tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54045092749977422192011-11-21T00:03:46.764+08:00to the teachings of Ajahn Mun, Ajahn Maha Boowa and other great Masters from the Thai Forest Tradition.... who had inspired and change my life forever.Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.comBlogger821100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-577824499557784772011-11-20T21:01:00.011+08:002011-11-21T00:03:46.927+08:00

Even though I have not known Luang Phor Fan (of Sakon Nakhon) who had passed away in 1977, I have been deeply impressed by him.Herein are resources I've obtained from other blogs that contained information on Ajahn Fan Ajaro which all currently all in Thai language except for the 1st link:Ajahn Fan Ajaro from Isaan Life- it is hard to find translations of his life in English and was glad this

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-84683720561190764372011-04-01T22:51:00.005+08:002011-04-01T23:03:56.050+08:00

Recently I came across an article about the early life of Luangta Maha Bua. The following is an excerpt of the article that mentioned about Luangta's early life: Luangta Maha Boowa, the abbot of Wan Pa Baan Taad in Udon Thani’s Muang district, came into the limelight when he initiated a fund-raising campaign to help the country recover from the effects of the 1997 financial crisis. As of Jan 9

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-58254452419022426142011-02-02T18:19:00.002+08:002011-02-02T18:22:56.051+08:00

Here is a photo taken of a banner showing Luangta Maha Bua through the years. You can click to enlarge the picture.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-69250216547612939962011-01-30T16:52:00.005+08:002011-01-30T17:22:08.857+08:00

It is with great sadness to inform that Luangta Maha Boowa (or known as Luangta Maha Bua) passed away today on 30 January 2011 at the age of 97.Luangta Maha Boowa was one of the last surviving disciple of Acariya Mun (who passed away in 1949).Today, it rained the entire day without stop at the area where I am staying- as if the skys are crying over the loss of this great Teacher.The photos below

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-9209085073962506242010-12-17T11:59:00.000+08:002010-12-17T11:59:00.652+08:00

Phra Nirdoha Rangsi Kambhira Pannacara (Luang Phor Desaka)Wat Hin Mark Peng, Sri Chiengmai District, Nongkhai ProvinceOrdained as a novice at sixteen and as a monk at the age of twenty two. A disciple of Phra Acharn Mun Bhuridatto, he resided in all major regions of the country. At present, he resides at Wat Hin Mark Peng, Nongkhai Province.(Click on the picture above to read the version in Thai,

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-20358328183762674472010-12-03T12:18:00.000+08:002010-12-03T12:18:00.902+08:00

Wat Pak Klong Makham ThaoWat Singh District, Chainat Province.Born in the reign of His majesty King Rama IV. Ordained at the age of twenty. He was revered as having great spiritual power and was the royal teacher of H.R.H Krom Luang Choomporn Khet Udomsak. He passed away from old age in B.E 2460 (1917 A.D)(Click on the picture above to read the version in Thai, Mandarin and Japanese language. )

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It worries me when I read that there are groups of people, including ordained monks and nuns who openly accused Luangta of being a political monk. I am not worried for Luangta but worry for the person in question who openly said such thing. They are usually involved in the scholarly aspects of the Buddhist teachings and because what Luangta does apparently does not ‘fit in’ to what the scriptures

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Often, people enter the path of practice with sincerity and determination to transcend dukkha and thus leaving this cycle of rebirth. Thus one ordain and eventually through perserverance, faith and determination, one achieved peace and concentration through consistent meditation and ascetic practices.In this article, I wish to address the issue of attraction towards the opposite sex- because this

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-57553128772834501322010-05-20T12:00:00.006+08:002010-05-20T12:00:02.496+08:00

If you happen to be visiting Bangkok or around Khao San or Banglampu area, do drop by at Wat Im (sorry, I forgot the full spelling). You can ask any locals around Khao San and they would be able to tell you where Wat Im is located. You will see many people going to pay respect to the Buddha statue here. You can give about 20baht as donation and with that, take a lotus flower, candle, jossticks

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The following information is obtained from http://www.luangta.com/resume/map.php (the website is in Thai, but if you install the Google Toolbar, you can translate the site to English) Refer earlier article How to get to Wat Baan Taad (Luangta's temple) Note: Please verify the flight, train and bus information prior to booking.Getting to Wat Pa Ban Tat.1. Aircraft- The flight between Bangkok -

