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DANA TIMES - NOVEMBER
Note there is no communal meal or talk on 7:00am Dana days. THERE ARE THESE TREES,
THERE ARE THESE EMPTY HUTS - DO NOT BE NEGLIGENT, BUT MEDITATE!” (The Buddha, Majjhima Nikaya #106/M ll 266) |
FULL MOON (SIL) DAY - SUNDAY 29 NOVEMBER
PROGRAM
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08:30 - 9:00 am.......Arrival of participants at Dhammahall & Silent Meditation
09:00 - 10:00 am.....Taking Refuge in the Triple Gem, Observance of 8 or 5 precepts & Guided Meditation 10:00 - 10:30am......Preparation of food for Almsoffering 10:30 - 11:45 am.....Almsoffering & Shared Meal 11:45 - 1:00 pm.......Dhammatalk and discussion 01:30 - 2:30 pm.......Chanting and/or Guided Meditation 03:00 - 5:00 pm.......Guided Meditation & Dhammatalk Please note: The ceremony at 9.00am is not only for those observing 8 precepts as it includes both 8 and 5 precepts and one can join or leave at any time in the program. Please be seated in the Dhammahall at least 15 mins before start of sessions. Please observe noble silence near the Dhammahall on this day. full-moon-program-small.pdf Download File |
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SANGHA VISIT TO STANTHORPE
On Monday 16 November the Sangha had an outing to Girraween National Park, where they
climbed 'The Pyramid' (Large Granite Rock) and did the Bald Rock Creek Circuit. Earlier they
had an Almsround in Stanthorpe and their meal in a shed on Tor's & Ian's farm, where Pim,
Harley, and friends of Tor also attended.
Anumodana to Tor & Ian, Petch, Leigh & Nikki, Pat, and Tum for the invitation.
On Monday 16 November the Sangha had an outing to Girraween National Park, where they
climbed 'The Pyramid' (Large Granite Rock) and did the Bald Rock Creek Circuit. Earlier they
had an Almsround in Stanthorpe and their meal in a shed on Tor's & Ian's farm, where Pim,
Harley, and friends of Tor also attended.
Anumodana to Tor & Ian, Petch, Leigh & Nikki, Pat, and Tum for the invitation.
LIVE VIDEO STREAMING
All Dhamma teachings at Dhammagiri are now streaming
live on video on our vimeo channel and Facebook.
https://vimeo.com/dhammatalks
https://www.facebook.com/DhammagiriForestHermitage
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The next scheduled live stream is visible right on top of the profile page, and a
recording of the last one is available just below that. We will also regularly stream all our Q&A/Dhamma Reflections every Saturday, Sunday & Monday 12.15 pm You do not need any special app, or any account to view these videos. During the live streams (actually, even before that, you could enter a question, it's possible to send text messages and questions - meaning we can do our Q&As on video as well. At the same time, we plan to keep our 'Castbox' live audio podcasts going as well. We already have quite a few regulars who enjoy that format, and audio is much easier in case anyone has got slow internet connection, or if you're using just a small phone. |
ROBE OFFERING 2020
A photo taken by one of the supporters of Dhammagiri during the Almsround on the day of
the Robe Offering ceremony at Dhammagiri on 8 November, highlighting our new concrete
patio and marquee to great effect.
A photo taken by one of the supporters of Dhammagiri during the Almsround on the day of
the Robe Offering ceremony at Dhammagiri on 8 November, highlighting our new concrete
patio and marquee to great effect.
ROBE OFFERING 2020
A video of the Robe Offering ceremony at dhammagiri on 8 November
is now available on the Dhammagiri Vimeo channel.
https://vimeo.com/473669876
The Kaṭhina season is traditionally the time when both lay community and monastic sangha cooperate
in a grand ceremony meant to mark the end of the yearly retreat period. Everyone joins the
preperations in a spirit of mutual support and harmony. It is long considered as one of the most
auspicious times in the year to make merit ('puñña' = good karma), when the laity present robes and
other requisites to the Sangha in a joyful spirit, full of appreciation for the monks resolute striving
in their meditation during the rains retreat:
VIDEO AND AUDIO RECORDINGS OF THE ROBE OFFERING CEREMONY
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Edited live video with full paritta chanting now available at same URL
https://vimeo.com/473669876 Paritta Chanting audio available on podcast (higher audio quality than video) https://castbox.fm/episode/PARITTA-RECITATION-for-Robe-Offering-Ceremony- Dhammagiri-id2744970-id324335800?country=gb Dhammatalk at Robe Offering audio on podcast https://castbox.fm/episode/Happiness-from-Harmony---Dhammatalk-at-Robe- Offering-Ceremony-id2744970-id325478342?country=gb |
NEXT FULL MOON (SIL) PROGRAM - 29 NOVEMBER
(click on button for schedule)
(click on button for schedule)
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THE NEW BENCH & SHOE RACK
A new benchtop with sink and shoe rack has been constructed in a previously
unused area on the deck outside the library. The cost of this project is yet to
be funded.If you wish to contribute to this fund, you can do so by choosing
from one of the options listed on the website donation page.
http://www.dhammagiri.org.au/donations1.html
Simply indicate 'Bench & Shoe Rack' together
with your donation. If you wish to get a receipt, please
also provide name & email address.
