Here is a list of all of my posts. Now you are able to see everything at a glance in one page. For now, it is text only with thumbnails turned off. There are quite a few posts. Enjoy… if you have the time.
2023
- June 4th Buddhist Compass App: Made 90% With Chat GPTWhile traveling in Thailand, I had an idea where I would like to know and face the direction where Bodh Gaya is similar to Qibla, and how Muslims like to face Mecca wherever they...
- April 1st Intelligent Donations: Turning The TablesRecently, we received six new tables arranged by a monk's two donors. Why was this so special and part of Buddhist culture? (read...
- March 23rd Percentage of Monks Who Do Not Use MoneyIf you are a Westerner and new to Buddhism, you might be surprised to learn that most monks use and handle money. Calculations are...
- March 7th The Order of Monks: How Seniority Shapes the Buddhist Monastic LifeThe monks sit, eat, walk, and pay respect to each other in a certain order. What does that mean and how is it...
- March 4th Living as a Monk in Myanmar During Covid and Government ChangeHere I will share some experiences of living as a monk in Myanmar during the covid pandemic and the government change that happened...
- February 25th Buddhism and ListsThe Buddhist teachings are often organized by various lists. Various matrices of interlinked lists to organize the teachings are one of the distinctive features of Buddhism....
- February 15th What is Theravada Buddhism?Theravāda is the oldest surviving Buddhist school and it is the predominant religion of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and...
- January 21st About Piṇḍapāta: Why Do Monks Go For Alms in a Village?Why would a monk collect food from a very poor village during an economic crisis when the monastery is mostly supported by wealthy...
- January 17th What does AI think of Loving-Kindness? Here is a poem.I asked openai chatGPT to write a Buddhist poem on loving-kindness in the style of Dr. Seuss. This is what I...
- January 14th Are Monks Allowed To Perform Marriage Ceremonies?Although Buddhist lay people might be interested in having a monk perform their marriage ceremony, it is not allowed and doing so is classed as a heavy rule (Saṅghādisesa)....
- December 27th International Institute of TheravadaI have moved to The International Institute of Theravāda. What is this place and why did I come here and what is...
- November 11th What Is The Bhikkhu Patimokkha or Buddhist Monk Rules?The Pātimokkha is a set of 227 rules for the bhikkhus belonging to the Theravāda sect which is based on the Pāḷi language texts. The 227 rules are grouped into seven...
- October 31st Why Is Halloween Bad According To Theravada Buddhism?I thought it would be good to explain why Halloween is not good according to Theravāda...
- October 21st The Buddhist Monk’s BowlThere are certain characteristics of the Theravada Buddhist monk's bowl that might be interesting to...
- September 29th Tipitaka Pali ReaderA new beautiful app written in Flutter for all Desktops and Mobile...
- August 19th Water PurificationWhile the first step of meditation is called Sīlavisuddhi , another important part of our monastery is the water purification system....
- July 29th How Do Monks Live Without Money?The easiest way to live without money is to join a monastery that is sincere about learning the teachings of the...
- July 10th Are Buddhist Monks Allowed To Use Money?Are Buddhist monks allowed to use money? The short answer is that monks are definitely not allowed to even touch money for all...
- June 29th How To Be Human and HigherMany people want to go to Heaven or human worlds but most people do not know what is needed to go there, let alone...
- June 5th Giving is Always BetterVenerable Sunanda recently had his birthday. For his birthday, he decided to offer 100 shoulder cloths to various...
- May 29th Buddhism: What Happens After Death?A long but clear and interesting religious post on what happens after death according to Classical Theravāda...
- May 15th Only The Best For BuddhaWhen we give water to the Bodhi Tree, it is not uncommon to give pure bottled drinking water to...
- April 23rd Stay Away From the Fools and Associate with the WiseThis small quote is from the first verse spoken by the Buddha when he was asked, "What is the highest blessing?"...
- April 14th Patheos Interview On RobesAlonzo Gaskill had read my previous article on Buddhist Robes and wanted to interview me for another Buddhist robes...
- March 26th Pa-Auk Lockdown #3: Living With COVIDNow the world is getting used to COVID-19 and many countries are announcing a new policy called "Living with COVID". Now we are too. I will...
- March 3rd Making Natural BroomsNatural fiber brooms are quite common in Theravadan countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Laos. ...
- February 19th Video: Knowing And Seeing Pa-Auk Forest MonasteryIn 2005 I made a video called, “Knowing and Seeing Pa-Auk Forest Monastery.” This is about the Pa-Auk Main Branch in Mawlamyine. Sayadawgyi was young back then and used to climb the...
- February 16th Patimokkha Chant Feb 15, 2022Yesterday, I recited the 227 rules of the Pātimokkha for 110 bhikkhus at Pa-Auk Meditation Center in Pyin Oo...
- February 7th My Blackjack AnniversaryToday is my 21 anniversary for when I first got ordained as a monk on February 7th, 2001. As you know there was...
- January 27th Umbrella Shop 2004-2014Rainy Season is luckily my favorite and I love all five months of it. Excerpt from Going For Broke: Monasterynote5: Walkman Karaoke,...
- January 13th Should Bhikkhunis Be Sent To Probation Monasteries?Did you know that bhikkhunis (nuns) are not allowed to sleep alone or travel alone and if they do, they are sentenced to 2 weeks of...
- December 19th Accused Of Being PsychicAccused of Being Psychic A brief video describing this story has been added to this post below. The longer story is below that. I think it was in 2003 or 2004 when I was at Pa-Auk Meditation Center...
- December 4th Monk Towels and SoapVery few people from the West know about what the monks use for their bath towels and their bathing soap. ...
- November 28th What is an Overturned Bowl?We have seen many Facebook selfies of politically active monks with their bowls turned upside down. What does this mean and is that...
- November 23rd How To Memorize Pāḷi by Rote MethodThis video explains both passive and aggressive methods for memorizing Pāḷi with the Rote Method....
- November 13th Memorizing The Noble Eightfold PathTo help with Buddhist literacy, I made a basic video that helps people memorize The Noble Eightfold Path in English. ...
- November 10th Toothpaste In A Gated CommunityToday, a monk came up to me with his hand inside his shoulder bag and handed me a new tube of Meswak. ...
- November 3rd Suttanta Versus Abhidhamma RiversIf I were to describe a river based on Suttanta values and again in terms of Abhidhamma and commentary values, they both will become very...
- October 27th How Long Do Monk’s Robes Last?It is quite common in Myanmar to offer robes at the end of the Rainy Season (vassa) in a ceremony called Kaṭhina. How long do monk’s robes last? A monk normally has a set of three robes; a...
- October 17th The Monastery Murder MassacreThe Monastery Murder Massacre that happened in Vesālī during the time of The Buddha is not well known among lay...
- October 6th Basic Pali Terms for DhammaI have made a list of the most basic Pāḷi terms which will help you in your Theravāda Buddhist Readings and listening to Dhamma...
- September 28th Only In The West, Only In AsiaMost Westerners do not like the ancient commentaries or the Abhidhamma. Here is a...
- September 18th Pa-Auk Vaccination 2021Pa-Auk finally vaccinated 2000 of its residents across its branch monasteries with a privately sponsored SinoPharm vaccine....
- September 13th Buddhist Sun AppIf you are a monk, nun or a practicing yogi who has vowed to not eat after Noon, you will benefit from this...
- September 11th Remembering 9/11I once had a job interview at Merrill Lynch in The World Financial Center which was connected to The World Trade Center by a sky...
- September 9th Are Theravada Bhikkhuni Ordinations Valid?There is not much written in English explaining why bhikkhuni ordinations are rejected by the Theravada Community of...
- September 5th Did The Buddha Know Einstein’s Theory?The Mass–energy equivalence is one of the most famous physics equations known to the general population. Did the Buddha know this beforehand? We all know this formula as the explanation for how...
- August 19th The Most Basic Pali Chants to LearnThe most basic and essential chants for beginning lay people should know are listed in order of...
- August 9th Free Buddha PicturesSometimes it is difficult to find free Buddha pictures. Even when Google shows you “free pictures,” sometimes, they require an account or were not really free in the first place. As a...
- July 24th When Does Rainy Season Start?Does the Buddhist Rainy Season start on the Full Moon Day or the day after? Find out...
- July 3rd The Buddha’s Intermittent FastingWhen I describe my Buddhist monk diet, they give a nod and say "Intermittent Fasting... It's...
- June 27th Super Quarantine Inside Pa-AukRecently, I went to the Dr. This article is not about going out. Instead this article is about coming back and staying on...
- June 21st Can Monks Get Married?Although it is appalling that the Catholic church allows its priests to continue in the order even after such admissions of guilt for sexual acts, the Buddhism is...
- June 11th Why Do Monasteries Have Skeletons?If you go to a Theravada Buddhist forest monastery in Asia, you are likely to find a full skeleton or parts of a skeleton somewhere where it can be viewed easily. ...
- March 22nd Pa-Auk Lockdown #2Recently, I have been getting a few messages wishing me safety and wellbeing with the current news floating around the world about events in Myanmar. I can assure you that our lives have not changed...
- February 22nd A Buddhist Monk’s Prayers For The Old And SickCould I say a prayer for someone with cancer? I can, and have, but there was more to say about what I could do for...
- February 16th Time for BalanceI made a quick video of Venerable Maṇi Sāra who can supposedly balance unbelievable things.. I saw him, picked up a rock and asked him to show me if it was real. Yup. It is...
- February 7th How I Got My NameExactly twenty years ago today (February 7, 2001), I followed through with my decision to ordain with lifelong intentions. Although I am only 14 vassa because of a re-ordination ceremony, this day...
- January 28th Pa-Auk Forest Monastery and Pa-Auk Sayadaw Shared NamesDid the Pa-Auk Sayadaw name his monastery after himself to immortalize his name? Is this an ego trip? What is the...
- December 17th The Real Buddha StatuesThere are many features that make the Buddha a Buddha besides the iconic drooping earlobes. From time to time, I see statues of the Buddha that are just not...
- December 8th Have You Eaten Yet?In 1993, I visited China with five lucky School of Technology students at my University. Before going, I asked around for some cool things to say and “Chī le ma?” or “Have you...
- December 6th Mawlamyine Pa-Auk Kitchen 2014I thought it would be cool to show Yogi Brahm the Pa-Auk kitchen and let him capture how the meals are made for 1200 yogis each day....
- November 26th Thanks and GivingOn November 24, I helped make a nice breakfast and lunch for Pa-Auk Forest Monastery, Pyin Oo Lwin. I organized 28 monks including myself to...
- November 19th Ajahn Brahmavamso’s Dark JhānaMany people believe that Ajahn Brahmavamso teaches the same meditation method as The Vissuddhimagga , but they are very different. Read...
- October 25th 7 Lockdown Suggestions From A MonkThese days, the lockdowns are in full swing. The question is, “What do you do with your time?” Perhaps you are out of work, or retired like my parents. What do you do? As a monk,...
