The No Abode Audio Archive

The talk focuses on the themes of silence, stillness, and the practice of selfless compassion integral to the way of the Bodhisattva, emphasizing that these practices are done without any expectation of personal gain. It...

The talk explores the first abode of a bodhisattva, focusing on the non-abiding mind's initial arousal and the conditions fostering such an awakening. It considers the aspiration to become a bodhisattva and examines practices and...

The talk revolves around the concept of the "temple of no abode," emphasizing that the essence of spirituality is not about attaining something but recognizing the inherent Buddhahood in everyone. It discusses the...

The talk explores the concept of Zen temples as "Houses for Making Buddhas," addressing the transformation from Bodhisattvas to Buddhas without viewing meditation as a mere tool. Emphasis is placed on the practice of zazen (...

The talk elucidates the intersection of Zen and the influence of the "Flower Adornment Sutra" within Zen dialogues, using a case from the "Book of Serenity" featuring a koan discussion between monks Luzhu and Nanjuan. It...

The talk addresses the distinctions between 'shame' and 'guilt' in both general use and within the context of Buddhist psychological teachings, specifically discussing their representation in the Abhidharma. It explores how these...

The talk explores the Bodhisattva Samadhi as articulated through Zen practices and its depiction in the Flower Adornment Scripture, specifically highlighting the expansive and all-inclusive nature of the Bodhisattva Samadhi which...

The talk explores the concept of "what's the point," with a particular focus on the idea of comfort and its relationship to the practice of compassion in Zen Buddhism. The approach emphasizes how practicing compassion amid...

The talk emphasizes the concept of the Buddha's body as ungraspable yet pervasive, exploring themes from the Avatamsaka Sutra, specifically the notion that awakening involves attuning to one's inherent Buddha nature. The...

The discussion examines Chapter 12 of the "Flower Adornment Scripture," focusing on the concept of the mind aspiring to Buddhahood (bodhicitta) and Faith in the Triple Treasure. The discourse discusses the qualities of pure faith...

The talk delves into the concept of continuous practice amid transitions, emphasizing the integration of simplicity in Zen teachings, particularly the immediate response to needs as captured by "When exhausted, rest" or "When...

The talk examines themes from Book Ten of the Flower Adornment Sutra (Avatamsaka Sutra), focusing on the Buddha's compassion and fields of blessing. It discusses the Bodhisattva Manjushri's questioning of other...

The talk delves into Book Ten of the Flower Adornment Sutra, focusing on the Bodhisattva Manjushri's series of questions seeking clarification from other Bodhisattvas. The discourse emphasizes the compassionate wisdom that arises...

The primary focus of the discussion is an exploration of Book Ten of the "Flower Adornment Scripture," in which Manjushri Bodhisattva asks a series of nuanced questions to emphasize the perpetual and essential nature of inquiry...

The primary focus of the talk is on the Four Noble Truths and the Mahayana emphasis on the bodhisattva precept to embrace and sustain all living beings. The discussion encourages reflection on the practice of sustaining all...

The talk delves into integrating the Flower Adornment Scripture with traditional Zen practice, focusing specifically on the seventh book, "Names of Buddha." It explores the significance of names offered in the sutra to...

The discussion centers on the Avatamsaka Sutra, focusing on its significance in Zen practice and its intricate descriptions as a "flower garland" adorning the Buddha. The talk elaborates on how faithful practice can be...

In the Dharma talk held at No Abode Hermitage, the commencement of studying the Avatamsaka Sutra was discussed, focusing on its integration with Zen practice. The talk included examination of how Zen ancestors in China and India...

In this discussion focusing on the art of Dharma conversation, Dharma is portrayed as an interactive process rather than a static acquisition. It encompasses not only speech but also silence, gestures, and stillness, emphasizing...

A talk given to the No Abode Community on February 10th, 2024.   The talk discusses the interplay between the teachings of the "Flower Adornment Scripture" and the "Book of Serenity," which is a collection of Zen koans. It is highlighted how these texts help in...

Book 27 - The Ten Concentrations Thomas Cleary translation     The talk examines the teachings of "Book 27 - The Ten Concentrations" from the Flower Adornment Sutra, utilizing Thomas Cleary's translation. It details the immense spiritual powers and practices of enlightening beings,...

Book 28 The Ten Superknowledges Thomas Cleary translation   The talk focuses on Book 28 of "The Flower Adornment Sutra," known as "The Ten Superknowledges." It explores the qualities and abilities of enlightening beings, particularly their superknowledge which allows them to perceive...

Book 30 - The Incalculable Book 31 - Life Span Book 32 - Dwelling Places of Enlightening Beings Thomas Cleary Translation   The discussion delves into the Flower Adornment Sutra, specifically Books 30, 31, and 32, focusing on the theme of "The Incalculable" in Book 30 which explores the concept of incomprehensible numbers and metaphors for...

Book 34 - Ocean of Physical Marks of Ten Bodies of Buddha Thomas Cleary translation     The talk delves into "The Ocean of Physical Marks of the Ten Bodies of Buddha" from "The Flower Adornment Sutra," focusing on the 97 distinct marks of Buddha, each symbolizing a unique aspect of enlightenment. The discussion...