- Learn Not to Take it Personally: a Non-Self Elements Practice in Early Buddhism
One of the key practices in early Buddhism that often gets overlooked is a practice with the four elements leading to an experiential understanding of non-self. I'll look at that practice with reference to several early texts.
- The Elements in Early Buddhism: Cross-Cultural History
The elements play a key role in early Buddhist meditation practice, but the idea of them didn't originate with the Buddha. I'll look at the history of the elements with a focus on their role in ancient Greek philosophy as well as other…
- Did the Buddha Feel Pain?
One question we may have is whether the achievement of awakening -- or even that of being a Buddha -- means we no longer experience pain. We'll consider that question, with an emphasis on what the early texts say about what the awakened…
- Is Nirvana Indescribable? Is it Permanent?
Nirvana or the awakened state is often said to be indescribable, and typically understood as permanent. We'll consider both of these claims, and look at a neat thought experiment by philosopher Frank Jackson along the way.