Wisdom of the Masters

Sukhasiddhi (flourished 11th Century) was an Indian teacher of Vajrayana Buddhism, a yogini and master of meditation. She was born in west Kashmir to a large, poor family. Sukhasiddhi arrived at tantric Buddhism late in life. She lived as an impoverished housewife and mother of six children until the age of fifty-nine. She was thrown out of her home by her husband and children, who were irate at what they considered her misplaced generosity to a stranger who came begging at their door. She traveled to Oḍḍiyāna, thought to be the land of dakas and dakinis, and there she met Virupa, a mahasiddha who became her guru. Very quickly Sukhasiddhi became completely realized and together with Niguma, as well as Rāhula, Maitripada and Vajrasapana, was the root teacher of the Tibetan yogi Khungpo Naljor, who founded the Shangpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. She is one of 84 known Mahasiddas. First section translated from the Tibetan by Sherab Drime (Thomas Roth) Music: Space Azure - Foundations I - https://azurestudios.bandcamp.com/alb... Art: Lasha Mutual - "Sukhasiddi with flowers and clouds" - With thanks to Lasha for permission to use her art for this channel. For more of her beautiful art see here: https://lashamutual.com/

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A selection of key pointers taken from the text, 'Vajra Speech: A Commentary on The Quintessence of Spiritual Practice, The Direct Instructions of the Great Compassionate One' by Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche. Translated by Erik Pema Kunsang. Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche (1920 - 1996) was a Buddhist master of the Kagyü and Nyingma lineages who lived at Nagi Gompa hermitage in Nepal. Urgyen Rinpoche was considered one of the greatest Dzogchen masters of his time.

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Ama Samy (Arul Maria Arokiasamy), S.J., born in 1936, is an Indian Zen master and Jesuit priest. Ama Samy was born to Christian parents in Burma in 1936 and grew up in India. After becoming a Jesuit priest in 1972, he began visiting Hindu ashrams and Buddhist meditation centers. He was introduced to Ramana Maharshi's teachings by Swami Abhishiktananda. His searching led him to become a wandering beggar for a period and to settle down as a hermit. Father Ama visited Japan and trained with Yamada Koun Roshi of Sanbo Kyodan. In 1982, Yamada Roshi authorized him to teach Zen. Ama Samy founded the Bodhi Sangha, the community of his disciples, in 1986. Bodhi Sangha became an independent Zen school when he left the Sanbo Kyodan organization in 2002. Ama Samy's method of teaching embraces both Soto and Rinzai Zen traditions and draws from the resources of Christianity and other religions. He lives and teaches at Bodhi Zendo Zen Center near Kodaikanal in South India.

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The Zen master, Shiwu 石屋, or Stonehouse (1272–1352) was a Chinese Chan poet and hermit monk who lived during the Yuan Dynasty. He was considered one of the greatest Chinese Buddhist poets and used poetry as his medium of instruction for Dharma.  In 1312 at the age of forty he moved to Xiamu Mountain near Huzhou to live as a hermit and it is here that he composed his "Mountain Poems" (Shan-shih), one-hundred and eighty-four verses expounding Dharma and the facets of living in the mountains. Near the end of his life, monks asked him to record what he found of interest on his mountain; Stonehouse delivered to them hundreds of poems and an admonition: "Do not try singing these poems. Only if you sit on them will they do you any good."  Translated by Red Pine (Bill Porter).

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This is a guided meditation on learning to relax in meditation, recognising the silence and stillness, and turning towards the open sky like nature of the mind.

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A selection of key points for prayer and meditation from St Teresa of Avila's teachings. Excerpts taken from numerous sources, including: "The Way of Perfection", "Collected Works" and "Interior Castle." St Teresa of Ávila (March 28, 1515 – October 4, 1582) was a prominent Carmelite nun and Spanish mystic. St Teresa had many mystical experiences she tried to reflect in poems. She took an active role in the Carmelite order and was later canonised a saint by the Roman Catholic church.

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Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist monk and meditation Master. He was an influential teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. He was reputed to be an Arahant.

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This is a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta formatted for guided meditation, taken from the text, 'I am That' - translated by Maurice Frydman. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.

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The Abhidharmakośabhāṣya (Treasury of Metaphysics with Self-Commentary) is a pivotal treatise on early Buddhist thought composed around the 4th or 5th century by the Indian Buddhist philosopher Vasubandhu. This work is a complete and systematic account of the Abhidharma, and is the peak of scholarship in the Fundamental Vehicle. It elucidates the Buddha’s teachings as synthesized and interpreted by the early Buddhist Sarvāstivāda school. Vasubandhu (4th to 5th century CE) was an influential Buddhist monk and scholar from Gandhara or Central India. He was a philosopher who wrote commentary on the Abhidharma, from the perspectives of the Sarvastivada and Sautrāntika schools. After his conversion to Mahayana Buddhism, along with his half-brother, Asanga, he was also one of the main founders of the Yogacara school. Vasubandhu's Abhidharmakośakārikā ("Commentary on the Treasury of the Abhidharma") is widely used in Tibetan and East Asian Buddhism, as the major source for non-Mahayana Abhidharma philosophy. Vasubandhu is one of the most influential thinkers in the Indian Buddhist philosophical tradition. Because of their association with Nalanda university, Vasubandhu and Asanga are amongst the so-called Seventeen Nalanda Masters. In Jōdo Shinshū, he is considered the Second Patriarch; in Chan Buddhism, he is the 21st Patriarch.

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Shantideva’s Dedication Prayer is one of H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama’s favourite dedications, extracted from Chapter 10 of the Bodhicharyavatara of Master Shantideva. Treasured by Buddhists of all traditions, The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara) is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment and to generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience. This text has been studied, practiced, and expounded upon in an unbroken tradition for centuries. Presented in the form of a personal meditation in verse, it outlines the path of the Bodhisattvas--those who renounce the peace of individual enlightenment and vow to work for the liberation of all beings and to attain buddhahood for their sake. Shantideva was a scholar in the eighth century from the monastic university Nalanda, one of the most celebrated centers of learning in ancient India. According to legend, Shantideva was greatly inspired by the celestial bodhisattva Manjushri, from whom he secretly received teachings and great insights. Music: Wings of an Angel - Amitābha Buddha - with loving thank to 'Wings' for his gifts of music.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Baizhang Huaihai (720–814 AD) was a Zen master during the Tang dynasty. A native of Fuzhou, he was a dharma heir of Mazu Daoyi. Baizhang's students included Huangbo, Linji and Puhua. He has been venerated as one of the greatest Chan teachers of the Tang era and even today he remains one of the most recognized Chan teachers of all time. His Zen teachings focused on practicing in the present, independent freedom, individual discovery, and not relying on doctrine, or intellectual comprehension. These extracts have been read from the text: 'Zen Teaching of Instantaneous Awakening' - Teachings of the Zen Master Hui Hai. Rendered into English by John Blofeld Music: Swami Madhuram - 'Sandhya', from the album "Coming Home" by Time for Peace. With thanks to Swami for his gift of beautiful music. Please find more of his music here: https://timeforpeace.bandcamp.com/

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A selection of quotes and extracts from teachings of Dipa Ma taken from the website: https://dipama.com/ Nani Bala Barua (25 March 1911 – 1 September 1989), better known as Dipa Ma, was an Indian meditation teacher of Theravada Buddhism and was of Barua descent. She was a prominent Buddhist master in Asia and also taught in the United States where she influenced the American branch of the Vipassana movement. Dipa Ma was a woman of extraordinary wisdom, concentration, and lovingkindness. She was a rare example of a mother and grandmother who became a realized spiritual Master through her unwavering determination and heart. She taught many of the Vipassana Buddhist teachers in the West (including Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, and Joseph Goldstein), and the stories about her continue to inspire Buddhists and spiritual seekers today. 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Selected poems of Hafez taken from the text 'Drunk on the Wine of the Beloved' - translated by Thomas Rain Crowe.

Persian lyric poet Hafiz (born Khwāja Šamsu d-Dīn Muḥammad Hāfez-e Šīrāzī) grew up in Shiraz. Very little is known about his life, but it is thought that he may have memorized the Qur’an after hearing his father recite passages. He is one of the most celebrated of the Persian poets, and his influence can be felt to this day. As the author of numerous ghazals expressing love, spirituality, and protest, he and his work continue to be important to Iranians, and many of his poems are used as proverbs or sayings. Music - 'Discovering love at the source of longing' from the album 'The Great Intimacy' by Sujatha Maheshwari Image/Art - 'Light upon Light' by Jennifer Baird

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Selected excerpts from the teaching given by Namkai Norbu entitled: The Mirror: Advice on Presence and Awareness.

Chögyal Namkhai Norbu (1938-2018) was a Tibetan Dzogchen master. When he was two years old, Namkhai Norbu was recognized as the 'mindstream emanation', a tulku, of the Dzogchen teacher Adzom Drugpa (1842–1924). At five, he was also recognized as a mindstream emanation of an emanation of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (1594–1651). From an early age, Namkhai Norbu undertook an accelerated course of study, attending monastic college, taking retreats, and studying with renowned teachers, including some of the most important Tibetan masters of his time.

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Ryōkan Taigu 良寛大愚 (1758–1831) was a quiet and unconventional Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. Ryōkan is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life. He renounced the world at an early age to train at nearby Sōtō Zen temple Kōshō-ji, refusing to meet with or accept charity from his family. These selected excerpts and poems by Ryokan have been taken from the text "Great Fool" translated by Ryuichi Abé & Peter Haskel. Music track: "Night Track" by Swami Madhuram Puri. With thanks to Swami for his kind offering of his exquisite music for this channel. For more of his wonderful music, please see here: www.timeforpeace.bandcamp.com

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected teachings of Ma's taken from various sources. Anandamayi Ma ( 30 April 1896 – 27 August 1982) was a Bengali Saint, described by Sivananda Saraswati (of the Divine Life Society) as "the most perfect flower the Indian soil has produced." Precognition, faith healing and miracles were attributed to her by her followers. Paramahansa Yogananda translates the Sanskrit epithet Anandamayi - as "Joy-permeated" in English. This name was given to her by her devotees in the 1920s to describe her perpetual state of divine joy. Music: Swami Madhuram - 'Coming Home' - With thanks to Swami for his gift of beautiful music. Please find more of his music here: https://timeforpeace.bandcamp.com/

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A reading of the Anapanasati Sutta: Mindfulness of Breathing - MN 118 This reading is an amalgam of translations by Bhante Sujato, Bhikkhu Bodhi, Thanisarro Bhikkhu - compiled and edited by Ayya Jitindriya. The Ānāpānasati Sutta (Pāli), "Breath-Mindfulness Discourse," Majjhima Nikaya 118, is a discourse that details the Buddha's instruction on using awareness of the breath (anapana) as an initial focus for meditation. The sutta includes sixteen steps of practice, and groups them into four tetrads, associating them with the four satipatthanas (placings of mindfulness). According to American scholar monk, Thanissaro Bhikkhu, this sutta contains the most detailed meditation instructions in the Pali Canon. The method of practising Ānāpānasati , as explained in the Ānāpānasati -sutta of the Majjhima Nikàya, is complete in itself. One can understand and practise this more easily than methods found in other suttas.

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Dṛg-Dṛṣya-Viveka : An Inquiry Into The Nature of The ‘Seer’ and The ‘Seen’, Discrimination between the Real and the Unreal Attributed to Adi Śankarācarya and Bāratī Tīrtha - Translation by Richard Miller, PhD The Dṛg-Dṛśya-Viveka contains 46 slokas/verses performing an inquiry into the distinction between the "seer" (Dṛg) and the "seen" (Dṛśya), an overview of samadhi, centering on savikalpa and nirvikalpa, and the reality of Universal Non-Dual Consciousness. Although also attributed to Adi Shankara, the text is most commonly attributed to Bharatī Tīrtha (c. 1350). It is also known as Vakya Suddha, which is attributed to Adi Shankara. Music: Wasteland - Generative Modular Longform Ambient - State Azure https://stateazure.bandcamp.com/ Maok - Across Mountains https://maokmusic.bandcamp.com/

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These excerpts for meditation/contemplation have been taken from Madame Guyon's text, 'A Short and Easy Method of Prayer'. Published by the Christian Classics Ethereal Library. Jeanne-Marie Bouvier de la Motte-Guyon (Commonly known as Madame Guyon - 13 April 1648 – 9 June 1717) is Christianity’s best-known and most influential woman in church history. She was a celebrated French Mystic, and one of the greatest Christian leaders of all time. She was accused of advocating Quietism, which was considered heretical by the Roman Catholic Church. Madame Guyon was imprisoned from 1695 to 1703 after publishing the book A Short and Very Easy Method of Prayer. The foundation of her Quietism was laid in her study of St. Francis de Sales, Madame de Chantal, and Thomas a Kempis. At age 16, she married Jacques Guyon, a wealthy man of weak health, 22 years her senior. Her public career as an evangelist of Quietism began soon after her widowhood.

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Reading of the famous seventh-century Zen classic  Xin Ming, or "Song of Mind" - this poem is a masterpiece of expressing the inexpressible.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These sublime and profound teachings on the nature of reality by the great master, Longchenpa is taken from the Finding Rest in Illusion trilogy . It is suitable for those practitioners who have an in-depth understanding and insight into Dzogchen's concepts and paradigm. Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation spoken extemporaneously by Samaneri Jayasra on learning to recognise, abide in, and rest as, the stillpoint of intrinsic Awareness.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of the chapter "Citta" taken from the text 'Uncommon Wisdom - Life and Teachings of Ajaan Pannavaddho. Written and compiled by Ajaan Dick Sīlaratano. Venerable Ajaan Pannavahho was the senior-most Western monk following Ajaan Mun’s path of practice for over 40 years. Ajaan Paññā, as he was called, was a man of intellectual brilliance who, through his own efforts in meditation, was able to establish a strong spiritual foundation in his heart. While showing a selfless devotion to the task of presenting Ajaan Mun’s Dhamma to his many disciples, his calm and purposeful presence touched the lives of so many people. He became a pioneer of the Western Sangha whose leadership influenced countless monks and laypeople to practice Ajaan Mun’s teachings; and whose translations and interpretations of Ajaan Mahā Boowa’s Dhamma talks introduced generations of Buddhists to the Thai Forest Tradition. Ajaan Paññā was born Peter John Morgan of Welsh parents on the 19th of October 1925. His birth took place in Mysore state in South India at the Kolar Gold Fields, where his father was working as a mining engineer. At the age of seven he was sent to the United Kingdom by his parents to begin his formal education. __________________________________________ 🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation taken from the text, 'The Peaceful Stillness of the Silent Mind: Buddhism, Mind and Meditation' by Lama Thubten Yeshe. Lama Thubten Yeshe was born in Tibet in 1935. At the age of six, he entered Sera Monastic University in Tibet where he studied until 1959, when as Lama Yeshe himself has said, “In that year the Chinese kindly told us that it was time to leave Tibet and meet the outside world.” Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, together as teacher and disciple since their exile in India, met their first Western students in 1967. By 1971, they settled at Kopan, a small hamlet near Kathmandu in Nepal. In 1974, the Lamas began touring and teaching in the West, which would eventually result in The Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition. Lama Yeshe followed the Gelug tradition, and was considered unconventional in his teaching style. He died in 1984.

