Brother Lawrence, a lay brother from a Carmelite monastery, is celebrated for his profound connection with God. He shares insights on 'practicing the presence of God,' emphasizing that divine communion isn't confined to prayer or church but can enrich everyday tasks. This approach transforms routine moments into spiritual encounters, fostering joy and peace. His genuine spirit and wisdom attracted many throughout France, offering them guidance in their own spiritual journeys.

Annamalai Swami, a direct disciple of Sri Ramana Maharshi, shares profound insights from his decades of self-enquiry leading to Self-realization. He discusses the jnani experience, illustrating how enlightened beings perceive sensations and karma without attachment. Swami emphasizes the contrast between the enlightened and ordinary perspectives on bondage and freedom, providing seekers with valuable wisdom on transcending ordinary identification and the cycle of rebirth.

In this enlightening discussion, Papaji, an iconic Indian sage known for his teachings on Self-enquiry, shares profound insights from his book 'This.' He emphasizes the importance of letting go of the mind to overcome suffering. Listeners are invited to distinguish between reality and illusion, fostering inner observation to attain awareness. This guided meditation not only connects one with the cosmos but also offers a pathway to liberation through self-awareness and deeper understanding.

Bhikkhu Bodhi, a prominent Theravada translator, joins accomplished monk Thanisarro, scholar Sujato, translator Anandajoti, and nun Ayya Jitindriya to delve into the teachings of Nibbana. They explore its nature as liberation from physical and existential conditions. Deep discussions revolve around overcoming cravings, achieving inner peace, and understanding Nibbana as the end of suffering. Vivid metaphors illustrate non-attachment and mental tranquility as keys to nirvana, guiding listeners on their transformative journey to enlightenment.

Nisargadatta Maharaji, a renowned spiritual teacher on self-realization and non-duality, dives into profound meditation insights. He emphasizes observing thoughts without attachment to deepen mindful awareness. Maharaji guides listeners through the journey of embracing the 'I AM' presence to unlock their true nature. He explores the importance of dispassionate observation for heightened self-awareness and transcending mental limitations to reconnect with one's pure essence. Ultimately, he highlights recognizing opportunities for inner peace and living from the state of 'I am'.

Ayn-al-Qużāt Hamadānī was a Persian mystic and philosopher, executed for heresy at just 33. In this discussion, he delves into the transformative power of love, exploring its dual ability to elevate and burden the heart. He reflects on how genuine devotion can reshape one’s identity and foster a deeper connection to the divine. The conversation also touches on excerpts from his works, providing insights into Sufi mysticism and the overlooked brilliance of his spiritual philosophy.

Longchenpa, a prominent Dzogchen teacher from the Nyingma lineage, shares profound insights on recognizing the natural state of the enlightened mind. He emphasizes the importance of unobstructed awareness and spacious meditation, guiding listeners to see thoughts as fleeting and embrace a profound oneness with all. His teachings foster a sense of emptiness and freedom, essential for anyone looking to deepen their Dzogchen practice through meditative clarity.

Sukhasiddhi, an 11th-century yogini and master of Vajrayana Buddhism, shares her incredible journey from a struggling housewife to a revered teacher. She discusses the transformative path of embracing non-conceptual awareness, highlighting her awakening experiences under the guidance of her guru, Virupa. The conversation delves into the concept of 'non-meditation,' encouraging listeners to transcend conceptual thought and rediscover their natural state of being. Her insights into compassion and generosity offer a timeless perspective on spiritual growth.

Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist master and Dzogchen authority, shares profound insights on achieving Buddhahood through undistracted non-meditation. He delves into the contrast between deluded thoughts and genuine yogic awareness, emphasizing the importance of purification practices. The conversation highlights the shift from effortful mindfulness to effortless awareness, culminating in the recognition of one’s true essence. Rinpoche also discusses the significance of distinguishing true reality from perception, urging listeners to let go of rigid beliefs.

Ama Samy (Arul Maria Arokiasamy), S.J., born in 1936, is an Indian Zen master and Jesuit priest. Ama Samy was born to Christian parents in Burma in 1936 and grew up in India. After becoming a Jesuit priest in 1972, he began visiting Hindu ashrams and Buddhist meditation centers. He was introduced to Ramana Maharshi's teachings by Swami Abhishiktananda. His searching led him to become a wandering beggar for a period and to settle down as a hermit. Father Ama visited Japan and trained with Yamada Koun Roshi of Sanbo Kyodan. In 1982, Yamada Roshi authorized him to teach Zen. Ama Samy founded the Bodhi Sangha, the community of his disciples, in 1986. Bodhi Sangha became an independent Zen school when he left the Sanbo Kyodan organization in 2002. Ama Samy's method of teaching embraces both Soto and Rinzai Zen traditions and draws from the resources of Christianity and other religions. He lives and teaches at Bodhi Zendo Zen Center near Kodaikanal in South India. 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: vivekahermitage@gmail.com with PayPal or using this direct link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or we have a WISE account with the above email address. 🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.