The seed of enlightenment

A teaching given at The Buddhist Library, Singapore.

Generating a mind of equanimity

  • Seeing that our minds are very biased and prejudiced
  • Eliminating attachment, aversion, and apathy
  • No one is an inherent friend, enemy, or stranger
  • Giving up our desire to being right

Seed of enlightenment 01 (download)

Generating bodhichitta: The seven-point instruction on cause and effect

  • Letting go of grudges and resentments by thinking of the kindnesses of others
  • Respecting and appreciating others for how they’ve benefited us
  • Seeing others as our parents through infinite lifetimes
  • Developing the great resolve to bring happiness and alleviate suffering

Seed of enlightenment 02 (download)

Generating bodhichitta: Equalizing and exchanging self for others

  • Chipping away at the self-centered mind
  • Seeing the advantages of cherishing others
  • Taking and giving meditation
  • Wanting to become a fully enlightened Buddha

Seed of enlightenment 03 (download)

Questions and answers

  • In hospice work, how do we help people who have regret and seek forgiveness?
  • How do we regain our delight in the Dharma?
  • What inspired you to write the book, Working with Anger?
  • What is the quickest or easiest way to extinguish my anger?

Seed of enlightenment 04 (download)

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Chodron emphasizes the practical application of Buddha’s teachings in our daily lives and is especially skilled at explaining them in ways easily understood and practiced by Westerners. She is well known for her warm, humorous, and lucid teachings. She was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977 by Kyabje Ling Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India, and in 1986 she received bhikshuni (full) ordination in Taiwan. Read her full bio.