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Tech notes: Note regarding Germany 1998: these talks were recorded multiple talks per tape and split across tapes, and ordering and which parts belong together is unclear. This is thus a piece of a talk on an approximate date, pending someone who has time to assemble and edit the pieces.

Regensburg 7

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 7, 1998 · Regensburg, Germany
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This talk details how manas transforms into wisdom of equanimity by seeing the truth of non-self and interbeing, but when clouded by delusion and attachment, it loses connection to ultimate reality, grasping shadows and creating distorted ideas. Manas acts instinctually for self-preservation but can react without wisdom, potentially causing harm. Through transformation, akin to a flower growing from compost, wisdom influences consciousnesses, reducing delusion by contemplating non-self, impermanence, and interbeing. Buddhist psychology emphasizes understanding the mind for liberation, with the eight consciousnesses emerging from store consciousness. Mental formations, driven by craving, hinder spiritual growth, but releasing attachments leads to enlightenment and joy. Cultivating mindfulness and compassion transforms hindrances into wisdom, nurturing genuine happiness distinct from fleeting pleasures rooted in ignorance.

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