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of the timeless teaching of Naropa's - "The Summary of Mahamudra". English version by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche and Erik Pema Kunsang Nāropā (1016-1100) was an Indian Buddhist Mahasiddha. He was the disciple of Tilopa and brother, or some sources say partner and pupil, of Niguma. As an Indian Mahasiddha, Naropa's instructions inform Vajrayana, particularly his six yogas of Naropa relevant to the completion stage of anuttarayogatantra. He was also one of the gatekeepers of Vikramashila monastery which is located in Bihar. Mahāmudrā (Sanskrit: महामुद्रा, Tibetan: ཕྱག་ཆེན་) literally means "great seal" or "great imprint" and refers to the fact that "all phenomena inevitably are stamped by the fact of wisdom and emptiness inseparable". Music: David Parsons - 'Abode of Shiva'

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Evelyn Underhill (6 December 1875 – 15 June 1941) was an English Anglo-Catholic poet and novelist as well as a pacifist and mystic. An only child, she described her early mystical insights as "abrupt experiences of the peaceful, undifferentiated plane of reality—like the 'still desert' of the mystic—in which there was no multiplicity nor need of explanation". The meaning of these experiences became a lifelong quest for understanding and integration and inspired in her much writing and contemplation. This reading is a short selection of pointings taken from the text, 'Mysticism'.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These few selections of Rumi poems are from the newly translated text "Gold" - Rumi. Translated by Haleh Liza Gafori. The book can be purchased here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/bo...https://www.amazon.com/Gold-Rumi/dp/1... Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī (30 September 1207 – 17 December 1273), was a 13th-century Persian poet, faqih, Islamic scholar, theologian, and Sufi mystic originally from Greater Khorasan in Greater Iran. Rumi's influence transcends national borders and ethnic divisions. Music: Abeer Nehmeh & Mehdi Aminian - Aramaic & Sufi Dialogue

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Best to listen to this meditation with headphones 🎧 🎧 🎧 This is a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta formatted for guided meditation, taken from the texts, 'I am That' - translated by Maurice Frydman. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This reading is from chapter 3 and 4 of the teachings found in the text, The Secret of the Golden Flower, and explains in detail the method of 'turning the light around'. Translated by Thomas Clearly. According to Cleary, this text is is a lay manual of Buddhist and Taoist methods for clarifying the mind. A distillation of the inner psychoactive elements in ancient spiritual classics, it describes a natural way to mental freedom practiced in China for many centuries. The golden flower symbolizes the quintessence of the paths of Buddhism and Taoism. Gold stands for light, the light of the mind itself; the flower represents the blossoming, or opening up, of the light of the mind. Thus the expression is emblematic of the basic awakening of the real self and its hidden potential. The text was written by means of the spirit-writing (fuji) technique, through two groups, in 1688 and 1692. After publication of the translation by Richard Wilhelm, with commentary by Carl Gustav Jung, it became modernly popularized among Westerners as a Chinese "religious classic", and is read in psychological circles for analytical and transpersonal psychology considerations of Taoist meditations.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided Yoga Nidra meditation to induce deep relaxation and rejuvenation and to assist with deepening conscious Awareness in the pre-sleep and deep sleep states, with gentle rain sounds to help you relax and let go. Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep is a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping, like the "going-to-sleep" stage, typically induced by a guided meditation. Yoga Nidra is a powerful meditation technique, and one of the easiest yoga practices to develop and maintain. While the practitioner rests comfortably in savasana (corpse pose) this systematic meditation takes you deep into body/mind relaxation, leaving you with a sense of wholeness, relaxation, clarity and wellness. Yoga Nidra results in conscious awareness of the deep sleep state. It is among the deepest possible states of relaxation while still maintaining full consciousness.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts from the text "Notes on Spiritual Discources" - taken by Nitya Tripta. For PDF and hard copy versions of the 3 Volume teaching see this website of Greg Goodes: https://greg-goode.com/article/notes-on-spiritual-discourses-of-shri-atmananda/ Śrĩ Atmananda (8 December 1883 – 14 May 1959), also referred as Sri Atmananda Krishna Menon, was an Indian sage, guru, and philosopher. He has been described by scholars as a "neo-Hindu". His teachings have become a foundation for a spiritual method called the Direct Path.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of a chapter on 'The Art of Letting Go' taken from the text: "Keeping the Breath in Mind by Ajahn Lee. Translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu. Phra Suddhidhammaransi Gambhiramedhacarya (1907–1961), commonly known as Ajahn Lee Dhammadharo, was a meditation teacher in the Thai Forest Tradition of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya order of Theravada Buddhism. He was born in the Ubon Ratchathani Province of Isan and was a student of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. Ajahn Lee is regarded as one of the greatest teachers and meditation masters of the Thai Forest Tradition of the 20th century. Among the forest monks, he devised the most comprehensive meditation instructions, and composed the most detailed map of the jhānas. He was one of the first teachers to bring the teachings of the Forest Tradition to the mainstream of Thai society. He never spoke of his own meditative attainments.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These extracts from Krishnamurti's talks on meditation have been taken from various sources and are intended for contemplation. Jiddu Krishnamurti (12 May 1895 – 17 February 1986) was an Indian philosopher, speaker and writer. In his early life he was groomed to be the new World Teacher but later rejected this mantle and withdrew from the Theosophy organization behind it. He stressed the need for a revolution in the psyche of every human being and emphasised that such revolution cannot be brought about by any external entity, be it religious, political, or social.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of pointers read from the text, 'Selfless Self: Talks with Shri Ramakant Maharaj'.Ramakant Maharaj was a direct disciple of the late Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and spent 19 years with him. From 1962, he visited Nisargadatta Maharaj and listened to his lectures regularly, until his master's Mahasamadhi in 1981. During the last decade or so at his ashram in Nashik, Ramakant Maharaj introduced devotees from around the world to the ultimate Truth. Shri Ramakant Maharaj attained Mahasamadhi 31 August 2018.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This reading is a synthesis of the teachings found in the text, The Secret of the Golden Flower, translated by Thomas Clearly. According to Cleary, this text is is a lay manual of Buddhist and Taoist methods for clarifying the mind. A distillation of the inner psycho active elements in ancient spiritual classics, it describes a natural way to mental freedom practiced in China for many centuries. The golden flower symbolizes the quintessence of the paths of Buddhism and Taoism. Gold stands for light, the light of the mind itself; the flower represents the blossoming, or opening up, of the light of the mind. Thus the expression is emblematic of the basic awakening of the real self and its hidden potential.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selction of verses taken from Vivekchudamani on the Supreme Self. The Vivekachudamani (lit. 'Crest-jewel of discernment') is a philosophical treatise within the Advaita Vedanta tradition of Hinduism, traditionally attributed to Adi Shankara of the eighth century. These verses were translated into Tamil prose by Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi while he was still living in Virupaksha Cave. It is a very free translation, even the order of the paragraphs being changed to some extent.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selection of verses from Longchenpa's heartfelt parting advice to his students, exhorting them to vigorously engage the path to liberation while they are still able. It is said these are Longchenpa's final words prior to his death. Translated by Herbert V. Guenther. Longchenpa (1308-1364) stands at the center of the Nyingma tradition. Acknowledged by all schools of Tibetan Buddhism as one of Tibet's greatest masters, he wrote works that cover every aspect of the Buddhist path. His writings, in clear and luminous language, have the power to awaken our innermost knowing and inspire us to act on the knowledge we already have. 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts from the text "Notes on Spiritual Discources" - taken by Nitya Tripta. Śrĩ Atmananda (8 December 1883 – 14 May 1959), also referred as Sri Atmananda Krishna Menon, was an Indian sage, guru, and philosopher. He has been described by scholars as a "neo-Hindu". His teachings have become a foundation for a spiritual method called the Direct Path.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo (born 1943) is a bhikṣuṇī in the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. She is an author, teacher and founder of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Himachal Pradesh, India. She is best known for having spent twelve years living in a remote cave in the Himalayas, three of those years in strict meditation retreat. On 16 February 2008, Tenzin Palmo received the title of Jetsunma (reverend lady) in recognition of her spiritual achievements as a nun and her efforts in promoting the status of female practitioners in Tibetan Buddhism by the head of the Drukpa Lineage, the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa. In November 2023, Tenzin Palmo was named to the BBC's 100 Women list.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of the Upajjhaṭṭhana Sutta  (AN 5:57) ~ Subjects for Contemplation - Translated by Bhikkhu Bodhi. The Upajjhatthana Sutta ("Subjects for Contemplation") focuses on the five remembrances, or five facts, regarding life's fragility and our true inheritance. The discourse advises that these facts are to be reflected upon often by all. Contemplation of these facts leads to the abandonment of destructive attachments and actions and to the cultivation of factors necessary for Awakening. The first three remembrances are the very insights that led Gautama Buddha to renounce his royal household status and become an ascetic after experiencing strong feelings of spiritual urgency (saṃvega).

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation taken from Dr Nida Chenagtsang’s 'Weapon of Light' series - a pithy synthesis of Ati Yoga (Dzogchen) instructions. The teachings focus on how to naturally and easefully access the natural state of mind in both the meditative state and daily life and to liberate the afflictive emotions. For more about Dr Nida and his work and teachings see here: ⁠⁠https://www.drnida.com/⁠⁠

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation taken from Dr Nida Chenagtsang’s 'Weapon of Light' series - a pithy synthesis of Ati Yoga (Dzogchen) instructions. The teachings focus on how to naturally and easefully access the natural state of mind in both the meditative state and daily life and to liberate the afflictive emotions. For more about Dr Nida and his work and teachings see here: ⁠https://www.drnida.com/⁠

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation taken from Dr Nida Chenagtsang’s 'Weapon of Light' series - a pithy synthesis of Ati Yoga (Dzogchen) instructions. The teachings focus on how to naturally and easefully access the natural state of mind in both the meditative state and daily life and to liberate the afflictive emotions. For more about Dr Nida and his work and teachings see here: https://www.drnida.com/

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of selected pointers for meditation taken from the book "This" by Papaji. Formatted as a guided meditation. Sri H. W. L. Poonja (1910 -1997) was born in Lucknow, India, known as "Poonjaji" or "Papaji", was an Indian sage who taught Self-enquiry as advocated by Ramana Maharshi. Music: David Parsons - "Inward Journey" https://www.discogs.com/artist/308912-David-Parsons

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of excerpts from the text, 'Virtue and Reality' by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. Thubten Zopa Rinpoche (3 December 1946 – 13 April 2023) was a Tibetan Buddhist lama in the Gelug school. He was one of the most internationally renowned masters of Tibetan Buddhism, working and teaching ceaselessly on almost every continent. He was the spiritual director and cofounder of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), an international network of Buddhist projects, including monasteries in six countries and meditation centers in over thirty; health and nutrition clinics, and clinics specializing in the treatment of leprosy and polio; as well as hospices, schools, publishing activities, and prison outreach projects worldwide.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Anandamayi Ma ( 30 April 1896 – 27 August 1982) was a Bengali Saint, described by Sivananda Saraswati (of the Divine Life Society) as "the most perfect flower the Indian soil has produced." Precognition, faith healing and miracles were attributed to her by her followers. Paramahansa Yogananda translates the Sanskrit epithet Anandamayi - as "Joy-permeated" in English. This name was given to her by her devotees in the 1920s to describe her perpetual state of divine joy.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading for meditation of "Sermon 2" (a Christmas Sermon) from 'The Complete Mystical Works of Meister Eckhart.' Translated by Maurice Walshe Johannes Eckhart was one of the greatest of Christian mystics. He was born at Hochheim in Thüringen, Germany, in 1260 and died c.1327. He entered the Dominican order when he was 15. Later he became a distinguished professor and taught at different universities. His direct and accessible teachings of a person's closeness to God inspired many people and he became well known throughout Europe. He was later summoned to an inquisition for heretical teachings, at which he vigorously defended himself.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Yunus Emre (Turkish pronunciation also known as Derviş Yunus (Yunus the Dervish) (c. 1238–1320) was a Turkish folk poet and Sufi mystic who greatly influenced Turkish culture. Emre has been a leading light for humanity for centuries with his suggestions to adopt the values of patience, satisfaction, tolerance, generosity, goodness and virtue in line with the teachings of Islam. The great Sufi thinker and folk poet is considered one of the spiritual architects of Anatolia. Music: "Kolaymi" and "Magic of the Evening"- Omar Faruk Tekbilek

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta formatted for guided meditation, taken from the texts, 'Seeds of Consciousness' and 'Nothing is Everything'. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These excerpts for meditation have been taken from the text "The Sun My Heart" by Thich Nhat Hanh. Thích Nhất Hạnh (1926 - 2022) was a Vietnamese Thiền/Chan Buddhist monk, peace activist, prolific author, poet and teacher, who founded the Plum Village Tradition, historically recognized as the main inspiration for engaged Buddhism. Known as the "father of mindfulness", Nhất Hạnh was a major influence on Western practices of Buddhism.

Music - "Flying" from the album "Flying", composed by Peder B. Helland. Stream/download: https://pederbhelland.lnk.to/flyingYA With thanks to Peder for the kind use of his music for my readings/recordings.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

William Samuel (1924-1996) was born in Alabama to a Jewish father and Christian mother. Samuel taught and wrote from his home at Mountain Brook, Alabama, for over 40 years. He was a spiritual teacher who taught and lectured on the subject of metaphysics based upon the Absolute, or as referred to today, non-duality. Samuel never sought to be well known or venerated himself, and did not embrace the idea of being called a "teacher". However, he has been widely recognized by many as a genuine true Master. Samuel also preferred not to be labeled, categorized or assigned to any religion, particular study, nor tied to any spiritual teaching. William Samuel was the first American student to meet and sit with Ramana Maharshi, and recounts the meeting in a short anecdote: “Some years ago I was honored to be the first American student of a renowned teacher in India. For fourteen days a group of us sat at the feet of this "Master," during which time he spoke not one word—not so much as a grunt—until the final day when he bade us farewell and assured us we had learned much. And to my surprise, I had. It took months before the seeds of those silent days began to sprout one by one, revealing that there are indeed many things for which the uptight, recondite babble of books and teachers is more hindrance than a help.”

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of excerpts taken from the text "All Else is Bondage". Terence James Stannus Gray (14 September 1895 – 5 January 1986), better known by the pen name Wei Wu Wei, was a 20th-century Taoist philosopher, writer, Egyptologist and theatre producer. Gray was born in Felixstowe, Suffolk, England on 14 September 1895, into a well-established Anglo-Irish family. He was educated at numerous prestigious institutions including Eton and Oxford University. After he left his theatrical career, his thoughts turned towards philosophy and metaphysics. This led to a period of travel throughout Asia, including time spent at Ramana Maharshi's ashram in Tiruvannamalai, India. Between the years 1958 and 1974 a series of eight books appeared attributed to the mysterious 'Wei Wu Wei'. These works draw on a variety of sources, including Taoism, specifically the texts attributed to Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Buddhism, especially The Heart, Diamond and Lankavatara Sutras, and Chan Buddhism as taught by Hui Neng, Huang Po, Hui Hai, etc., as well as the teachings of Padmasambhava and Sri Ramana Maharshi, among others.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of key pointers from Siddharameshwar taken from the website Inner Quest. You can find more of his teachings here: https://www.inner-quest.org/Siddharam... Siddharameshwar Maharaj is one of the greatest unknown saints of the age who attained the highest abode of Eternal peace. He was born in August 1888 in the small village of Pathri, in the district Sholapur of India. From 1925 until 1936, he taught many disciples and helped dozens attain Self-realisation. His teachings were further spread around the globe by his most revered disciples, such as Nisargadatta Maharaj, and others.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of profound, direct pointers for meditation by Master Hongzhi Zhengjue. Excerpts taken from the text: "Cultivating the Empty Field The Silent Illumination of Zen Master Hongzhi" - translated by Taigen Dan Leighton. Hongzhi Zhengjue (1091–1157) was one of the most accomplished Chan masters of the Song dynasty who authored or compiled several influential texts. Hongzhi's conception of silent illumination is of particular importance to the Chinese Caodong Chan and Japanese Sōtō Zen schools. Hongzhi's distinctive teachings are well illustrated in the poetic practice instructions he left behind and are beautiful lyrical celebrations of our Buddha Nature and of all existence. However, they are not merely celebrations, but practice instructions and descriptions of meditative experience. Music by Swami Madhuram Puri. With thanks to Swami for his kind offering of his exquisite music for this channel. For more of his wonderful music, please see here: www.timeforpeace.bandcamp.com

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Vimala Thakar (1921- 2009) was born in Bilaspur District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. She was a great spiritually enlightened revolutionary and activist; mystic, and a notable Indian figure of the 20th Century who boldly forged a radically independent approach to spirituality and the search for truth. In 1958, Thakar attended talks given by, and met with, the philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti. This meeting was to change her life. Freed from all religious tradition, she brought the timeless wisdom of the East to the modern egalitarian West without the baggage of religious terminology, endeavoring to awaken people through deep inquiry. Fiercely independent, beholden only to her own burning passion for liberation, she crisscrossed the world for many years, travelling to 35 countries through the sixties, seventies and eighties, exhorting all who would listen to wake up to what she would term the ‘totality of Life.’