A new benchtop with sink and shoe rack has been constructed in a previously
unused area on the deck outside the library. The cost of this project is yet to
be funded.If you wish to contribute to this fund, you can do so by choosing
from one of the options listed on the website donation page.
http://www.dhammagiri.org.au/donations1.html
Simply indicate 'Bench & Shoe Rack' together
with your donation. If you wish to get a receipt, please
also provide name & email address.
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THE MARQUEE IS READY
Members of the Sangha give the newly installed marquee a final clean in preparation
for the robe offering ceremony.
Members of the Sangha give the newly installed marquee a final clean in preparation
for the robe offering ceremony.
NEW CONCRETE PATIO
This project has now been fully funded. Anumodanā to all the generous
donors who covered the entire $19000 cost of the project.
The new permanent marquee installed in front of the Dhammahall some time ago had
proved extremely useful. However, the original grass flooring deteriorated to the point
that a solid permanent floor was urgently required.
The marquee was removed, a concrete slab poured and coloured, and the marquee was
re-installed - all in time for the Robe offering Ceremony on 8 November 2020.
(See the process in the video below)
This project has now been fully funded. Anumodanā to all the generous
donors who covered the entire $19000 cost of the project.
The new permanent marquee installed in front of the Dhammahall some time ago had
proved extremely useful. However, the original grass flooring deteriorated to the point
that a solid permanent floor was urgently required.
The marquee was removed, a concrete slab poured and coloured, and the marquee was
re-installed - all in time for the Robe offering Ceremony on 8 November 2020.
(See the process in the video below)
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CHANTING OF THE MAHASAMAYA SUTTA
by Ven. Moneyyo is now available on our podcast. https://www.castbox.fm/episode/BUDDHIST-PALI-CHANTING%3A-Mah% C4%81samaya-Sutta-by-Ven-Moneyyo-id2744970-id315058041?country=gb The Mahāsamaya Sutta (Dīgha Nikāya/Long Discourses #20) is a very famous chant. It is considered supremely auspicious, and particularly liked by all 'Devas' (Angels/Deities/Benevolent Spirits). In every Buddha's lifetime, there occurs an event where the Devas of our world system, and even from several adjacent worlds, assemble to meet the Buddha and his Sangha of disciples. In the case of our Buddha Gotama, this event happened in the Great Forest near Kapilavatthu, the hometown of Buddha, where he grew up as a prince. As not all of the 500 monks present are able to see spirits, the Buddha explains which devas have arrived, and gives the names of their leaders, which class of devas they belong to, and the numbers of their retinue.It is widely believed that whenever this sutta is recited, devas feel attracted to come to listen with great joy and in large numbers. |
(click on images to enlarge)
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SEACHANGE AFTER THE RAINS RETREAT
Recently, our 4 monks together with lay retreatant Gary took a sea change, which included some
whale watching. The group had not been out of the monastery for the three months of the Rains
Retreat, and it was a welcome, enjoyable, and harmonious break for our resident community.
"Just like anyone who has permeated the great ocean with his mind is able to encompass
simultaneously all the streams and rivers that flow into the ocean; in the same way,
whoever has developed and cultivated mindfulness of the body, simultaneously
encompasses whatever wholesome qualities there are that partake of true knowledge."
Majjhima Nikāya/Middle Length Discourses #119
'Mindfulness Immersed in the Body'
"Just as the whole great ocean is suffused by a single taste, the taste of salt; likewise
this whole Dhamma and Vinaya is suffused with a single taste: the taste of release."
Anguttara Nikāya/Numerical Discourses,
Book of Eights, #19
Recently, our 4 monks together with lay retreatant Gary took a sea change, which included some
whale watching. The group had not been out of the monastery for the three months of the Rains
Retreat, and it was a welcome, enjoyable, and harmonious break for our resident community.
"Just like anyone who has permeated the great ocean with his mind is able to encompass
simultaneously all the streams and rivers that flow into the ocean; in the same way,
whoever has developed and cultivated mindfulness of the body, simultaneously
encompasses whatever wholesome qualities there are that partake of true knowledge."
Majjhima Nikāya/Middle Length Discourses #119
'Mindfulness Immersed in the Body'
"Just as the whole great ocean is suffused by a single taste, the taste of salt; likewise
this whole Dhamma and Vinaya is suffused with a single taste: the taste of release."
