Stillness Flowing (audiobook)
Ajahn Jayasaro
Stillness Flowing
The Life and Teachings of Ajahn Chah
by Ajahn Jayasaro
Narrated by Ghosaka
This important work details the life and teachings of Luang Por Chah, also known as Ajahn Chah, and has been in the making for over two decades. This biography is based on the 1993 Thai biography of Luang Por Chah entitled ‘Upalamani’ which was also authored by Ajahn Jayasaro. It includes translations from ‘Upalamani,’ in particular many of the anecdotes and reminiscences of Luang Por’s disciples, as well as a significant amount of social, cultural, historical, and doctrinal information to provide context to an audience that may be unfamiliar with Thai culture and its Buddhist heritage.
Available for download in PDF, ePUB, and Mobi formats at:
https://www.jayasaro.panyaprateep.org/en/book
The Audiobook version is now available as a gift of Dhamma. It can be downloaded using any of the following links:
Directly from Dhamma by Ajahn Jayasaro website:
https://www.jayasaro.panyaprateep.org/en/audio-album/9
iOS devices can be listened to through the Apple Podcasts app:
https://podcasts.apple.com/th/podcast/stillness-flowing-audiobook/id1482419439
Android devices can listen through any podcast app or Podbean Pro free app:
https://www.podbean.com/pi/dir-gcht8-a31c9
Dhamma by Ajahn Jayasaro Youtube channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgeFTePFzP7oyrAbO9bGsEp39RmnggWcr
The Life and Teachings of Ajahn Chah
by Ajahn Jayasaro
Narrated by Ghosaka
This important work details the life and teachings of Luang Por Chah, also known as Ajahn Chah, and has been in the making for over two decades. This biography is based on the 1993 Thai biography of Luang Por Chah entitled ‘Upalamani’ which was also authored by Ajahn Jayasaro. It includes translations from ‘Upalamani,’ in particular many of the anecdotes and reminiscences of Luang Por’s disciples, as well as a significant amount of social, cultural, historical, and doctrinal information to provide context to an audience that may be unfamiliar with Thai culture and its Buddhist heritage.
Available for download in PDF, ePUB, and Mobi formats at:
https://www.jayasaro.panyaprateep.org/en/book
The Audiobook version is now available as a gift of Dhamma. It can be downloaded using any of the following links:
Directly from Dhamma by Ajahn Jayasaro website:
https://www.jayasaro.panyaprateep.org/en/audio-album/9
iOS devices can be listened to through the Apple Podcasts app:
https://podcasts.apple.com/th/podcast/stillness-flowing-audiobook/id1482419439
Android devices can listen through any podcast app or Podbean Pro free app:
https://www.podbean.com/pi/dir-gcht8-a31c9
Dhamma by Ajahn Jayasaro Youtube channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgeFTePFzP7oyrAbO9bGsEp39RmnggWcr
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 15, 2021 • 6min
01 Chapter I: A Life Expired - A Death
The podcast delves into the poignant return of Luang Por Chah to his monastery in Thailand, reflecting on his final days and the simplicity of his passing. It beautifully captures the monastic rites and the profound public response, with over a million paying respects during the year-long mourning period. Majestic royal honors follow his death, and listeners learn about the ongoing Dhamma practice dedicated to his memory. The narrative emphasizes that while Luang Por has departed, his teachings resonate deeply with his disciples.
7 snips
Jan 15, 2021 • 27min
02 Chapter I: A Life Expired - A Cremation
The cremation of Luang Por Chah attracted an astonishing crowd of over four hundred thousand people in Northeast Thailand. As monks and laypeople prepared for days of meditation and chanting, logistics were meticulously arranged for their comfort. Royal figures participated in the ceremonies, adding to the solemn grandeur. The stupa, a grand crematorium and future relic shrine, symbolized the community's respect. Amidst calm devotion, unexpected events arose, drawing varied interpretations, yet reverence prevailed throughout the intense rituals.