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

The Heart Sūtra is a key sutra in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Its Sanskrit title, Prajñāpāramitāhṛdaya, can be translated as "The Heart of the Perfection of Wisdom". The sutra famously states, "Form is empty" (śūnyatā). It is a condensed exposé on the Buddhist Mahayana teaching of the Two Truths doctrine, which says that ultimately all phenomena are sunyata, empty of an unchanging essence. This emptiness is a 'characteristic' of all phenomena, and not a transcendent reality, but also "empty" of an essence of its own. Specifically, it is a response to Sarvastivada teachings that "phenomena" or its constituents are real. Music by Maok - Inner Reflections and Infinite Forgiveness

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This chapter on "The Method of Developing Bhavana" was taken from the text "Atulo" from the notes and memory of Phra Choa Khun Bodhinandamuni (Somsak Pajhdito), Wat Burapharam, Surin. Translated from the original Thai book "Atulo" by Bhikkhu Khemasanto (Douglas Johnson). ** A note on the word 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚 The word "Heart" is not a totally satisfactory rendering of the Pali word "Citta" but it does accord with much of the same meanings and senses as used in English. For those who prefer, the word "Mind" may also be used as a translation for the word "Citta". ** A note on the word 𝐁𝐡ā𝐯𝐚𝐧ā The Pali dictionary suggests that ‘bhāvanā’ refers to 'mental development' (lit. 'calling into existence, producing') in what in English is generally referred to 'meditation'. The Theravada School of Buddhism distinguishes two types of bhāvanā: (1) development of tranquillity (samatha-bhāvanā), i.e. concentration (samādhi), and (2) development of insight (vipassanā-bhāvanā), i.e. wisdom (paññā). Ajahn Dune Atulo (1888-1983) ordained at the age of 22 and after becoming disillusioned with his life as an uneducated town monk, he left to study in Ubon Ratchathani, where he befriended Ajahn Singh Khantiyagamo and reordained in the Dhammayut sect where he became a disciple of Ajahn Mun. After wandering for 19 years through the forests and mountains of Thailand and Cambodia, Ajahn Dune received an order from his ecclesiastical superiors to head a combined study and practice monastery in Surin. It was thus that he took over the abbotship of Wat Burapha, in the middle of the town, in 1934. There he remained until his death in 1983.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These profound practice teachings on meditation and realising the Self, as taught by Sri Ramana, were taken from various sources/texts. Ramana Maharshi ( 1879 -1950) was an Indian sage and jivanmukta (liberated being). He was born Venkataraman Iyer, but is mostly known by the name Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi. He was born in Tiruchuli, Tamil Nadu, India. In 1895, an attraction to the sacred hill Arunachala and the 63 Nayanmars was aroused in him and in 1896, at the age of 16, he had a "death-experience" where he became aware of a "current" or "force" which he recognized as his true "I" or "Self".

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These excerpts for meditation have been taken from the text "The Sun My Heart" by Thich Nhat Hanh. Thích Nhất Hạnh (1926 - 2022) was a Vietnamese Thiền/Chan Buddhist monk, peace activist, prolific author, poet and teacher, who founded the Plum Village Tradition, historically recognized as the main inspiration for engaged Buddhism. Known as the "father of mindfulness", Nhất Hạnh was a major influence on Western practices of Buddhism Music: The Great Bell Chant - Thich Nhat Hanh & Thay Phap Niem

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Shyama Charan Lahiri (30 September 1828 – 26 September 1895), best known as Lahiri Mahasaya, was an Indian yogi and guru who founded the Kriya Yoga school. He was a disciple of Mahavatar Babaji. According to the book America's Alternative Religions by Timothy Miller, Lahiri Mahasaya's life was described in Paramahansa Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi as a demonstration of the spiritual attainment that could be achieved by a householder "living fully in the world."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Mazu Daoyi (709–88) is one of the most eminent of the ancient Chinese Zen masters. Two of the traditionally acknowledged major schools of Zen trace their lineage through this renowned Zen ancient. He was an influential abbot of Chan Buddhism during the Tang dynasty. The earliest recorded use of the term "Chan school" is from his Extensive Records. Master Ma's teaching style of "strange words and extraordinary actions" became paradigmatic Zen lore. In the Transmission of the Lamp, compiled in 1004, Mazu is described as follows: "His appearance was remarkable. He strode along like a bull and glared about him like a tiger. If he stretched out his tongue, it reached up over his nose; on the soles of his feet were imprinted two circular marks."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of key points for prayer and meditation from St Teresa of Avila's teachings. Excerpts taken from numerous sources, including: "The Way of Perfection", "Collected Works" and "Interior Castle." St Teresa of Ávila (March 28, 1515 – October 4, 1582) was a prominent Carmelite nun and Spanish mystic. St Teresa had many mystical experiences she tried to reflect in poems. She took an active role in the Carmelite order and was later canonised a saint by the Roman Catholic church.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation on some key pointers of the Thoughtfree State by Annamalai Swami's ~taken from various texts. Annamalai Swami (1906–1995) was a direct disciple of Sri Ramana Maharshi who realized the Self after practicing Self-enquiry for decades. This experience gave him first-hand knowledge of how to perform Self-enquiry successfully, making his advice especially valuable to seekers. His teachings are delivered in plain, direct language.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These excerpts for meditation have been taken from the text, "Self-Liberation through seeing with Naked Awareness" by Padmasambhava. Translated by John Reynolds. A text belonging to the same cycle as The Tibetan Book of the Dead, this instruction on the method of self-liberation presents the essence of Dzogchen, The Great Perfection, regarded in Tibet as the highest and most esoteric teaching of the Buddha. Teaching the attainment of Buddhahood in a single lifetime, this text was written and concealed by Guru Padmasambhava in the eighth century and rediscovered six centuries later by Karma Lingpa.

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A clear and powerful teaching given by Upasika Kee Nanayon - taken from the book "An Unentangled Knowing" - translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

Upasika Kee Nanayon or Kor Khao-suan-luang was a realized female practitioner from Thailand. She was mostly self-taught, reading the Pali canon and other Buddhist literature. She considered the Buddha's Dhamma as her primary teacher. Her dhamma talks and poetry were widely circulated. As word of her spread, she became one of the most popular meditation teachers in Thailand. This, and many of her talks, have been translated into English by Thanissaro Bhikkhu who sees her as "arguably the foremost woman Dhamma teacher in twentieth-century Thailand."

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Ryōkan Taigu 良寛大愚 (1758–1831) was a quiet and unconventional Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. Ryōkan is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life. He renounced the world at an early age to train at nearby Sōtō Zen temple Kōshō-ji, refusing to meet with or accept charity from his family. These selected excerpts and poems by Ryokan have been taken from the text "Great Fool" translated by Ryuichi Abé & Peter Haskel. Music track: "Voices of the Land" by Swami Madhuram Puri

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Bede Griffiths (17 December 1906 – 13 May 1993), born Alan Richard Griffiths and also known by the end of his life as Swami Dayananda ("bliss of compassion"), was a British-born Catholic priest and Benedictine monk who lived in ashrams in South India and became a noted yogi. Griffiths was a part of the Christian Ashram Movement. In 1968, Fr. Bede Griffiths immersed himself in the study of Indian thought, attempting to relate it to Christian theology. He went on pilgrimage and studied Hinduism. Under Fr. Bede’s guidance Shantivanam Ashram in South India became a center of contemplative life, of inculturation, and of inter religious dialogue. He contributed greatly to the development of Indian Christian Theology. In 1973 he published Vedanta and the Christian Faith. These reflections from Bede's writings have been taken from numerous sources.

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The Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta (Pali) or Anātmalakṣaṇa Sūtra (Sanskrit), is traditionally recorded as the second discourse delivered by Gautama Buddha. The title translates to the "Not-Self Characteristic Discourse", but is also known as the Pañcavaggiya Sutta (Pali) or Pañcavargīya Sūtra (Skt.), meaning the "Group of Five" Discourse. In this discourse, the Buddha analyzes the constituents of a person's body and mind (khandha) and demonstrates that they are each impermanent (anicca), subject to suffering (dukkha) and thus unfit for identification with a "self" (attan). Translated from the Pali by Thanissaro Bhikkhu

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A reading of selected excerpts from the Record of Linji. The Linji lu (Record of Linji) has been an essential text of Chinese and Japanese Zen Buddhism for nearly a thousand years. A compilation of sermons, statements, and acts attributed to the great Chinese Zen master Linji Yixuan (d. 866), it serves as both an authoritative statement of Zen’s basic standpoint and a central source of material for Zen koan practice. Zen practitioners cherish it for its unusual simplicity, directness, and ability to inspire. Linji Yixuan ( died 866 CE) was the founder of the Linji school of Chán Buddhism during Tang dynasty China.

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This is a guided meditation on the power of listening as an effective means of entering into a meditative state. It encourages a gentle letting go of our reactivity to the sense world, and to the thoughts, concepts and the labels we attach to conditioned phenomena; and to finally recognise and rest into the continuity of Awareness as the background silence. It was spoken spontaneously by Jayasara.

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Hazrat Inayat Khan (1882 –1927) was an Indian professor of musicology, singer, exponent of the saraswati vina, poet, philosopher, and pioneer of the transmission of Sufism to the West. He initially came to the West as a representative of several traditions of classical Indian music, and established an order of Sufism (the Sufi Order) in London in 1914. By the time of his death in 1927, centers had been established throughout Europe and North America, and multiple volumes of his teachings had been published. Inayat Khan's teaching emphasized the oneness of God (tawhid) and the underlying harmony of the revelations communicated by the prophets of all the world's great religions. His discourses treated such varied subjects as religion, art, music, ethics, philosophy, psychology, and health and healing.

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This is a selection of some key teachings of Abhinavagupta extracted from various sources and texts. Abhinavagupta (c. 950 – 1016 CE ) was a philosopher, mystic and aesthetician from Kashmir. He was also considered an influential musician, poet, dramatist, exegete, theologian, and logician – a polymathic personality who exercised strong influences on Indian culture. Abhinavagupta was born in a Brahmin family of scholars and mystics and studied all the schools of philosophy and art of his time under the guidance of as many as fifteen (or more) teachers and gurus.  In his long life he completed over 35 works, the largest and most famous of which is Tantrāloka, an encyclopedic treatise on all the philosophical and practical aspects of Kaula and Trika (known today as Kashmir Shaivism).

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Sri Sarada Devi (22 December 1853 – 21 July 1920), was a nineteenth-century Hindu mystic and saint. She was the wife and spiritual consort of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Sarada Devi is also reverentially addressed as the Holy Mother (Sri Sri Maa) by the followers of the Sri Ramakrishna monastic order. The Sri Sarada Math and Ramakrishna Sarada Mission situated at Dakshineshwar is based on the ideals and life of Sarada Devi. She played an important and central role in the growth of the Ramakrishna Movement. Sri Ramakrishna looked upon Sarada Devi as a special manifestation of Divine Mother of the universe and their marital relationship was purely spiritual. Those who associated with her were overwhelmed by her unconditional love and selfless service. All were her children irrespective of nationality, religious affiliation, or social position. No one was ever turned away. She accepted all.

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This is a reading of Chapter 1 of the Patanjali Yoga Sutras - Samadhi - translated by Alistair Shearer. The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali is a collection of Sanskrit sutras (aphorisms) on the theory and practice of yoga. The Yoga Sutras was compiled in the early centuries CE, by the sage Patanjali in India who synthesized and organized knowledge about yoga from much older traditions. The Yoga Sutras is best known for its reference to ashtanga, eight elements of practice culminating in samadhi, and also incorporate action yoga (Kriya yoga). The Yoga Sutras are a composite of various traditions. The Yoga Sutras built on Samkhya notions of purusha and prakriti, and is often seen as complementary to it. It is also closely related to Buddhism, incorporating some of its terminology such as the levels of samādhi which resemble the Buddhist jhanas.

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These profound teachings from Longchenpa have been formatted for guided meditation purposes. Excerpts taken from the text "A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission." Translated by Richard Barron. Longchen Rabjam (1308-1363), is a great luminary of Tibetan Buddhism. He was highly skilled in all aspects of scholarship from an early age and excelled throughout his life in the practice and accomplishment of the Dharma. Regarded as a great Dzogchen master, Longchenpa had many pure visions where he was given direct instructions from Guru Padmasambhava and is recognised as an emanation of Vimalamitra. Longchenpa's prolific writings have made him one of Tibet's most renowned and precious teacher.

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A selection of teachings by Ajahn Chah. Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist monk and meditation Master. He was an influential teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. He was reputed to be an Arahant.

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Kōbun Otogawa (乙川 弘文, Otogawa Kōbun) (February 1, 1938 – July 26, 2002) was an American Sōtō Zen priest. Otogawa, who preferred to be called by his first name, rather than by either of the Japanese Zen honorifics: sensei (teacher) or roshi (master), came to San Francisco, California, United States, from Japan in 1967 in response to an invitation from Shunryu Suzuki-roshi, serving as his assistant at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center until 1970. Otogawa was the son of a Sōtō Zen priest and was ordained a priest himself at the age of 12. He did undergraduate studies at Komazawa University and received a master's degree in Mahayana Buddhism from Kyoto University. He then trained for three years at Eiheiji. Among his primary teachers was the unconventional Zen master Kodo Sawaki, known as the last of the unsui, or wandering monks.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Jeanne-Marie Bouvier de la Motte-Guyon (Commonly known as Madame Guyon - 13 April 1648 – 9 June 1717) is Christianity’s best-known and most influential woman in church history. She was a celebrated French Mystic, and one of the greatest Christian leaders of all time. She was accused of advocating Quietism, which was considered heretical by the Roman Catholic Church. Madame Guyon was imprisoned from 1695 to 1703 after publishing the book A Short and Very Easy Method of Prayer. The foundation of her Quietism was laid in her study of St. Francis de Sales, Madame de Chantal, and Thomas a Kempis. At age 16, she married Jacques Guyon, a wealthy man of weak health, 22 years her senior. Her public career as an evangelist of Quietism began soon after her widowhood. These excerpts for meditation/contemplation have been taken from Madame Guyon's autobiography. AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MADAME GUYON - Translated in full from French to English by Thomas Taylor Allen in 1898.

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The Pratyabijñāhṛdayam of Rājānaka Kṣemarāja is an 11th century foundational text of Nondual Kashmir Shaivism. This ancient and profound 20-verse text reveals the direct non-path path to liberation. It explores how to achieve freedom from all limitations and unfolds the recognition that all things—you, me, and everything sentient and non-sentient are one, not separate. The Pratyabijñāhṛdayam is an essential text that holds immense significance when studying the teachings of Sāṁkhya-Patañjali Yoga, Advaita Vedanta, and the unqualified nondual teachings of Kashmir Shaivism. This profound scripture, written by the sage Kṣemarāja, serves as a bridge connecting these philosophical systems, offering profound insights, and deepening our understanding of the ultimate reality. Rajanaka Kṣemarāja (क्षेमराज) (late 10th to early 11th century) was a philosopher and brilliant disciple of Abhinavagupta, who was a peerless master of tantra, yoga, poetics, and dramaturgy.

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A reading of the "The Lion's Roar" taken from the text, The Fearless Lion's Roar: Profound Instructions on Dzogchen, the Great Perfection Kindle Edition by Jamyang Dorjé Nyoshul Khenpo. This Dzogchen text by Jigme Lingpa is intended to strengthen one’s meditation practice by clearly pointing out the places where we can go astray. In the Mahayana, the bodhisattva path of wisdom and compassion, the Lion's Roar is the Buddha's proclamation of emptiness, the principle that all experience is by nature empty of concepts and of any fixed thing.

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This is a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta formatted for guided meditation, taken from various texts. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.

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Excerpts taken from the book by Cioara, "The Supreme Reality" - translated by Petrica Verdes.

Ilie Cioara (1916 - 2004) was an enlightened mystic who did not belong to any lineage. He is unique in a way, in the sense that he lived in almost complete isolation, in Romania, Eastern Europe in a communist country, completely oblivious of nonduality, Zen, etc. Originally a Christian mystic, he practised a mantra for over 20 years. One day, he felt an intuitive impulse to drop the mantra, and just practice the silence of the mind, by listening to the noises on the street, in the now. After following this practice for a few years, one morning, as he was waking up from his sleep, he realised the veils had completely dropped. His description of meditation is fresh and devoid of any tradition and jargon.

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This is a selection of pointings from the text "The Voice of Revelation" by Lillian De Waters. Lillian DeWaters was born in 1883 and lived in Stamford, Connecticut. She grew up with a Christian Science background and in her early teens began to study metaphysics and during that same period to seriously study the Bible. She published a few books while actively within the Christian Science organization, and then in 1924 she had an awakening experience when it was as though a veil was parted and Truth was revealed to her. From that point she began to receive numerous unfoldments which led to her separation from the Christian Science organization.