- October 6th Turning 50Today I turned fifty years of age. A few months ago, I was really happy about it but then as health problems piled up a few weeks ago (which ended up being a 2.5 week allergic reaction), I was...
- October 1st Rice Soup in Buddhist Culture?Rice soup is most popularly known as Congee (Kahn-Jee). However in the Buddhist world, it is referred to as yāgu in the Pāḷi Language....
- September 10th Monk Life and Natural DyeingHere are pictures about the natural dyeing process. The monks boil the ironwood tree bark chips for a long time (days). When a drop of dye is dropped in a glass of water, a ball will form and sink to...
- September 4th Where to Ordain?The short answer is: If you are looking for vinaya (places that don’t touch money), and you believe in the commentaries and Abhidhamma and want to meditate, you have two choices, Pa-Auk and...
- August 10th Tipiṭaka Pāḷi ProjectorNew Free and Open Source Pali Reading Software is available for download...
- August 4th The Robes of Theravadan, Mahayanan, Tibetan MonksIt occured to me that people don’t know one type of Buddhist monk from the other and a post was needed to explain this. First a little bit of history. Theravada is the closest thing as one can...
- July 31st Why Is Vassa (Rainy Season) Late Sometimes?There seems to be confusion about when vassa is this year. This year is a special year and Vassa starts the day after the full moon day in August. The full moon day is August 3rd and Vassa starts on...
- July 13th Murder He Won’tA friend of mine once told me his story about how he had a knife in his hand and was raging with anger. He was going to kill his wife and her new found lover. Below is a short retelling of the story...
- June 22nd The SwastikaToday, as I was washing my bowl, I saw a local Myanmar monk with a swastika tattoo on his arm. Was he racist? ...
- June 18th Monastery-wide Sickness HappensWhile I have said quite a lot to inspire people about life as a monk around the world. I should give you both sides of the story to be fair....
- May 27th What is a Kuti?A kuṭi is a small hut or lodging that a monk lives in and it is one of the basic four requisites: Robes, Food, Lodging, & Medicine. They come in various sizes and qualities and I have prepared a...
- April 20th The Mantra of Loving-KindnessThis video is an instruction on how to practice loving-kindness meditation. The simplest way is to repeat the Loving-Kindness phrases (mantras). The discussion goes into the details. I hope you enjoy...
- April 6th Covid-19 Lockdown @ Pa-AukWe recently had a meeting to cover all the basics for social distancing and cutting the monastery off from the outside...
- March 23rd Walking Meditation Inside The HomeThere are many people who are inside their homes, so I thought it would be good to make a small 10 minute video on how to do basic walking meditation inside the home. Here it is. Like this:Like...
- March 16th Having Fun At The Pa-Auk Dentist ClinicHaving Fun At The Pa-Auk Dentist Clinic (Repost/refurbish from June, 2015*) Because dentists are very expensive in America and the Pa-Auk dental clinic has pretty good sanitary conditions (for...
- March 9th 500+ monks at Pa-Auk Main. Some slippers go missing, but not these.500+ monks at paauk main. Some slippers go missing so people mark them with different patterns as a passive way to prevent loss. However, the slippers in the center were not as...
- March 2nd Sabbe Satta -All Beingsreposted from https://withmetta.net (2016) . When a Buddhist monk says “sabbe satta,” that is a shorthand for metta practice. “Sabbe satta” means “all beings.” One of my friend’s...
- February 17th Maymyo Pa-Auk MealsAt Theravada monasteries there is no eating allowed after Noontime. Here is a look at the meals served at Pa-Auk Maymyo (Pyin Oo...
- February 7th Anniversary 19: I’m Still StandingOn Feb 7th, 2001 I took my original ordination with The Most Venerable Pa-Auk Saydawgyi. It was the happiest days of my...
- December 29th Free PTS Sutta eBooksThe Pali Text Society has made its Vinaya, Sutta and Abhidhamma books available for non-commercial use since 2013. The Sutta books have been extracted from the Buddhadust Website which is still...
- December 23rd On The Way Back HomeOn November 4th, I left The States for Sri Lanka, Thailand and of course Myanmar which I now consider a home for...
- November 20th All in the FamilyI did a brief visit with my parents on the corner of October and November. Although I have stayed separately at my grandmother’s house on the previous last two visits in 2006 and 2008, I had...
- November 12th Chicago Lao MonasteryRecently, I had a chance to go to a Lao Monastery in Elgin, Chicago, IL, USA for 12 days....
- October 8th Leaving Kaua’i On A Jet PlaneAs the rest of the song goes.. "And I don't know when I'll be back again." And so, "This is where the story ends..." or does it?...
- October 7th Early Monk PicturesI recently turned 49 and I found some old pictures of myself that I thought I would share. It is very difficult to get older pictures of myself because it was before the digital picture revolution....
- September 30th Ian (exVen. Visarada) Visits KauaiThis past July, I had an old friend named Ian Sloan (previously Venerable Visarada ) visit me in Kauai. He disrobed after being a monk for 25 years. He disrobed because of a conflict of philosophy...
- September 12th Why I Ordained TwiceMany people who have learned that I have re-ordained have asked me why I did it. It is a long story, but I will try to be...
- August 17th Most Important Buddhist Lesson Learned and TaughtA little while ago, I was asked what was the most important lesson learned and what was the most important thing that I taught. The answer spans two different videos and they are listed...
- August 3rd Interview: Monk Meditates for 24 HoursI had the chance to interview a monk who meditated for 24 hours straight. The interview is very detailed in the context of the Pa-Auk...
- July 23rd Meditation or Religious VisasNew Update and Summary: Myanmar Visas in the USA now only take 4 business days (It used to be of 3 Months). See Religious Visa application for USA Embassy: ...
- July 6th Conversations With ChristiansOften Christians approach me with an agenda and they try to set me up to fail. However, they are predictable and I know exactly what they will say. I yawn and quote their bible in my...
- June 25th Pa-Auk Monastery Alms Line in MyanmarI had a layperson (probably UKZ) follow me around in the line to show what it was like for a monk to go through the alms food line at Pa-Auk Main Center, Mawlamyine,...
- June 17th Fighting Anger With Loving-Kindness and No MoneyRecently, I ran into a very angry man who came out of his house yelling at me and coming closer and closer. Eventually, I won the fight with my two big weapons, loving-kindness and my commitment...
- May 30th Koral Inspires MeCan a family in the West automatically know how alms are given in the East without ever knowing? Read on to find out what inspires...
- May 29th Why did you become a monk?Probably the #1 question we get is, "Why did you become a monk?" That question has many factors and answers. However, a better question is, "How did I actually get the nerve to become a monk?" Read...
- March 31st Interview 2My friend scheduled another interview with me and recently published it. The video discusses why should monks not touch money? Is there an exchange that takes place with the things you receive? The...
- March 24th Video Interview About AlmsRecently, I was interviewed from an old friend who was previously a monk with me in Pa-Auk, Mawlamyine, Myanmar. Nikita was a monk for about one year before disrobing. He asked me about what it is...
- March 3rd Legal Name ChangeI recently legally changed my name to Bhante Bhikkhu Subhuti. Find out...
- February 7th 18th Anniversary and UpdateToday is my 18th anniversary from when I first ordained as a monk. I reflect on my time spent in Kauai, Hawaii, the progress, and its value to me....
- February 1st Should Monks Use Mixing Bowls as Monk Bowls?Would using a mixing bowl instead of a traditional monk's alms bowl be more effective as a way to collect alms? This article looks at this...
- January 21st An Old Kauai Favorite: KKCR InterviewHere is the link to the 2015 KKCR radio show. We were interviewed on Kauai Community Radio for about one hour instead of the scheduled 20 minutes. We all had fun doing it. It will give you a...
- December 31st Fingernail MeditationLast week I taught Fingernail Meditation. This is where one uses the fingernail(s) as a subject of meditation. Although this has probably never been taught before by anyone as a standalone meditation...
- December 24th Miracle On 3 or 4 StreetsInterested in how the monks survive on Miracles? Read on. Four stories are...
- November 24th Kauai Monk Update 3Kauai Update #3 I have moved from the Botanical Gardens recently. I was able to stay there for 5 months and the majority of the time there was wonderful. However things were changing and it was...
- November 14th Free 10-Day Meditation CourseI often recommend a free 10-day vipassana meditation course found at https://dhamma.org . Is it possible that there would be a 10-day meditation retreat that gives you food and lodging for free? ...
- November 4th Vinaya Comparison of Monastery AllowancesBelow is a chart comparing special allowances by tradition which is useful for making a decision on where to ordain. If you need an explanation, read further.. Dhammayut Wat Pah Pong Wat Khao...
- October 22nd Why Are Monk Bowls Black?Monk bowls are black because they are fired with sesame oil 5 times to protect it from rusting. There are two types of bowls allowed; Iron and Clay. Iron bowls need to be fired 5 times and clay...
- October 6th How To Pronounce TheravadaHow to Pronounce Theravāda Have you ever wondered if you were pronouncing Theravāda correctly? Read this article to find out how to properly pronounce Theravāda. Most of the resources out on the...
- October 2nd Free Book: Going For BrokeDownloads: Going For Broke: Travelogs On Becoming a Buddhist Monk is a compilation of travel stories. It is an anonymously written book about a lay person who quit his job in order to travel the...
- September 30th Abhidhamma Lessons: A Top-Down Approach Using Computer ScienceFree Book: Abhidhamma Lessons PDF Download Abhidhamma Lessons PDF Here is a book I wrote long ago that relates the Abhidhamma to Computer Science. As a programmer from the nineties, I...
- September 21st The Seeds From Long AgoThe Seeds From Long Ago I remember when I first learned how to meditate on my breath some time in 1990, during my university years. Back then, meditation was not so well known. The beat...
- September 18th Why do monks have one shoulder exposed sometimes and both shoulders covered other times?Why do monks have one shoulder exposed sometimes and both shoulders covered other times?There is a very small rule about having the robes fully covered when we are in a populated areas (sekhiyā 3)....
- September 12th Guided Four Elements and Loving-Kindness September 9th, 2018Here is a dhamma talk with a very brief instruction for Four Elements. It is not complete, but gives a small taste of four elements. Loving-kindness is also included as usual. The recording is...
- September 10th Theravada Buddhism and Sex: The Third Precept on Sexual MisconductThe third precept is defined as not having sex without the protector's permission. It is that simple. ...
- September 5th Results From Collecting Alms In KauaiAs a Buddhist Monk collecting alms in Kauai, USA for the past 4 months, the results are in. On Tuesday and Wednesdays as shown on the map above, I collect my food, wishing loving-kindness to...
- September 2nd MP3 of Princeville Dhamma Talk September 2, 2018mp3 Dhamma Talk September 2, 2018 Another mp3 recording of a happy Guided meditation and discussion at Princeville, Kauai, Hawaii. Expect about 35 minutes discussion, 40 minutes of guided...