Anguttara Nikāya/Numerical Discourses,
Book of Eights, #19
A VIEW FROM DHAMMAGIRI HILLTOP - 4 SEPTEMBER
A timely reminder that the bushfire season is upon us. The above photo is of a controlled burn
a couple of hilltops away from Dhammagiri by local fire authorities.
a couple of hilltops away from Dhammagiri by local fire authorities.
Current Covid Health Regulations at Dhammagiri
In light of the new Queensland Health Directions, which we are legally obliged to implement
at Dhammagiri, all visitors to Dhammagiri are obliged to follow these directions:
at Dhammagiri, all visitors to Dhammagiri are obliged to follow these directions:
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1. Do not visit Dhammagiri if you have any slightest symptoms of cold/cough/flu/fever
2. Maintain social distancing while at Dhammagiri: 1.5 m distance to next person, 4 square meters per person 20 visitors in Shrine room maximum + monks) 3. Please sanitize your hands on arrival with the sanitizer mounted on timber post. This is an advanced, very useful product: manufacturer claims that after usage hands will remain aseptic for several hours 4. On arrival, every visitor has to enter Name and Mobile Phone Number and Email Address on provided sheets. This is required for every visit and every session you attend. It is a legal obligation for the monastery to keep this list; we have no choice on it. Some venues have been investigated and fined for failing to comply. The purpose of the list is to quickly contact-trace everyone, in case a person with the virus attended any session at the monastery 5. Please maintain general good hygiene with frequent hand washing/sanitizing, cover coughs & sneezes with elbow or tissue/paper, and avoid physical contact with others, keep 1.5m distance The beautiful Buddhist gesture of 'Anjali' is fortunately contact-less anyhow 🙏 6. You may have noticed that we keep sliding doors and windows widely open, even if it's sometimes a little chilly. The purpose is to provide good ventilation, which has been shown to effectively reduce virus transmission. Additionally, we have plenty of space outside under the marquee, on verandahs, and in our beautiful Spring sun, which is much safer than crowded, stuffy indoor spaces. 7. From Saturday 26 September, the monks at Dhammagiri will not be wearing masks for all our public sessions. Visitors are welcome to wear masks and new disposable masks are being provided at the sign-in table. |
"By protecting oneself, one is protecting others."
Samyutta Nikāya 47.19 'Medakathālikā'
Samyutta Nikāya 47.19 'Medakathālikā'
DHAMMAGIRI PROGRAMS NOW OPEN
TO VISITORS EVERY DAY
Dear Supporters and Friends of Dhammagiri, in line with the latest Health Directions by the
Queensland Chief Health Officer, we do not require prior registration any more to visit
Dhammagiri, but registration at the time of visit is still required. Please feel free to drop in
spontaneously to any of our public programs.
Please note the 7:30am Saturday precepts program is now held in the Shrine room in the
Dhammahall and not at the top of the hill.
If you have any cold or flu symptoms, please do not visit the monastery.
If planning to offer food Dana, note that the Dana time can be at 7:00am on some
weekdays or not at all when the monks are away from the monastery.
Please check the calendar for these days.
(Blessing for donors, but no communal meal or talk on 7:00 am days)
TO VISITORS EVERY DAY
Dear Supporters and Friends of Dhammagiri, in line with the latest Health Directions by the
Queensland Chief Health Officer, we do not require prior registration any more to visit
Dhammagiri, but registration at the time of visit is still required. Please feel free to drop in
spontaneously to any of our public programs.
Please note the 7:30am Saturday precepts program is now held in the Shrine room in the
Dhammahall and not at the top of the hill.
If you have any cold or flu symptoms, please do not visit the monastery.
If planning to offer food Dana, note that the Dana time can be at 7:00am on some
weekdays or not at all when the monks are away from the monastery.
Please check the calendar for these days.
(Blessing for donors, but no communal meal or talk on 7:00 am days)
DANA TIMES FOR NOVEMBER 2020
We still have to maintain good hygiene, hand washing/sanitizing, and
social distancing of 1.5m, and minimum of 2 square-meter per person.
Please click on the button for details of offering Dana.
social distancing of 1.5m, and minimum of 2 square-meter per person.
Please click on the button for details of offering Dana.
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CUBBY KUTI FINISHED
After a mammoth effort by the Harley, Stephan, and Sangha team, the new Cubby
Kuti is now ready in time for Ven. Moneyyo to move in for this year's Rains Retreat.
After a mammoth effort by the Harley, Stephan, and Sangha team, the new Cubby
Kuti is now ready in time for Ven. Moneyyo to move in for this year's Rains Retreat.
