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The Sutra on the 12 Links and the Middle Way

Thich Nhat Hanh · June 14, 2000 · Plum Village, France
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This talk details the profound concept of “this is because that is” through the 12 links, Nidana, highlighting interconnectedness and causality. Ignorance (Avijja) clouds perception, but mindful examination can dissolve its grip. Ignorance extends to Sangha, encompassing bodies and minds. Pratitya Samutpada signifies dependent arising, emphasizing interdependence. Ignorance leads to formations, consciousness depends on formations, and Nagarjuna illustrates cause and result arising together. Consciousness resides in nama rupa (name and form), crucial for senses. Practicing mindfulness transforms consciousness into mirror wisdom. Feelings (Vedana) arise from contact and senses, leading to craving. Buddha teaches mindfulness to break cycles of craving, grasping, and suffering. Understanding impermanence aids in letting go of attachments. Buddha emphasizes self-discovery of teachings. Anuradha’s inquiry illustrates Buddha’s teachings on existence and aggregates. Sutra discusses avoiding extremes and practicing the middle way for peace, joy, and compassion.

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