Posts Tagged ‘awakening’
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. Suttas mentioned: The Unconditioned (SN 43.12, 14-43) (The rest of this sutta appears not to be available online). The…
Read MoreEnlightenment, European and Buddhist
The word “enlightenment” is used to describe a period of history in Europe, and a state of mind in Buddhism. What do these really mean, and do they share any important similarities?
Read MoreWhat is Buddhist Awakening?
Here is a short video on the Buddhist notion of awakening, a/k/a enlightenment, nirvāṇa, nibbāna, etc.
Read MoreThe Buddha’s Teaching on Loving-Kindness: A Mature Path to Awakening
In much contemporary Buddhist teachings, the paths of the heart are often relegated to second place behind the primacy of Wisdom on the path to awakening. In the earliest texts, however, the Buddha appears to consider the cultivation of kindness and compassion as a fully viable and equal path to awakening, to enlightenment, to Nibbana.…
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