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A reading for meditation of sections of Garab Dorje's teaching, "The Clear Meaning Tantra" - translated by Yeshe Donden (Roger Calverley). Originally written down in Sanskrit by Garab Dorje, this work was transmitted to Manjushrimitra, from whom it passed to Sri Simha, who in turn transmitted it to Padmasambhava. He brought the tantra to Tibet and hid it at some point in the mid to late 700’s AD. Centuries later, Guru Chowang (1212 – 1270) found the book and published it, which made possible its preservation in the collection known as the Hundred Thousand Tantras of the Ancients (Nyingma Gyubum).

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A reading for meditation of Ajahn Chah's teaching on 'Right Samadhi' - taken from the text "A Taste of Freedom."

Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist monk and meditation Master. He was an influential teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. He was reputed to be an Arahant.

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This is a selection of some excerpts from Shree Chitrabhanu's teaching "Twelves Facets of Reality - The Jain Path to Freedom." Chitrabhanu (July 26, 1922 – April 19, 2019) was a prominent figure in American Jainism. He was one of the co-founders of JAINA. After spending some time in Africa and Europe, he came to the USA in 1971 at the invitation of Harvard Divinity School. In 1973, he founded the Jain Meditation International Center in Manhattan, New York City. He was among the early promoters of Yoga in USA.

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This is a guided meditation based on the practice principles of Garab Dorje's famous three statements: 1. Recognise your own Awareness 2. Choose the State of Presence 3. Continue with Confidence in Liberation

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These profound practice teachings on realising the Self, as taught by Sri Ramana, were taken from various sources/texts. Ramana Maharshi ( 1879 -1950) was an Indian sage and jivanmukta (liberated being). He was born Venkataraman Iyer, but is mostly known by the name Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi. He was born in Tiruchuli, Tamil Nadu, India. In 1895, an attraction to the sacred hill Arunachala and the 63 Nayanmars was aroused in him and in 1896, at the age of 16, he had a "death-experience" where he became aware of a "current" or "force" which he recognized as his true "I" or "Self".

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Johannes Eckhart was one of the greatest of Christian mystics. He was born at Hochheim in Thüringen, Germany, in 1260 and died c.1327. He entered the Dominican order when he was 15. Later he became a distinguished professor and taught at different universities. His direct and accessible teachings of a person's closeness to God inspired many people and he became well known throughout Europe. He was later summoned to an inquisition for heretical teachings, at which he vigorously defended himself.

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Bankei Yōtaku 盤珪永琢, 1622-1693) was a Japanese Rinzai Zen master, and the abbot of the Ryōmon-ji and Nyohō-ji. He is best known for his talks on the Unborn as he called it. Bankei was an immensely popular and influential teacher who spoke directly. avoiding sutras and ceremony. He adhered to no particular school and his teaching was remarkably individual and raw, of the essence of Zen. His concern was with the truth as an immediate experience, not with a systematic approach to a distant goal. He preached what he had discovered in his own experience—"the unborn" or "the birthless Buddha-mind"—and he spoke in plain language that anyone could understand.

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These profound teachings from Longchenpa have been formatted for guided meditation purposes. Excerpts taken from the text "A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission." Translated by Richard Barron. Longchen Rabjam (1308-1363), is a great luminary of Tibetan Buddhism. He was highly skilled in all aspects of scholarship from an early age and excelled throughout his life in the practice and accomplishment of the Dharma. Regarded as a great Dzogchen master, Longchenpa had many pure visions where he was given direct instructions from Guru Padmasambhava and is recognised as an emanation of Vimalamitra. Longchenpa's prolific writings have made him one of Tibet's most renowned and precious teachers.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Wu Hsin" (meaning No Mind) was a fictitious character created by Roy Melvyn to create and structure a series of pith teachings and pointers to the Absolute, based on key non-duality teachings. Roy Melvyn (1947- 2017 ) was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Eastern European immigrant parents. It wasn't until the 1980s that his interest in spirituality and religion began to blossom and his investigations into the Western religions began. By the late 90s, he was writing about the more mystical aspects of Eastern meditative pursuits, exploring the writings of Dogen, Jiddu Krishnamurti, both Shunryu and D. T. Suzuki and Ramana Maharshi among others. These pointers were taken from the book: "Solving Yourself". 

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of profound spiritual and mystical Sufi poems by Farid al-Din Attar. Farid al-Din 'Attar was born at Nishapur in northern Persia on November 12, 1119, but sources on his date of death vary from 1193 to 1234. He is one of the most ancient poets of Persia. He has provided the inspiration for Rumi and many other poets. Attar was said to have met Rumi at the end of his life when Rumi was only a boy and gave his book Asrarnameh (The Book of secrets) as a present to him.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts from the text, "The Cloud of Unknowing" - formatted for meditation/contemplation. A number of translations have been used but most were taken from Carmen Acevedo Butcher's translation. The Cloud of Unknowing is an anonymous work of Christian mysticism, most likely a Carthusian monk, written in Middle English in the latter half of the 14th century. The text is a spiritual guide on contemplative prayer in the Late Middle Ages. The underlying message of this work suggests that the way to know God is to abandon consideration of God's particular activities and attributes, and be courageous enough to surrender one's mind and ego to the realm of "unknowing", at which point one may begin to glimpse the nature of God. The Cloud of Unknowing draws on the mystical tradition of Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite and Christian Neoplatonism, which focuses on the via negativa road to discovering God as a pure entity, beyond any capacity of mental conception and so without any definitive image or form.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of excerpts taken from the text "All Else is Bondage". Terence James Stannus Gray (14 September 1895 – 5 January 1986), better known by the pen name Wei Wu Wei, was a 20th-century Taoist philosopher, writer, Egyptologist and theatre producer.  Gray was born in Felixstowe, Suffolk, England on 14 September 1895, into a well-established Anglo-Irish family.  He was educated at numerous prestigious institutions including Eton and Oxford University.   After he left his theatrical career, his thoughts turned towards philosophy and metaphysics. This led to a period of travel throughout Asia, including time spent at Ramana Maharshi's ashram in Tiruvannamalai, India. Between the years 1958 and 1974 a series of eight books appeared attributed to the mysterious 'Wei Wu Wei'.  These works draw on a variety of sources, including Taoism, specifically the texts attributed to Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Buddhism, especially The Heart, Diamond and Lankavatara Sutras, and Chan Buddhism as taught by Hui Neng, Huang Po, Hui Hai, etc., as well as the teachings of Padma Sambhava and Sri Ramana Maharshi, among others. 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta formatted for guided meditation, taken from the texts "I am That" and "Seeds of Consciousness" - Edited by Jean Dunn. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected verses and teachings taken from The Complete Mystical Works of Meister Eckhart - translated by Maurice Walshe Johannes Eckhart was one of the greatest of Christian mystics. He was born at Hochheim in Thüringen, Germany, in 1260 and died c.1327. He entered the Dominican order when he was 15. Later he became a distinguished professor and taught at different universities. His direct and accessible teachings of a person's closeness to God inspired many people and he became well known throughout Europe. He was later summoned to an inquisition for heretical teachings, at which he vigorously defended himself.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of the Aggivacchagotta Sutta from The Middle Length Discourses of the Buddha: A Translation of the Majjhima Nikaya - ​MN 72 - Translated by Bhikkhu Nanamoli. In this discourse the wanderer Vacchagotta asks the Buddha if he holds the view of the ten speculative questions related to eternalism, nihilism, soul, body, etc. The Buddha declares that he does not hold to these speculative views which do not allow one to reach the attainment of the ending of pain/suffering. After an interactive question and answer section, Vacchagotta finally understood that it is through the non clinging and non attachment to the five aggregates that is beneficial for one to be in line with the noble eightfold path that will lead to cessation of samsara. By clinging to speculative views one is not benefitted at all.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of poems written by Dogen taken from various texts: ** The Zen Poetry of Dogen: Verses from the Mountain of Eternal Peace - translated by Steven Heine ** The Enlightened Heart, An Anthology of Sacred Poetry - translated by Stephen Mitchell Dōgen Zenji (1200 - 1253) was a Japanese Buddhist priest, writer, poet, philosopher, and founder of the Sōtō school of Zen in Japan. Originally ordained as a monk in the Tendai School in Kyoto, Dogen was ultimately dissatisfied with its teaching and traveled to China to seek out what he believed to be a more authentic Buddhism. Upon his return to Japan, he began promoting the practice of zazen (sitting meditation) through literary works. He eventually left Kyoto for the mountainous countryside where he founded the monastery Eihei-ji, which remains the head temple of the Sōtō school today.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of selected excerpts from texts and talks given by William Samuel. William Samuel (1924-1996) was born in Alabama to a Jewish father and Christian mother. Samuel taught and wrote from his home at Mountain Brook, Alabama, for over 40 years. He was a spiritual teacher who taught and lectured on the subject of metaphysics based upon the Absolute, or as referred to today, non-duality. Samuel never sought to be well known or venerated himself, and did not embrace the idea of being called a "teacher". However, he has been widely recognized by many as a genuine true Master. Samuel also preferred not to be labeled, categorized or assigned to any religion, particular study, nor tied to any spiritual teaching. William Samuel was the first American student to meet and sit with Ramana Maharshi, and recounts the meeting in a short anecdote: “Some years ago I was honored to be the first American student of a renowned teacher in India. For fourteen days a group of us sat at the feet of this "Master," during which time he spoke not one word—not so much as a grunt—until the final day when he bade us farewell and assured us we had learned much. And to my surprise, I had. It took months before the seeds of those silent days began to sprout one by one, revealing that there are indeed many things for which the uptight, recondite babble of books and teachers is more hindrance than a help.”

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of Rumi's beautiful poem on passing to the unseen. Translated by Coleman Barks Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī (30 September 1207 – 17 December 1273), was a 13th-century Persian poet, faqih, Islamic scholar, theologian, and Sufi mystic originally from Greater Khorasan in Greater Iran. Rumi's influence transcends national borders and ethnic divisions.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: ⁠https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage⁠

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These selections of quotes/teachings from Nisargadatta have been formatted for Guided Meditation purposes and were extracted from the text, 'I am That'. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These profound "pointers" from Longchenpa have been formatted for guided meditation purposes. Excerpts taken from the Chapter "The Decisive Experience" from the text "A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission."

Longchen Rabjam (1308-1363), is a great luminary of Tibetan Buddhism. He was highly skilled in all aspects of scholarship from an early age and excelled throughout his life in the practice and accomplishment of the Dharma. Regarded as a great Dzogchen master, Longchenpa had many pure visions where he was given direct instructions from Guru Padmasambhava and is recognised as an emanation of Vimalamitra. Longchenpa's prolific writings have made him one of Tibet's most renowned and precious teachers.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Ayya Khema (born Ilse Kussel - 1923-1997) was the first Western woman to become a Theravadin Buddhist nun. She has served as a model and inspiration for women from all the Buddhist traditions who have sought to revive the practice of women's monasticism in modern times as well as founding women's Buddhist organisations. Her renown as a teacher is widespread. Born in Berlin of Jewish parents, Ayya Khema escaped Nazi Germany in 1938 with a transport of 200 children to Glasgow. She joined her parents two years later in Shanghai, where, with the outbreak of war, the family was put into a Japanese POW camp, in which her father died. Ayya Khema is noted for providing opportunities for women to practice Buddhism, founding several centers around the world. In 1987, she helped coordinate the first-ever Sakyadhita International Association of Buddhist Women. She has written numerous books in English and German, including Being Nobody, Going Nowhere and When the Iron Eagle Flies.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: ⁠https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage⁠

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

The Dhammacakkappavattana-sutta - SN 56.11 - is the Pāli version of what according to tradition was the first discourse spoken by the Buddha, whose delivery of this discourse led to the attainment of stream-entry by one of his first disciples. With this successful outcome, the Buddha had set in motion the “wheel of Dharma.” This is the most famous sutta in the Pali literature where The Buddha expounds the Four Noble Truths for the first time.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of Garab Dorje's primary teaching, "The Spaciousness of Vajrasattva" (Dorje Sempa Namkha Che) - translated by Yeshe Donden (Roger Calverley). With thanks to Roger for permission to read from this newly published work: "The Gospel of Garab Dorje."

Garab Dorje (c. 665) was the first human to receive the complete direct transmission teachings of Sutra, Tantra and Dzogchen from Vajrasattva. Garab Dorje then became the teacher of Dzogchen ("Great Perfection", also called Ati Yoga) teachings according to Tibetan Buddhist and Nyingma school traditions. According to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, Garab Dorje transmitted the complete empowerments of Dzogchen to Manjushrimitra, who was regarded as his chief disciple. Padmasambhava is also known to have received the transmission of the Dzogchen tantras directly from Garab Dorje.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of profound, direct pointers for meditation by Master Hongzhi on the nature of the mind taken from various texts. Hongzhi Zhengjue (1091–1157) was one of the most accomplished Chan masters of the Song dynasty who authored or compiled several influential texts. Hongzhi's conception of silent illumination is of particular importance to the Chinese Caodong Chan and Japanese Sōtō Zen schools. Hongzhi's distinctive teachings are well illustrated in the poetic practice instructions he left behind and are beautiful lyrical celebrations of our Buddha Nature and of all existence. However, they are not merely celebrations, but practice instructions and descriptions of meditative experience.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

"Wu Hsin" (meaning No Mind) was a fictitious character created by Roy Melvyn to create and structure a series of pith teachings and pointers to the Absolute, based on key non-duality teachings. Roy Melvyn (1947- 2017 ) was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Eastern European immigrant parents. It wasn't until the 1980s that his interest in spirituality and religion began to blossom and his investigations into the Western religions began. By the late 90s, he was writing about the more mystical aspects of Eastern meditative pursuits, exploring the writings of Dogen, Jiddu Krishnamurti, both Shunryu and D. T. Suzuki and Ramana Maharshi among others. These pointers were taken from the book: "Solving Yourself". 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These clear and direct pointers by Patrul Rinpoche have been condensed and formatted for the purposes of a Guided Meditation. They are extracted from the full teaching, "Self Liberating -Meditation." Dza Patrul Rinpoche (1808-1887) — an enlightened master, who, though he lived the life of a vagabond, was one of the most illustrious spiritual teachers of the nineteenth century. Hailing from the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, his principal teacher was Jikmé Gyalwé Nyugu, a great master who was one of the foremost students of Jikmé Lingpa.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading for contemplation taken from various texts written by Helen Keller on her mystical and spiritual insights. Although Helen's story is widely known, it is usually told with little reference to the deep spirituality that illumined her dark and silent world. She had profound spiritual and mystical insights and openly shared with others her joy for the spiritual reality of life. In Autobiography of a Yogi, Yogananda describes Helen as one of those “rare beings on this earth” who by “sheer intuitional feeling…see, hear, smell, taste, and touch.” Helen Keller (June 27, 1880 – June 1, 1968) was an American author, disability rights advocate, political activist and lecturer. Born in West Tuscumbia, Alabama, she lost her sight and her hearing after a bout of illness when she was 19 months old. She then communicated primarily using home signs until the age of seven, when she met her first teacher and life-long companion Anne Sullivan. Sullivan taught Keller language, including reading and writing. After an education at both specialist and mainstream schools, Keller attended Radcliffe College of Harvard University and became the first deafblind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of a selection of pointers and teachings by Father Keating on the healing and transformative power of centering prayer. They are taken from numerous texts written by him. Thomas Keating, O.C.S.O. (March 7, 1923 – October 25, 2018) was an American Catholic monk and priest of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance (also known as Trappists). Keating was known as one of the principal developers of Centering Prayer, a contemporary method of contemplative prayer that emerged from St. Joseph's Abbey, Spencer, Massachusetts. Fr. Keating was an internationally renowned theologian and an accomplished author. He traveled the world to speak with laypeople and communities about contemplative Christian practices and the psychology of the spiritual journey. He helped found the Snowmass Interreligious Conference, which had its first meeting in the fall of 1983 and continued meeting annually.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts from the text "Atmananda Tattwa Samhita: The Direct Approach To Truth As Expounded By Sri Atmananda" on the nature and experience of suffering. Śrĩ Atmananda (8 December 1883 – 14 May 1959), also referred as Sri Atmananda Krishna Menon, was an Indian sage, guru, and philosopher. He has been described by scholars as a "neo-Hindu". His teachings have become a foundation for a spiritual method called the Direct Path.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of excerpts taken from the text "All Else is Bondage". Terence James Stannus Gray (14 September 1895 – 5 January 1986), better known by the pen name Wei Wu Wei, was a 20th-century Taoist philosopher, writer, Egyptologist and theatre producer.  Gray was born in Felixstowe, Suffolk, England on 14 September 1895, into a well-established Anglo-Irish family.  He was educated at numerous prestigious institutions including Eton and Oxford University.   After he left his theatrical career, his thoughts turned towards philosophy and metaphysics. This led to a period of travel throughout Asia, including time spent at Ramana Maharshi's ashram in Tiruvannamalai, India. Between the years 1958 and 1974 a series of eight books appeared attributed to the mysterious 'Wei Wu Wei'.  These works draw on a variety of sources, including Taoism, specifically the texts attributed to Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Buddhism, especially The Heart, Diamond and Lankavatara Sutras, and Chan Buddhism as taught by Hui Neng, Huang Po, Hui Hai, etc., as well as the teachings of Padma Sambhava and Sri Ramana Maharshi, among others.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of excerpts from the text "To You: Zen Sayings of Kodo Sawaki".  Kodo Sawaki  沢木 興道  (1880 - 1965) was born in Ise, Japan and was a prominent Japanese Sōtō Zen teacher of the 20th century. He is considered to be one of the most significant Zen priests of his time for bringing Zen practice into the lives of laypeople. He has been stated as being "one of the most striking Zen masters of recent times." He was called  "Kodo without a home" because he refused to remain in a temple and always travelled alone. He brought with him, a breath of fresh air to the declining practices within zen, reintroducing the universal practice of zazen.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