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-11915508506878123012010-05-08T22:52:00.004+08:002010-05-08T23:28:19.644+08:00

I thought of sharing a real life story of a nun, relayed firsthand to me for those who consider going for ordination and facing objection from parents.This nun was kind to share with me her own story, because saw me as the same person she was years ago.Many readers had mistaken me for a man, or even a monk. I am actually a laywoman.And I’ve always have the affinity towards temple. I remember the

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Susarn Trailaksana (Trailaksana Cementery), Lampang Province. A monk exceptionally dedicated to Vipassana Kammatthana (Buddhist insight meditation). Through the principle of contentment and mental control over the body, he attained the final stage of meditation while seated in front of the funeral pyre. He has liberated himself from defilements and he is full of boundless compassion.(Click on

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My apologies, I am not sure how to get to the temple but I know it is not far from Thonburi area. If you would like to visit the temple, you can print the name of the temple above- taxi drivers who can read the Thai writing will likely know how to get there.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-17518569608717170362010-03-25T17:38:00.001+08:002010-03-25T22:41:04.186+08:00

Above is a photo of Ajahn Lee's passing away in 1961 at Wat Asokaram. A great teacher was lost on the year. Phra Ajahn Lee was an excellent teacher. His teachings were recording and transcribed into books by his disciples. To read his teachings online, please go to http://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/thai/lee/index.htmlNote: I got the photo above while visiting Wat Asokaram. I was looking at the

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February 28 (Sunday)- Magha Puja (‘Sangha Day’)- It commemorates the spontaneous gathering of 1250 arahants, to whom the Buddha gave the exhortation on the basis of the discipline (Ovada Patimokkha). It will be a public holiday for Thailand (and some office may take Monday as a replacement day off)Ovada Patimokkha:Sabba-pāpassa akaraṇaṃ,Never doing the least evil,Kusalassūpasampadā,In virtue

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-40889287913597541092010-02-25T14:49:00.000+08:002010-02-25T14:49:18.877+08:00

The picture below is taken in 2007- during the rains retreat. The last time I was there was in 2008- it still look the same. Luangta will have his morning meals at the sala behind. On the left is the picture of Luang Phor Mun, Luangta's teacher. On the right, is King Bhumibol, the current King of Thailand. The picture above is taken from the more right side of the front view of Wat Baan Taad. Do

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-15500932011403693292010-02-09T17:49:00.001+08:002010-02-09T17:49:00.097+08:00

Following is the book, Path to Arahantship, taken from a transcribed talk delivered by Luangta Maha Bua and translated to English from Thai.To read the book online, you can visit http://forestdhammabooks.com/ and scroll down to the book and click read online. Please note that you need Acrobat reader in order to read it.As I have the physical book given to me by Ajahn Dick, I scan the picture

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-31477981438615534842010-01-26T15:21:00.002+08:002010-01-26T15:27:16.502+08:00

The information below is obtained from the downloadable calendar from Amarati Monastery. To download the free calendar, kindly visithttp://www.urbandharma.org/udharma6/2004cal.htmlTHE MAJOR FULL-MOON DAYS OF 2010 (Buddhist year 2553/54)February 28 (Sunday)- Magha Puja (‘Sangha Day’)- Commemorates the spontaneous gathering of 1250 arahants, to whom the Buddha gave the exhortation on the basis of

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-66527265595450120602010-01-18T21:26:00.004+08:002010-01-18T21:43:51.089+08:00

Below are some photos that I want to share with you- it is taken from the book Postcards of Old Siam. These pictures are taken around 1900 or probably slightly earlier. The photos shown times where tudong or ascetic practices of travelling barefoot. Note that the monks in the picture above only carry their essential items- their tent umbrella, water flask and basic requisites with them. Here are

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-44007001193548644732010-01-11T18:01:00.008+08:002010-01-31T23:07:21.492+08:00

Note: Even though Ajahn Sumedho was very humble and open about his experiences, it was said that Ajahn Chah already knew of his arrival long before he met Ajahn Sumedho. Ajahn Chah actually had a kuti built where the door was six foot tall (so that Ajahn Sumedho, who is very tall, would be able to get in). Supporters had asked Ajahn Chah why built a kuti with such a tall door when the average