The Noble Eightfold Path is rightly one of the best known and most highly regarded teachings of
the Buddha. It is a recognized as a fundamental core teaching in all Buddhist traditions, and thus
contributes to harmony between the various Buddhist schools and lineages. As the fourth Noble
Truth, it was taught by the Buddha in his very first discourse, the Dhammacakkappavattana
Sutta. In fact, even before mentioning the truth of Suffering, it's cause, and it's end, the Buddha
first expounded the Middle Way, which is exactly this Noble Eightfold Path.
the Buddha. It is a recognized as a fundamental core teaching in all Buddhist traditions, and thus
contributes to harmony between the various Buddhist schools and lineages. As the fourth Noble
Truth, it was taught by the Buddha in his very first discourse, the Dhammacakkappavattana
Sutta. In fact, even before mentioning the truth of Suffering, it's cause, and it's end, the Buddha
first expounded the Middle Way, which is exactly this Noble Eightfold Path.
Video Sessions in 8 Installments now available for download
Audio Sessions in 8 Installments now available for download
https://castbox.fm/ch/2744970
'Dhammagiri Buddhist Podcasts' is now also available on Spotify
(not live, only recordings)
https://castbox.fm/ch/2744970
'Dhammagiri Buddhist Podcasts' is now also available on Spotify
(not live, only recordings)
Recently, our 4 monks together with Harley & Stephan had a little outing to the ocean. It was a welcome,
enjoyable and harmonious break for the resident community of six. Harley took the stunning photo above.
Looking at the image, a verse from Suttanipāta ('The Group of Discourses') comes to mind, from the well
known Pārāyanavagga, the 'Chapter of Going to the Further Shore". It fits together with the image beautifully.
[Kappa's question]
Lost in the fearful flood that drowns us all in ageing and in death - Amidst this sea of misery where is the
island that is safe? Direct me to that island, please, where I shall never drown again.
[The Buddha's answer]
Lost in the fearful flood that drowns you all in ageing and in death - Amidst this sea of misery I point an
island out to you: 'Do not Attach to Anything' that is the island unsurpassed; It's called 'Nibbāna', and
it is the end of ageing and of death.
Suttanipata Verses #1092 & 1093
What is translated as 'Do not attach to anything' reads in Pali 'akiñcanaṃ anādānaṃ' and could also be
translated as 'Own nothing, and don't take up anything', or 'Having nothing, taking nothing'.
'The island unsurpassed' could also be translated as 'The island of Nothing-Further' (i.e. no more
ageing & death; no further rebirth...)
Although the Dhamma is vast, profound, subtle, refined and not easy to comprehend, sometimes the
Buddha would sum it up in a short, pithy statement of only a few words. These verses are such an occasion,
and it's encouraging to see that all our practice in the end is just about this one, simple thing.
If we could really do just that much, all our problems, pain and suffering would be over and done with:
Have nothing and don't cling to anything
enjoyable and harmonious break for the resident community of six. Harley took the stunning photo above.
Looking at the image, a verse from Suttanipāta ('The Group of Discourses') comes to mind, from the well
known Pārāyanavagga, the 'Chapter of Going to the Further Shore". It fits together with the image beautifully.
[Kappa's question]
Lost in the fearful flood that drowns us all in ageing and in death - Amidst this sea of misery where is the
island that is safe? Direct me to that island, please, where I shall never drown again.
[The Buddha's answer]
Lost in the fearful flood that drowns you all in ageing and in death - Amidst this sea of misery I point an
island out to you: 'Do not Attach to Anything' that is the island unsurpassed; It's called 'Nibbāna', and
it is the end of ageing and of death.
Suttanipata Verses #1092 & 1093
What is translated as 'Do not attach to anything' reads in Pali 'akiñcanaṃ anādānaṃ' and could also be
translated as 'Own nothing, and don't take up anything', or 'Having nothing, taking nothing'.
'The island unsurpassed' could also be translated as 'The island of Nothing-Further' (i.e. no more
ageing & death; no further rebirth...)
Although the Dhamma is vast, profound, subtle, refined and not easy to comprehend, sometimes the
Buddha would sum it up in a short, pithy statement of only a few words. These verses are such an occasion,
and it's encouraging to see that all our practice in the end is just about this one, simple thing.
If we could really do just that much, all our problems, pain and suffering would be over and done with:
Have nothing and don't cling to anything
REFUGE & PRECEPTS - 7.30 am SATURDAYS
As religious ceremonies are no longer prohibited by the government,
Dhammagiri will re-start the regular in person Triple Refuge & Precepts
Session every Saturday morning at 7.30 am in Dhammahall.
As religious ceremonies are no longer prohibited by the government,
Dhammagiri will re-start the regular in person Triple Refuge & Precepts
Session every Saturday morning at 7.30 am in Dhammahall.
