This talk focuses on the Parami of Truthfulness (Sacca in Pali). Truth is a core concept of Buddhism, most importantly at the core of the Four Noble Truths. The traditional application of this Parami relates to verbal action, that is, Right Speech. In this talk, Peter refers to the recently talk entitled “Buddhism And Existentialism”, posted on July 12. Existential terms such as freedom, anguish, bad faith and authenticity can be understood from a Buddhist perspective as sunnata (emptiness), dukkha (distress and confusion), tanha and upadana (craving and clinging) and sanna (wisdom, that is, clear awareness and benevolent intention). Peter emphasized that truthfulness is perfected as internal subjective experience is guided by mindfulness, investigation and benevolent intention. This explanation was followed by discussion among the participants regarding how to bring truthfulness to fruition.
Here are the notes prepared for this talk: The Benefits Of Perfecting Truthfulness
Next week’s talk will involve a report by a sangha member on a 10 day retreat in the Goenka body sweep practices.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 59:55 — 109.7MB)