His Holiness, the sixteenth Gyalwa Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje (August 14, 1924 – November 5, 1981) was the spiritual leader of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and part of the oldest line of reincarnate lamas in Vajrayana Buddhism known as the Karmapas whose coming was predicted by the Buddha in the Samadhiraja Sutra.  The 16th Karmapa was considered to be a "living Buddha" and was deeply involved in the transmission of the Vajrayana Buddhism to Europe and North America following the Chinese invasion of Tibet. He had many monikers, including “King of the Yogis”.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation based on the famous teaching of Tilopa - the 6 words of Advice. Tilopa is one of the most authoritative and renowned Indian mahasiddhas and masters of mahamudra and tantra. He received various tantric teachings, unified them, and transmitted them to his disciple, Naropa.  Tilopa (988–1069) was born in Bengal in India. He was a tantric practitioner and mahasiddha. He practised Anuttarayoga Tantra, a set of spiritual practices intended to accelerate the process of attaining Buddhahood.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of verses taken from various texts from the works of Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite.  Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, (flourished c. 500), probably a Syrian monk who, known only by his pseudonym, wrote a series of Greek treatises and letters for the purpose of uniting Neoplatonic philosophy with Christian theology and mystical experience.  In the early sixth century, a series of writings of a mystical nature, known as the Corpus Areopagiticum or Corpus Dionysiacum was ascribed to the Areopagite. They have long been recognized as pseudepigrapha, and their author is now called "Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite". The author pseudepigraphically identifies himself in the corpus as "Dionysius", portraying himself as Dionysius the Areopagite, the Athenian convert of Paul the Apostle mentioned in Acts 17:34  According to Pseudo-Dionysius, God is better characterized and approached by negations than by affirmations. All names and theological representations must be negated. According to pseudo-Dionysius, when all names are negated, "divine silence, darkness, and unknowing" will follow.  The Dionysian corpus was absorbed into Greek and Eastern Christian theologies and also influenced mystics in the Western church, such as Meister Eckhart. Thomas Aquinas was among those who wrote commentaries on the works. There remains for the Christian reader no theologian or scholar quite as enigmatic as Pseudo-Dionysius.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Neem Karoli Baba or Neeb Karori Baba (c. 1900 -1973), known to his followers as Maharaj-ji, was a Hindu guru and a devotee of the Hindu deity Hanuman. Baba was a lifelong adept of bhakti yoga, and encouraged service to others (seva) as the highest form of unconditional devotion to God. In the book Miracle of Love, compiled by Ram Dass, a devotee named Anjani shares the following account:  "There can be no biography of him. Facts are few, stories many. He seems to have been known by different names in many parts of India, appearing and disappearing through the years. His non-Indian devotees of recent years knew him as Neem Karoli Baba, but mostly as “Maharajji”. Just as he said, he was "nobody". He gave no discourses; the briefest, simplest stories were his teachings. Usually, he sat or lay on a wooden bench wrapped in a plaid blanket while a few devotees sat around him. Visitors came and went; they were given food, a few words, a nod, a pat on the head or back, and they were sent away. Sometimes he sat in silence, absorbed in another world to which we could not follow, but bliss and peace poured down on us. Who he was was no more than the experience of him, the nectar of his presence, the totality of his absence, enveloping us now like his plaid blanket."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading for meditation of excerpts taken from the text "All Else is Bondage" by Wei Wu Wei. Terence James Stannus Gray (14 September 1895 – 5 January 1986), better known by the pen name Wei Wu Wei, was a 20th-century Taoist philosopher and writer.  Between the years 1958 and 1974 a series of eight books appeared attributed to the mysterious 'Wei Wu Wei'.  These works draw on a variety of sources, including Taoism, specifically the texts attributed to Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Buddhism, especially The Heart, Diamond and Lankavatara Sutras, and Chan Buddhism as taught by Hui Neng, Huang Po, Hui Hai, etc., as well as the teachings of Padma Sambhava and Sri Ramana Maharshi, among others.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of some key pointers and teachings on the nature of no-self taken from various texts by Bernadette Roberts.  Bernadette Roberts (1931-2017) was born in California, and is a former Carmelite nun and contemplative in the Catholic tradition. She entered the Monastery of Discalced Carmelites in Alhambra, California when she was seventeen in January 1949. After eight and a half years of monastic life, Roberts left the cloister and returned to lay life where she pursued numerous studies and disciplines. She is best known for writing a series of books on her personal insights and experiences into the nature of non-self.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Baba Hari Dass (1923 - 2018) was an Indian yoga master, silent monk, and commentator of Indian scriptural traditions of dharma and moksha. He was classically trained in the Ashtanga of Patanjali (also known as Rāja yoga), as well as Kriya yoga, Ayurveda, Samkhya, Tantra, Vedanta, and Sanskrit.  Baba Hari Dass took a vow of silence in 1952, which he upheld through this life. Although he did not speak, he was able to communicate in several languages through writing. His literary output included scriptural commentaries to Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Bhagavad Gita, Samkhya Karika, and Vedanta, yoga training materials, and a range of others writings. Upon his arrival in North America in early 1971, Baba Hari Dass and his teachings inspired the creation of several yoga centers and retreat programs in the United States in Santa Cruz County, California, and in Canada at Salt Spring Island and in Toronto.

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This is a recording of selected pointers for meditation taken from the book "The Truth Is." Formatted as a guided meditation.  Sri H. W. L. Poonja (1910 -1997) was born in Lucknow, India, known as "Poonjaji" or "Papaji", was an Indian sage who taught Self-enquiry as advocated by Ramana Maharshi.

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A reading for meditation of the Kaccānagottasutta taken from Samyutta Nikaya (SN 12.15).  In this sutta, Venerable Kaccānagotta asks the Buddha about right view, and the Buddha answers that right view arises when one sees the origin and cessation of the world. The main theme of the text is the avoidance of the extremes "existence"  and "non-existence" with respect to the world, and instead seeing the world in terms of the Middle Way which is illustrated by the twelve links of dependent origination. The one with right-view understands this. This translation is an amalgam of Walshe, Bodhi, Thanissaro, and Sujato.  A Sanskrit and Chinese (Saṃyuktāgama 301; also a partial quotation in SĀ 262) parallel text is also extant. Although there is considerable agreement across versions, the Sanskrit and Chinese texts are more or less identical to each other and both slightly different from the Pāli version. The text is cited in Sanskrit in works by Nāgārjuna and his commentators.

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This is  a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta taken from the texts "I am That" and "The Nisargadatta Gita" - intended as a guided meditation. Original text of "I am That" edited and compiled by Maurice Frydman. The Nisargadatta Gita edited by Pradeep Apte.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

"Wu Hsin" (meaning No Mind)  was a fictitious character created by Roy Melvyn to create and structure a series of pith teachings and pointers to the Absolute, based on key non-duality teachings. Despite the controversy around the "deceit" in publishing these works as words from an  "authentic" Chinese Master, I have chosen to upload these readings as they are some of the clearest pointers I have read. Please be aware of the context as to how they were created. In essence, we are all really imaginary "persons" anyway!  Roy Melvyn (1947-apparently died in 2017? -TBC ) was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Eastern European immigrant parents. It wasn't until the 1980s that his interest in spirituality and religion began to blossom and his investigations into the Western religions began.  By the late 90s, he was writing about the more mystical aspects of Eastern meditative pursuits, exploring the writings of Dogen, Jiddu Krishnamurti, both Shunryu and D. T. Suzuki and Ramana Maharshi among others.  These pointers were taken from the book: "Solving Yourself".

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The Root Verses on the Six Bardos are some of the most famous sections of The Great Liberation Through Hearing in the Bardo (Bardo Tödrol Chenmo), a treasure text revealed by the fourteenth century tertön Karma Lingpa. This text offers instructions on each of the six intermediate states (bardo) and helps us to live a better life while preparing for death and beyond.  The Bardo Thodol , is a text from a larger corpus of teachings, the Profound Dharma of Self-Liberation through the Intention of the Peaceful and Wrathful Ones. It is the best-known work of Nyingma literature, known in the West as the Tibetan Book of the Dead.  Translated by Adam Pearcey

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of Thoreau's verses taken from "Walden" and various Journals written by him.  Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862) was an American philosopher, poet,  a leading transcendentalist, and environmental scientist whose major work, Walden, draws upon each of these identities in meditating on the concrete problems of living in the world as a human being. He sought to revive a conception of philosophy as a way of life, not only a mode of reflective thought and discourse. Thoreau’s work was informed by an eclectic variety of sources. He was well-versed in classical Greek and Roman philosophy, ranging from the pre-Socratics through the Hellenistic schools, and was also an avid student of the ancient scriptures and wisdom literature of various Asian traditions.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Excerpts taken from the text "All Else is Bondage" by Wei Wu Wei. Terence James Stannus Gray (14 September 1895 – 5 January 1986), better known by the pen name Wei Wu Wei, was a 20th-century Taoist philosopher and writer.  Between the years 1958 and 1974 a series of eight books appeared attributed to the mysterious 'Wei Wu Wei'.  These works draw on a variety of sources, including Taoism, specifically the texts attributed to Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, Buddhism, especially The Heart, Diamond and Lankavatara Sutras, and Chan Buddhism as taught by Hui Neng, Huang Po, Hui Hai, etc., as well as the teachings of Padma Sambhava and Sri Ramana Maharshi, among others.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of reflections taken from Lusseyran's  books "And There Was Light" and "Against the Pollution of the I."  Jacques Lusseyran (19 September 1924 – 27 July 1971) was a French author and political activist. Blinded at the age of 7, at 17 Lusseyran became a leader in the French resistance against Nazi Germany's occupation of France in 1941. He was eventually sent to Buchenwald concentration camp because of his involvement, and was one of 30 of his group of 2000 inmates to survive. He wrote about his life, including his experience during the war, in his autobiography "And There Was Light".

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These direct and clear pointers to the Deathless have been extracted from various Dhamma talks given by Ajahn Sumedho.  Ajahn Sumedho (born Robert Karr Jackman, July 27, 1934) is an American Buddhist monk and one of the senior Western representatives of the Thai forest tradition of Theravada Buddhism. He was abbot of Amaravati Buddhist Monastery, UK, from 1984 until his retirement in 2010. A bhikkhu since 1967, Sumedho is considered a seminal figure in the transmission of the Buddha's teachings to the West.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a Universal Prayer applicable for any spiritual or religious context and practice. It focuses on developing and generating love or loving kindness and compassion (metta and karuna), peace (equanimity/upekkha), and light (wisdom, joy: mudita). It is both a healing and protective prayer for oneself and others. If practiced with ease, presence, and sincerity it is very powerful and transformative.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a readings for meditation of excerpts taken from the text: The Teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi in His Own Words" - edited by Arthur Osborne.  Ramana Maharshi ( 1879 -1950) was an Indian sage and jivanmukta (liberated being). He was born Venkataraman Iyer, but is mostly known by the name Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi. He was born in Tiruchuli, Tamil Nadu, India. In 1895, an attraction to the sacred hill Arunachala and the 63 Nayanmars was aroused in him and in 1896, at the age of 16, he had a "death-experience" where he became aware of a "current" or "force" which he recognized as his true "I" or "Self".

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation on the four (4) Form/Rupa Jhanas based on the methods and teachings of Ajahn Lee. Translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

Phra Suddhidhammaransi Gambhiramedhacarya (1907–1961), commonly known as Ajahn Lee Dhammadharo, was a meditation teacher in the Thai Forest Tradition of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya order of Theravada Buddhism. He was born in the Ubon Ratchathani Province of Isan and was a student of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta.  Ajahn Lee is regarded as one of the greatest teachers and meditation masters of the Thai Forest Tradition of the 20th century. Among the forest monks, he devised the most comprehensive meditation instructions, and composed the most detailed map of the jhānas. He was one of the first teachers to bring the teachings of the Forest Tradition to the mainstream of Thai society. He never spoke of his own meditative attainments.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Readings of the Commentary - the  Fifth Vajra Point : Moon's Reflection from the text - Finding Rest in Illusion by Longchenpa.   Longchen Rabjam (1308-1363), is a great luminary of Tibetan Buddhism. He was highly skilled in all aspects of scholarship from an early age and excelled throughout his life in the practice and accomplishment of the Dharma. Regarded as a great Dzogchen master, Longchenpa had many pure visions where he was given direct instructions from Guru Padmasambhava  and is recognised as an emanation of Vimalamitra. Longchenpa's prolific writings have made him one of Tibet's most renowned and precious teachers.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is selection of excerpts from the Tao Te Ching for meditation and contemplation.

Lao Tzu (l. c. 500 BCE, also known as Laozi or Lao-Tze) was a Chinese philosopher credited with founding the philosophical system of Taoism. He is best known as the author of the Laozi (later retitled the Tao-Te-Ching translated as “The Way of Virtue” or “The Classic of the Way and Virtue”) the work which exemplifies his thought. The name by which he is known is not a personal name but an honorific title meaning 'Old Man' or 'Old Master.' Legends concerning Lao-Tzu also claim he was the contemporary and teacher of Confucius.

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This is a guided meditation to help you recognize your own inherent Awareness and learn how to abide by that. Pure Awareness is our true nature. Only by intuitively realizing and  understanding the depth and profundity of this impersonal Reality, and resting in it, can we begin the journey to transcend suffering and samsara.

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A selection of Kabir poems for meditation taken from the following website: https://www.poetry-chaikhana.com/Poets/K/Kabir/index.html#PoemList

Though little is known of the life of the 15th-century Indian mystic and poet Kabir, it is believed he was born in or near Benares. He grew up in a family of Muslim weavers before becoming a disciple of the Hindu ascetic Ramananda. Kabir is considered both a Sufi and Brahmin saint. His poetry draws on both Hinduism and Islam, though he was critical of certain aspects of both faiths. Some of his verses are included in the compilation of Sikh scriptures known as the Adi Granth. His mystical poems are grounded in the details and earthly particulars of everyday life.  Kabir is not easily categorized as a Sufi or a Yogi -- he is all of these. He is revered by Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs. He stands as a unique, saintly, yet very human, bridge between the great traditions that live in India. Kabir says of himself that he is, "at once the child of Allah and Ram".

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This is a guided Yoga Nidra through the 61 points of the body that is designed for induce deep relaxation and aid in peaceful and deep sleep. 

