Zoom gatherings in July

Online gatherings in July 2020

28 July 2020

Questions

1 - Is it OK that we focus around the forehead area if we feel some energy in that area while reciting BUD-DHO?
2 - Can chanting the Maitreya mantra and making aspirations to be reborn in Tusita heaven realm with a loved one, produce such results if practiced along with dana, sila and bhavana?
3 - How can one transfer merit to a departed family member in a proper way to ensure that it is received? Can one transfer merit later, for example when the ashes of the body are being scattered?

4 - In the last meeting, Ajahn mentioned 'nibbana dhatu'. Dhatu is an element, so I am curious what the Buddha is pointing to?
5 - I have practiced metta for a few months, however, I do not feel I’ve become a more kind or compassionate person. Is my practice no good?
6 - How can we reduce our 'obsession' or attachment towards someone? Especially, how can one deal with unwholesome thoughts such as envy, jealousy, feelings of inadequacy, greed etc.?
7 - I am mother to a son who died suddenly a few years ago from a drug overdose. I suspect that he died very unexpectedly and in a state of much fear. I cannot help but wonder about his present state and if there is anything I can do to help him?

15 July 2020 - Part Two

Questions - Part 2

Ajahn responds to the question: Can you please explain unwholesome and wholesome kammas & mind states in detail.

15 July 2020 - Part One

Questions - Part 1

Ajahn responds to the question: Please explain about signs of deepening levels found in Metta bhavana, Anapanasati and Vipassana practices.

01 July 2020

Questions

1 - Why do we chant 108x for Itipiso? What is the difference chanting 3x, 20x as compared to 108x?
2 - Can you please talk about the difference between eyes open versus eyes closed during meditation?
3 - How to practice forgiveness?
4 - What do you recommend as a good balance between different types of meditation: breath meditation, metta, compassion, recollection of death, etc?