
Diggin' the Dharma
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/
Latest episodes

Dec 3, 2023 • 27min
Practicing the Precepts
The hosts discuss the importance of the precepts in Buddhism, exploring their relation to the Eightfold Noble Path. They delve into the dangers of intoxicating narratives and emphasize the need to embrace imperfection in teaching the precepts. They also discuss the practice of waking up from delusion and the benefits of constructive feedback.

Nov 26, 2023 • 28min
Taking Sides
Exploring the negative impact of taking sides in Buddhism, emphasizing compassion and acceptance. Transcending dualistic thinking and embracing stillness through mindfulness. The importance of practice and techniques for calming the mind. Discussing conflicts and the suffering of attachment. Exploring the distinctive teachings of Buddhism and their love for coffee.

Nov 19, 2023 • 22min
Gratitude, Generosity and Thanksgiving
The hosts discuss the importance of gratitude, especially during difficult times. They explore the connection between gratitude and generosity. They also reflect on the interconnectedness of species and the benefits others bring into our lives. Gratitude for volunteers and podcast listeners is expressed.

Nov 5, 2023 • 39min
Developing a Daily Meditation Practice with Guest Bodhipaksa
In this engaging podcast, guest Bodhipaksa, an expert in meditation techniques, shares insights on developing a daily meditation practice. The hosts discuss the importance of consistency and the benefits of starting with short meditation sits. They also explore the power of feeling good about your practice, the benefits of longer meditation sessions, the significance of rituals and chanting, and maintaining a vegan diet. The episode ends with a discussion on supporting the community and working on a book.

Oct 29, 2023 • 46min
"Did the Buddha Really Say That?" with Guest Bodhipaksa
In this episode, Doug and Jon have a lively discussion with Bodhipaksa, a writer and Buddhist meditation teacher, on the topic of Fake Buddha Quotes. They explore the evolution of his websites, Wild Mind and Fake Buddha Quotes, and discuss the importance of getting the Buddha's teachings right. They also address misconceptions about the Buddha's personality and highlight the challenges of translating Buddhist scriptures. A fun segment on the vital role of coffee in supporting the show is also included.

Oct 22, 2023 • 27min
Is Karma Collective or Individual?
Is there such a thing as collective karma? Doug and Jon will consider the picture of karma given in early Buddhism, and compare it to the idea of collective karma, or alternately to a notion of 'aggregate' karma. How does karma work among groups of people?Support the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

Oct 15, 2023 • 30min
How Do We Know What Response is Appropriate?
The podcast explores the concept of 'appropriate response' in the Zen tradition, discussing the challenges of defining it during intense times. They also emphasize responding to hatred with care and compassion. The importance of compromise and understanding leadership is explored, referencing Lincoln as an example. Mindfulness is discussed as a tool for making a meaningful difference and taming reactivity. The tendency to collectivize and rationalize is explored, and a range of political situations are touched upon.

6 snips
Oct 8, 2023 • 26min
Balancing our Effort in Meditation
Discover the importance of consistency in meditation practice and join the hosts in a 30-day meditation challenge. Explore the challenges of dealing with unwholesome thoughts during meditation and the importance of mindfulness. Learn about finding a balance between effort and relaxation in meditation. Explore the attitude towards meditation in a Zen context and the importance of finding pleasure in the practice. The speakers discuss their personal experiences with meditation and the importance of coffee in their routine.

Oct 1, 2023 • 28min
Buddhist Rupas and Other Images: is this idol worship?
Many folks with western religious upbringings find discomfort when faced, at least in a practice context, with a Buddha Rupa (statue) or other images and of course even more so when bowing or offerings are encouraged. In this episode we'll talk about Buddha images: their history, practices we might use with them, as well as discuss the show on display at the Metropolitan Museum in NYC on early Buddhist artwork.Two of Doug's Videos:Buddhism and Icons: Prohibition to "Idolatry" -- https://youtu.be/qRqxuxS1qUgTree & Serpent: New Exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum -- https://youtu.be/RG3VjmMe6tYSupport the showGo to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/

Sep 24, 2023 • 29min
Let's Talk About the Two Truths
Exploring the concept of the two truths doctrine and their relation to personal practice. The origins and development of the concept in Buddhism. The role of language in understanding relationships. The complexities of relationships and their connection to the two truths. Embracing both conventional and ultimate truths in life.