Lecture Series by S.N. Goenka
3-Day Talk + Q&A, Yangon University, Yangon, Myanmar • 3-Day Talk + Q&A - Day 03 • English • Yangon University, Yangon, Myanmar • 1991
Goenka ji elucidates that the core of Buddha's teaching lies in the practice and direct experience of Dhamma, not merely in intellectual understanding. He explains that true comprehension of Dukkha involves experiencing the entire field of suffering, recognizing the impermanence of all phenomena, including sensations. Through Vipassana, one progresses from experiencing gross sensations to subtle vibrations (bhanga-ñāṇa), learning to remain equanimous (upekkhā) to avoid craving and aversion. This experiential understanding of the law of nature (Dhamma) brings immediate benefits (Akāliko) and leads to liberation. Goenka ji contrasts intellectual knowledge with experiential wisdom, emphasizing that only the latter, gained through practice, eradicates impurities and leads to true freedom.
- The Importance of Practice: Buddha's teachings are fruitful only when practiced, not merely understood intellectually.
- Experiential Wisdom (bhāvanāmayā paññā): Direct experience is essential for realizing the truth of Buddha's teachings, particularly the impermanent nature of all phenomena.
- Tīparivattaṃ dvādasākāraṃ: The four noble truths become real only when experienced in three ways (acceptance, exploration, and realization).
- Pariññeyya: Exploring the entire field of Dukkha up to its last boundary, which is experiencing the reality of impermanence.
- Bhanga-ñāṇa: The stage where the solidity of experience dissolves into subtle vibrations, highlighting the impermanent nature of both mind and matter.
- Upekkhā (Equanimity): Remaining detached and equanimous towards all sensations, whether pleasant or unpleasant, prevents the arising of craving and aversion. Akāliko: Every step taken on the path of Dhamma provides immediate benefits.
- Dhamma as Law of Nature: Direct experience through Vipassana clarifies the universal law of nature.
- Vedanā: Sensations, both pleasant and unpleasant, are crucial to observe without reaction, as they are the root of craving and aversion.
- Samudaya-vayi-dhammānupassī viharati: Experiencing that arising and passing are happening together, without any gap.
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