- August 20th Dhamma Talk Princeville August 19 2018With only 5 minutes left before we were supposed to start, the security guard told us that someone else had the room booked and we would need to move to a smaller amd inferior room. It was a...
- August 19th Bhikkhu Subhuti’s Blog has moved!Bhikkhu Subhuti’s Blog has moved! The blog at https://Subhuti.withmettanet has moved to https://AmericanMonk.org The new title of the blog is American Monk: Bhante Subhūti Why change The...
- August 16th Buddhist Monks’ Robes InformationFew people realize that the Theravāda monk’s robes are actually a piece of rectangular cloth with no...
- August 3rd The Secret Teachings of TheravādaIf there was a book that had all of the Secret Teachings of Theravāda, The Path of Purification (The Visuddhimagga) would be that book. It explains all the good stuff, like how to attain samādhi...
- July 28th September 11 and Jeremy GlickI have a personal story I want to tell you about Jeremy Glick and September 11, 2001. The short story is that my name is Jeremy Glick and I was a computer...
- July 12th Is Collecting Alms (Piṇḍapāta) Legal?Collecting alms, also known as piṇḍapāta by Theravāda Buddhists, is a legal activity in the USA. There are some restrictions though. I spoke with a lawyer who seemed to know civil liberties...
- June 25th A Walk In The GardensHawaii Update #3, June, 2018 It has now been almost 10 weeks on the island. My life is difficult, but it is very rewarding. I get a chance to teach all the people who donate rides and...
- June 10th The Concept in Breath MeditationThe Concept in Breath Meditation The concept of the breath as it is used in meditation is not well understood. We will discuss this matter in this small article. There are many methods concerned...
- May 25th When To Look At The LightIs the light a Nimitta and when should one look at it? When one practices meditation based on the breath, it is possible for the light to come and when that happens and it is stable one can use that...
- May 17th Kauai Update Part 2Aloha! It has been a little over a month since I have been on the island of Kauai. Things have been going well although my situation is still the same. I am still in a tent at Anini, but I have a...
- February 17th Acapella Inertia MP3 AudioA’capella Inertia Audio Story (free MP3 download) I have decided to make an audio version of this story. I started off by having a computer read this for the purpose of proofreading. Then I started...
- February 10th A Tale of Love and Samādhi Explained: A’capella InertiaA Tale of Love and Samādhi Explained: A’capella Inertia A little Valentines story for all of you. The topside title is just a description of what the story is generally about. However, the...
- February 7th 17th AnniversaryIt seems like that time has come up again. Time surely does happen and so does my anniversary. Now it is 17 years! As usual, for the disclaimer, I am only 11 Vassa in official years. But Wow! Now it...
- January 27th Monk’s Needle CaseThis is a small video on how to make a monk’s needle case from a used up disposable pen. It is one of the 8 requisites of a Buddhist monk. It is mostly intended for monks to view, but lay...
- January 12th Vegetarianism and Theravada BuddhismVegetarianism and Theravada Buddhism I have been asked to write a little something on vegetarianism and Theravāda Buddhism. I am qualified to be quite objective, and to see both sides of the issue...
- December 7th Traveling Without a HelperWhen Ven. Devananda and I traveled to Kauai in 2015, we did not have a Kappiya (helper) to buy us food or even pay for our luggage. One can live without helpers, but it does take some...
- November 30th Are You A BuddhistAre You A Buddhist? Introduction Being a Buddhist is quite open because if you believe in certain aspects it is better than not believing in anything. We take what we can get. However, here ...
- October 29th Possessed! A Halloween SpecialThere were a few times when I have seen some yogis and or monks go crazy. One time I saw a possession case when I went to a Kandy forest monastery called, Ulpathkandha. It means Sprint Hill...
- October 21st The Dark Side of Ajahn Mun’s BiographyDid Ajahn Mun say the Buddha congratulated him on the night he attained arahant? His biography books says it for sure. ...
- October 10th How to Make a Monk Filter in 3 MinutesHere is a quick tip on how to make a filter in just a few minutes. Maybe as fast as one minute. This is useful for monks who want to put filters on their water taps. It is my own invention as far as...
- October 6th I Finally Did It!I Finally Did It! This Rainy Season (Vassa) I was able to learn the Pātimokkha (227 Rules) by heart. It is the first round and it takes me a long time to do it, and there are mistakes. Never the...
- September 28th How Do Monks Say Grace Before Eating?How Do Monks Say Grace Before Eating? Do Theravāda monks say anything before they eat? Do they give thanks? Who do they say thanks to? Or is it something else? Buddhist monks generally do a...
- September 15th Racism in Asia, Myanmar, and MonasteriesRacism in Asia, Myanmar and Monasteries I remember when I came to Sri Lanka, in 2007 and I met a monk who said he was from Slovenia. “Slovenia? What kind of country is that?” I told him that I...
- September 10th Does The Buddha live in NibbanaDoes the Buddha Live in Nibbāna? Many people believe that the Buddha is alive and living in some sort of transcendental realm called Nibbāna where he can hear your prayers and eat and drink the...
- September 2nd Donation to Sangha or Individuals?When should you give to Saṅgha? When should you give to individual monks? This is a question that is not addressed very often and it can cause lots of trouble for monks knowingly and unknowingly....
- August 13th Making A Foot-Rug From Old RobesHere is an instructional video on how to make a foot-rug from old and discarded monk’s robes. If you are a monk, perhaps you will be very interested in this. I made the video as I was...
- June 3rd General Update Pre-Vassa 2017Update Aug 5: I am back at Varansi Monastery , Mingaladone as pictured. This is a general update. There are many sublinks to look at. Enjoy! I have passed all of my exams and finished my...
- May 24th Maymo Pa-Auk (Pyin Oo Lwin)A Brief Return to Pa-Auk Maymyo (pyin oo lwin). In 2012 I had left my home at Nauyana, Sri Lanka to reconnect with my teacher Pa-Auk Saydawgyi in his spank’in new meditation center. It was built by...
- March 26th Why Are Most Monasteries Not Allowable?Why are most monasteries not allowable for vinaya monks? Today, I was Skyping my parents which is something we do once or twice a month now. I feel it is good for them to “see” me...
- March 9th Bowling Down an AlleyI had the day off from school and went for alms today in a new area unannounced. I wanted to go down a side street near “shit- mile.” “Shit-mile” means “8 mile...
- March 4th Singing With My Bowl“Singing With My Bowl” Today, after I Skyped my parents to say hello, I was doing my usual weekend schedule after: Go walking for alms, and then meditate at Swedo Paya (Tooth Relic Pagoda...
- February 4th Shining The Inner CoreTo receive this by email, sign up at https://subhuti.withmetta.net/subscribe/ Last year, this picture (without the writing) went viral. The viral post seems to makes its rounds from time to time and...
- January 15th Spoken Metta Mix by One VoiceThis is a spoken English version of the Discourse on Loving-Kindness (Metta Sutta), mixed with the Pāi chanting of One Voice (EkaSara). I like it and I think you will too. Enjoy! If you get a...
- January 14th Is it Begging?I remember when I saw my grandfather before I left the world behind in 1999 for some travel and perhaps an ordination. He was in the hospital going through the first round of fighting lymphoma...
- January 9th Inspiration, move me brightlyInspiration is like a bright star that shines among the dim. In Monastic life, there are few monasteries or monks that really inspire people. Following the vinaya (or rules) inspires people. It...
- December 18th 5, 8 and 10 PreceptsHere is a comparison of 5, 8 and 10 precepts. The Buddhist who follows five precepts is known as a regular lay Buddhist. The person who follows 8 precepts is known as a serious Buddhist yogi. ...
- December 16th Dhamma Talk in Thailand Loving-kindness Winshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00t5_a8L9Xg&feature=youtu.be This is a Dhamma Talk I gave at Wat Khao Sanamachai about Kauai, alms and how loving-kindness wins battles.. It is translated into...
- December 11th Throwing Rice at Weddings and BirdsIs it OK to feed uncooked rice to the birds? Recently, the subject about feeding animals in my post Sabbe-Satta-Metta was brought up and how it could end up hurting animals in the long run. I...
- December 5th Buddhism and AbortionWhat do Theravada Buddhists believe in terms of abortion? Much of what has been written are liberal beliefs and overturning what is written down in the texts. They claim “Modern Buddhism” as a...
- November 13th No TV Huh? Part II remember when I moved into my new place in Old Greenwich, CT. It was a duplex house and I had the bottom floor. I was within a Frisbee throw into the heart of the charming Old Greenwich village.....
- September 25th Making Helmut Schmidt’s DayA Story from 1993 from my college days, before the Internet was around. I remember all the way back in ’93, when I was in college and I had just spent a few weeks in China for an academic...
- September 16th Lucky-Draw and DevasDo you believe in devas? Devas are the Buddhist equivalent to angels. Ok .. Here is the story. I was on alms round two weeks ago and a regular supporter invited us to ask for anything for our...
- September 2nd Learning to FlyBelow is a Wrigley’s TV commercial from the 80s which started my lifelong dream to hang-glide and a genuine excuse to get educated. Whenever I saw this commercial as a child, my jaw was to the...
- August 26th Make The Best Meditation Seat: The Samadhi-SausageDownload Free A4 format PDF Download Free A5 format PDF Tutorial on How to Sit Many times I have given advice to yogis on how to sit properly and I have received raving success. In fact, I asked one...
- July 18th Kauai Propagation PresentationA 2 part Powerpoint presentation about what two monks did in Kauai, Hawaii during June to December 2015. The theme was propagation, but the propagation was done just from being monks who do not touch...
- July 16th A Different Love Trumps HateThis video clip below came my way and I would hate to say that not only is this guy is correct right near the end of his talk, but he is expressing the same thoughts as the Buddha and...
- July 10th The Coolest Incense HolderHere is a sample video and written instructions for making a self-contained incense holder made from a plastic bottle. It is the coolest incense holder I have ever used. The idea is not mine. An...
- July 3rd When It Rains It PoursI had a really good day going for alms today. When it “rains it pours.” Although it rained today, I am talking about alms donations. I told myself, that if this village does not give (like...
- June 26th The Benefits of Faith AlmsThe benefits of “Faith piṇḍapata”. This is a term that I learned either in Abhayagiri, Ca, or Wat Pah Nanachat or both. Probably brought to the West from Ajahn Pasanno who is/was the abbot of...
- May 26th Visit to Varanasi Monastery, MingaladonA Brief Visit to Varanasi Monastery, Mingaladon I had a few more days before I was allowed to arrive at ITBM University (I am there now). Very close by is one of my favorite monasteries in the...
- May 24th Homeless and Living Out of a Box.I remember when I went to America in 2008 with one of my monastic friends named Ven. Visarada. He was an experienced monk and had good ascetic practices. When we went to America, he did not have any...