VIDEO OF BLESSING AT ALMSOFFERING
with subtitles and translation
This is the chanting we regularly do for our kind, generous donors, when they offer almsfood to
the Sangha. Ven Dantacitto has added both the Pali text and an English translation in the subtitles.
The first part of the chant directly refers to the ritual of pouring water from a small bronze vessel
into a receptacle. While pouring the water, the donors form a mental resolution to share all their
good karma with departed relatives. The second part starting with "Those who give others..."
was spoken by the Buddha when he explained 5 karmic rewards for offering food. Next follows
Verse #109 from Dhammapada.The anumodanā ends with traditional verses of blessings.
This video in high definition and widescreen with full description can now
be viewed on the Dhammagiri "Dhammatalks" Vimeo channel
https://vimeo.com/420113386
with subtitles and translation
This is the chanting we regularly do for our kind, generous donors, when they offer almsfood to
the Sangha. Ven Dantacitto has added both the Pali text and an English translation in the subtitles.
The first part of the chant directly refers to the ritual of pouring water from a small bronze vessel
into a receptacle. While pouring the water, the donors form a mental resolution to share all their
good karma with departed relatives. The second part starting with "Those who give others..."
was spoken by the Buddha when he explained 5 karmic rewards for offering food. Next follows
Verse #109 from Dhammapada.The anumodanā ends with traditional verses of blessings.
This video in high definition and widescreen with full description can now
be viewed on the Dhammagiri "Dhammatalks" Vimeo channel
https://vimeo.com/420113386
LIVE PODCASTS
All podcasts are published on 'Castbox'
You need to download and install the Castbox app if
youwish to listen and participate in livecasts:
Android Phone/Tablet:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fm.
astbox.audiobook.radio.podcast
iphone/ipad:
https://apps.apple.com/au/app/podcast-player-castbox
/id1243410543
Recorded podcasts can be played on any browser
and operating system, including PC & Mac here:
https://castbox.fm/ch/2744970
You need to download and install the Castbox app if
youwish to listen and participate in livecasts:
Android Phone/Tablet:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fm.
astbox.audiobook.radio.podcast
iphone/ipad:
https://apps.apple.com/au/app/podcast-player-castbox
/id1243410543
Recorded podcasts can be played on any browser
and operating system, including PC & Mac here:
https://castbox.fm/ch/2744970
Click here for a list of upcoming live podcasts.
Anyone can send questions to this email and Ajahn will try
to answer them, either in podcast, newsletter, or email.
to answer them, either in podcast, newsletter, or email.
VESAK REFLECTIONS FOR BUBS
by Ajahn Dhammasiha
Ajahn Dhammasiha was invited by Bandar Utama Buddhist Society (BUBS), KL, Malaysia, to
offer some Dhamma reflections on the occasion of their Vesak Celebration.
As they have chosen 'Cultivate the Liberation of Mind by Loving Kindness' as the motto for this
year's Vesak, Ajahn explains how their communal effort to cultivate a heart of loving kindness
is like a powerful live podcast, that can be 'tuned in' by countless beings. He encourages
everyone not to be sad that they can't have physical proximity to each other. Never mind
whether our bodies are far from each other, if we cultivate mettā, our minds are very close,
in fact mentally we all live together at the 'same address': the 'Brahmavihāra' ('Divine Abode')
of Loving Kindness.
Ajahn also points out various examples of the Buddha's supreme loving kindness manifesting in
his actions, in particular how he continues caring for others even as he is in severe pain and dying
himself.He urges us to combine mettā with wisdom by reflecting what we truly mean if we wish
'happiness' to others. The highest happiness is the 'paramaṃ sukhaṃ' of Nibbāna, which
the Buddha first ralized in his heart, and then shared with his father, mother, step-mother, ex-wife,
son, brother, numerous Sakyan relatives, and countless beings, as an expression of his
boundless loving kindness.
www.castbox.fm/ch/2744970
by Ajahn Dhammasiha
Ajahn Dhammasiha was invited by Bandar Utama Buddhist Society (BUBS), KL, Malaysia, to
offer some Dhamma reflections on the occasion of their Vesak Celebration.
As they have chosen 'Cultivate the Liberation of Mind by Loving Kindness' as the motto for this
year's Vesak, Ajahn explains how their communal effort to cultivate a heart of loving kindness
is like a powerful live podcast, that can be 'tuned in' by countless beings. He encourages
everyone not to be sad that they can't have physical proximity to each other. Never mind
whether our bodies are far from each other, if we cultivate mettā, our minds are very close,
in fact mentally we all live together at the 'same address': the 'Brahmavihāra' ('Divine Abode')
of Loving Kindness.