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-54419572508822043112010-01-08T21:56:00.010+08:002010-01-31T22:43:53.270+08:00

Last year, I visited Wat Luang Phor Ther. The abbot is Luang Phor Sang.Luang Phor is 79 years old this year. He ordained when he was 18 years old and had remained in the robes ever since. He had gone tudong around Thailand when he was younger.When our group was there, Luang Phor Sang was kind enough to give us a short talk. Do note that forest monks would generally give talk that is a bit

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-37047735035753804102009-12-26T12:26:00.003+08:002009-12-26T12:57:36.657+08:00

Recently, Discovery History Channel aired the show on the 7 Deadly Sins. I’ve watched a few of the series and the one on Gluttony is quite interesting. Now, it is said that the sin is the easiest to commit and the hardest to shake off.I’ve found a few striking similarities between the teachings of the Deadly Sins and of those in the traditional Buddhism. In the 14th century, it was mentioned that

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-30350552586589092402009-12-19T21:32:00.005+08:002009-12-19T21:52:24.550+08:00

The following photos were taken a photographer (I do not know him personally) who had visited Luang Phor Fan's museum in Sakorn Nakhon, Thailand. I had visited there years ago but had not bought a camera then. These photos originally appeared in a yahoo photo album but I could not contact the authors after yahoo had discontinued the service. However, I've saved the photos. I sincerely hope that

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-7610395977123085932009-12-08T00:23:00.002+08:002009-12-22T10:56:35.601+08:00

Luang Phor Lee, otherwise known as Phra Suddhidhammaransi Gambhiramedhacariya had passed away about half a century ago. Here are the pictures taken of Wat Asokaram- due to its popularity, ongoing development projects have been carried out in the temple: According to his autobiography writen prior to his passing away, Ajahn Lee had wanted a chedi to be constructed to house the Buddha relics to

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-3160457996426657232009-11-25T12:14:00.001+08:002010-01-20T18:37:39.004+08:00

Note: Somdej Phra Buddhacara is also known as Somdet Toh.To read about his legend, click HERE (article published by Accesstoinsight.org)Wat Rakang Kositaram, Bangkok Metropolis.Born in B.E 2319 (1776 A.D) and ordained as a novice at the age of thirteen. He was ordained under the royal sponsorhip at Wat Takrai, Pitsanulok Province. He was the royal mentor and teacher of the Khmer Language to H.R.H

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-4491630044334419442009-11-16T14:13:00.002+08:002010-01-20T17:35:46.379+08:00

Phra Ajahn Plien is another distinguished meditation teacher of the Thai Forest Tradition. His monastery is located in Chiang Mai. His website is http://www.panyapatipo.com/English/index.html for English. The website contains a number of photos taken on his monastery.For the Thai version, it is http://www.panyapatipo.com/ Phra Ajahn Plien is able to converse in English as he has been to overseas

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-33506459310942984292009-11-10T22:34:00.000+08:002009-11-10T22:34:00.101+08:00

Luang Phor Sim is one of the disciples of Ajahn Mun (note: photo of Luang Phor Sim above is obtained from Vimutti Linage website). He had since passed away but his temple, located some distance away from Chiang Mai- is at the mountains. I have included the name of the temple above- again my apologies that I have not obtained the name of the temple in English.Below are the pictures of the temple

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-42140516725836368442009-10-26T22:39:00.000+08:002009-10-26T23:59:17.907+08:00

If you intend to stay in a Thai monastery, you are expected to follow the 8 precepts. Therefore, beds are normally not provided when you stay in a monastery.Most temples started from humble beginnings. So when funds come in, better facilities could be build. For instance, we were given a place as per below: Don't worry, your back will get used to it after a few days. When we stay in a monastery,

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-51462723653509364962009-10-15T11:54:00.001+08:002009-10-15T11:54:00.117+08:00

It has been a few years that Luangta has initiated the efforts to build a hospital to provide aid for the needy. A certain floor has been allocated (I can't remember if it is the 3rd or 5th floor) for the member of the Sangha. Treatment is to be given free of charge. All the projects initiated by Luangta is made transparent to the people. You can view more pictures via the link below but it is