- May 8th Why Are The Monks Fighting Over Food?I cannot believe that I am writing an article that explains how the monks are fighting over food. It is very awkward to hear isn’t it? On the other hand human nature is human nature. We have...
- April 13th License to Spill (Myanmar Thingyan, New Year)In the eight plus years that I have lived in Myanmar, I have never seen the Thingyan Water Festival festivities happening in the street. I normally spend my time in the monastery and normally, if I...
- March 21st Pa-Auk Monastery in MudonKyownpine Pa-Auk Branch Monastery in Mudon, Myanmar. I have moved to Yorgo Sayadaw ‘s new monastery called Kyownpine. The Yorgo Sayadaw read my first ordination transaction 15 years ago and...
- March 18th Bagan SlideshowHere is a video slideshow of my Bagan trip. We had scheduled 8 full days to travel around, and mostly on foot. We had a limited budget and it was a real joy. Basically, the less transportation you...
- March 18th Kauai SlideshowI recently made a Hawaii video slideshow. Here is the link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DjEHWNTHQ0 Like this:Like...
- December 11th Back in Myanmar Headed to Pa-Auk Meditation CenterI am back in Myanmar from Kauai, Hawaii. I will begin the Bus trip to Pa-Auk Meditation Center this morning. What a long transit back that was. Here is a picture taken from Pa-Auk Lookout point that...
- December 4th The Blue Room Session and UpdateI went to the sacred Blue Room cave today with a friend named Narayandass. Its waters are known for their healing powers. I made a recording of some chanting before we meditated there. It was a...
- November 30th Mangala Sutta Dhamma TalkHere is a link for the Dhamma Talk on November 28, 2015. The talk was the third on the Mangala Sutta. This time, there was a high quality recorder. Talks are not edited. There are three parts....
- November 26th Loving Kindness Wins The RaceLoving Kindness Wins The Race (Adventures in Going for Alms in Hawaii) Last week we encountered a disturbing event while we were going for Alms in village in Kauai. There was a lady on a bicycle who...
- November 22nd Oasis Radio Show ArchiveEasy but Low quality download and playback here (interview only, no music) Please try https://archive.org/details/oasis111518-2 http://Subhuti.withmetta.net http://withmetta.net Like this:Like...
- November 17th Some Wish For PeaceSome wish for peace, I did something (story below) I thought I would repost this on my blog due to the recent events. We must strive for peace. Originally posted on WithMetta.net I...
- November 14th It’s Only Half The StoryYesterday, I had spoken about how someone took our pictures and who said something like, “I just wanted to tell you (her hand was now over her heart) how much …what you do means to me. I...
- November 13th KKCR – Monks on Kauai Community RadioDear Friends, Here is the link to the kkcr radio show where we were interviewed on Kauai Community Radio for about one hour. It gives a good taste of what we did on the island: We will be on the...
- November 12th New Dhamma Talk November 28This might be the last Dhamma Talk for Kauai.???? Like this:Like...
- November 9th Mahamangala Dhamma Talk 2HERE IS AN UNEDITED version of the Dhammatalk on the Mahamangala Sutta #2. There is quite a bit of silence in the beginning, so please be patient. Download here Like this:Like...
- October 30th Very Sweet IndeedYesterday, we got some pre-Halloween candy during our alms round at one of the houses. I thought that was very “sweet” of our donor. Halloween is a holiday on October 31, in America where...
- October 28th Pa-Auk Forest Monastery HDI made this video from 55 minutes of nearly silent footage. I cut it us and added a script to it. The titles in English are from the original and are misspelled in some areas. The monastery is more...
- October 15th A Useful Quote from “Free Spirit”We spend almost an hour at the library on Tuesdays when we wait for the Thai Restaurant...
- October 12th Why the moons are off by one day in Eastern and Western CalendarsThe website Http://TimeAndDate.com is a “must-know” and “must-have” for Buddhist monks, especially when they travel abroad. It calculates the Moon Phases and Solar Noon for...
- October 11th New Dhamma Talk LocationMy friend Nikita (x ven Kippabinnya) made this flyer for our new location. There was a request to move to Kapaa which is more central. Golden Lotus seems like a nice place and they have cushions and...
- October 6th A new SpotI had to ask Bhante Devananda several times in order to go to the end of the road to see the ocean today. We have been at this location for six weeks now without ever going to the ocean at the end of...
- September 28th Kauai Dhamma Talk SeptemberHere are links to the two parts of a Dhamma Talk on the Mahamangala Sutta givin at Princeville Community Center in Kauai. September 27th. The first part has Loving kindness The second part starts...
- September 21st Unedited Kauai talk AugustHere is an unedited file from the dhamma talk I gave. The first section on Loving kindness is missing. Soon I will add the first talk which has a similar first section. The two hours consists...
- September 12th That Which Feeds UsThis video is probably the most beautiful and entertaining environmental message on Kauai, GMO and agriculture you will ever see. A “Wow!” for all 22:55 minutes! Subscribe to this blog to...
- September 3rd Kauai Update #2I am still happy to report that things are continuing to go well. However, we did have a small hiccup, OK, a big one. We moved. Yes, I know it was beautiful place we had, and maybe the most beautiful...
- August 17th Inclination for MeditationThese days, most meditators meditate inside buildings on flat and hard surfaces. One should try to meditate outside on a nice grassy area that has a 20 to 30° angle. It does not take much to find...
- August 14th Our Bodhi TreeThere is a Bodhi Tree on our property and we sometimes do a vandana (chanting) in front of this tree rather than at the gazebo. We did one tonight until a passing rain cloud sprinkled on us. From...
- August 12th Lumaha’i BeachOur third beach trip with chanting and meditation during sunset. Lumaha’i Beach. We walked to the center of the beach and then sat down on top of a sand ledge to do our chanting. Afterwards, we...
- August 11th Kauai Update 1Report on Kauai I am pleased to write you with a very happy report on our trip to Kauai. We have been doing really good work and things have been working out well. My concepts and ideas about...
- August 9th Canyon Hike ReviewThis is a picture of the Waimea Canyon Trail. I recommend going on the Canyon Trail Hike and going further beyond the small waterfall and then to the edge of the cliff where the top of another huge...
- July 25th I forget how many rainbows I have seen this month. Maybe 7 or 8? This one was over our property. Today…I forget how many rainbows I have seen this month. Maybe 7 or 8? This one was over our property. Today I saw 3 Rainbows in Hanalei, including a double rainbow. Such a beautiful Island, and I really...
- July 18th I went to Waimea canyon todayI went to Waimea canyon today. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waimea_Canyon_State_Park I think it was the most beautiful place I had ever seen or tied to seeing the whales jumping out of the ocean...
- July 6th Our kuti in Kilauea, Kauai.Our kuti in Kilauea, Kauai. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- July 3rd Modern monks transcribing an ancient Buddhist Pali Grammar book (suttamala) in Kauai.Modern monks transcribing an ancient Buddhist Pali Grammar book (suttamala) in Kauai. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- July 1st Our bus passes start on July 1.Our bus passes start on July 1. However, Kauai is easy to hitchhike on. To make things difficult, I do not want to use my thumb and just let people guess. The result?It is really easy and I regret...
- June 30th Thanks. I had long ago written about this scene as being the answer to the movie’s title theme which…Thanks. I had long ago written about this scene as being the answer to the movie's title theme which asks "What is beautiful?" and that most people incorrectly believe it was family....
- June 28th Where We ChantWhere we chant and where I often meditate at "The Sanctuary" grounds where we live in Kauai. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 27th Ven dewananda by his temporary lodging and some pics of “The Sanctuary”, the name of the place where…Ven dewananda by his temporary lodging and some pics of "The Sanctuary", the name of the place where we will have a cottage one July 1rst. The cottage that is very visible is not ours. It...
- June 20th +Bikkhu Pannagavesaka just arrived to Yangon from Pa-Auk Main on a bus that says “Aloha”. Very Auspicious…+Bikkhu Pannagavesaka just arrived to Yangon from Pa-Auk Main on a bus that says "Aloha". Very Auspicious???? This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 16th A nice story about a man who chooses a different kind of view, and sees the world in a better way. Please…A nice story about a man who chooses a different kind of view, and sees the world in a better way. Please help! Only two more stories left. Everybody has a story or should do something to write...
- June 15th If you have metal in your mouth and are concerned, you can read this page to feel better. It is mostly…If you have metal in your mouth and are concerned, you can read this page to feel better. It is mostly hype that causes fear and the dentist who restarted much of this had his license revoked. If you...
- May 23rd ????Thanks to my brother, our tickets are confirmed for June 22 to December 8th Yangon to Honolulu round…????Thanks to my brother, our tickets are confirmed for June 22 to December 8th Yangon to Honolulu round trip. Amazing price at $852.Then we fly to Kauai the same day. Getting to hnl will take 33...
- May 21st ????Soooo. A while back, I said I had Hawaii on my mind and that a string of flowers was starting to look…????Soooo. A while back, I said I had Hawaii on my mind and that a string of flowers was starting to look different. Today, the door just opened up. The USA visa was approved for my friend who will...
- May 18th 32 parts, The Path Of Purification and The Grateful Dead32 parts, The Path Of Purification and The Grateful DeadIf anyone would like to guess what 32 parts meditation looks like to the practitioner, it does not look like this, but it gives a good idea...
- April 29th About two weeks ago, on my way to Yangon, I had a chance to see Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock) since…About two weeks ago, on my way to Yangon, I had a chance to see Kyaiktiyo Pagoda(Golden Rock) since my ride was going there. It is a major tourist attraction, yet after eight years total, it was my...
- April 28th Getting Ahead in 3DGetting Ahead in 3DLately, I have been interested in the Free Open Source Software package called Blender. The software had a reputation for being difficult to learn and not so good. While it is...
- April 27th If anyone is interested in reading up on great organization. This one seems to be very good. I have …If anyone is interested in reading up on great organization. This one seems to be very good. I have read their newsletters for quite a while. There were some things I ethically opposed to and do not...
- April 21st Aren’t photo editors great? I remember when we used film and paper and had to pay for pictures!Aren't photo editors great?I remember when we used film and paper and had to pay for pictures! This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- April 16th Gravity Payments founder Dan Price cuts his salary from $US1m to $US70k, doubles staff wagesGravity Payments founder Dan Price cuts his salary from $US1m to $US70k, doubles staff wages This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- April 15th Thumbs Up For HitchhikingThumbs Up For HitchhikingHere is a story about receiving Metta when I was hitchhiking for the first time at age fourteen. We have only two more stories left in the queue to be published. Your stories...
- April 12th Text posted by imron yousuf. At https://plus.google.com/117415869687509148486 “Very little has been …Text posted by imron yousuf. At https://plus.google.com/117415869687509148486 "Very little has been said about this…..On December 2, Basque athlete Iván Fernández Anaya was competing in a...