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A reading of the teaching, "The Spontaneous Vajra Manifestation of Awareness and Emptiness' by Mipham Rinpoche.  Jamgön Mipham Gyatso  (1846-1912)  was a great Nyingma master and writer of the last century. He was  a student of Jamgön Kongtrul, Jamyang Khyentsé Wangpo and Patrul Rinpoche. Blessed by Manjushri, he became one of the greatest scholars of his time. His collected works fill more than thirty volumes.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading for meditation of a short section from the The Zohar’s Bereishit (Beginning/start) - the opening verse of Genesis. English version by Daniel Chanan Matt.  The Zohar (Book of "Radiance") is a foundational work in the literature of Jewish mystical thought known as Kabbalah. It is a group of books including commentary on the mystical aspects of the Torah (the five books of Moses) and scriptural interpretations as well as material on mysticism, mythical cosmogony, and mystical psychology. The Zohar contains discussions of the nature of God, the origin and structure of the universe, the nature of souls, redemption, the relationship of Ego to Darkness and "true self" to "The Light of God". Its scriptural exegesis can be considered an esoteric form of the rabbinic literature known as Midrash, which elaborates on the Torah.  

"The Zohar is not meant to be regarded in the way we regard other books. It is a force of spiritual energy embedded in the pages of a book. It is a powerful energy-giving instrument, a life-saving tool imbued with the ability to bring peace, protection, healing and fulfillment to those who possess it. But its codes, its metaphors, its cryptic language are not given to us purely for understanding. They are designed as channels for energy. Like all holy books, the Zohar is a text that not only expresses spiritual energy, it embodies it. To merely pick up the Zohar, to scan its Aramaic letters and allow in the energy that infuses them, is to experience what kabbalists have experienced for thousands of years: a powerful energy-giving instrument, a life-saving tool imbued with the ability to bring peace, protection, healing and fulfillment to those who possess it." (Source: https://www.zohar.com/)

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Bassui Tokushō (1327–1387) was a Rinzai Zen Master born in modern-day Kanagawa Prefecture who had trained with Sōtō and Rinzai Zen-masters. Bassui was unhappy with the state of Zen practice in Japan during his time, so he set out in life with the mission of revitalizing it. The problems he saw were really two sides of the same coin. That is, he saw both too much attachment by some monks and masters to ritual and dogma as well as too much attachment by some monks and masters to freedom and informality.  Bassui was one of the "wild men" of Zen—along with such masters as Hakuin, Basho and Ryokan—who existed outside the institutional system. His spirited teaching of the Way as the immediate, personal experience of buddha-nature has inspired Zen students for hundreds of years as well as Zen masters such as Hakuin.

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Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) was a Bengali polymath who worked as a poet, writer, playwright, composer, philosopher, social reformer and painter. He reshaped Bengali literature and music as well as Indian art with Contextual Modernism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Author of the "profoundly sensitive, fresh and beautiful" poetry of Gitanjali, he became in 1913 the first non-European and the first lyricist to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Tagore's poetic songs were viewed as spiritual and mercurial.  According to Swami Adiswarananda, "Rabindranath Tagore's philosophical and spiritual thoughts transcend all limits of language, culture, and nationality. In his writings, the poet and mystic takes us on a spiritual quest and gives us a glimpse of the infinite in the midst of the finite, unity at the heart of all diversity, and the Divine in all beings and things of the universe."

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This is a reading for contemplation of the Kalama Sutta. The instructions to the Kalamas  is renowned for its encouragement of free inquiry; the spirit of the sutta signifies a teaching that is exempt from fanaticism, bigotry, dogmatism, and intolerance. As Thanisarro says, "The reasonableness of the Dhamma, the Buddha's teaching, is chiefly evident in its welcoming careful examination at all stages of the path to enlightenment. Indeed the whole course of training for wisdom culminating in the purity of the consummate one (the arahant) is intimately bound up with examination and analysis of things internal.."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of direct and powerful teachings on Love by Sri Nisargadatta taken from various sources.  Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.  Music: Suni-Ai (Listening Meditation) - Snatam Kaur

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Chuang Tzu (Zhuangzi) was a Taoist sage, living sometime before 250 B.C. He is credited with writing- in part or in whole - a work known by his name, the Zhuangzi, which is one of the foundational texts of Taoism. The text is ranked among the greatest of literary and philosophical masterpieces that China has produced.  Its style is complex—mythical, poetic, narrative, humorous, indirect, and polysemic.  Much of the text of the Zhuangzi espouses a holistic philosophy of life, encouraging disengagement from the artificialities of socialization, and cultivation of our natural “ancestral” potencies and skills, in order to live a simple and natural, but full and flourishing life.

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These pith and profound pointers were spoken by Ani la - Abbess of Gebchak Nunnery, Eastern Tibet. For more information about the inspiring Gebchak nuns and how to support them, please see these links:  https://gebchakgonpa.org/about/ https://gebchakgonpa.org/donate/

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A reading for meditation of the 24 Gurus of Dattatreya - translated by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait. 

Dattatreya is considered to be the incarnation of the Trinity- Brahma, Vishnu and Siva – a Trimurti Avatar. The Philosophy propounded by Lord Dattatreya is found in the ‘Avadhuta Gita’ which is a Vedantic text expounding non-dualism. Dattatreya, in the eleventh chapter of Srimad Bhagavata lists his 24 Gurus and considers himself a simple student of the whole creation.  The young Dattatreya is famous in the Hindu texts as the one who started with nothing and without teachers, yet reached self-awareness by observing nature during his Sannyasi wanderings, and treating these natural observations as his twenty four teachers. This legend has been emblematic in the Hindu belief, particularly among artists and Yogis, that ideas, teachings and practices come from all sources, that self effort is a means to learning.

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This is a guided meditation on the soft butter method introspective meditation as detailed by Zen Master Hakuin. It was taught to Hakuin as he was suffering from "Zen sickness" (exhaustion) caused by over-exertion and extreme austerities.

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This is meditation on the Nature of the Mind by Lama Shabkar taken from the text, "The Flight of the Garuda" - translated by Keith Dowman.  

Shabkar Tsokdruk Rangdrol  (1781-1851) was a Tibetan Buddhist yogi and poet from Amdo. Shabkar's yogic and poetic skill is considered second only to Milarepa.  Shabkar begin his spiritual practice early, completing a one-year retreat at the age of 16, later becoming a Gelug monk at 20. Shabkar studied with masters of all major Tibetan Buddhist schools including Gelug and Nyingma, and received Dzogchen teachings from his main root guru Chögyal Ngakgi Wangpo. He spent years in solitary retreats in various caves, woods and mountains of Tibet.  Shabkar's works express non-sectarian ideals similar to those of the 19th century Rimé movement, even though he predates the movement by about three decades and never met with any of the Rime masters from Kham.

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A reading for meditation of Ajahn Buddhadasa's teaching on the immanence of Nibbana - translated by Santikaro.  Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu (Servant of the Buddha) went forth as a bhikkhu (Buddhist monk) in 1926, at the age of twenty. After a few years of study in Bangkok, which convinced him “purity is not to be found in the big city,” he was inspired to live intimately with nature in order to investigate Buddha-Dhamma in study and practice. Thus, he established Suan Mokkhabālārama (The Grove of the Power of Liberation) in 1932 near his hometown of Pum Riang (now in Chaiya District).  Ajahn Buddhadāsa worked painstakingly to establish and explain the correct and essential principles of what he called “pristine Buddhism” or “the heart of Buddha-Dhamma,” that is, the original awakening realizations of Lord Buddha before it was buried under commentaries, ritualism, clerical politics, and the like. His work was based in extensive research of the Pāli texts (Canon and commentary), especially of Buddha's discourses (suttas), followed by personal experiment and practice with these teachings. He then taught whatever he could say truly quenches dukkha (dissatisfaction, distress, suffering). His goal was to produce a complete set of references for present and future research and practice. His approach was always scientific, straight-forward, and practical. (Extract of biography taken from Suan Mokkh website - https://www.suanmokkh.org/buddhadasa)

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Esther (Etty) Hillesum (15 January 1914 – 30 November 1943) was the Dutch author of confessional letters and diaries which describe both her religious awakening and the persecutions of Jewish people in Amsterdam during the German occupation. In 1943, she was deported and murdered in Auschwitz concentration camp.  Hillesum’s approach to spirituality was not about striving for ecstasy. Rather, she longed to meet the depth of her own interior and life itself. Her spirituality was not confined to her intellectual understanding of a greater power and the depth of her direct insights is reflected in her diaries. In the concentration camp of Westerbork, she had unusual experiences of spiritual awakenings and insight: "Those two months behind barbed wire have been the two richest and most intense months of my life, in which my highest values were so deeply confirmed."  

These excerpts of her writings have been primarily sourced from  the text: An Interrupted Life: The Diaries of Etty Hillesum 1941–1943

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This is a reading for meditation of the Vajra Song of Drubwang Tsoknyi Rinpoche.  

Drubwang Tsoknyi (the first), Padma Drimé Özer  (1828/49-1904)  was born in Nangchen, Eastern Tibet, in the first half of the 19th century and was a contemporary of the three great lamas of the time: Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo, Jamgön Kongtrul and Chokgyur Lingpa. He fully mastered the practices of the Six Yogas of Naropa and became the principal guru for the Sixth Khamtrul Rinpoche, Tenpé Nyima (1849-1907), and the great master Tokden Shakya Shri. He excelled in the yogas of the Nyingma tradition of Ratna Lingpa as well, which laid the foundation for establishing many nunneries of this special lineage, which was unique in Tibet.

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This sublime and profound teaching on the nature of reality by the great master, Longchenpa is taken from the Finding Rest in Illusion trilogy . It is suitable for those practitioners who have a in-depth understanding and insight into Dzogchen's concepts and paradigm. Translated by the Padmakara Translation Group.  Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen.

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A reading of Bodhidharma's formative teaching "Outline of Practice" which describes the four all-inclusive habits that lead to enlightenment. Translated by Red Pine.  Bodhidharma is considered the founder of Zen Buddhism in China and regarded as its first Chinese patriarch. He brought the Buddha's teachings to China from India in 520 AD. While much of his biography may be the stuff of legend and his historicity is still in question, numerous early records speak of him (or someone by the name of Bodhidharma) as a wise and compassionate monk. Whether or not he was ever a living person, the legend of Bodhidharma has made him as real in the Zen tradition as anyone else.

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A selection of some key pointers for meditation from Simone Weil taken from various texts and sources.  

Simone Adolphine Weil (1909 -1943) was a French philosopher, mystic, and political activist.  Weil received spiritual direction from a Dominican friar and learned much from the Catholic author Gustave Thibon. She was especially rooted in Neoplatonic thinking in her spiritual writings. Yet her spiritual curiosity took her far. She learned Sanskrit to read the Bhagavad Gita. She studied Mahayana Buddhism and the ancient Greek and Egyptian mystery religions. She believed that each religion, when we are within it, is true. But she was opposed to religious syncretism. She saw a blending of religions as diminishing the particularity of each tradition and the truth of that path to God. Though she learned from other faiths, she plunged deeper into her own Catholicism. For Weil, truth was deeply personal and could only be approached through deep introspection. She experienced a powerful and ecstatic experience in the same church where Saint Francis had prayed. Weil wrote intensely about spirituality, mysticism, beauty and social struggle. Her writings sought to develop the intellectual consequences of the religious experiences she was having.

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This is a guided Yoga Nidra of 35 minute duration with bird and nature sounds for relaxation and sleep.

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This is a selection of key pointers from Siddharameshwar. Siddharameshwar Maharaj is one of the greatest unknown saints of the age who attained the highest abode of Eternal peace. He was born in August 1888 in the small village of Pathri, in the district Sholapur of India. From 1925 until 1936, he taught many disciples and helped dozens attain Self-realisation. His teachings were further spread around the globe by his most revered disciples, such as Ranjit Maharaj, Nisargadatta Maharaj, and others.

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The Prayer of Kuntuzangpo is a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer from the Gongpa Zangthal. It is the prayer of the Primordial Buddha and also a prayer of aspiration on the path of awakening to our true Buddha Nature. This powerful prayer helps us to understand that it is only our deluded thinking and lack of understanding that makes things appear as other than they really are.  This aspiration prayer comes from the Dzogchen tantra called the Tantra of the Great Perfection which Shows the Penetrating Wisdom of Samantabhadra. It is to be recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, an earthquake or at the solstices.

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This is a reading for meditation of core couplets from the Yoga Vasistha Sara (Essence).  The Yoga Vasishta is a work of about 32,000 Sanskrit couplets, traditionally attributed to Valmiki, the author of Srimad Ramayana. It is a dialogue between Sage Vasishta and Sri Rama, during which Advaita (the doctrine of non-duality) in its pure form of ajatavada (theory of non-origination) is expounded, with illustrative stories in between.   Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi used to refer to Yoga Vasishta frequently and incorporated six couplets from it in His Supplement to Forty Verses (verses 21 to 27).

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This remarkable and profound teaching on modes of contemplation by Thomas Merton, is from the chapter, Pure Love from the text "Seeds of Contemplation."   Thomas Merton  (January 31, 1915 – December 10, 1968) was an American Trappist monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist, and scholar of comparative religion. On May 26, 1949, he was ordained to the priesthood and given the name "Father Louis". Merton wrote more than 50 books in a period of 27 years, mostly on spirituality, social justice and a quiet pacifism, as well as scores of essays and reviews.

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This is a reading of a talk given to a group of lay practitioners on the topic of samadhi at Hampstead Vihara, London in the late 1970s. It is designed to be listened to as a guided meditation.  The Pali/Sanskrit word samādhi, usually translated as “concentration,” is made up of three parts, a verbal root and two prefixes (sam+ā+dhi). The last part, dhi, is a noun form derived from the verbal root dhā, meaning “to put or place.” The prefix ā gives direction and suggests “placing upon,” and the prefix sam means “gathering or bringing together.” When combined and used in a Buddhist context, these elements add up to the sense of “unifying the mind and placing its awareness upon a particular object.”  Traditional sources also emphasize that the mind focuses on a single (eka) point (agga), and “one-pointedness” (Pali, ekaggatā; Skt. ekāgratā) is another common way of defining samādhi (Andrew Olendzki).  

Ajahn Chah  was a Thai Buddhist monk and meditation Master. He was an influential teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. He was reputed to be an Arahant.

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This is guided meditation on the five (5) elements of the body that can help us understand with insight the true, impersonal nature of this elemental phenomena. It can also assist in  loosening our attachments and identifications to this material form as 'me',  'mine, and 'myself'.

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This is a reading for meditation of some powerful teachings by Nisargadatta. Nisargadatta Maharaj (17 April 1897 – 8 September 1981), born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli, was an Indian guru of nondualism, belonging to the Inchagiri Sampradaya, a lineage of teachers from the Navnath Sampradaya and Lingayat Shaivism.  The publication in 1973 of I Am That, an English translation of his talks in Marathi by Maurice Frydman, brought him worldwide recognition and followers, especially from North America and Europe.

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A reading for meditation of the famous text on lojong practice, meaning to ;transform the mind', by Geshe Langri Tangpa. The first seven verses of the Eight Verses for Training the Mind deal with the practices associated with cultivating the method aspect of the path such as compassion, altruism, aspiration to attain Buddhahood, and so on. The eighth verse deals with the practices that are directed toward cultivating the wisdom aspect of the path, and seeing into the Ultimate Truth of Emptiness.

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A 30 minute guided yoga nidra session to help you relax and sleep. Gentle music by Swami Madhuram.

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A reading for contemplation/meditation of some profound and beautiful reflections from Einstein on the nature of Reality.

Music/sounds: NASA Space Sounds  Tchaikovsky - Hymn of the Cherubim

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This sublime and profound teaching on the nature of reality by the great master, Longchenpa is taken from the Finding Rest in Illusion trilogy . It is suitable for those practitioners who have a in-depth understanding and insight into Dzogchen's concepts and paradigm. Translated by the Padmakara Translation Group.  Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Chuang Tzu was a Taoist sage, living sometime before 250 B.C. He is credited with writing- in part or in whole - a work known by his name, the Zhuangzi, which is one of the foundational texts of Taoism. The text is ranked among the greatest of literary and philosophical masterpieces that China has produced.  Its style is complex—mythical, poetic, narrative, humorous, indirect, and polysemic.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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A selection of poems from Hanshan - formatted for meditation. Translated by A. S. Kline.   The poet Hanshan 寒山, a name meaning “Cold Mountain,” ranks as one of the most eccentric and mysterious figures of Chinese literature. He is said to have lived during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), dwelling in a cave or hut in Tiantai Mountain near modern-day Taizhou, Zhejiang. In Chinese and Japanese art, he is often depicted as dirty and raggedy, smiling mischievously with his friend Shide 拾得. His poetry, written in a direct, colloquial style, was satirical and spiritual, touching on both Buddhist and Daoist themes. Hanshan also wrote poems about his own life, but his real identity is completely unknown. His name, in fact, is a pseudonym that refers to a place in Tiantai Mountain. In the Chinese Buddhist tradition, Hanshan and his sidekick Shide are honored as emanations of the bodhisattvas Mañjuśrī and Samantabhadra, respectively. Little is known of his work, since he was a recluse living in a remote region and his poems were written on rocks in the mountains he called home.