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-87026495063515737362009-10-10T18:06:00.001+08:002009-10-10T18:06:00.137+08:00

Intellectual knowledge itself can become a hindrance to our meditation practice. The only way to have true insight knowledge arise in our hearts is through meditation- anything other way such as scholarly studies with Abhidhamma would only introduce concepts and the knowledge is only at sanna (perception) level. If the heart never fully comprehend, there is no use. When one earnestly meditate,

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-18273683936984513342009-10-04T11:56:00.001+08:002009-10-04T11:56:00.266+08:00

The abbot of Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Ayuthaya provinceBorn in B.E 2445 (1902 A.D) in Ayudhaya Province. Ordained as a Buddhist monk at the age of twenty one. The prime mover in renovating Wai Yai Chaimongkol, which was deserted, until official permission was given to become and official temple where monks can reside. The abbot's personal creed is "when one is alone, be mindful of one's own thoughts,

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-59019203579409189332009-09-30T11:52:00.002+08:002009-09-30T11:52:00.223+08:00

There are many famous monks revered amongst the locals but not known to the outside world. Another one is Phra Subrahmayanthera (KruBaBrahmachak). Click to enlarge the pictures. The description is as below:Wat Phra Buddhabat TAkpah, Pasang District, Lampoon Province.He was responsible for reviving Wat Phra Buddhabat Takpah which has been deserted for over one thousand years. He was an ascetic

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-77919389746062207552009-09-26T11:39:00.001+08:002009-09-26T11:39:00.379+08:00

Kru Ba Chaiyawongsabattana (Khru Ba Wong)Wat Phra Buddhabat Huaytom, Lampoon Province (Northern Thailand).He is revered by the Karens in Lampoon Privince. He was the pioneer development monk leading the Karen hill tribe to do good, behave properly and improve their way of living. Click on the picture above to read the version in Thai, Mandarin and Japanese language.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-4333296684601608822009-09-21T11:29:00.006+08:002009-09-21T12:04:58.321+08:00

The Thais craft the most beautiful life size wax statue that I've seen. This is from the Thai Imaginery Museum. I will be doing a short series of postings on popular monks in the Thai history and I will begin with Luang Phor Mun. Here's what writen on the board:Considered the true and prime leader of all monks dedicated to Kamatthana practice (Buddhist insight meditation) in Thailand.He was

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-79949036266960840712009-09-13T14:12:00.008+08:002009-09-13T14:32:55.497+08:00

Forest Dhamma Books recently published a new book: Mae Chee Kaew- Her Journey to Spiritual Awakening & Englightenment. The book is available to be downloaded for free online at http://forestdhammabooks.com/.The book is translated by Ajahn Silaratano, whom I've had the personal privilege to meet a few years ago at Wat Baan Taad. Ajahn Silaratano was very compassionate and taught me how to get

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-61835314323569401612009-09-07T23:35:00.005+08:002009-09-12T14:34:57.536+08:00

If you would like to learn Pali chanting that is chanted by the Thai Forest Tradition, you can consider getting this chanting book the next time you are in Bangkok:A Manual of Buddhist Studies Through the Sacred Book of Buddhist ChantsPali-Thai-English Translations. The book is compiled by Bhikkhu Pannavuddho (Suddhinand Janthagul), Wat Rai Khing, Ampher Samphran, Nakhon Pathom, 73210 Thailand.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-6549966262132891362009-08-25T20:40:00.001+08:002009-08-25T20:40:00.688+08:00

Below is a photo that I have taken from a free distribution book- the book is written in Thai language and distributed during Luangta's birthday last year:Luangta has such deep respect for his teacher, Luang Phor Mun that it shows up in his writings. In many of his books and talks, Luangta often praised Luang Phor Mun and from Luangta, we get insight into Luang Phor Mun's life. When I first saw

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-80916549644155380532009-08-12T01:00:00.001+08:002009-08-12T01:00:02.240+08:00

Today, 12 August 2009, is Luangta Maha Boowa's 96th birthday.My deepest and sincerest gratitude to Luangta, whose book, the Spiritual Autobiography of Ajahn Mun had changed my life forever and made me travelled to Wat Baan Taad to see him personally. I had to go through a series of obstacles, including not being able to see him the first time- in fact, a week before I was due to travel to see him

