S2 Episode 4: On Consoling the Sick

In the last episode of the season, we explore a discussion between the Buddha and brahmin on those who are afraid of death. This sutta gives powerful implications on how to console the dying and to help them embrace their life, deeds, and beliefs on the deathbed. From the Aṅguttara Nikāya (4.184).

In this episode, we explore the Buddha’a teaching through folktales and parables. We examine the story of Kisa Gotami, and the Parable of the Mustard Seed, and an alternate version. The Buddha’s teachings given to a mother who lost her child— from Prince Siddhartha: The Story of Buddha by Jonathan Landaw and Janet Brooke.

This episode looks at the advice the monk Sāriputta gave to a lay follower who was sick—Anāthapiṇḍika. A teaching on non-self and greater connection helped him pass on to the next life. From the Majjhima Nikāya (MN 143).

This episode will explore the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths and give and in-depth look at the Noble Eightfold Path. The Buddha explains each part of the path in analysis. From the Saṃyutta Nikāya (SN 45.8).

This episode will explore the use of spiritual teachings, scripture, and advice. Reading the Kesaputta Sutta, we see the Buddha advises the Kālāma people on how to discern and trust what is good advice on spiritual matters. From the Aṅguttara Nikāya (AN 3.65).

The first episode of season two, we will explore the Buddha as a spiritual caregiver. What role did the Buddha play as a teacher, a friend, and advisor? The Buddha explains his role as a friend and the bond spiritual friendship has in his ministry of teaching the dharma. 

In this last episode of the season, we hear the Buddha's advice on being verbally abused and insulted. What is the best way to argue back?

In this episode, we explore the wonderful state of lovingkindness, its benefits, and why its the best protection.

In this episode we talk about how to repay your parents for the care they took in raising you. 

In this episode, we explore the topic of sleeping well. The Buddha gives his advice on sleeping deeply, even outside in the winter. We'll hear about the benefits of lovingkindness, and wonder if the Buddha sleeps like a wretch.