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Readings from first section on "Self and Reality". The Avadhuta Gita is attributed to the sage Dattatreya, who spontaneously sang it after purifying himself in meditation and becoming absorbed in the uninterrupted bliss of Reality. It is regarded as one of the greatest treatise on Advaita Vedanta and some scholars date it as far back as 5000 B.C.   The word "avadhut" refers to one who has renounced all worldly attachments and connections and lives in a state beyond body consciousness. They have shaken off all cares and concerns, possessions and positions, along with all concepts and labels that interfere with his direct perception of Reality.  The full teaching can be found here: https://www.inner-quest.org/Avadhuta.htm

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Matrusri Anasuya Devi (born 28 March 1923-1985) was an Indian spiritual guru from Andhra Pradesh. Widely known as Jillellamudi Amma, she is revered by millions of her devotees spread across the globe as an incarnation of the Divine Mother, the supreme deity, Raja Rajeswari Devi. Many miracles and spiritual transformations were witnessed and recorded by people in Amma's presence.  These excerpts of her teachings read here were taken from numerous sources, and compiled in the book - Women of Grace and Power by Timothy Conway.

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A reading of a selection of Hafiz's poems translated by Thomas Rain Crowe.  Persian lyric poet Hafiz (born Khwāja Šamsu d-Dīn Muḥammad Hāfez-e Šīrāzī) grew up in Shiraz. Very little is known about his life, but it is thought that he may have memorized the Qur’an after hearing his father recite passages. He is one of the most celebrated of the Persian poets, and his influence can be felt to this day. As the author of numerous ghazals expressing love, spirituality, and protest, he and his work continue to be important to Iranians, and many of his poems are used as proverbs or sayings.

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Excerpts of Questions and Answers read from the text - The Zen Teaching of Huang Po on the Transmission of Mind Translated by: John Blofeld

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This is a guided meditation to help you access the inherent silence and stillness within and to learn how to abide in this Natural State. From this place of peace and stillness, we can allow the natural wisdom and insight to emerge.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of key pointers from Siddharameshwar. Siddharameshwar Maharaj is one of the greatest unknown saints of the age who attained the highest abode of Eternal peace. He was born in August 1888 in the small village of Pathri, in the district Sholapur of India. From 1925 until 1936, he taught many disciples and helped dozens attain Self-realisation. His teachings were further spread around the globe by his most revered disciples, such as Ranjit Maharaj, Nisargadatta Maharaj, Muppin Kaadsiddheshwar Maharaj and Ganapatrao Maharaj Kannur. His samadhi shrine today is located at Banganga, Walkeshwar in Bombay.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation focusing on the breath and the first jhana based on the methods and teachings of Ajahn Lee. Translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.  Ajahn Lee (1907–1961) is regarded as one of the greatest teachers and meditation masters of the Thai Forest Tradition of the 20th century. Among the forest monks, he devised the most comprehensive meditation instructions, and composed the most detailed map of the jhānas. He was one of the first teachers to bring the teachings of the Forest Tradition to the mainstream of Thai society. He never spoke of his own meditative attainments, however it was widely discussed among his students that he may have had psychic powers.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of two Saint Kabir poems intended for contemplation and meditation. Translated by Robert Bly.  Though little is known of the life of the 15th-century Indian mystic and poet Kabir, it is believed he was born in or near Benares. He grew up in a family of Muslim weavers before becoming a disciple of the Hindu ascetic Ramananda. Kabir is considered both a Sufi and Brahmin saint. His poetry draws on both Hinduism and Islam, though he was critical of certain aspects of both faiths. Some of his verses are included in the compilation of Sikh scriptures known as the Adi Granth. His mystical poems are grounded in the details and earthly particulars of everyday life.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a re-reading of various key pointers on self-liberation from Sri Ramana Maharshi with no music.  These selections from Bhagavan have come from numerous texts and were sourced from this website: https://www.inner-quest.org

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Bendōwa is Dogen's earliest known writing in Japanese and one of his most important and influential works. The whole text of the Bendowa is held in high esteem as being Dogen’s best and most comprehensible explanation of his understanding of Zen and the Dharma.  Jijuyū zanmai can be translated loosely as "samādhi of self-fulfillment and enjoyment" or literally as the "samādhi of receiving and using the self." Kosho Uchiyama comments, ". . . we can understand this samādhi of self-fulfillment and enjoyment as the samādhi or concentration on the self when it simply receives and accepts its function, or its spiritual position in the world."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is an excerpt from the teaching "Descending with the View from Above" from Guru Rinpoche/Padmasambhava  taken from the book "Treasures from Juniper Ridge" - translated by Erik Kunsang and Marcia Schmidt.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected verses and teachings taken from The Complete Mystical Works of Meister Eckhart - translated by Maurice Walshe  Johannes Eckhart was one of the greatest of Christian mystics. He was born at Hochheim in Thüringen, Germany, in 1260 and died c.1327. He entered the Dominican order when he was 15. Later he became a distinguished professor and taught at different universities. His direct and accessible teachings of a person's closeness to God inspired many people and he became well known throughout Europe. He was later summoned to an inquisition for heretical teachings, at which he vigorously defended himself.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided 20-minute Yoga Nidra to help you sleep and relax. It contains the Schumann Resonance as a background sound as well as a deep meditation bell. The Schumann Resonance signal operates by being resonantly absorbed by brain systems and altering the serotonin/melatonin balance. Studies have shown people experience benefits like enhanced sleep, learning/memory, body rejuvenation, balance, improved stress tolerance, anti-jetlag, and grounding.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of the SUPPLEMENT to Reality in Forty Verses for meditation. Translated by Prof. K. Swaminathan This supplement consisting of a second forty verses was added to the original "Reality in Forty Verses". So indifferent to authorship was Bhagavan that he did not write all those supplementary verses himself. When he came upon a suitable one he used it - mostly translations from Sanskrit - and when not, he made one. The verses eliminated from the original forty verses were included in the supplement. These eighty verses are the most comprehensive exposition of the Bhagavan’s teaching.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Hakuin Ekaku  (January 19, 1686 – January 18, 1769)  is undeniably one of the most important of all Zen masters.   He came into the Rinzai school of Zen and revitalized it during a period when its very survival was in question, focusing practice back on the basics of zazen and koan study.  He was the quintessential Zen master of the people, who extended his teaching far beyond the monastery to include folks from all walks of life.  All modern Rinzai masters trace their lineage back through Hakuin. Hakuin was born in the small village of Hara, at the foot of Mount Fuji, Japan. His mother was a devout Nichiren Buddhist, and it is likely that her piety was a major influence on his decision to become a Buddhist monk.

Music: Adrian Freeman - Shakuhachi  & Handpan  https://adrianfreedman.bandcamp.com/  

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Disclaimer:  As a Buddhist nun, my intention with these podcasts is to offer these creative adaptations of spiritual teachings for the purpose of deepening spiritual understanding, contemplation, meditation, healing, devotion and relaxation for listeners. These podcasts are not monetized for profit through YouTube advertising revenue, and never will be. All the videos are strictly for educational purposes, not-for-profit and non-commercial.

“All the words, music, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them. This video is posted for educational and spiritual purposes only. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.”

These poems/stanzas of profound pointings written by Ilie Cioara have been formatted for the purpose of a guided meditation. Excerpts taken from the book by Cioara, "The Moment is Eternity" - translated by Petrica Verdes and with thanks to Petricia for gifting all of Ilie's books to me and permission to read/share them here.  Ilie Cioara (1916 - 2004) was an enlightened mystic who did not belong to any lineage. He is unique in a way, in the sense that he lived in almost complete isolation, in Romania, Eastern Europe in a communist country, completely oblivious of nonduality, Zen, etc.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Ātma-bodha (Sanskrit: आत्मबोध) is a short Sanskrit text attributed to Adi Shankara of Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. The text in sixty-eight verses describes the path to Self-knowledge or the awareness of Atman. The Vedanta tradition states that the text was written by Shankara for his disciple, Sanandana, also known as Padmapāda.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This sublime and profound teaching on the nature of reality by the great master, Longchenpa is taken from the Finding Rest in Illusion trilogy - commentary . It is suitable for those practitioners who have a in-depth understanding and insight into Dzogchen's concepts and paradigm.  Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Marguerite Porete (13th century – 1 June 1310) was a French-speaking mystic and the author of The Mirror of Simple Souls, a work of Christian mysticism dealing with the workings of agape (divine love). She was burnt at the stake for heresy in Paris in 1310 after a lengthy trial, refusing to remove her book from circulation or recant her views. It was reported in a chronicle that the crowd was moved to tears by the calmness of how she faced her end.  Porete's life is recorded only in accounts of her trial for heresy, at which she was condemned to be burnt at the stake. Porete's biography is probably biased and certainly incomplete. She was said to come from the County of Hainaut, a French-speaking principality in the Holy Roman Empire, though this is uncertain. Her high level of education means she is likely to have had upper-class origins. She is associated with the beguine movement and was therefore able to travel fairly freely.  

Art image - "Ellipsis Halo " by Dan Hillier used with kind permission of the artist. Please see Dan's incredible art at: https://danhillier.com/

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Disclaimer:  As a Buddhist nun, my intention with these podcasts is to offer these creative adaptations of spiritual teachings for the purpose of deepening spiritual understanding, contemplation, meditation, healing, devotion and relaxation for listeners. These podcasts are not monetized for profit through YouTube advertising revenue, and never will be. All the videos are strictly for educational purposes, not-for-profit and non-commercial.

“All the words, music, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them. This video is posted for educational and spiritual purposes only. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.”

Selected teachings of Ma's taken from various sources.   Anandamayi Ma ( 30 April 1896 – 27 August 1982) was a Bengali Saint, described by Sivananda Saraswati (of the Divine Life Society) as "the most perfect flower the Indian soil has produced." Precognition, faith healing and miracles were attributed to her by her followers. Paramahansa Yogananda translates the Sanskrit epithet Anandamayi - as "Joy-permeated" in English. This name was given to her by her devotees in the 1920s to describe her perpetual state of divine joy.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This text of 40 Verses was written by Bhagavan at the request of Muruganar, who wanted a concise synopsis of Ramana’s teaching, and wanted 40 verses to fit a classical Hindu poetic form. Ramana wrote the verses as they came to him, and Muruganar arranged them in a particular order.  Translated by Arthur Osborne

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Master Hsu Yun or Xuyun  (Chinese: 虚云; - name meaning "Empty Cloud) born 5 September 1840 – 13 October 1959  was a renowned Chinese Chan Buddhist master and one of the most influential Buddhist teachers of the 19th and 20th centuries. According to Richard Hunn, Master Hsu is "Universally regarded as the most outstanding Buddhist of the Chinese order in the modern era."  

When Xuyun was seventeen, he attempted to flee home to Mount Heng to become a monk without his family's permission. On a winding mountain path he encountered envoys sent by his uncle to intercept and escort him back. His aspiration was not realized and he was reproved and brought back home. His father formally arranged brides for him, and his marriage was completed. Although they lived together, Xuyun did not have sexual contact with his wives. Moreover, he extensively explained the dharma to the women so that they too would practice Buddhism. He left them this profound teaching "The Song of the Skinbag" which he wrote at the age of 19. Several years later Maser Hsu discovered that his two former wives had both ordained as bhikshunis (nuns).

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Edith Stein (also known as Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross or Saint Edith Stein - 12 October 1891 – 9 August 1942) was a German Jewish philosopher who converted to Christianity and became a Discalced Carmelite nun. When the Nazis conquered Holland, Teresa was arrested, and, with her sister Rose, was sent to the concentration camp at Auschwitz. Teresa died in the gas chambers of Auschwitz in 1942 at the age of fifty-one. In 1987, she was beatified in the large outdoor soccer stadium in Cologne by Pope John Paul II. She is canonized as a martyr and saint of the Catholic Church; she is also one of six patron saints of Europe.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of poems from Cold Mountain - Hanshan - taken from "The Collected Songs of Cold Mountain", Bill Porter (Red Pine), trans.  The poet Hanshan, a name meaning “Cold Mountain,” ranks as one of the most eccentric and mysterious figures of Chinese literature. He is said to have lived during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), dwelling in a cave or hut in Tiantai Mountain near modern-day Taizhou, Zhejiang. In Chinese and Japanese art, he is often depicted as dirty and raggedy, smiling mischievously with his friend Shide . His poetry, written in a direct, colloquial style, was satirical and spiritual, touching on both Buddhist and Daoist themes

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These "pointers" from Longchenpa on the natural state of Freedom have been formatted for guided meditation purposes.  Excerpts taken from the text "A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission." Translated by Richard Barron.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a powerful teaching given by Venerable Sāriputta to the great lay disciple Anāthapiṇḍika as he lay dying, and in severe pain. Upon a request to visit him, Venerable Sāriputta provides a profound teaching, rarely offered to lay people, on non-attachment and non-grasping.  It is taken from the  Majjhima-nikāya: 143 - Translated by Bhante Sujato

Art: Adam Shaw -" Fire of Bliss"

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Disclaimer: As a Buddhist nun, my intention with these podcasts is to offer these creative adaptations of spiritual teachings for the purpose of deepening spiritual understanding, contemplation, meditation, healing, devotion and relaxation for listeners. This channel is not monetized for profit through advertising revenue, and never will be. All the videos are strictly for educational purposes, not-for-profit and non-commercial.

“All the words, music, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them. This video is posted for educational and spiritual purposes only. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing."

Julian of Norwich (1342-c 1416) was the most important English mystic of the 14th century. She wrote the best known surviving book in the English language written by a mystic, Revelations of Divine Love. The book is the first written in English by a woman.  Her spirituality is strongly Trinitarian and basically Neoplatonic. Through the Passion, Julian was led to  visions of the Trinity and of the universe as it exists in God.  

Music: "Finding Stillness"  - Chris Collins

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Disclaimer: As a Buddhist nun, my intention with these podcasts is to offer these creative adaptations of spiritual teachings for the purpose of deepening spiritual understanding, contemplation, meditation, healing, devotion and relaxation for listeners. This channel is not monetized for profit through advertising revenue, and never will be. All the videos are strictly for educational purposes, not-for-profit and non-commercial.

“All the words, music, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them. This video is posted for educational and spiritual purposes only. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing."

This is a reading for meditation of the teaching given by Mipham Rinpoche entitled - "The Essence of Wakefulness"  - taken from the text Perfect Clarity. Translated by Eric Pema Kunsang.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Reading of the chapter titled: "When Conventional Truths Collapse" from the text Reading the Mind.  Upasika Kee Nanayon or Kor Khao-suan-luang was a realized female practitioner from Thailand. She was mostly self-taught, reading the Pali canon and other Buddhist literature. She considered the Buddha's Dhamma as her primary teacher. Her dhamma talks and poetry were widely circulated. As word of her spread, she became one of the most popular meditation teachers in Thailand. This, and many of her talks, have been translated into English by Thanissaro Bhikkhu who sees her as "arguably the foremost woman Dhamma teacher in twentieth-century Thailand."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is reading of a selection of Ma's poems for meditation and contemplation. Sri Brahmajna Ma (21 February 1880 – 5 November 1934) was an Indian advaitin saint from East Bengal. What little is known about her reveals her as an illumined soul who was established in non-dual realization. Like Ramana Maharshi, she had no guru, but attained enlightenment through her own efforts at self-inquiry.