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-22786501658101816982009-08-06T22:31:00.012+08:002009-08-06T23:28:56.599+08:00

Visitors from overseas may not be aware that there is a special network channel dedicated to Luangta Maha Boowa. The channel is available via Star cable TV in Thailand.However, even if you are not from Thailand, you can view Luangta Maha Boowa from wherever you all via his official website. I have known this for quite sometime but today, it suddenly occurred to me that many people who have read

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-57097378705564685332009-08-01T10:13:00.001+08:002009-08-06T23:36:49.356+08:00

If you wish to visit Wat Baan Taad, you can either buy bus or train ticket to Udon Thani from Hualampong station.You can get to Hualampong station which is Bangkok's central railway station by taking the AE4 airport bus from Suvarnabhumi airport for 150baht (note: the ticket counter is located near the Magic foodcourt in the airport. Don't respond to touts. Instead, go straight to take the

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-87296283604302658112009-07-16T10:13:00.005+08:002009-07-16T13:55:56.422+08:00

If you are looking to buy a genuine Buddha statue or amulet in Bangkok, one place I can suggest is at Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew is normally in the agenda to those who are travelling to Bangkok. For normal tourist, the impression is that the temple is majestic and you can see the beautiful structures from far far away. The entrance fee is a bit steep: 350 baht for foreigners (

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-66221622454558720432009-06-24T02:41:00.005+08:002009-07-07T09:49:49.638+08:00

Luang Phor Sangwan Kremmako was the abbot of this temple located in Suphan Buri. Luang Phor passed away in May 2004. He built the dwelling place in a shape of a boat: you literally climb on the stairs of the boat to reach the hall. Above: The ship shaped structure. Sadly, the place is quite deserted after Luang Phor had passed away- there are still monks and nuns staying there. The boat shaped

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-69024512704030109722009-06-14T22:00:00.000+08:002009-06-14T22:00:01.261+08:00

There is a very small forest monastery located near Tham Lod. Tham Nam Lod is actually a cave where one can go to see bats and crystals. If you taken the van from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, you will need to tell the driver to stop you at Tham Lod, then you will need to find your transport to go to Tham Lod. We actually stop at one of the shops by the main road and paid someone to drive us into

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-50892841820187554022009-06-04T21:50:00.000+08:002009-06-04T21:50:01.147+08:00

Here is the schedule taken from a Dhamma book in Thai language of an abbot of a temple: 2- 4am : Wake up and prepare for pindapat (alms round)4-5am : Assemble the monks. Some monks have to walk a distance from their dwelling place to the sala to prepare6am : Go for pindapat (alms round)7.30am : Partake in the daily meal (only one solid meal a day)11am : Self practice doing walking and/or sitting

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-59214617160368519642009-05-26T14:09:00.007+08:002009-05-26T15:18:04.389+08:00

Some people may have the mistaken perception that members of the Sangha or those seeking ordination are doing it as the means to 'escape from reality' and the working world. As such, parents, especially coming from cultures that are not familar with the Buddhist culture finds it especially heartbreaking with their sons or daughters tell me one day that they want to ordain.Benefit of doubt must be

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-65900748232633599782009-05-20T14:45:00.000+08:002009-05-20T14:45:00.244+08:00

Often people are quick to judge when there is a scandal arising from a teacher. Recently, a friend of mine sounded very agitated as she relayed the incident about how a well known monk seemed to be in an 'overly friendly' terms with a nun.What happens when we hear of a potential scandal like this? Do we lose your faith in Buddhism or in the Buddha's teachings? Do we feel 'cheated' if a teacher

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-16322390849438151972009-04-18T21:03:00.000+08:002009-04-18T21:03:00.843+08:00

The great teachers from the Thai Forest Traditions have provided profound and valuable teachings, some that get translated into English, thanks to translators like Thanissaro Bhikkhu (Geoffrey DeGraff) and Ajahn Pannavaddho.Here are a few e-books on the teachings of various Ajahns. You can print out and read when you are away from the PC:Teachings of Ajahn Maha Boowa (Luangta):Straight from the

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-38376713028912133062009-04-04T21:27:00.001+08:002009-05-26T15:25:10.660+08:00

