Tag Bhikkhu Aloka

Satisfaction & A Joyful Life

• Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Psychology) No. 6.
• Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA (Arlawka)
• Published by ALOK MIND Foundation 
• Issued: 8 September, 2024

1. Introduction

The pursuit of a joyful life remains elusive for nearly half of the global population, with many struggling to find true happiness. This article explores the critical role of satisfaction, according to Buddha’s teachings, in promoting a joyful life. The tendency to compare oneself to others often leads to dissatisfaction, jealousy, envy, and negative emotions that block true happiness. By studying Buddhist scriptures like the Dhammapada and Dasuttara Sutta, as well as the notions of scholars, the article underscores that contentment and positive emotions are essential for achieving inner peace. True joy arises from focusing on one’s personal goals, practicing wise attention, and cultivating sympathetic joy. By reducing dissatisfaction related to factors such as position, physical condition, and opportunity, one can overcome the problems of negative competition and comparison that disturb a joyful life.

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Nibbāna: The Final Gold of Buddhists

Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Philosophy) No. 6.

Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA

Published by ALOK MIND Foundation

Issued: 3 April, 2024

Abstract

This paper is an academic study of Nibbāna aimed at clarifying the arguments surrounding questions such as: What is Nibbāna? Does Nibbāna exist? Is Nibbāna visible? And why is Nibbāna invisible? Nibbāna is true that it exists, but it transcends all temporal designations, being empty of past, present, and future. Although Nibbāna is empty in the three periods, it appears due to the power of diligence. Nibbāna can only be seen by a person who makes an effort. If you don’t make an effort, you won’t be able to see it. Nibbāna is within reach for those who strive, like a fireman. By contemplating and remembering the glory of Nibbāna, one can attain a purified and peaceful mind, and wisdom will grow within them. Additionally, one will gain access to the concentration of jhana by putting efforts continually. Finally, they will see and attain Nibbāna.

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Etymological Analysis of Sympathetic Joy

• Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Psychology) No. 3.
• Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA
• Published by ALOK MIND Foundation 
• Issued: 23 November, 2023

Abstract

This paper explores the etymology of the Pali term “Muditā,” analyzing it into “muda” (joyful) and “tā” (practice). It posits Muditā as the practice of joyful living, centered on Dhamma phenomena. The Pali-English dictionary defines Muditā as soft-heartedness, kindliness, and sympathy, with the analysis unveiling “muda” occasionally signifying ‘soft’ or ‘soft-heartedness.’ Muditā, also written as Mudita, is meant a pleased heart, glad mind, and a satisfied state. Divergent Pali word usages are examined, leading to a concise interpretation of Muditā as joyfulness. Exploring the four factors of sympathetic joy, the meaning of Muditā is joyfulness on the other hand, according to Buddhaghosa’s Commentary, the meaning of Muditā is self-joyfulness or the satisfaction of life without negative judgment and competition.

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