12 snips
Jan 15, 2021 • 12min
03 Chapter II: A Life Inspired - A Suitable Locality
Explore the profound teachings of the Buddha on forbearance and its role in alleviating mental suffering. Discover how the challenging environment of Northeast Thailand, known as Isan, fostered an extraordinary tradition of Buddhist monasticism. Delve into Isan's unique geography, agriculture struggles, and rich cultural history shaped by ancient migrations. Learn about the spiritual significance of this region and its contributions to Thai Buddhism, including the foundational stories of revered monks like Luang Por Cha.
Jan 15, 2021 • 1h 4min
04 Chapter II: A Life Inspired - Growing Up
Dive into the early life of Luang Por Chah, born into a close-knit Isan family in 1918. Discover his playful childhood, how village duties intermingled with lessons in spirituality, and his early fascination with monkhood. Experience the heartwarming tales of love and loss, including his courtship and the heartache that followed. Follow his struggles in finding a teacher, exploring meditation, and the profound decisions that led to his lifelong dedication to Buddhism, all while facing the challenges of a changing world.
Jan 15, 2021 • 3h 8min
05 Chapter II: A Life Inspired - The Path of Practice
Explore the transformative journey of Luang Por and Venerable Thawan as they embark on a barefoot Tudong trek through Thailand's forests. Encounter ghostly challenges that test virtue, and witness Luang Por's struggles with desire against the backdrop of strict monastic discipline. Dive into his inspiring mentorship by Luang Pu Mun and his intense meditative experiences, including facing death and wild creatures. The podcast weaves a narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the profound teachings that shape a monk's path.
Jan 15, 2021 • 13min
06 Chapter II: A Life Inspired - New Directions
In 1952, Luang Por's return to his village sparks excitement and mixed reactions. His groundbreaking Dhamma talks resonate deeply, yet many remain indifferent. He chooses solitude for intense meditation, pushing the boundaries of practice with a rigorous routine. A radical approach to healing emphasizes austerity over medicine. Villagers, inspired by his teachings, request a forest monastery to enhance their spiritual lives. As he prepares to fulfill this call, the episode explores themes of filial duty and the vital connection between community and spirituality.
Jan 15, 2021 • 38min
07 Chapter III: Off the Beaten Track - Settlers
Journey into 1954 as Luang Por Chah and his disciples settle in Pong Forest. Experience their challenges of establishing a monastery amidst thick woods, swarming mosquitoes, and the oppressive heat. Discover mysterious lights that inspire awe and local beliefs about the forest guardian. Delve into the community's resilience with food scarcity, herbal remedies for malaria, and the nurturing role of Me Chi women. Witness Luang Por's compassionate leadership as he fosters a spirit of contentment and practical compassion among the monks in their new home.
Jan 15, 2021 • 55min
08 Chapter III: Off the Beaten Track - Golden Days
Delve into the early, warrior-like phase of Luang Por Chah's leadership at Wat Pa Pong. Discover tales of his strict discipline and the intense liberation he encouraged among his disciples. Hear about the communal routines, rich in mindfulness and meditation, balanced by moments of warmth and camaraderie. Explore tensions with locals, including a daring confrontation with false accusations and a creative way to address theft. Finally, witness the evolution of a thriving community and Luang Por's legacy in the realm of Buddhist practice.
Jan 15, 2021 • 6min
09 Chapter IV: A Life Inspiring - Introduction
Explore the life of Luang Por Chah, a revered monk whose monastic simplicity and teachings captivated many. Delve into the concept of Kalyāna Mitta, or the ideal spiritual friend, and its importance in Buddhist practice. Discover how disciples perceived his compassion and mastery, which shaped their dedication to their own paths. Hear poignant reflections from his cremation discourse, celebrating his legacy as a true guide. Through silence and stillness, Luang Por inspired countless lives, leaving behind a profound impact on spiritual journeys.
Jan 15, 2021 • 33min
10 Chapter IV: A Life Inspiring - Imponderables Anyway
Delve into the unshakeable deliverance of mind as the podcast explores the Buddha's teachings on liberation. Discover the characteristics of arahants who transcend cravings and the risks of false claims within the Sangha. Hear about Luang Por's noble silence and discretion regarding personal attainments to protect community harmony. A captivating anecdote reveals how Luang Por reflected a novice's thoughts, emphasizing the importance of ethical guidance over psychic abilities. The conversation blends teachings on suffering with memorable stories, highlighting the essence of true spiritual practice.