- April 11th I am feeling really happy..like my feet are not really touching the ground today! My dream to be a monk…I am feeling really happy..like my feet are not really touching the ground today!My dream to be a monk and live in Hawaii, which specifically changed to Kauai, that started in 1999 might come true. I...
- April 9th They might be GiantsStory about child monks who take robes. They will grow up and become...
- April 6th Before and After Water FilterBefore and After Water FilterI have been using this water filter for about a month or so now. It is working well and I have not had brown water days yet! I was going to leave because of the water and...
- April 5th Trying second time to get picture.. I think this worked.Trying second time to get picture.. I think this worked. Wide And Shining Eyes Wide And Shining Eyes It was in 2011 when I came with my ex-wife to Myanmar. In Yangon, there are many begging...
- April 4th Withmetta.net is backWithmetta.net is back with a new interface! Only two stories left and I wrote one of those two! Here is a simple story about giving. I encourage you to write many stories. There is no limit and they...
- April 2nd The Old Fashion Fire-Line MethodThe Old Fashion Fire-Line MethodWithout a concrete truck, you need many volunteers to work in a concrete fire-line to pour concrete. Bucket by bucket, the task gets completed. I have never seen or...
- March 27th I Got Kauai On My MindI Got Kauai On My Mind Monks have often lived in the King's Parks during the time of the Buddha, yet few or maybe none actually do it these days. I have been thinking much about going to Kauai,...
- March 27th 2015 Pa-Auk Retreat in a new Maymyo Section?2015 Pa-Auk Retreat in a new Maymyo Section?A 2015 retreat is rumoured to happen in Maymyo, Pa-Auk Branch with Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawkyi. There are 3 Pa-auk Maymyo monasteries right next to each...
- March 25th It really does take a truck load of rice to feed Pa-Auk YogisIt really does take a truck load of rice to feed Pa-Auk YogisTwo large cargo trucks deliver truck loads of rice to the Pa-Auk rice storage building. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 17th My website account http://withmetta.net has been hacked and shutdown.My website account http://withmetta.net has been hacked and shutdown. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 16th A Counterfeit Mitsubishi TruckA Counterfeit Mitsubishi Truck was found in Pa-Auk Forest Monastery. I had my doubts,...
- March 15th InterestingInteresting Tiny Bubble Shelters Evelyne Adam builds tiny lime and hemp bubble shelters in France. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 13th Myanmar has only Two SyllablesMyanmar has only Two SyllablesMyan-Mar. From Wikipedia:mjɑːnˌmɑr/ myahn-mar, /ˈmaɪænmɑr/ or/ˈmjænmɑr ???? People often mispronounce Myanmar with three syllables, so I decided to make...
- March 11th Here is a story about a worker in an automobile assembly factory who was fearful about following through…Here is a story about a worker in an automobile assembly factory who was fearful about following through with his plans to go to Myanmar until he was inspired by his newly made friend, Nay Myo who...
- March 10th Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawkyi in America at Abhayagiri Monastery.Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawkyi in America at Abhayagiri Monastery. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 7th This medicine was given to to the monks in the alms food line. I took it (to my kuti) just to make a…This medicine was given to to the monks in the alms food line. I took it (to my kuti) just to make a picture of it. I will try to donate them to the clinic. I am just glad that Ken Kesey doesn't...
- March 6th This is Awesome! You should read this! I can’t wait to sign him for our team!This is Awesome! You should read this! I can't wait to sign him for our team! Top MLB prospect lives by his own rules — in a van He throws 96. He’s the Jays’ No. 1 prospect....
- March 5th A small kuti on the way to the “learning center” where I keep my Sim.A small kuti on the way to the "learning center" where I keep my Sim. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 4th Here is a nice story to warm up your Winter.Here is a nice story to warm up your Winter. Lending A Hand | With Metta A car in the snow. By Adam Glick. This winter Boston set a record for snow and cold. We had nearly 5 feet of snow in 3...
- March 2nd That Little Itch Might Be Telling You SomethingThat Little Itch Might Be Telling You SomethingA famous tagline when I grew up for the famous dandruff shampoo which can actually be a fungus. (The active ingredients of such shampoos are often...
- March 1st Here is a small storey on giving. Please send your stories! Everyone is very happy after they write …Here is a small storey on giving. Please send your stories! Everyone is very happy after they write and share. Sharing and Caring. | With Metta December 26, 2014. I want to share something that...
- February 27th My mother sent me this for Valentine’s Day.My mother sent me this for Valentine's Day. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- February 27th Razors and SwitchbladesRazors and SwitchbladesThese are the types of razors that most monks use in Myanmar. I used one of these for about eight years with one of the sides modified so it did not having the safety bar. We...
- February 19th Dinner For OneDinner For OneA simple story where a donation to a beggar on a New York City subway turned into a lasting memory that touched his heart. While not all donations turn into lasting memories, some do....
- February 16th It Looks Like It Is BronzeIt Looks Like It Is Bronze The Ashoka pillar has become the Pa-Auk logo over time and it was originally initiated by U Dhamminda for one of Sayadawkyi's books when he was a monk in the 90's....
- February 10th With Metta WebsiteWith Metta Website. http://withmetta.net New website. Do you have a Metta story?Please Reshare! With Metta Website With Metta Website. Personal Stories Containing Acts of Loving-kindness. This...
- February 7th Today is my monk anniversary from February 7th, 2001. I reset my ordination in 2007. I am quite happy…Today is my monk anniversary from February 7th, 2001. I reset my ordination in 2007. I am quite happy with my decision to ordain. This day is more important than my birthday. This was posted on...
- February 3rd Donation Day today at Pa-Auk. This is a time where all of the teachers come together from the 29 local…Donation Day today at Pa-Auk.This is a time where all of the teachers come together from the 29 local Myanmar monasteries. There are 11monasteries abroad if you want to count the USA branch.This is...
- February 1st Making the bowl black. I got mine recently done at the blacksmith shop! Pa-Auk Monastery, Mawlamyine…Making the bowl black. I got mine recently done at the blacksmith shop!Pa-Auk Monastery, Mawlamyine, Myanmar This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 31st There are rumors that Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawkyi will be coming to Pa-Auk Tawya main for the famous…There are rumors that Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadawkyi will be coming to Pa-Auk Tawya main for the famous February meeting of teachers. Venerable Sayadawkyi is still in Vietnam and will continue to be in...
- January 27th A Monk Working In The Umbrella Repair ShopA Monk Working In The Umbrella Repair ShopKuti #1, The Kuti VillagePa-Auk Forest Monastery Main, Mawlamyine, Mon State Myanmar Quote from "Going For Broke". (Different monk in picture....
- January 19th Rote in ActionRote in ActionThe monk on the left was reciting while his friend checked to see if he was correct. Here, he made a mistake and his friend is pointing it out to him. Not only can the young monks read...
- January 17th I bet these flowers are expensive in the West!I bet these flowers are expensive in the West! This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 16th Comprehensive Manual of Abhidhamma, A – PDF eBookComprehensive Manual of Abhidhamma, A – PDF eBook This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 11th A monk practices by rote memory in the learning hall. I call it “The Shouting Room” Take a listen to…A monk practices by rote memory in the learning hall. I call it "The Shouting Room"Take a listen to what the room sounds like. Here…...
- January 9th This is a picture of today’s Alms round at the villages surrounding Varanasi Monastery. The rice is …This is a picture of today's Alms round at the villages surrounding Varanasi Monastery. The rice is put into the bowls and the curries are collected separately by the helpers or our young monks....
- January 8th This is how monks or anybody traditionally learns something by rote memory. The monks will usually do…This is how monks or anybody traditionally learns something by rote memory. The monks will usually do this for eight or nine hours per day. This shot was from Varanasi Monastery in Yangon area. ...
- January 8th This is what I knew and trusted when I invited the Muslims to come to Pa-Auk. I hope that all religions…This is what I knew and trusted when I invited the Muslims to come to Pa-Auk. I hope that all religions including Buddhists can denounce any violence done in their own name. By doing this, people...
- January 4th I can claim personally that meditation improved my academics. I did very poorly in school and SAT. However…I can claim personally that meditation improved my academics. I did very poorly in school and SAT. However, after I meditated regularly, I graduated university with a 3.54 cumulative GPA at my...
- January 3rd Another novice monk at Varanasi Monastery.Another novice monk at Varanasi Monastery. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 2nd A novice monk carries water.A novice monk carries water. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 2nd The Cob Summer HouseThe Cob Summer House This is a 9 step picture guide to building an tiny cob summer house. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 1st I too had this problem when I flew to the USA on British Airways in 2008, but I have never delayed a…I too had this problem when I flew to the USA on British Airways in 2008, but I have never delayed a plane for this problem. Actually, it was my monastic friend who was travelling with me who was put...
- December 31st I am staying a Varanasi Monastery. It is a monastery that follows the rules closely. There are many …I am staying a Varanasi Monastery. It is a monastery that follows the rules closely. There are many adorable little monks here, about 25. There are about 15 adult monks too. This place is a Nepalese...
- December 29th A classic picture of the Pa-Auk novice monks from 2004. The young (and adorable) monks were moved to…A classic picture of the Pa-Auk novice monks from 2004. The young (and adorable) monks were moved to a center in Mahemyine. It is certainly one of my all time favorite top ten pictures from Pa-Auk. I...
- December 28th Otoscope In The Monk's ClinicOtoscope In The Monk's ClinicIt is always nice to see something that I arranged being used in the clinic as standard equipment.I am sure the donor of the clinic itself feels a hundred times...
- December 27th This video was so good, I had to verify it was available on youtube before giving it to friendsThis video was so good, I had to verify it was available on youtube before giving it to friendsA friend came here with this video predownloaded (as most downloads in Myanmar, with our connection...
- December 21st The Construction of Mettavihari Female Meditation HallThe Construction of Mettavihari Female Meditation HallI normally shrink the size of my posted pictures. However, I left this one as the original so you can play with it. Go ahead and zoom in and move...
- December 16th A classic picture of Pa-AukA classic picture of Pa-AukThe details of the photo dates it in 2008, but I think that was just the date of the picture cd because I have seen this made into a vinal poster before I left in 2007.A...
- December 13th Oily food anyone? Pa-Auk Foreigners are prepared special foreigner food because the local food often…Oily food anyone?Pa-Auk Foreigners are prepared special foreigner food because the local food often looks like this. However, unknown to most foreigners, the local monks do not get much curry with...
- December 12th I recently saw a usa ten dollar bill! It looks different from 1999.I recently saw a usa ten dollar bill! It looks different from 1999. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- December 9th A donor as the nuns resceive rice in Pa-Auk VillageA donor as the nuns resceive rice in Pa-Auk VillageA few times per year, as part of a tradition, the whole monastery goes to the village to collect raw rice. The monks are assisted by school children...
