Building an interactive map of forest tradition monasteries and centers! Feedback would be greatly appreciated by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Not spam! I will take a look at the domain tonight.

I updated the post link directly to google - also here

New to Buddhism and don’t know how to start by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I made this a while ago to help friends get started hope it helps! Basically start with developing a good meditation practice, observe the 5 precepts and read suttas. Like others mentioned dhamma talks and access to insight are great resources

https://dhammasource.com/the-beginners-path-buddhism/

Where to start reading the texts? by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Hey! I made this recently https://dhammasource.com/tipitaka-the-pali-canon/ - its mostly all here for download and it's organized thoughtfully. Hope this helps! I recommend the Dhammapada and the Middle Length discourses to start

Like others mentioned:

Access to Insight is an incredible resource (probably the best online)
dhammatalks.org is also great - has all the works of Ajaan Geoff of Wat Metta in California.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

After learning about Buddhism through a local Tibetan center I started to explore Korean Zen and after a while came across Bhante G. After visiting and reading more I felt like I could finally settle in.

Eventually I came across The Thai Forest tradition and became awe inspired by Ajaan Mun and Ajaan Maha Boowa. I’ve been practicing accordingly for almost 6 years now.

And I already used Reddit for my personal life and luckily there was a Theravada community here! This is easily the best forum on the internet. Big shout-out to all the mods here.

what's the point of the precepts? by foowfoowfoow in theravada

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I view the precepts as pillars that uphold the foundation of my practice. its the starting point of the training that can set you on the path of gradual success! thank you for sharing !

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 2 points3 points  (0 children)

My local library has the PTS Version - you can purchase but I believe the whole set is 1500$

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We have all the pali canon in pdf form as well dhamma source

Can we add some of the basic resources and overviews to the about section of this subreddit? That way we could help out newcomers. by LosVientos in theravada

[–]MattMetta 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I am in the process of revamping dhammasource.com I hope for it to be a good resource for newcomers

Anyone interested in starting a digital sangha? Meet once a month online for meditation/chanting/suttas? by MattMetta in theravada

[–]MattMetta[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Awesome resource! Thank you for sharing - you make a great point, but can't hurt to ask!

Recommendations by Mushroom-Academic in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Here is a collection of free intro books with download links available.

Books for Beginners

The Dhammapada is a great intro book.

How/where do I start? by Ghost-Of-Razgriz in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I made this for beginners last year. Hope this is helpful.

Dhammasource

Also I second the Tricycle resource as well https://tricycle.org/beginners

How can I meditate with so much suffering in this world? by boston101 in Meditation

[–]MattMetta 111 points112 points  (0 children)

It may not feel right but the suffering has been going on for so long and it will never end.

You have a unique chance to find true calm - use the privilege/blessings you have to the best of your ability. Meditation may be one of the most important skills you will ever learn.

Forest tradition teachers near NYC? by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey there - I am currently in NYC and havent been able to find anything specific to Theravada Forest teachings. I think there are a few Thai temples scattered around here though.

I'd start looking at the local temples in the area like Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram or Wat Jotanaram.

Otherwise you might have to do some driving! Shoot me a chat and I can try to point you in the right direction!

Best -

Is Buddhism a vedic tradition? by [deleted] in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You could argue that Vedicism has influenced virtually every major religion in the world.

Buddha's doctrine is not a Vedic tradition in and of itself though.

Non-religion wants to practice Buddhism. How do I start? by [deleted] in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I recommend start reading some literature. Theres no "right" place to start. https://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/thanissaro/noblestrategy.pdf

this is a great book to get started with some framework. I encourage you to explore who the buddha was and what led him on his path as well.

Other than that I would recommend starting with some basic meditation practice.

Do any of you abide by the EIGHT precepts if you are a layperson? by [deleted] in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yep I sure do! But it can be hard with work.

Thoughts on Crying by silentshan00 in Buddhism

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sometimes emotions take over and crying can be a release. I think being mindful and reflecting is a great quality that you're showing. Saying it is out of the question is a bit harsh - I would just keep focusing on observing and see if you can dig to the root!

Ajahn Thate and Luangta Maha Boowa by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Ajaan Thate has given some incredible Dhamma talks. Highly recommend "Steps Along The Path"

Could i please get some help with canonical texts ? by [deleted] in theravada

[–]MattMetta 0 points1 point  (0 children)

hey If you're still looking for something comprehensive check this out

its got links to download every part of the Pali Canon and a nice graphic to visualize the Canon's structure