Purity of Heart – Essays on the Buddhist Path by Thanissaro Bhikkhu. The Buddha never placed demands on anyone’s faith. For people from a culture where the dominant religions do make such demands, this is one of Buddhism’s most attractive features. It’s especially appealing to those who—in reaction to the demands of organized religion—embrace the view of scientific empiricism that nothing deserves our trust unless it can be measured against physical data. In this light, the Buddha’s famous instructions to the Kalamas are often read as an invitation to believe, or not, whatever we like.
Don’t go by reports, by legends, by traditions, by scripture, by logical conjecture, by inference, by analogies, by agreement through pondering views, by probability, or by the thought, “This contemplative is our teacher.” When you know for yourselves that, “These mental qualities are skillful; these mental qualities are blameless; these mental qualities are praised by the wise; these mental qualities, when adopted & carried out, lead to welfare and to happiness”—then you should enter and remain in them. (AN III.65)
Pointing to this passage, many modern writers have gone so far as to say that faith has no place in the Buddhist tradition, that the proper Buddhist attitude is one of skepticism.
Download the free ebook here:
Purity of Heart
Biography of Thanissaro Bhikkhu: A Dedicated Practitioner and Teacher in the Buddhist Tradition
Also known as Ajahn Geoff, Thanissaro Bhikkhu, is a highly respected Buddhist monk, scholar, and teacher. His unwavering commitment to the Buddha’s teachings and his profound understanding of the Dhamma have made him a prominent figure in the global Buddhist community. Born in the United States, Thanissaro Bhikkhu encountered Buddhism during his college years. Deeply inspired by the teachings, he pursued a dedicated spiritual path, eventually ordaining as a Theravada monk in the Forest Tradition in Thailand. Thanissaro Bhikkhu spent several years practicing meditation and studying under esteemed teachers, including Ajahn Fuang Jotiko and Ajahn Lee Dhammadharo. His monastic training emphasized mindfulness, insight meditation, and strict adherence to the Vinaya (monastic discipline).
Founding the Metta Forest Monastery
In 1979, Thanissaro Bhikkhu established the Metta Forest Monastery in the United States, providing a sanctuary for serious Buddhist practitioners. The monastery follows the Thai Forest Tradition and serves as a center for meditation, study, and the practice of Dhamma. Renowned for his extensive translations of Buddhist texts, Thanissaro Bhikkhu has made numerous original translations of the Pali Canon and other essential Buddhist scriptures. His translations are highly regarded for their accuracy and clarity, offering valuable insights into the Buddha’s teachings. Thanissaro Bhikkhu emphasizes the practical application of the Buddha’s teachings in everyday life. He encourages individuals to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom as tools for personal transformation and liberation from suffering. Through his writings, talks, and retreats, Thanissaro Bhikkhu has guided countless individuals in their spiritual journeys. His teachings encompass a wide range of topics, including meditation, ethics, dependent origination, and the Four Noble Truths.
Purity of Heart: Interconnectedness and Engaged Buddhism
Recognizing the interconnection between personal practice and societal well-being, Thanissaro Bhikkhu advocates for engaged Buddhism. He encourages practitioners to apply the principles of mindfulness, compassion, and wise action to promote social harmony and environmental stewardship. As a monastic, Thanissaro Bhikkhu places great importance on upholding the Vinaya, the monastic code of discipline. His commitment to the Vinaya ensures the integrity of the monastic tradition and serves as an example of ethical conduct for both monastics and lay practitioners. Thanissaro Bhikkhu’s teachings and translations have had a profound impact on the Buddhist community worldwide. His emphasis on practical application, integrity, and deep understanding of the Dhamma continue to inspire and guide practitioners on the path to liberation.
Thanissaro Bhikkhu’s dedication to the Buddha’s teachings, his scholarly contributions, and his compassionate guidance make him a highly respected figure in the Buddhist world. Through his teachings and translations, he continues to illuminate the path to awakening and offer invaluable insights into the profound wisdom of Buddhism.