- December 7th Here is another picture of alms round in Intakkaw from last year.Here is another picture of alms round in Intakkaw from last year. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- December 1st Table for One-nessTable for One-nessMy friend fixed up a tree block and made a table and chair from it. Pa-Auk, Myanmar This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 27th Utopian AvenueUtopian AvenueWhen I was seventeen, not long after I started to question life's purpose, I wrote a song called "Utopian Avenue," about a place where a road exists with people walking...
- November 25th Muddy Waters BluesMuddy Waters BluesEvery so often the water tank on the mountain goes empty and the water looks like this!It is only iron oxide but it is a bit freaky especially when it is black color, which it was...
- November 24th Sunday night we had an English Dhamma-talk with Sayadaw U Kovida. The new FM Transmitters were used …Sunday night we had an English Dhamma-talk with Sayadaw U Kovida. The new FM Transmitters were used for simultaneous Vietnamese (102 MHz) and Chinese (101MHz) translations. We also used one...
- November 22nd Robe OfferingRobe OfferingLast night was the recitation of the rules (patimokkha) for the Uposatha. These days, we get some type of gifts after the meeting. The Thai donors, who are often seen on the daily meal...
- November 20th A Dying BreedA Dying BreedAs Myanmar modernizes and loses its culture, these pony-carts become more rare to see. In 2001, when I first came here, they were common to see. Now, I think I have seen this two or...
- November 18th The Dragon ChairThe Dragon ChairNot many people appreciate this chair like a Westerner would. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 16th I just got 1 otoscope and 4 portable FM transmitters that I requested. Transport, as always, was the…I just got 1 otoscope and 4 portable FM transmitters that I requested. Transport, as always, was the most complicated task! These should help make things easier. I love making great ideas come to...
- November 15th Kuti ConstructionKuti ConstructionNormally, a kuti is a small empty hut. However, these days, at Pa-Auk, many really-really nice kuties are being built. I grabbed this photo when I saw a monk fiddling with pictures...
- November 13th Alms Round in IntakkawAlms Round in IntakkawHere is a picture from my Intakkaw trip last year. The girl on the bicycle was actually a kitchen worker for the monastery. She helped prepare breakfast for us and also prepared...
- November 6th A View Of The Sangha HospitalA View Of The Sangha HospitalHere are some pictures of the Sangha Hospital Ward on Mawlamyine. The hospital does not smell like a hospital because of the open air design. The last picture is the...
- November 6th A portrait of two monks and three kidneys. U Pandicca recently left…and then there were two.A portrait of two monks and three kidneys.U Pandicca recently left…and then there were two. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 4th A Sidecar ScooterA Sidecar ScooterMade in Myanmar. I have seen 10 or more school children ride in one of these during my stay in Intakkaw near Yangon. Taxis can often be a 2 wheeled scooter where you and another ride...
- November 2nd What Halloween is likeWhat Halloween is like (Alms story inside) Since a good chunk of you are not American, I thought it would be fun to reshare this Halloween picture direct from my hometown in West Hartford, CT. The...
- October 30th My friend U Pandicca recently came for a visit next door at Sayadaw U Obhasa’s kuti. He will he here…My friend U Pandicca recently came for a visit next door at Sayadaw U Obhasa's kuti. He will he here for one week and then return to Yangon for his studies. He has recently returned from India...
- October 27th Quote on about Apples and Razors and the gullible who listen to the MediaQuote on about Apples and Razors and the gullible who listen to the MediaI remember my time as a youth inspecting and eating candy as though it were like I was eating fish with hidden bones....
- October 27th Since Halloween Is ApproachingSince Halloween Is ApproachingI thought I would mention that monks often get apples and razor blades when we collect our food at Pau-Auk.:-) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 24th The Wooden Sounding BlockThe Wooden Sounding Block in front of the Sima on top of Cittalapabbata HillBecause there are so many pillars and a rear view photo would either put me off the cliff, or poke my eye out, I have...
- October 22nd A notice I posted for our guest rice serversA notice I posted for our guest rice servers (Story Below)Someone asked me how things went with the Muslim guests since I did not make a followup so quickly. If you missed what happened, you can go...
- October 17th American Pa-Auk Center?American Pa-Auk Center?Ven Pa-auk Sayadawkyi recently sent me a letter inviting me to go to America and support the "American Pa-Auk Center" in California, with one-way airfare included. I...
- October 8th My family shared half the meals for approximately 1200 monks, nuns and yogis for lunch and breakfast…My family shared half the meals for approximately 1200 monks, nuns and yogis for lunch and breakfast on Oct 8th at Pa-Auk. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 8th Mission Success! More later..Mission Success! More later.. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 7th Some wish for peace, I make it happenSome wish for peace, I make it happen (story below)I just got back from inviting 2 Muslims to serve at the head of the meal line for Tomorrow’s lunch at Pa-Auk. Everyone thought I was crazy and...
- October 5th Malawmyine Sangha HospitalMalawmyine Sangha HospitalI went to the hospital for an OPT visit to get my ear checked at the ENT unit. We ate at the Sangha hospital ward which was fairly empty. It is an open air hospital and the...
- October 4th Ven Sayadawkyi’s kuti at Pa-Auk MainVen Sayadawkyi's kuti at Pa-Auk Main This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 1st Humpty Dumpty is back together againHumpty Dumpty is back together again(And it works too). In Myanmar, cars are often recycled many times over due to the high import taxes and the low salaries. Probably less than $150 to do all of...
- September 27th The Message From Long AgoThe Message From Long Ago I was recently interviewed by Skynet television. The monk in charge of foreigners tracked me down for an interview. I originally refused to climb up the Mountain for an...
- September 25th The "Beverly Hills" Section of Pa-AukThe "Beverly Hills" Section of Pa-AukThis is my neighborhood. Over the years, the price of wood had skyrocketed, and concrete kuties have become the new standard. However, that does not...
- September 23rd Flower Art Served on a Bowl CoverFlower Art Served on a Bowl CoverThe middle flowers go bad within a few hours. It is a good prop for the reflection on impermanence."Sabbe sankhārā aniccā'ti" This was posted on...
- September 21st Which part is the car? Which part of you is you?Which part is the car? Which part of you is you?A Buddhist classic to explain "The Self and Not Self Paradox." The Pa-Auk Garage was working on the Pa-Auk SUV and I could not help...
- September 19th 3D Buddha3D BuddhaI borrowed this Buddha from a friend's kuti for a little while. The Buddha you see is actually a mold of a Buddha. The eyes create this 3D effect with the inverted statue that will...
- September 13th New Pa-Auk Thailand MonasteryNew Pa-Auk Thailand MonasteryPicture of location in An-ton 2 hours from Bangkok.The sima was officially completed (by vinaya transaction) about 6 months ago.To complete a legal vinaya transaction,...
- September 11th Knowledge of Microphones, Knowledge of MeaningKnowledge of Microphones, Knowledge of MeaningThe last two patimokkha recitations have been clear sounding without feedback (except when they were playing with the controls). All is due to my recent...
- September 9th Alter States of MindAlter States of Mind♥♥♥If you look at the center of the picture, you will see a transparent pink heart!I did not notice this until I prepared this post. Very cool!♥♥♥This was going to be...
- September 6th UmbrellasUmbrellas — Excerpt from Going For Broke from "Walkman Karaoke" (2004) Rainy Season is luckily my favorite. I love all five months of it. It is the perfect temperature also, not too...
- September 4th Little Wing Strikes AgainLittle Wing Strikes AgainMy cardboard paper sign that goes around my 20L water bottle for refill identification was soggy from the rain, and so I threw it away a few days ago. I thought internally to...
- September 1st Abhidhamma Lesson #7. See http://Subhuti.net.tf So What Is Samādhi? Is now released as PDF,epub,and …Abhidhamma Lesson #7. See http://Subhuti.net.tfSo What Is Samādhi? Is now released as PDF,epub,and mobi (I did not test my links..too slow)If you had been following my posts, you would know that I...
- August 31st News: I have been working on some old projects which need some detail but they are nearly finished. …News:I have been working on some old projects which need some detail but they are nearly finished.1.Samadhi Chapter will be released in the next few days. Around..15pages2.Paauk Chanting Book...
- August 29th This free software is awesome for making audio books from text files.This free software is awesome for making audio books from text files. Balabolka Balabolka is a text-to-speech program (freeware). This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- August 29th Hepatitis VaccinationHepatitis VaccinationThe whole monastery has been offered a Hepetitus-B vaccine (nuns and yogis included). I recently had my second dose. According to wikipedia, after the third dose, I won't...
- August 27th Water Cooling TeaWater Cooling TeaA common ineffective way to cool tea is to pour the tea back and forth into two cups. A better way is to use the thermal mass of water to cool your tea. By placing it in a bowl of...
- August 23rd Cats really really really love nori seaweedCats really really really love nori seaweedWe were served a huge bag of nori today (now a few days ago) which was impossible to finish. I gave the cats half. They really really really loved it. It...
- August 22nd A List Of The Foreigner YogisA List Of The Foreigner YogisSomeone recently asked how many foreigners are here at Pa-Auk and could not find my old post. This is the list from last month. There are probably some more added since...
- August 22nd She's Got A Ticket To RideShe's Got A Ticket To RideI remember when I was in Colombo, Sri Lanka taking a bus in order to renew my visa at the immigration office. In Sri Lanka, they have special coupons for monks to ride...
- August 20th This time I askedThis time I asked the lady who was giving out unlabeled pills in the alms food line what it was. "B12," she said.I popped it in my mouth and woke up in the same Matrix just as before....
- August 20th Chanting, Flowers and Possible OriginsChanting, Flowers and Possible Origins I found what seems to be a perpetual flower source and have been doing chanting on a regular basis. I have been inviting other monks to join me in my kuti and...
- August 15th Tears Of JoyTears Of JoyI had arranged for a pedometer for Sayadaw U Revata as an idea to get him to walk more. As Sayadaws become more busy and famous, they get driven in a car to where they need to speak or...
- August 14th Yogi Gregory (previously Bhikkhu U Dhaminda) recently came to deliver a new Sure sm58 microphone that…Yogi Gregory (previously Bhikkhu U Dhaminda) recently came to deliver a new Sure sm58 microphone that should not give feedback loops to the PA system during Patimokkha. It was recommended by a famous...
- August 12th It Is Never Too Late Part IIIt Is Never Too Late Part IIVenerable PannyaGavesaka was ordained at the age of 62 and is known as the Assistant Librarian and is often known as "everybody's friend."He went to Clifton...
- August 10th Abhidhamma Lesson #6Abhidhamma Lesson #6 is now released.See subhuti.net.tf for the PDF file. (tf is for Antarctic French Territories)The new lesson covers more information on Material Realities.The lesson on Samādhi...
- August 9th Flowers From Long AgoFlowers From Long AgoI remember the one time in my lay life when a woman brought me flowers, and for no particular reason either. I had her over my place a few times to play guitar. She was just...
