Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Effort: Restraining Unarisen Unhealthy States

 

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RIGHT EFFORT Restraining Unarisen Unhealthy States Whatever a person frequently thinks about and ponders, that will become the inclination of their mind. If one frequently thinks about and ponders unhealthy states, one has abandoned healthy states to cultivate unhealthy states, and then one’s mind inclines to unhealthy states. (MN 19) Here a person rouses the will, makes an effort, stirs up energy, exerts the mind, and strives to restrain the arising of unarisen unhealthy mental states. One restrains the arising of the unarisen hindrance of doubt. (MN 141)

Reflection The fifth of the five hindrances is doubt. This is not the healthy skepticism that encourages us to think for ourselves and not take anything on hearsay. It is the debilitating doubt wherein we are unsure of ourselves and unclear about whether the practice we are doing is well taught or we are practicing it correctly. These sorts of doubts hinder our progress and are better replaced by their opposite, trust and confidence. Daily Practice See if you can give some attention to the quality of mind that presents itself when you are doubtful about something and, alternatively, when you are trusting of something. The point is not so much whether the doubt or trust is justified or not, or right or wrong, but rather the effect such attitudes have on the workings of consciousness. Self-doubt in particular undermines the mind, while confidence promotes energy. Tomorrow: Establishing Mindfulness of Body and Abiding in the First Jhāna One week from today: Abandoning Arisen Unhealthy States Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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March 22, 2025 Nothing Exists Independently When the Buddha attained enlightenment, he gained insight into his past lives. Later that night, he realized that all beings undergo rebirth according to their kamma, or karma. Finally, he discovered the path to ending this cycle of suffering. These three insights form the foundation of dependent origination. In our latest Dharma Talk, Bhante Henepola Gunaratana—beloved teacher and author of Dependent Origination in Plain English—dives into this profound teaching. Drawing from decades of study and practice, “Bhante G,” as he’s known worldwide, clarifies common misconceptions and reveals how dependent origination shapes our everyday experience. “Dependent origination explains how kamma works. And, therefore, it is actually the very deepest teachings of the Buddha. It is a real, practical teaching. Pragmatic. Down-to-earth. Therefore, I want to bring it very close to [the] heart and mind." Watch the talk today to learn how to bring the teachings of dependent origination into your life.   Watch the talk »   Also this week: It’s not too late to join the Tricycle Film Festival. Sign up now to join us tomorrow at 11 a.m. ET for a live event with Ed Bastian, director of The Dalai Lama’s Gift.    Our latest episode of Life As It Is features psychologist Mary-Frances O’Connor as she explores the toll that loss takes on our bodies.    Unlock the wisdom of Buddhist teachings and deepen your practice with Tricycle’s online courses. Explore a variety of offerings like Dream Yoga, Korean Buddhist Cooking, and Writing as a Spiritual Practice.  Join us April 22–24 for Tricycle’s Fourth Annual Buddhism and Ecology Summit, a unique opportunity to deepen your connection with the natural world. Hear from Christiana Figueres on personal leadership in times of political and ecological crisis, Larry Ward on embodiment as an environmental ethic, and Paul Hawken in conversation with Peter Coyote—alongside many other insightful speakers. The summit includes live dharma talks, guided practices, and a special screening of Interdependence, an anthology of 11 short films exploring our interconnectedness. Learn more and sign up today » Weaving Wire By Haley Barker Experience the life and art of the late Japanese American artist Ruth Asawa.  Read more » Into a Haunted World Interview with Vajra Chandrasekera by James Shaheen Explore the Buddhist mythos behind a Sri Lankan author’s new book.  Read more » What We’re Reading By the Editors See the latest books Tricycle's editors are enjoying including the Dalai Lama's commentary on awakening and ninety-nine practical tips for easing attachment. Read more » You Have to Get Wet By Les Kaye Zen cannot be understood from the shore—you have to step in and experience it for yourself. Read more » Wisdom Beyond Reason By Pema Düddul Learn how to differentiate between Zen koans, Chan gongans, and Dzogchen pith instructions.  Read more » Nakuul Mehta’s Human Revolution Interview with Nakuul Mehta by Priyanka Aidasani In this piece, “your mother’s favorite TV STAR” reflects on overcoming obstacles, the power of prayer, and the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism. Read more »

Via Daily Dharma: Creating Confidence

 

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Creating Confidence Confidence must be created. No one is born with it. It must be fostered through familiarization in the context and field of what we wish to accomplish.  Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche, “Working on Laziness” CLICK HERE TO READ THE ARTICLE

Immature Practice Imitates, Mature Practice Steals By Matthias Esho Birk Inspired by a child’s drawing, a Zen teacher expounds on the nondual nature of piety. Read more » On the Road Directed by Changjae Lee Follow the lives of four Korean women and their journey to become Buddhist nuns in this unprecedented glimpse into Backheung-am, a thousand-year-old rural Korean Buddhist nunnery, the documentary. Watch now »

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