When we observe the mind carefully, let’s be honest to ourselves: it is rarely straight. It leans, bends, and inclines: pulled by lobha, pushed by dosa, clouded by moha. Even when we intend to act rightly, something within distorts that intention. This inner crookedness is the natural condition of an untrained mind. The mind is always bending in such a manner, conditioned by defilements to act in these ways throughout beginningless saṃsāra. In the teachings of the Buddha, there is a term that...

The commentaries provide a profoundly important clarification about attainments of Path and Fruition, and that liberation is neither random nor mechanically guaranteed. It unfolds through prior and present causes. The Apadāna Commentary expresses this as follows: “To all disciples of the Blessed One: (1) the presence of meritorious supporting conditions (adhikāra), and (2) a strong and resolute aspiration (chanda) for the noble knowledge of enlightenment (bodhi-ñāṇa) one seeks — Only when...

Growing old is inevitable. Growing up is a choice. Growing old happens to you, whether you like it or not. Growing up is something you do, only if you choose to. Time passes and makes this body age. Responsibilities grow, roles change, life goes from one phase to another but from the perspective of the Dhamma, none of this guarantees maturity. A person can grow old while remaining emotionally reactive, self-centred, resentful, weak-minded and deeply attached to how things should be. Another...