles but rather the natural outcome of causes and conditions. The hosts refer to superhuman states mentioned in Buddhist teachings, such as the state of Jhana, not as supernatural miracles, but as extraordinary experiences that can be attained through proper understanding, wisdom, and practice. They also emphasize the importance of recognizing and appreciating the small miracles that occur in everyday life as a result of bringing the teachings and practices into one's own existence.
Depending on your interpretation of what a miracle is, there are certainly times when miracles seem to happen due to our practice. In fact, one of the most-read books on Buddhism and mindfulness is Thich Nhat Hanh's classic Miracle of Mindfulness. Do you notice miracles happening? What did the Buddha have to say about this?