Ajahn Brahmali: Day 8 Morning Session Dhamma Talk & Meditation 23.05.21
Channel: Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project
Date: 2021-05-23

In this morning's session, Ajahn Brahmali examines the "Bhojjangas" or the "Seven Factors of Awakening" in SN 61.1 "The Himalayas". Ajahn notes how these factors always have virtue as their foundation. Here, the Buddha uses the word "greatness", which he only tends to do when referring to something that truly leads to it. In SN1.15 "Murmuring", Ajahn explains how one can only go into and enjoy seclusion when one is ready for it. In SN1.1 "Crossing the Flood" - neither stopping nor over-striving does one progress on the path but by simply following the instructions, it is a natural cause and effect process that one development leads to the next. This is how one crosses the flood; by shifting one's attention with some effort and wisdom, not will power. The key is learning to let go here. In MN 118 'Mindfulness of Breathing' (Ānāpānasati), which is the most detailed meditation instruction in the suttas, a large number of senior monastics are mentioned as present which eludes to its importance as a teaching. Ajahn explains that Mindfulness of Breathing can take one to the culmination of the path as it fulfills 'Satipaṭṭhāna', the 'Four Foundations of Mindfulness' as well as leads to all the Factors of Awakening. This is the great potential of the breath! A meditation follows. 

This teaching is part of a special 8-day online retreat called “Why We Suffer & How We Get Free,” given by Ajahn Brahmali and Ven Canda in support of Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project. The teachings explore two of the Buddha’s famous causal sequences, Dependent Origination and Dependent Liberation, which together reveal the entire course of human experience, through this world and beyond to Nibbana. 
Anukampa is a UK Charity and pioneering project that is raising funds to develop the first Theravada Bhikkhuni Monastery in the UK, where women can train towards full ordination. Donations of any amount are very gratefully received to help us achieve this noble aim, welcome you as guests and continue to spread the priceless Dhamma teachings. Please visit http://www.anukampaproject.org/donate