Ajahn also points out various examples of the Buddha's supreme loving kindness manifesting in
his actions, in particular how he continues caring for others even as he is in severe pain and dying
himself.He urges us to combine mettā with wisdom by reflecting what we truly mean if we wish
'happiness' to others. The highest happiness is the 'paramaṃ sukhaṃ' of Nibbāna, which
the Buddha first ralized in his heart, and then shared with his father, mother, step-mother, ex-wife,
son, brother, numerous Sakyan relatives, and countless beings, as an expression of his
boundless loving kindness.
www.castbox.fm/ch/2744970
VESAK - PODCASTS FROM SUNDAY 3 MAY
Celebrating Birth, Enlightenment and Parinibbāna of the Buddha in Live Audio
Podcasts from Dhammagiri, including Chanting, Triple Refuge & Precepts
Celebrating Birth, Enlightenment and Parinibbāna of the Buddha in Live Audio
Podcasts from Dhammagiri, including Chanting, Triple Refuge & Precepts
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Birth of the Bodhisatta
by Ajahn Dhammasiha https://castbox.fm/episode/Dhammagiri-Vesak%3A-Birth-of-the-Bodhisatta-id2744970-id258938434?country=gb Queen Mahāmāyā gave birth to the Bodhisatta in beautiful Lumbini Grove, shaded by large Sālā trees, standing and holding on to the branch of a blossoming Asoka tree. The newborn Bodhisatta walked 7 steps to the North and declared solemnly that this is his last rebirth. Ajahn Dhammasiha explains that the most authentic report on the birth, in the Buddha's own words, can be found at Majjhima Nikāya #123 'Acchariya Abbhuta Sutta' (Middle Length Discourses Sutta #123). He points out how the Buddha himself adds one more marvellous quality to the long list of miracles reported by Ven Ānanda: the Tathāgata has perfect mindfulness and full awareness of all feelings, perception and thoughts arsing and passing away in his mind. Ajahn encourages us all to become 'Mothers of the Bodhisatta' in the sense that we all should nourish and develop the potential for awakening in our mind, to ultimately 'give birth' to the experience of the deathlass, Nibbāna. |
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Supreme Awakening of the Buddha by Ajahn Dhammadharo https://castbox.fm/episode/Dhammagiri-Vesak%3A-Supreme-Awakening-of-the-Buddha-id2744970-id258943218?country=gb The Buddha experienced 'Sammāsambodhi' ('Perfect Enlightenment') on the Visākhā Full Moon night in May, sitting all night in profound meditation under the Bodhi Tree near Nerañjarā River at Bodh Gaya. Ajahn Dhammadharo offers a guided meditation and reflections on the theme of the Buddha's Awakening and the events surrounding it. |
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Great Final Nibbāna of the Buddha by Ajahn Dhammasiha https://castbox.fm/episode/Dhammagiri-Vesak%3A-Great-Final-Nibb%C4%81na-of-the-Buddha-id2744970-id258951161?country=gb The Buddha attained Final Nibbāna lying between the twin Sāla trees in the Sāla grove of the Mallas of Kusināra. 500 monks, all the inhabitants of nearby Kusināra town, and devas from 10 world systems had assembled to witness the event. Although dying from a severe illness with excruciatingly painful feelings, the Buddha continues teaching and consoling everyone present until his last moments. He finally enters all the different jhānas for a last time, and, just when emerging from the 4th jhāna, he attains the 'Anupādisesā Nibbānadhātu' ('Nibbāna Element without Remainder'). |
SUNDAY EVENING CHANTING WITH SUBTITLES
This is a video of the chanting we do at the beginning of our regular session every Sunday afternoon.
Due to the Coronavirus lockdown at the time, we were doing the sessions in the Aggasālā on top of the
hill,to get enough mobile reception for the live audio podcasts. Ven Dantacitto has added subtitles for
the complete text we chant. We follow the chanting version as given in the Amaravati Chanting Book
Vol 1 (pages 18ff, 37ff & 33ff). Ven Dantacitto, is joining our chanting, but is unfortunately not visible.
https://vimeo.com/414635663
This is a video of the chanting we do at the beginning of our regular session every Sunday afternoon.
Due to the Coronavirus lockdown at the time, we were doing the sessions in the Aggasālā on top of the
hill,to get enough mobile reception for the live audio podcasts. Ven Dantacitto has added subtitles for
the complete text we chant. We follow the chanting version as given in the Amaravati Chanting Book
Vol 1 (pages 18ff, 37ff & 33ff). Ven Dantacitto, is joining our chanting, but is unfortunately not visible.
https://vimeo.com/414635663
LAYING THE FOUNDATION CEREMONY
FOR THE NEW KUTI
Video documenting the recent ceremony for laying the foundation of the Cubby Kuṭi at Dhammagiri
Forest Hermitage. Due to the home confinement direction during pandemic, we could not hold
a public ceremony, or allow any of the generous sponsors to attend. Only the long term residents
of the monastery, who form a common 'household', participated.
