Trying to Satisfy Desire. The Mandhata Jataka.

Teisho by Roshi Rafe Jnan Martin, 10/15/2024 Vermont Zen Center

Recorded October 15, 2024.

 In this teisho, the final teisho of the October 2024 Jataka Sesshin at the Vermont Zen Center, Roshi Martin tells an ancient jataka (past life tale of the Buddha) that's very much like a sci-fi story! He then examines it from the perspective of Zen practice. In the story, which the Buddha told near the time of his approaching parinirvana (death), shows him attempting to satisfy desire. And how that necessary failure changed him.

Referenced: Before Buddha Was Buddha by Rafe Martin
 
Image: Galaxy painting by Rafe Martin 

• Books by Roshi Rafe Martin
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• More information at endlesspathzen.org