How can we direct our good intentions toward a happiness that does not fade? In this Dhamma talk, Bhante Joe explores kamma, desire, and the importance of giving Buddhist practice a clear purpose. Using the Buddha’s simile of kamma as a field, consciousness as a seed, and craving as water, he explains how generosity and virtue create opportunities for future happiness. Teachings on rebirth by aspiration, the advice devas offer a dying companion, and the Fire Sermon reveal both the benefits of merit and the impermanence of worldly and heavenly pleasures. By grounding generosity, meditation, and our aspirations in the Four Noble Truths, we can direct these opportunities toward relinquishment, stream-entry, and ultimately Nibbāna—the end of suffering.
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BI-WEEKLY MEDITATION VIA ZOOM
North America — 1st and middle Sunday of the month, 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Australia — 1st and middle Monday of the month, 7:00–8:30 p.m.
GROUP MEDITATION & CHANTING
Monday to Saturday — 4:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Colombo time
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TIMESTAMPS
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00:00:00 — Kamma, Intention, and the Roots of Desire
00:05:06 — How Desire Shapes Rebirth
00:10:15 — Generosity and the Power of Merit
00:15:21 — Rebirth Through Aspiration
00:18:42 — Human Pleasure and the Deva Realms
00:26:49 — Impermanence, Aging, and Death
00:31:25 — The Devas’ Advice on a Good Rebirth
00:35:24 — Practicing Within the Four Noble Truths
00:36:49 — The Wizard of Oz and Sensual Pleasure
00:38:49 — The Fire Sermon: All Is Burning
00:40:30 — The Kamma That Ends Kamma
00:43:28 — Stream-Entry and the Highest Use of Merit