https://vimeo.com/412568149
FOR THE NEW KUTI
Video documenting the recent ceremony for laying the foundation of the Cubby Kuṭi at Dhammagiri
Forest Hermitage. Due to the home confinement direction during pandemic, we could not hold
a public ceremony, or allow any of the generous sponsors to attend. Only the long term residents
of the monastery, who form a common 'household', participated.
https://vimeo.com/412568149
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IMPACT OF THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Luang Por Sumedho & Ajahn Amaro has kindly granted us permission to publish a video that Luang Por had recorded for Amaravati to answer questions about the impact of Coronavirus pandemic. This video is now available on our vimeo 'Dhammatalks' channel https://vimeo.com/413351105 A crisis situation like the current pandemic arouses numerous unpleasant and challenging emotions in our mind, like fear, grief, anger and anxiety. Luang Por encourages us not to immediately resist these emotions and try to push them away, but rather to welcome them in the sense that we observe them with awareness. When we do not identify with these emotions, and do not cling to them, but instead simply watch them arising and passing, they can no longer overpower our mind. |
AJAHN DHAMMADARO IN THE WORKSHOP
Ajahn Dhammadaro shown hard at work in the workshop on some vital upgrades to the monks' kuti facilities.
(click on images to enlarge)
Ajahn Dhammadaro shown hard at work in the workshop on some vital upgrades to the monks' kuti facilities.
(click on images to enlarge)
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REVIVAL OF THE BAMBOO SCREEN
Ven. Bhuripanyo brought the rains with him when he arrived on 16th of January for a stay for around 3 weeks.
On his previous stay at Dhammagiri he had overseen the project of planting our bamboo screen and many
other native plants, and set to work on our drought afflicted bamboo on arrival. Together with other Sangha
members and dedicated volunteers, he has overseen the remarkable revival of the bamboo screen.
Ven. Bhuripanyo brought the rains with him when he arrived on 16th of January for a stay for around 3 weeks.
On his previous stay at Dhammagiri he had overseen the project of planting our bamboo screen and many
other native plants, and set to work on our drought afflicted bamboo on arrival. Together with other Sangha
members and dedicated volunteers, he has overseen the remarkable revival of the bamboo screen.
There are ongoing opportunities for volunteers to help in various ways at Dhammagiri. Anyone who would
like to help out can contact the webmaster via the contact page on the website..
like to help out can contact the webmaster via the contact page on the website..
WILDLIFE OUTSIDE THE DHAMMAHALL
NEW SOLAR PANELS
Thanks to a very generous donor, Dhammagiri now has solar panels installed on both
sides of the shed roof which will greatly reduce electricity consumption costs to the monastery
Thanks to a very generous donor, Dhammagiri now has solar panels installed on both
sides of the shed roof which will greatly reduce electricity consumption costs to the monastery
MERIT OPPORTUNITIES
As a registered non-profit organisation, Dhammagiri is dependent entirely on donations, and does
not charge for any teachings or accommodation. It is only due to your generous donations that we
have been able to cover ongoing expenses, and we would like to extend our anumodana to all those
who have contributed over the years. A number of special projects requiring substantial funding
are currently under way in addition to ongoing medical and travel expenses. To enable our
donors to direct their donations specifically to these highly meritorious projects, we have now
established a number of special funds for this purpose.
Click to donate to any of the following funds:
As a registered non-profit organisation, Dhammagiri is dependent entirely on donations, and does
not charge for any teachings or accommodation. It is only due to your generous donations that we
have been able to cover ongoing expenses, and we would like to extend our anumodana to all those
who have contributed over the years. A number of special projects requiring substantial funding
are currently under way in addition to ongoing medical and travel expenses. To enable our
donors to direct their donations specifically to these highly meritorious projects, we have now
established a number of special funds for this purpose.
Click to donate to any of the following funds:
We count on your ongoing support of Dhammagiri.
Anumodanā for your kind generosity.
Anumodanā for your kind generosity.
New brooms for the morning sweep
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BIOGRAPHY OF AJAHN CHAH NOW AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH The English version of Ajahn Chah's biography is available at Dhammagiri. The translation has been prepared by Ajahn Jayasaro (previous abbot of Wat Pah Nanachat and one of Ajahn Chah's senior Western disciples), who had also written the Thai original. Included is a great wealth of additional new material, meant to introduce newcomers not yet so familiar with the Forest Tradition to the background and meaning of our practices. This book is superbly produced both in terms of content and external appearance, 800+ pages hardcover in full linen with stitched binding. You can now get it at Dhammagiri (and other monasteries of the lineage of Ajahn Chah) completely for free, due to the amazing generosity of the dedicated sponsors of this publication. |
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THE HORSES ARE BACK
Our new neighbours are agisting their horses in Dhammagiri's lower paddock.
