In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali speaks on the theme of benefits and pitfalls of renunciation. Being more of an internal phenomenon rather than a mere external state, the Pali word for renunciation, Nekhamma, refers to letting go of the world of the five senses. One of the main benefits of the monastic life is the company of Kalyanamittas, spiritual friends, and they bring out the best in us. It is accentuated by a teacher who is a living example of the Dhamma. The dangers of the monastic life often arise from using force and willpower to suppress negative mind states. Therefore, one is encouraged to focus on the overall progress in terms of the increase in positive qualities such as kindness, gentleness and mindfulness and decrease in negative states such as anger and ill will. Ajahn beautifully explains how the monastic life is actually about living a moral life, a life of service and generosity. In the suttas being generous is akin to enlightenment and letting go of the sense of self, which is the main cause of many of life’s problems. It is the final act of renunciation. During the Q&A session, among many important questions, Ajahn addresses how to balance the lay family life with the spiritual life by making everything we do in accordance with the Dhamma where our only concern must be our own conduct in regard to those we live and work with.
Recorded 2023-07-23
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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the Creative Commons license. You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.
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