- August 7th Some New Artwork For The Abhidhamma BookSome New Artwork For The Abhidhamma BookI have been delaying the release of the Abhidhamma lessons 5b and 6 because I wanted to add artwork to the chapter pictures instead of the Google pictures and...
- August 2nd Early Morning RoundsEarly Morning RoundsA picture of another group of monks going on alms round during my own early morning alms in Intakkaw, Myanmar. November, 2013. One of my many reason for being a monk, besides...
- August 1st The Bhikkhuni Revival According To Orthodox TheravadaThe Bhikkhuni Revival According To Orthodox Theravada Why Pick-shoo-me? Please see http://subhuti.net.tf/venaggacitta.htmlHere is a document I requested from Venerable Aggacitta of SBS in Malaysia....
- July 30th The rain was falling hard this past evening. The electricity was out as usual. I was doing some chanting…The rain was falling hard this past evening. The electricity was out as usual. I was doing some chanting in my kuti and this was what it looked like. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- July 28th I saw a newly ordained bhikkhu near the “Pre-leftovers” table. I asked him how he was doing and he said…I saw a newly ordained bhikkhu near the "Pre-leftovers" table. I asked him how he was doing and he said to me. "I am doing much better mentally, physically and energetically. No...
- July 24th Cats Like To Eat CornCats Like To Eat CornDid you know that cats like corn? Try it, or let them try it. Dogs really like corn too (leave it on the cob). Dogs like just about anything and can survive well on a vegetarian...
- July 21st Better Late Than NeverBetter Late Than NeverSome people believe they are too old to become a monk. Venerable Ashin Nandasara ordained at age 55 and has accumulated 30 Rains which is very special among monks who ordain at...
- July 18th Monks' RobesMonks' RobesThis scene is easily recognizable to be the area close to the Upper Meditation Hall, located halfway up the mountain. Long ago, I camped out inside that hall for about two years with...
- July 13th I just wrote a chapter explaining samadhi based on Abhidhamma.I just wrote a chapter explaining samadhi based on Abhidhamma. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- July 13th My friend from Ukraine came for a short visit. This was a picture in India.My friend from Ukraine came for a short visit. This was a picture in India. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- July 9th Monasterynote5Monasterynote5: Walkman KaraokeHere is an excerpt from Walkman Karaoke, a story from a collection I wrote from 1999 to 2006 entitled, Going For Broke. Often, these stories would be sent out to family...
- July 7th According to the Buddhist texts: After coming back from alms round, we should put the extra food we …According to the Buddhist texts: After coming back from alms round, we should put the extra food we will not eat aside for the bhikkhus who come later and need it. They too can take from or donate to...
- July 4th It is not just a job, it's Right LivelihoodIt is not just a job, it's Right Livelihood.A kitchen worker makes an aspiration after delivering the day's meal to the Pa-Auk Upper Monastery, Myanmar.Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This...
- July 4th Abhidhamma Lesson Five is now releasedAbhidhamma Lesson Five is now released on a website (very primitive)Updated version from last post but mostly the samehttp://www.subhuti.net.tf/Index.html Reshares and Comments are Welcome! Below is...
- July 2nd Abhidhamma Lesson Five is now releasedAbhidhamma Lesson Five is now released in PDF on my drive. Reshares and Comments are Welcome! Lesson Five explains Abhidhamma Vitthis or "Mental Processing Cycles.". It is not the most...
- June 25th The line for a single day’s meal at monks’ alms hall at Pa-Auk Main Monastery, Myanmar. Photos by Yogi…The line for a single day's meal at monks' alms hall at Pa-Auk Main Monastery, Myanmar.Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 21st Future PostsFuture PostsI have been doing quite a bit of 3 finger pecking on my tablet lately. Enough pecking to finally borrow a Pa-Auk communal keyboard from the computer room, but only after completing 67+...
- June 18th It really does take a truckload of food to feed the monks at the Upper Monastery. Pa-Auk Main Monastery…It really does take a truckload of food to feed the monks at the Upper Monastery. Pa-Auk Main Monastery, Myanmar.(about 60 percent of the residents are at the Upper Monastery. The Lower Monastery...
- June 16th One of the four rows of bowl washing sinks at the monk’s eating hall at Pa-Auk Main Monastery, Myanmar…One of the four rows of bowl washing sinks at the monk's eating hall at Pa-Auk Main Monastery, Myanmar.Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 13th Here are a few pictures of the wood and sawdust powered stoves used yo cook for 1000-2000 residents …Here are a few pictures of the wood and sawdust powered stoves used yo cook for 1000-2000 residents at Pa-Auk Monastery.Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 5th The Whispers of Little WingThe Whispers of Little WingA few days ago, I read in Susan Blackmore's book about how people believe that coincidental happenings are acts of gods, spirits, or even worse, something they...
- June 4th Delivery to Pa-Auk Kitchen. Photo by Yogi Bram (Belgium)Delivery to Pa-Auk Kitchen.Photo by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 2nd Often, different types of unlabelled pills land on our bowl cover plates while we are passing through…Often, different types of unlabelled pills land on our bowl cover plates while we are passing through the alms food line. Some are obvious like Flax Seed or Fish Oil, but this one has me stumped. ...
- June 1st Can water be felt? An Introduction To Material Realities And The Sense Of TouchCan water be felt? An Introduction To Material Realities And The Sense Of Touch. You can try to read this post cold, or you may read the previous three posts at my page....
- June 1st During the kitchen preparation time, the females were meditating in their separate three story meditation…During the kitchen preparation time, the females were meditating in their separate three story meditation hall. Work is optional and may need special permission to do so. 10 Precept Nuns can ordain...
- May 31st The famous Tree House at Pa-Auk. Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar. Photo by Yogi Bram (Belgium)The famous Tree House at Pa-Auk.Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar.Photo by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 29th Rice for Pa-Auk Forest MonasteryRice for Pa-Auk Forest Monastery. 2 steam generators for 4 steamers. Wood powered. The first two are door opened. The second two are hoisted by rope and pulley to open.Last picture is washing more...
- May 29th I had quite a bit of coconut oil on my robes after an Ayurveda Massage on the last day of my 10 night…I had quite a bit of coconut oil on my robes after an Ayurveda Massage on the last day of my 10 night fast. About half of the robe was discolored Detergent and hot water did not remove the oil and it...
- May 27th The women doing prep work outside the Pa-Auk kitchen. Different groups, different minds. Mawlamyine,…The women doing prep work outside the Pa-Auk kitchen. Different groups, different minds.Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar.Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 26th Some more worker portraits from the Pa-Auk kitchen. In general, the guys are paid workers and the women…Some more worker portraits from the Pa-Auk kitchen.In general, the guys are paid workers and the women are volunteers.Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar Photos by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted...
- May 25th Meet the Happy Cook ! Pa-Auk Forest Monastery Kitchen, Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar. Photo by Yogi…Meet the Happy Cook !Pa-Auk Forest Monastery Kitchen, Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar.Photo by Yogi Bram (Belgium) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 25th A few nuns sorting through the rice. (Probably to remove stones). Photos by yogi Bram (Belgium).A few nuns sorting through the rice. (Probably to remove stones).Photos by yogi Bram (Belgium). This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 24th Kitchen for 1,000 to 2,000 Residents OverviewKitchen for 1,000 to 2,000 Residents OverviewA layperson and myself took a trip to the lower monastery to take some pictures of the kitchen process.I will be sharing several posts from time to time...
- May 24th Abhidhamma Post #3Abhidhamma Post #3:If you were to go into the task manager of your computer, you would see an idle proceeds running. This is necessary to keep the computer operating system running when it is not in...
- May 22nd Although I do not see myself posting anymore on the Buddhist and Spiritual CommunitiesAlthough I do not see myself posting anymore on the Buddhist and Spiritual Communities, you are welcome to reshare my posts in your communities or your gplus pages yourself. These will be posted on...
- May 21st Kuti portrait at Pa-Auk Forest Monastery, Mawlamyine, Mon State, MyanmarKuti portrait at Pa-Auk Forest Monastery, Mawlamyine, Mon State, Myanmar This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 20th 3-Year-Old Remembers Past Life, Identifies Murderer and Location of Body – The Epoch Times3-Year-Old Remembers Past Life, Identifies Murderer and Location of Body – The Epoch Times A 3-year-old boy in the Golan Heights region near the border of Syria and Israel said he was murdered...
- May 20th A small view of the Pa-Auk Nun’s Kuti Village.A small view of the Pa-Auk Nun's Kuti Village. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- May 18th I liked this idea!I liked this idea! Anonymous Saudi Man Has A Beautifully Simple Idea To Feed The Poor Sometimes, making a difference can be shockingly simple. A man living in the city of Hail, Saudi Arabia, came...
- May 12th Abhidhamma Post 2Abhidhamma Post 2The mind is singular and digital without mixing.The Theravada Abhidhamma says that no two minds can occurs at the same time. Before, I had related the sense doors not occurring at...
- April 30th Cooking With A PaddleCooking With A PaddleDuring our mahadana (big donation day) celebration at Pa-Auk Meditation Centre in February, the population was over 3,000. Our kitchen was in overflow...
- April 20th Sayadawgyi finished his six day Dhamma Talk series in Myanmar Language on The Brahmanimantanika Sutta…Sayadawgyi finished his six day Dhamma Talk series in Myanmar Language on The Brahmanimantanika Sutta. His first words were about America and the wrong views about Buddhism there. He shouted his...
- April 20th Sayadawgyi scheduled one day for English Q&A. I was chosen by Saydawgyi impromptu to sift through all…Sayadawgyi scheduled one day for English Q&A. I was chosen by Saydawgyi impromptu to sift through all of the questions and rephrase them so they could be understood. Not an easy task, but I was...
- April 14th Sayadawgyi is at Pa-Auk Tawya. We are so glad to see him back! Population has grown to 2000 from 1000…Sayadawgyi is at Pa-Auk Tawya. We are so glad to see him back! Population has grown to 2000 from 1000 in the past month. Sayadawgyi, and many others will leave after the water festival ends. This...
- April 14th Here is a picture of the translation of Ven. Pa-Auk Sayadaw’s Dhamma talk with the fm mic. We used …Here is a picture of the translation of Ven. Pa-Auk Sayadaw's Dhamma talk with the fm mic. We used the mic from Thailand with a 100 ft range. Just anybody in the hall could passively tune in...
- April 12th Here is a picture of a temporary novice monk (Samanera) from Scotland at our roadside Bodhi Tree. Pa…Here is a picture of a temporary novice monk (Samanera) from Scotland at our roadside Bodhi Tree. Pa-Auk is one of the few places in the world that follows the vinaya (code of rules) that will ordain...
- April 1st Here is an awesome picture showing the typical patimokkha recitation at Pa-Auk Meditation Center (from…Here is an awesome picture showing the typical patimokkha recitation at Pa-Auk Meditation Center (from February).The patimokkha is roughly a 45 page book of 227 rules that the monks must follow. They...
