Tanha; usually translated for the Pali as craving or desire. Tanha is at the root of dukkha which is usually translated as suffering, this is the second Noble Truth that the Buddha discovered. A more literal translation of tanha is “thirst”. When desire becomes a motivation for our actions, thoughts, speech, then it is very […]
Mark Wiesman
Mark Wiesman is a mindfulness teacher with 35 years of experience and practice in Insight Meditation and Tai Chi Chuan. His education as a veterinarian and his interest in science is also evident in his practice and teaching. He wishes to serve by giving the tools he has used in his life to others so they may be happier, more content, and more present in their lives.
Tending The Garden
The Pali word that is most often translated to “cultivate” (also develop, produce, call into existence) is bhavana also often translated as “meditation”. We often overlook what bhavana can mean in the broader sense. In gardening, to cultivate can refer to the whole process of gardening, from preparing the soil, removing weeds, planting seeds, watering, […]
Why Generosity Is Not Enough
I was inspired to write this while listening to the radio a couple of weeks ago. The essence of what was said was that while generosity was a positive action and quality, it was not enough, and that justice was more important. The reason given for this was that generosity made the giver feel good […]
Seeking The Source
There are teachers and dhamma practitioners who encourage us to find the “original mind” or the “source”. This can be a bit misleading to those who follow the path the Buddha showed us. The advice is well intended, to see that stimulus at the six sense doors leads to a feeling tone, recognition or perception […]