This group is in the process of being formed
“Study informs and inspires our meditation practice; meditation produces depth and clarity in understanding. We can balance our engagement with both study and meditation to optimize the cultivation of this liberating path.” (Shaila Catherine)
Why study the suttas?
In the Sangīti Sutta (DN 33,) Sā̄riputta mentions three kinds of understanding (paññā̄). There is understanding that arises from hearing (sutamaya paññā), understanding that arises from thinking (cintā̄maya paññā ̄), and understanding that arises from cultivation or training (bhāvanā̄maya paññā). There has to be a balance between all three for it truly to be the path.
This group meets ……………………………. on Zoom to explore the original discourses (suttas) of the Buddha. The Pali Canon, which is the collection of Buddhist scriptures, contains a wealth of material on many different aspects of the spiritual path, from the practical to the profound, and can provide context, guidance and inspiration for our own lives and practice.
The structure for sutta study sessions
After a brief sit the group reads the selected sutta aloud, each taking turn to read portions of the text.
We then invite responses . How is it landing? People mindfully share their impressions, speak the words or phrases that stood out, what was difficult, inspiring, interesting, or incomprehensible. No interaction between members at this point; just mindful speaking and listening.
Finally we invite informal discussion focusing on how to apply the teachings of the sutta to our daily practice.
We finish with a short sit.
Resources for Suttas
Suttas are chosen in advance so that members can read and reflect in their own time.
Though we focus on a common translation, consulting other translations adds texture to our study.
One of the most useful Books is the Majjima Nikaya (MIddle Length Discourses of the Buddha) translated by Bhikkhu Bodhi and Bhikkhu Nanamoli. It contains 152 suttas but is expensive to buy.