- March 29th Patimokkha picture from February.Patimokkha picture from February. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 20th Getting Alms At Pa-AukMy father asked me what the food was like. Here is a small video going through the alms-line at...
- March 19th A few days ago, a friend showed me a trick he “discovered.”. The side panel of our monk bags are usually…A few days ago, a friend showed me a trick he "discovered.". The side panel of our monk bags are usually double layer and are sewed in a way that a simple cut and hem will create a nifty...
- March 14th 3 Story Dormitory @ Pa-Auk. 80 kuties with private bath. The last picture is the Solar Clothes Dryer…3 Story Dormitory @ Pa-Auk.80 kuties with private bath.The last picture is the Solar Clothes Dryer (no carbon credit) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- March 14th Natural Dying at Pa-Auk. (tree bark) Picture List: 1. Wood stove made from a steel barrel. 2. Feeding…Natural Dying at Pa-Auk. (tree bark)Picture List: 1. Wood stove made from a steel barrel. 2. Feeding the stove. 3. The Brew. 4. The brew2 5.Pouring. 6.Rolling. 7. Rolling VidNew batches are made...
- March 9th This photographer came to Pa-Auk recently to shoot some pictures. He is really goooood. One or two…This photographer came to Pa-Auk recently to shoot some pictures. He is really goooood. One or two pictures from Pa-auk will be added next month. Jon Kolkin Fine Art Photography When someone...
- March 5th Sayadaw U Revata is my favorite teacher (Next to The Most Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw (U Acinna) ) http…Sayadaw U Revata is my favorite teacher (Next to The Most Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw (U Acinna) )http://revata-bhikkhu.orgThis site looks like it was created by Thai Devoteesanother site...
- February 23rd Repost of pic only of construction at paauk.Repost of pic only of construction at paauk. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- February 23rd Repost of one single vid small size. 13mb The new Meditation Hall for Lay Yogis in The Middle Monastery…Repost of one single vid small size. 13mbThe new Meditation Hall for Lay Yogis in The Middle Monastery of Pa-Auk Forest Monastery.Work days are rare and voluntary at Pa-Auk, so lots of preparation is...
- February 22nd More on the pariyatti cave monastery.More on the pariyatti cave monastery. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- February 20th Pariyatti (study) monastery near Nauyana, Sri LankaPariyatti (study) monastery near Nauyana, Sri Lanka This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- February 20th February 14th, Mahadana Day. We had approx 1300 Bhikkhus visiting. 667 monks stayed for patimokkha. …February 14th, Mahadana Day. We had approx 1300 Bhikkhus visiting. 667 monks stayed for patimokkha. Here is a picture of some monks who were early and waiting for the ceremony to begin. This was...
- February 14th 3 pics on transportation in Myanmar. 1. The taxes on cars are less expensive than before, but still…3 pics on transportation in Myanmar. 1. The taxes on cars are less expensive than before, but still expensive. For example, a used (legal) Toyota Land Cruiser may have cost $200,000 USD in 2001. To...
- February 7th Today, February 7th, is my ordination anniversary from 2001. I ordained under Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw…Today, February 7th, is my ordination anniversary from 2001. I ordained under Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw on the February full moon day for the purpose of liberation. I can still remember burning my...
- February 5th I just recieved a box of goodies from Thailand for the FM translation system. It has a new fm mic for…I just recieved a box of goodies from Thailand for the FM translation system. It has a new fm mic for our translation system along with 15 adapters and 10 extra headphones. The adapters will...
- February 1st Pa-Auk near the bottom.Pa-Auk near the bottom. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 29th Inside my kuti.#photographyInside my kuti.#photography This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 29th 20 percent of 500 acres at Pa-Auk20 percent of 500 acres at Pa-Auk This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 29th My neighborhood video. Better.My neighborhood video. Better. 1/29/14 – 1 My neighborhood video. Better. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 27th Here is a picture of my old kuti (#123) from 2001 to 2005. At that time nearly all kuties were what…Here is a picture of my old kuti (#123) from 2001 to 2005. At that time nearly all kuties were what we now call "Black Kuties." They are black because they were painted every so often...
- January 25th These are some stats on Pa-auk.These are some stats on Pa-auk. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 23rd In the early days of Pa-Auk, Sayalay Daw Ma (Shan) Canda used to give fruti to some of the regular monks…In the early days of Pa-Auk, Sayalay Daw Ma (Shan) Canda used to give fruti to some of the regular monks when it was difficult to come by without private supporters. Nearly every day, she was seen...
- January 20th This is where I eat lunch everyday at Pa-Auk Forest Monastery. (My kuti)This is where I eat lunch everyday at Pa-Auk Forest Monastery. (My kuti) This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 16th Pa auk is now well into the 600 monk range (bhikkhu + samanera).Pa auk is now well into the 600 monk range (bhikkhu + samanera). This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 11th Itbmu pics. I leave tonight.Itbmu pics. I leave tonight. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 9th OK, This was the first question for English competency. Try to figure out what to write! Yes, you bet…OK, This was the first question for English competency. Try to figure out what to write!Yes, you bet I asked and so did a lot of others. I should pass both the English and Buddhism sections. About 4...
- January 8th It looks as though I will sit for an entrance exam for ITBMU. I am here because of a medical problem…It looks as though I will sit for an entrance exam for ITBMU. I am here because of a medical problem and needed a place to stay in Yangon while I get some diagnostic tests done. The test is tomorrow,...
- January 6th I asked my Kappiya (a monk’s helper) if he wanted a pillow. He held up a Coke can and said, “No thanks…”I asked my Kappiya (a monk’s helper) if he wanted a pillow. He held up a Coke can and said, “No thanks.”After this picture was taken, he was soundly sleeping! Like this:Like...
- January 5th Pa-Auk Forest Meditation Centre (Meditation hall), Mawlamyine, Mon, Myanmar (Burma) – Google MapsPa-Auk Forest Meditation Centre (Meditation hall), Mawlamyine, Mon, Myanmar (Burma) – Google Maps This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 5th Here is Paauk. Click on the google earth to see the kutis.Here is Paauk. Click on the google earth to see the kutis. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- January 5th I just finished reading this book (slow). I recommend it highly.I just finished reading this book (slow).I recommend it highly. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Kahneman, Daniel (1st (first) Edition) [Hardcover(2011)]: Daniel Kahneman: Amazon.com: Books Thinking,...
- January 4th I remember Ven. Jinasiri when he was at Na Uyana. I learned a few things from him and spent a couple…I remember Ven. Jinasiri when he was at Na Uyana. I learned a few things from him and spent a couple of nights in the open forest (no net). Only a couple of nights, while this is his life. He...
- January 3rd On December 14th I returned to paauk main Mawlamyine. There was a Hawaiian drink on the day I arrived…On December 14th I returned to paauk main Mawlamyine.There was a Hawaiian drink on the day I arrived; Noni. In Hawaii, this fruit, by the same name, is known as, "Even if there is a...
- December 17th This was the picture to the link I posted yesterdayThis was the picture to the link I posted yesterday This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- December 17th This was from Pa Auk Mawlamyine befire I left for Intakaw. With over 500 monks, a fully operational …This was from Pa Auk Mawlamyine befire I left for Intakaw. With over 500 monks, a fully operational clinic is possible. Western Medicine Doctors come twice per week. A Dental Surgeon two or three...
- December 13th New door. Custom Stainless steel.New door. Custom Stainless steel. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- December 12th Just got 4 new toy fm microphones delivered. It is an idea I had to make simultaneous translations easier…Just got 4 new toy fm microphones delivered. It is an idea I had to make simultaneous translations easier. 15 feet range can accommodate 30 or so listeners. The translator can whisper into the mic...
- December 4th With only a gate on my door, I am hoping this will keep my snake away. It cuts the kuti frog population…With only a gate on my door, I am hoping this will keep my snake away.It cuts the kuti frog population in half. Frogs jump on top of the board and then sometimes get confused, or they are waiting for...
- December 2nd Good for my new visitors.Good for my new visitors. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- December 1st This non-legged creature was found in my kuti. The picture was shot from my bed about 6 feet away. …This non-legged creature was found in my kuti. The picture was shot from my bed about 6 feet away. As you can see, he came from the widely spaced floorboards. Sorry about the photo quality, I...
- November 29th A kuti is a monk’s residence. A kuti is a monk's residence. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 22nd For those of you who do not know what an Asian Shower isFor those of you who do not know what an Asian shower room looks like! This one is luxurious with a stainless steel water bowl! Ahhh!...
- November 22nd Here are some natural motifs done with rocks instead of tiles. The big one is my steps and the small…Here are some natural motifs done with rocks instead of tiles. The big one is my steps and the small one is my washroom. Maybe only suitable for wet areas (for cleaning). This was posted on...
- November 21st Call me slow, but a local put his peels under his meditation cushion. When we asked why, he said it …Call me slow, but a local put his peels under his meditation cushion. When we asked why, he said it would scare away the bugs. Then the thought occured to me that this similar to citronella oil....
- November 21st I like this book. I am at his monastery now. https://archive.org/details/UPNDAnapanasatifirstEditionI like this book. I am at his monastery now.https://archive.org/details/UPNDAnapanasatifirstEdition This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 18th Read the messgage. Nice to see things change, although it will twist the culture.Read the messgage. Nice to see things change, although it will twist the culture. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- November 16th Alms round in indakkaw.Alms round in indakkaw. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 30th Older VSM LinkHere is a link to a different English translation of the vissuddhimagga. https://archive.org/details/pathofpuritybein01budduoft/mode/2up Like this:Like...
- October 30th Tea is considered a medicine in most Theravada traditions and allowable after NOON. At Pa Auk, we are…Tea is considered a medicine in most Theravada traditions and allowable after NOON. At Pa Auk, we are NOT allowed tea after NOON because "medicines" should be for medical purposes....
- October 28th Dentist and dental chair several times per weekDentist and dental chair several times per week This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 23rd Traditional alms round, house by house. If it were not for the dogs and children(to tell the mothers…Traditional alms round, house by house. If it were not for the dogs and children(to tell the mothers), we would starve This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 23rd 80 foreinger monks attend weekly vinaya class by sayadaw u candima.80 foreinger monks attend weekly vinaya class by sayadaw u candima. https://pm12e.pali.tools/word/4190 https://pm12e.pali.tools/word/4189 https://pm12e.pali.tools/word/4083...
- October 23rd About 20% of 1006 residents are foreigners.About 20% of 1006 residents are foreigners. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- October 16th Every Wednesday and Sunday at Pa auk Main, Myanmar. No insurance required.Every Wednesday and Sunday at Pa auk Main, Myanmar. No insurance required. This was posted on Google+ Like this:Like...
- June 12th very beautiful videovery beautiful video A Glimpse of Na Uyana Forest Monastery This was shot at Na Uyana Forest Monastery, Sri Lanka in 2011 by Shanker Raman, Chasing Tales (India This was posted on Google+ Like...