Diggin' the Dharma

Jon and Doug discuss perception and how it's mediated by past experience and the stories we tell. How does it become misperception? How can we work with our perception to live more skillfully and fully?*this quote is attributed to the Roman poet Phaedrus but it is often used by various Zen teachersSupport the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

How does our concept of ourselves and others create suffering?  What would it be like to soften this "conceit of self".  Understanding and seeing through this conceit, is the last of the higher fetters, which needs to the released before awakening. Jon and Doug discuss how this comes up in practice.Support the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

The Buddhist attitude of "nibbidā" or "disenchantment"/"disgust" is central to the early teaching. What is it and how can it help us navigate our lives? Jon and Doug discuss.Support the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

Doug and Jon discuss what forgiveness means in the contact of Buddhism.  Is it Buddhist?  It's a powerful and important practice but it doesn't seem to appear anywhere in the teachings.Information on the Class offered by Jon:Watering the Seeds of ForgivenessSupport the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

Doug has Covid, Jon has a bad microphone, but they're chatting about the Buddha and voting anyway, as well as Buddhist practice and voting. What does 2024 bring for us in the voting booth, and how should we frame our political choices?To register to vote, and check voter registration in the US:https://vote.gov/Support the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

A recent podcast series at the Financial Times discussed serious problems several meditators have had at one popular ten-day Vipassana retreat system. Jon and Doug discuss this and some important work by Brown psychology professor Dr. Willoughby Britton.Links:The Retreat — an investigative podcast into the perils of meditation [Financial Times] -- https://www.ft.com/content/b3ec8e57-5cf9-4f96-9267-56c3bcd9c102The Hidden Risks of Meditation — Dr. Willoughby Britton | The Tim Ferriss Show — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdmvoX1RZWA Cheetah House: Help for Meditators In Distress -- https://www.cheetahhouse.org/Book: Trauma Sensitive MIndfulness, David TreleavenSupport the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

As Jon prepares for his move, he and Doug dive into the transformative power of renunciation. They discuss what we truly need versus the excess of our material lives. The conversation emphasizes simplifying through decluttering both spaces and minds. Personal stories reveal how letting go of possessions can lead to joy and personal growth. Through it all, they explore the emotional journey of releasing attachments, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity and the freedom that comes with it.

Silence plays a profound role in meditation and Buddhist practice, transforming both mind and spirit. The hosts delve into the contrast between external quietness and internal noise, stressing the importance of mindfulness. They discuss the nuances of charitable listening in politics, promoting understanding over assumptions. The complex emotions triggered by silence, especially in retreat settings, are explored, showcasing the importance of compassion. Personal experiences from retreats highlight the varied emotional journeys silence can inspire.

Discover how Buddhist practice intertwines with the arts and entertainment, exploring historical tensions between artistic expression and monastic principles. Delve into the evolution of art through the ages, from ancient techniques to modern interpretations influenced by technology. Experience the journey of creativity as a spiritual endeavor, and understand the significance of mindfulness in artistic expression. The podcast also reflects on the representation of the Buddha and the balance between attachment and letting go in both art and life.

Bhikkhu Anālayo is a renowned scholar and teacher well-versed in early Buddhist texts. He delves into the evolution of the Bodhisattva ideal, tracing its roots back to the Buddha and discussing its significance in modern life. The conversation contrasts the paths of Bodhisattvas and Arahants, emphasizing compassion, generosity, and community. Anālayo also highlights the transformative power of altruism and mindfulness, showcasing how embodying these virtues can lead to profound personal and communal growth.