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Question: is the unification of ekaggatā the same as equanimity?
A to the Q: It can be. In the refined mind state of fourth jhāna, unification and equanimity have merged. This kind of unification is one way that equanimity shows up. In the context of this kind of deep meditative state, the serenity of unification can show up as embodied stillness and equanimity. The body…
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On wisdom and equanimity
One simple way to consider the difference between wisdom and equanimity is to look at how each of these qualities function in our minds and lives. One important function of wisdom, for example, is to discern which actions of body, speech, or mind are likely to result in benefit – or in harm. Discerning wisdom…
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Reflecting on Virtues — and Including Vulnerabilities
BUDDHIST IDEAS Recollecting virtues is a classic contemplation~ Reflecting on virtues builds confidence ~ Naming others’ virtues can build relationships ~ Including vulnerability builds trust ~ Reflecting on Virtues and Vulnerabilities with Kindness: ~The safety of kind, honest, reflection~ I was walking with a good Dharma friend earlier this week, and really appreciated how attuned he…
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Care and compassion in brief
BUDDHIST BASICS Care and Compassion are natural qualities~ Both can be cultivated~ Anukampa is a “quivering of the heart”~ Karuṇā is an intentionally developed mindstate~ CARE & COMPASSION IN BRIEF Karunā and anukampa Compassion (karuṇā) can be defined as the capacity to be with suffering and the wish to act to alleviate it – without…
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Protecting Inner and Outer Peace
BUDDHIST IDEAS Hiri &Ottappa are called Bright Guardians~ They’re internal states~ Hiri guards integrity~ Ottappa concerns outer consequences~ Protecting inner & outer peace: ~Hiri and Ottappa in daily life ~ Hiri[1] and ottappa[2], the bright guardians of the world, evoke a range of translations and interpretations. For me, hiri’s common association with shame, even moral…