Art image: Dan Hillier

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Here is a guided Yoga Nidra meditation for relaxation, healing, and to help you sleep.  Yoga nidra, or yogic sleep is a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping, like the "going-to-sleep" stage, typically induced by a guided meditation. Yoga nidra is a powerful meditation technique, and one of the easiest yoga practices to develop and maintain. While the practitioner rests comfortably in savasana (corpse pose)  this systematic meditation takes you deep into body/mind relaxation, leaving you with a sense of wholeness, relaxation, clarity and wellness. Yoga nidra results in conscious awareness of the deep sleep state. It is among the deepest possible states of relaxation while still maintaining full consciousness.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Excerpts of Questions and Answers read from the text - The Zen Teaching of Huang Po on the Transmission of Mind - Translated by: John Blofeld.  Huang Po (died 850) was an influential Chinese master of Chan Buddhism. He was born in Fujian, China in the Tang Dynasty. Later he became a monk in Huangbo Shan (lit. Huangbo Mountain). That is how he got his name. Huang Po was a disciple of Baizhang Huaihai  and the teacher of Linji (Japanese: Rinzai). Huang Po is one of the most influential of the Chinese Zen masters.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of the Buddha's detailed teaching on the Four Noble Truths excerpted from the longer teaching - The Maha-sattipatthana Sutta - Digha Nikaya 22. Translated from the Pali by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of the Katha Upanishad translated by Juan Mascaró.  The Katha-Upanishad is probably the most widely known of all the Upanishads. It was early translated into Persian and through this rendering first made its way into Europe. The text presents a dialogue between an aspiring disciple, Nachiketas, and the Ruler of Death regarding the great Hereafter.

Music by Maok - https://www.maok.sk/homepage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading for meditation of Namkai Norbu's brief commentary (as well as the song itself) on the "Song of the Vajra". The origin of this song is the tantra of the union of sun and moon.  Chögyal Namkhai Norbu (1938-2018) was an eminent scholar of Tibetan culture and a master of life. A unique figure in the contemporary spiritual world, a Professor of Tibetan and Mongolian Language and Literature at the Naples Eastern University, and a leading authority on Tibetan culture, particularly in the fields of history, literature, traditional religions (Tibetan Buddhism and Bon), and Traditional Tibetan medicine.

🔆 These podcasts are not monetized - an never will be. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Among the works in Longchen Rabjam's famous collection, the Seven Treasuries, is this book commonly known as the Chöying Dzod.  Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen. Reading taken from Part 5 of The Treasury of the Basic Space of Phenomena - Translated by Richard Barron (Lama Chökyi Nyima). 

The text can be purchased here: https://tibetantreasures.com/products/the-basic-space-of-phenomena-boptob1?variant=7251478282303

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

🕊️ This is a reading of inspired reflections on "Peace" from Mahatma Gandhi - a collaboration between myself and Swami Madhuram Puri. Dedicated to Peace in the Ukraine and the whole world. 🕊️   

Music track - "Peace for Ukraine" by Swami Madhuram Swami's wonderful music can be found here (Time for Peace) - https://timeforpeace.bandcamp.com/ 

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (1869 -1948) was an Indian lawyer, anti-colonial nationalist and political ethicist who employed nonviolent resistance to lead the successful campaign for India's independence from British rule, and to later inspire movements for civil rights and freedom across the world.  

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.  https://vivekahermitage.com/

These are a selection of key pointers from Nisargadatta taken from "Pointers by Ramesh Balsekar" and formatted as a guided meditation.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of a series of questions that were put to Ajahn Chah by a group of monks in his monastery.  Ajahn Chah  was a Thai Buddhist monk and meditation Master. He was an influential teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. He was reputed to be an Arahant.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of the 37 stanzas on the Bodhisattva practice by Gyalse Ngulchu Thogme Zangpo - a Buddhist master from Tibet. Translated by Yonten Gyatso with the help of Dechen Wangmo.  A explained by Yogi Prabodha Jnana, "each of these stanzas is either a contemplation to prepare us to face the world better, or an instruction for meditation. Taking inspiration from the Bodhisattva ideal, we can transform life into a blissful journey to enlightenment- living life as a play of contentment, relaxation and meaningful effort, tasting the nectar of inner ease, patience, compassion and spaciousness."

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A reading of Sanai's beautiful and profound, The Walled Garden of Truth.  Born in Ghazni in the south of Afghanistan sometime during the eleventh century, Sanai is considered one of the most influential early mystics from the Persian region. Despite his strong influence not much is known about his life and much is gleaned from his poetry which is often autobiographical. His name is generally spoken of in the same breath as Shaikh Faridu’d-Din ‘Attar, both of whom are have been a major influence on those mystics and poets who followed in their tradition. Rumi acknowledged Hakim Sanai and Attar as his two primary inspirations, saying, “Attar is the soul and Sanai its two eyes, I came after Sanai and Attar.”

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of clear pointing out instructions taken from the text "Present Fresh Wakefulness" by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche (translated by Erik Pema Kunsang).  Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche (b. 1951) is a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher and meditation master in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions. He is the abbot of Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery in Kathmandu, Nepal. He is the author of several books, founder of meditation centers around the world, and an international teacher. He is the eldest son of Kunsang Dechen, a devoted Buddhist practitioner, and Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, who was considered one of the greatest Dzogchen masters of our time.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

These is a reading of extracts from Krishnamurti's talks on meditation taken from various sources - intended for contemplation.  Jiddu Krishnamurti (12 May 1895 – 17 February 1986) was an Indian philosopher, speaker and writer. In his early life he was groomed to be the new World Teacher but later rejected this mantle and withdrew from the Theosophy organization behind it. He stressed the need for a revolution in the psyche of every human being and emphasised that such revolution cannot be brought about by any external entity, be it religious, political, or social.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation spoken extemporaneously on abiding in our unshakeable heart of Awareness.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Solitude (Viveka) by Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu - A Dhamma lecture given at Suan Mokkh on 8 February 1990.  Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu (Servant of the Buddha) went forth as a bhikkhu (Buddhist monk) in 1926, at the age of twenty. After a few years of study in Bangkok, which convinced him “purity is not to be found in the big city,” he was inspired to live intimately with nature in order to investigate Buddha-Dhamma in study and practice. Thus, he established Suan Mokkhabālārama (The Grove of the Power of Liberation) in 1932 near his hometown of Pum Riang (now in Chaiya District).

Interpreted into English by Santikaro 

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This sublime and profound teaching on the nature of reality by the great master, Longchenpa is taken from the Finding Rest in Illusion trilogy . It is suitable for those practitioners who have a in-depth understanding and insight into Dzogchen's concepts and paradigm.  Longchenpa, also known as Longchen Rabjam , ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts and pointers from the text "I Am That" by Maharaj (translated by Maurice Frydman). These have been compiled and intended for deep listening and meditation.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Picture Number 7 of The Ten Ox Herding Pictures. The Ten Ox Herding teachings is a series of short poems and accompanying drawings used in the Zen tradition to describe the stages of a practitioner's progress toward enlightenment, and his or her return to society to enact wisdom and compassion.    

Commentary by Yamada Mumom. Translated by Victor Sogen Hori

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Ashtavakra Gita is one of the advaitic masterpieces.  One of Sri Ramana Maharshi's most beloved texts. Without mincing matters it comes out with the advaitic truth, the whole truth and nothing but advaita which is the Truth. This book embodies Ashtavakra’s teaching to King Janaka which vouched him Self-Knowledge between the time he placed one foot upon the stirrup of his horse and lifted himself to place the other foot on the other stirrup.  Radhakamal Mukerjee, an Indian social scientist, dated the book to the period immediately after the Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita (c. 500–400 BC).

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

The poems are a collection of Rumi's verses on the topic of Awakening that speak directly to the heart, using the metaphors of the ocean, sunrise, and waves to point us back Home.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Selected excerpts and pointers from the text "I Am That" by Maharaj (translated by Maurice Frydman). These have been compiled and intended for deep listening and meditation.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Ashtavakra Gita is one of the advaitic masterpieces.  One of Sri Ramana Maharshi's most beloved texts. Without mincing matters it comes out with the advaitic truth, the whole truth and nothing but advaita which is the Truth. This book embodies Ashtavakra’s teaching to King Janaka which vouched him Self-Knowledge between the time he placed one foot upon the stirrup of his horse and lifted himself to place the other foot on the other stirrup.  Radhakamal Mukerjee, an Indian social scientist, dated the book to the period immediately after the Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita (c. 500–400 BC).

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a tribute to the precious teacher, Thích Nhất Hạnh, who has just left his body after 95 years and after giving so much of the Dharma. This is a reading of some key quotes and wisdom teachings that he left us.  We pay homage and reverence to Thầy - a great Bodhisattva. 🙏🙏🙏

🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This guided meditation has been formatted from a teaching where H.H. gave a clear exposition on meditation practice in London, 1979. 

His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche (1904-1987) was considered the greatest terton (discoverer of hidden texts, or terma) of our time, His Holiness has also made a thorough and critical study of all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism, realizing the wisdom of all lineages.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is reading of a selection of Ma's poems for meditation and contemplation. Sri Brahmajna Ma (21 February 1880 – 5 November 1934) was an Indian advaitin saint from East Bengal. What little is known about her reveals her as an illumined soul who was established in non-dual realization. Like Ramana Maharshi, she had no guru, but attained enlightenment through her own efforts at self-inquiry.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Excerpt read from the chapter "Timeless Freedom:  These  "pointers" from Longchenpa have been formatted for guided meditation purposes.   Taken from  the text  - A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission - A Commentary on the Precious Treasury of the Basic Space of Phenomena.  Translated by Richard Barron.

Longchenpa, ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen. He transmitted the Longchen Nyingtik cycle of teachings and practice to Jikmé Lingpa, and it has since become one of the most widely practised of traditions.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Alone with the Alone by Ibn' Arabi - Translated by Henry Corbin plus selected verses of Ibn' Arabi.  'Abū 'Abdullāh Muḥammad ibn was a Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher born in Murcia, Spain on the 17th of Ramaḍān (26 July 1165 AD). He was one of the great mystics of all time. Through the richness of his personal experience and the constructive power of his intellect, he made a unique contribution to Shi'ite Sufism. He was considered a Saint.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Excerpt read from the chapter "Timeless Freedom:  These  "pointers" from Longchenpa have been formatted for guided meditation purposes.   Taken from  the text  - A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission - A Commentary on the Precious Treasury of the Basic Space of Phenomena.  Translated by Richard Barron.

Longchenpa, ‘Infinite, Vast Expanse of Space’, or Drimé Özer (1308-1364), was one of the most brilliant teachers of the Nyingma lineage. He systematized the Nyingma teachings in his ‘Seven Treasures’ and wrote extensively on Dzogchen. He transmitted the Longchen Nyingtik cycle of teachings and practice to Jikmé Lingpa, and it has since become one of the most widely practised of traditions.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A selection of Rumi poems formatted for meditation and contemplation. Excerpts taken from the texts Kulliyat-e Shams, The Divani Shamsi Tabriz, XIII, Mathnawi II and III,  In the Arms of the Beloved.  Music: Klaus Wiese and Oophoi - Deva Mela

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Ryōkan Taigu (1758–1831) was a quiet and unconventional Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. Ryōkan is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life. He renounced the world at an early age to train at nearby Sōtō Zen temple Kōshō-ji, refusing to meet with or accept charity from his family.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of pointings from the text "Light of the Eternal" by Lillian De Waters.  Lillian DeWaters was born in 1883 and lived in Stamford, Connecticut. She grew up with a Christian Science background and in her early teens began to study metaphysics and during that same period to seriously study the Bible.  She published a few books while actively within the Christian Science organization, and then in 1924 she had an awakening experience when it was as though a veil was parted and Truth was revealed to her. From that point she began to receive numerous unfoldments which led to her separation from the Christian Science organization.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a selection of sublime pointers/teachings taken from Jean Klein's text, "I Am" - formatted for guided meditation purposes.  Jean Klein (October 19, 1912 – February 22, 1998) was a French author, spiritual teacher and philosopher of Advaita Vedanta (Nondualism). He was born in Berlin and spent his childhood in Brno and Prague. Having left Germany in 1933 for France, he secretly worked with the French Resistance in the Second World War. Klein was a musicologist and doctor, traveled to India where he was influenced by Sri Atmananda Krishna Menon, studied Kashmir Shaivism and was sent to the West to teach Advaita Vedanta. He is regarded as one most eloquent communicators of non-duality in the second half of the 20th century.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

The anuttarāṣṭikā is a hymn of eight (aṣṭikā) verses by Abhinavagupta, on the method of anupāya (no method) in the light of the highest reality/supreme –anuttara.  The teaching on anupāya, as elaborated in this hymn, have been revered by Kashmir Shaiva Pandits since their inception by Shaiva Master Abhinavagupta, who devoted the second chapter of his magnum opus – Tantrāloka – to the method (upāya) known as anupāya, which literally means ‘no method’. Abhinavagupta (c. 950 – 1016 ) was a philosopher, mystic and aesthetician from Kashmir. He was also considered an influential musician, poet, dramatist, exegete, theologian, and logician – a polymathic personality who exercised strong influences on Indian culture.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading for meditation of a collection of sublime pith instructions given by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.  H.H. Khyentse  (1910-1991) was born in the Dergé region of Kham, Eastern Tibet and was recognized as the mind emanation of Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo. Regarded by many as one of the greatest Dzogchen masters of the twentieth century, and the very embodiment of Padmasambhava, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche was the teacher of many of the important lamas of today.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Siddharameshwar Maharaj is one of the greatest unknown saints of the age who attained the highest abode of Eternal peace. He was born in August 1888 in the small village of Pathri, in the district Sholapur of India. From 1925 until 1936, he taught many disciples (including Nisargadatta Maharaj) and helped dozens attain Self-realisation.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Shitou Xiqian – known as Sekito Kisen in Japanese – was an 8th century Chinese monk, a student of Huineng and Huineng’s successor, Qingyuan Xingsi (Seigen Gyoshi). He is credited with writing two of the most famous Zen poems in China – the Sandokai and this, the Song of the Grass Roof Hermitage. The beauty of this poem lies in its humanity and its emphasis on the simplicity of practice – the grass roof hermitage is not a grand temple building inhabited by clergy, but a small, modest dwelling that could be constructed by anyone, and meditation itself is a matter of turning the light around to shine within and just returning.

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This is a reading for meditation of the teaching given by Mipham Rinpoche entitled - "The Instruction on Stillness, Occurrence, and Awareness in Mahamudra'  - taken from the text Perfect Clarity. Translated by Eric Pema Kunsang.

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Matrusri Anasuya Devi (born 28 March 1923-1985) was an Indian spiritual guru from Andhra Pradesh. Widely known as Jillellamudi Amma, she is revered by millions of her devotees spread across the globe as an incarnation of the Divine Mother, the supreme deity, Raja Rajeswari Devi. Many miracles and spiritual transformations were witnessed and recorded by people in Amma's presence.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading of the Buddha's teaching on the four foundations of mindfulness (The Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta - Majjhima Nikaya 10: ) intended as a guided meditation. Translated by Bhikkhu Bodhi (with a few minor alterations).  As stated by Bhikkhu Bodhi, this teaching, "is generally regarded as the canonical Buddhist text with the fullest instructions on the system of meditation unique to the Buddha's own dispensation.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Excerpts read from the text - Life as Teacher. Vimala Thakar (1921- 2009) was born in Bilaspur District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. She was a great spiritually enlightened revolutionary and activist; mystic, and a notable Indian figure of the 20th Century who boldly forged a radically independent approach to spirituality and the search for truth.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Atisha was born in the year 982 AD in East Bengal.  He was one of the major figures in the spread of 11th-century Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism in Asia and inspired Buddhist thought from Tibet to Sumatra. He is recognised as one of the greatest figures of classical Buddhism. Atisha's chief disciple, Dromtön, was the founder of the Kadam school, one of the New Translation schools of Tibetan Buddhism, later supplanted by the Gelug tradition in the 14th century, adopting its teachings and absorbing its monasteries.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a reading from the first section of Benner's book, The Impersonal Life. Joseph Sieber Benner (January 3, 1872 – September 24, 1938) was an American author, New Thought writer, member of the Lutheran Church,  and Representative of the Brotherhood of Christ who used the pen name "Anonymous". He was the first to introduce the Knowledge and Teachings of Impersonal Life (also known as the "I AM" Teaching) to the Western world in this, his first book, published in 1914.

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.

This is a guided meditation on applying the paradigm of the Four Noble Truths as taught by the Buddha. For more information on this topic, I recommend this priceless booklet by Luang Por (Ajahn) Sumedho which you can download for free here: https://amaravati.org/book-authors/ajahn-sumedho/?fpmtp_languages=english

🔆 If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: [email protected] with PayPal or using this direct link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/VivekaHermitage

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🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.