Seven Factors of Awakening Overview – Dharma Talk by David Sudar (11-10-2020)

Details:

Originally given on 11/10/2020 at the Path of Sincerity Tuesday night Sangha, by David Sudar.

Description:

In this talk, we’ll be beginning a series on the Seven Factors of Awakening.  This is one of the most important lists in Buddhism (and there are many!), and it points at the qualities of heart & mind that directly lead to enlightenment.

One thing I love about this teaching is that it’s really quite practical.  It doesn’t just talk about extremely subtle states only accessible in deep meditation, but rather qualities that each of us can tap into even in daily life.  And, likewise, as a contrast to some teachings in Buddhism which focus on uprooting unskillful inner qualities, this lists points at actively developing the skillful or beautiful inner qualities.

The seven factors include mindfulness, investigation, effort, joy, tranquility, concentration and equanimity.  This evening and over the course of the series, we’ll have time to go into each of the qualities, present some high-level ways of working the seven factors as a whole, touch into other related teachings, and inquire into what exactly is meant by awakening.

Talk for streaming or download: