Clearing the Path by Nanavira Thera helps the reader to a point of view that is different from his customary frame of reference. An early step in accomplishing this change is the abandonment of specific mistaken notions about the Buddha’s teaching and about the nature of experience. This initial change in specific views may lead to a change in point-of-view, where one comes to understand experiences from a perspective different from what one has been accustomed to—a perspective in which intention, responsibility, context, conditionality, and related terms will describe the fundamental categories of one’s perception and thinking—and which can lead to a fundamental insight about the nature of personal existence. Such a change of attitude seldom occurs without considerable prior development, and this book is intended to serve as a tool in fostering that development. Download Clearing the Path here (588 pages/3.7 MB):
Nanavira – Clearing the Path
What is The Buddhas teachings about the Nature of Experience?
Buddha’s teachings revolve around the understanding and alleviation of suffering. The central teachings of the Buddha, also known as the Four Noble Truths, form the foundation of Buddhism:
1. The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha): The Buddha taught that life is characterized by suffering or unsatisfactoriness. This suffering can manifest in various forms, including physical pain, mental anguish, and the dissatisfaction that arises from attachment and craving.
2. The Truth of the Origin of Suffering (Samudaya): The Buddha identified desire, attachment, and craving as the root causes of suffering. It is through our attachment to worldly desires and the constant craving for pleasure, possessions, or even a sense of self that suffering arises.
3. The Truth of the Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha): The Buddha proclaimed that the cessation of suffering is attainable. By eliminating desire and attachment, one can achieve a state of liberation and freedom from suffering. This state is known as Nirvana.
4. The Truth of the Path to the Cessation of Suffering (Magga): The Buddha prescribed the Noble Eightfold Path as the means to overcome suffering and attain enlightenment. The Eightfold Path consists of right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
Regarding the nature of experience, Buddhism teaches that all phenomena are impermanent (Anicca), devoid of a permanent and unchanging essence. This impermanence applies not only to external objects but also to our thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Everything arises and passes away in a continuous flux. By recognizing this impermanence and not clinging to transient experiences, one can find freedom from suffering.
Furthermore, Buddhism emphasizes the concept of not-self (Anatta). It suggests that there is no enduring, independent self or soul within individuals or objects. Instead, our existence is a dynamic interplay of ever-changing elements, causes, and conditions. The realization of the non-self nature of phenomena can lead to a reduction in attachment and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.
It’s important to note that this is a brief overview, and Buddhism encompasses a vast array of teachings, practices, and traditions. Different Buddhist schools may emphasize certain aspects or interpret these teachings in various ways.