Please do not allow children to venture into the paddock.
Our new neighbours are agisting their horses in Dhammagiri's lower paddock.
Please do not allow children to venture into the paddock.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
A small group of regular volunteers work in the forest and fields of
Dhammagiri on various projects - here digging out Lantana.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
A small group of regular volunteers work in the forest and fields of
Dhammagiri on various projects - here digging out Lantana.
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KING PARROT
Male Australian King-Parrots (Alisterus scapularis) are the only Australian parrots
with a completely red head. Photographed at Dhammagiri this week.
Male Australian King-Parrots (Alisterus scapularis) are the only Australian parrots
with a completely red head. Photographed at Dhammagiri this week.
LOWER BODHI TREE WITH IT'S NEW FOLIAGE
SOME LOCALS HANGING OUT ON THE VERANDAH
PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE BIRDS
Feeding the birds has made them very aggressive in their pursuit of human food -
recently causing injuries to people.
Please help discourage the birds by not feeding them, and by gently chasing them.
Feeding the birds has made them very aggressive in their pursuit of human food -
recently causing injuries to people.
Please help discourage the birds by not feeding them, and by gently chasing them.
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THE MONASTERY BUGGY
Ajahn Anan, on his visit earlier last year, suggested the purchase of a golf buggy to relieve
Ajahn Dhammasiha's difficulty with his knee and accessing the steep hill at Dhammagiri.
He also donated considerable funds for this purpose. Thanks to additional generous donations
from other supporters, all of the cost has been raised. Dhammagiri now
has a buggy that has proved very useful during more recent visits by senior monks.
Ajahn Anan, on his visit earlier last year, suggested the purchase of a golf buggy to relieve
Ajahn Dhammasiha's difficulty with his knee and accessing the steep hill at Dhammagiri.
He also donated considerable funds for this purpose. Thanks to additional generous donations
from other supporters, all of the cost has been raised. Dhammagiri now
has a buggy that has proved very useful during more recent visits by senior monks.
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THE LOTUS POND
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DHAMMAGIRI PROGRAMS NOW OPEN
TO VISITORS EVERY DAY
TO VISITORS EVERY DAY
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SATURDAY
07:30 am.......Observance of Triple Gem & 8 Precepts / 5 precepts 08:30 am.......Silent Meditation 10:30 am.......Almsoffering 11:45 am.......Personal Questions & Dhamma Discussion SUNDAY 10:30 am........Almsoffering 11:45 am........Personal Questions, Dhamma Talk & Discussion 3:00-5:00 pm..Chanting, Guided Meditation, Dhamma Discussion MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY 10:30 am........Almsoffering 11:45 am........Personal Questions, Dhamma Talk & Discussion PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 10: 30 am.......Almsoffering 11:45 am........Personal Questions & Dhamma Discussion |
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We have now a dedicated group who comes to Dhammagiri every Saturday at 7.30 am to take Triple Refuge & 8 Precepts/5 Precepts. After the ceremony, they continue silent meditation in
the Dhammahall until the meal offering. Some join the almsoffering as well, and a few may continue some more hours of silent meditation in the Afternoon. There's no need for any prior arrangement, you can just drop in and join any Saturday 7.30 am at the Dhammahall at the bottom of the hill. It's not required to come every week, participating only occasionally or giving it a try once is perfectly OK, as is observance of 5 precepts in case 8 are too difficult. |
03:00 - 5:00 pm.......Chanting, Guided Meditation & Dhammatalk
Open 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sundays
The library at Dhammagiri holds an extensive collection of texts on Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and traditions.
For more library information, please contact Indrani Doloswala on 0402908519.
The library at Dhammagiri holds an extensive collection of texts on Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and traditions.
For more library information, please contact Indrani Doloswala on 0402908519.
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Keep informed about all latest events at Dhammagiri, and receive occasional Dhamma reflections from Ajahn Dhammasīha. You're always up to date about the latest meditation programs & visiting teachers, and you can enjoy short explanations from Ajahn Dhammasīha on the major Buddhist celebrations like Vesak & Āsālha, delivered directly to your email inbox. |
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Visitors are requested not to use mobile phones or similar electronic
devices (tablets, laptops, games) in or around the Dhammahall.
It's kinder not to feed the birds.
Please note Dhammagiri records and photographs events to share with others via
our website and Facebook page. If you do not wish to be filmed or photographed,
please advise on your arrival. If you require an item to be removed from the website,
please advise the webmaster via the contact page on the website.
devices (tablets, laptops, games) in or around the Dhammahall.
It's kinder not to feed the birds.
Please note Dhammagiri records and photographs events to share with others via
our website and Facebook page. If you do not wish to be filmed or photographed,
please advise on your arrival. If you require an item to be removed from the website,
please advise the webmaster via the contact page on the website.
