Diggin' the Dharma
Jon Aaron and Doug Smith
Diggin' the Dharma with Jon Aaron and Doug Smith is a relaxed discussion of the Buddhist dharma between friends. Jon's interest centers around practice, while Doug's centers around scholarship of the early material, so their approaches balance practice with study. Their discussions will be approachable to a broad audience of Buddhists and those curious about Buddhism, and they welcome questions and comments. Jon is a teacher at Space2Meditate and NY Insight Meditation Center and a well known teacher and trainer of teachers of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Doug has a PhD in Philosophy and runs Doug's Dharma on YouTube and the Online Dharma Institute, where he gives courses on early Buddhism. Find them at: https://digginthedharma.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 21, 2024 • 30min
Steps Along the Path: The Four Stages of Progress
Explore the four stages towards enlightenment in Buddhism, including stream entry, once returning, non-returning, and arahantship. Delve into the challenges of spiritual progress, hierarchical nature of these stages, and pitfalls of overidentification. Reflect on the Buddha's presence, crossing the stream of self, and the importance of humility on the spiritual path. Discover insights on overcoming doubts, internal validation, and the connection between spiritual progress and desires like coffee.
Jul 14, 2024 • 25min
How We Become a Self
Author Dhivan Thomas Jones discusses the Buddha's teaching on dependent co-arising in Buddhism, exploring its implications on individual and societal dissatisfaction. The podcast delves into the concept of untangling the self, the relationship between the Four Noble Truths and dependent origination, and the importance of recognizing the links to alleviate suffering and achieve liberation. The conversation also touches on karma, meditation, societal change, and the significance of support and enjoyment in life.
Jul 7, 2024 • 29min
The Heart Quality Equanimity
Equanimity, a vital quality in Buddhism, is explored in depth, underscoring its role in achieving a balanced heart and mind. The discussion highlights how this concept aids in healing personal pain and confronting societal injustices. Listeners are invited to consider the impermanence of equanimity, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and the importance of acceptance in transforming suffering. Practical tips for cultivating this quality in daily life encourage listeners to find serenity amidst chaos.
Jun 30, 2024 • 24min
Letting Go Again: The Unquenchable Thirst
Explore letting go of attachment and fear, benefits of pausing between stimulus and response, slowing down through mindfulness practice, and the ongoing challenge of giving up coffee for health benefits.
Jun 23, 2024 • 23min
More on Letting Go
Exploring the concept of clinging and attachment, the podcast delves into the fear of letting go and the illusion of control. Discussing the liberating power of releasing societal definitions, it also touches on embracing impermanence and renunciation through everyday practices like giving up coffee.
May 26, 2024 • 28min
Insights into Insight , and a New Platform
Author Erik Braun joins to discuss insight meditation origins and new livestreaming plans. Topics include the evolution of insight practice, relationship between desire and suffering, impermanence, support for the show, upcoming classes, and the practice of unconditional kindness.
May 19, 2024 • 26min
Is Your Livelihood Right Livelihood?
Exploring the relevance of Right Livelihood in the modern world, the podcast delves into ethical professions and karmic consequences. It discusses the audience's role in interpreting performances and the challenges faced in aligning work with Dharma principles. Emphasizing the significance of career decisions within the Eightfold Path, it invites support for the teaching livelihood on their website.
May 12, 2024 • 28min
The Question of Internal, External and Both.
Exploring internal and external perceptions through mindfulness practice, blurring the boundaries between the two. Delving into neutral vedna and its impact on ignorance. Reflecting on the elusive instruction to balance internal and external elements for personal benefit. Considering the interplay between internal and external experiences, using examples like the taste of coffee to illustrate different stimuli.
Apr 28, 2024 • 26min
Freedom and Free Will
Delving into the philosophical debate on free will, the podcast explores concepts of human agency, ethics, and responsibility from a Buddhist perspective. It discusses breaking free from unskillful tendencies, making mindful choices, and even light-heartedly touches on caffeine addiction.
Apr 21, 2024 • 27min
Truthfulness and Authenticity
Delve into the concept of truthfulness in Buddhism, emphasizing authentic communication from the heart over factual accuracy. Explore the importance of speaking sincerely to cultivate deeper connections. Reflect on the balance between scholarly knowledge and experiential wisdom in authentic communication.