My apologies to all- this part 4of the talk had not been properly edited- there are some missing sentences and phrases. I will do my best to make the correction and adjustments later:(continue from part 1, part 2, and part 3):Q: I have another question on another type of practice where people are also consider rather strange. It is the contemplation of the body. Can you say something about the

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-38775321925590054952009-03-20T20:29:00.000+08:002009-03-20T20:29:01.407+08:00

Wat Doi Mae Pang (near Chiang Mai, Thailand) is located about 30 minutes from Wat Pa Luang Phor Mun. It is located along the road of paddy fields.Luang Phor Waen, a disciple of Luang Phor Mun, stayed in the temple until he passed away. Above: Monk identification of Luang Phor Waen when he was young. This was obtained from the museum located in the monastery. Above: The kuti that Luang Phor Waen

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Continue from Part 1 and Part 2:Q: There is another contemplation that people sometimes in the West feel morbid and that’s the contemplation in death. Show us that we are impermanent. Perhaps you can say something about the purpose of the contemplation of death and how to do it because I found that in the past when I practice, when I was a monk and I practiced it, and it didn’t ever seemed to get

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Continue from The Basis of Buddhist Practice Part 1:Q: Can I ask you a question on wisdom. It is possible for a layman to develop the calm that will produce the wisdom. Such as a monk is able to do it?A: Yeah, you can do that. You must not make such distinction between monk and layperson. I mean, here we’ve got human beings and they take on different modes of life and different rules and so on.

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Dear all, this is the first part of the transcribed talks of the teachings of Ajahn Panna. Basically I listened to the audio and typed out the conversations between Ajahn Pannavaddho and laypeople who went and learn the Dhamma from him. I feel a lot of the issues covered in the talk is useful and relevant to many Buddhists.I have listened through several times and make corrections as much as I

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Wat Pa Luang Phor Mun is located near Chiang Mai, Thailand. I got there by taking a bus from Chiang Mai (it is at a special stop by the river). The journey took about 90 minutes to reach a smaller town- then we took a trishaw to the temple.It is the temple where Luang Phor Mun (Acariya Mun) is said to have achieved Arahantship: The scenic fields on the way to the temple. Even before I arrived at

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-39313498132796435622009-01-16T22:20:00.000+08:002009-01-16T22:20:01.053+08:00

I know that sometimes, as a Dhamma practioner, we may be questioned by those around us, especially pertaining the practice of the 5 Precepts. I have a few personal experiences to share:1. Ordering animals to be killed for foodYears ago, when I first started to work in my company and trying to fit in (with peer pressure and all those stuff), the group that I was trying to fit in finally included

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-49527486576151604912009-01-11T10:30:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:06:21.663+08:00

The photo above is taken from a poster at Wat Baan Taad on Kathina showing Luangta at various stages of his life. He is now ordained for about 73 years.

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Here are some of the photos of the Kathina held in Wat Baan Taad, Udon Thani on 18 October 2008: Above: Morning pindapat on 18 October 08- Monks going on alms round. There are a lot of people there for the annual event. Above: Luangta sitting at the hall. Offerings for the kathina.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-31108743184170045582008-11-15T18:19:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:05:39.811+08:00

In his book, "Life of Inner Quality" (the link opens into a pdf file) under the chapter "Human Values, Human Worth", Luangta discusses that in order for a relationship to sustain between husband and wife, the following qualities have to be present:contentment with one's belongings while not infriging on those of othersfewness of wantsHusband and wife have trouble getting along with one another

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-81014240762205773892008-11-13T18:03:00.004+08:002009-02-02T21:21:20.920+08:00

The following teaching was taken from a board in Wat Baan Taad: When discussion the khandas, I use the simile of a computer. The body is like the hardware, and it must be there. The 4 nama-khandas are like the software, and the computer is useless without it. You must have the software. The citta is like a person who uses the computer. The person using the computer can make it do good things or

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-9151012835894181742008-11-08T17:35:00.005+08:002009-02-02T21:22:02.306+08:00

The following are writen by Venerable Acharn Pannavaddho Thera (Peter J Morgan) about his background. I came across this from a poster in Wat Baan Taad: My father, J W Morgan and my mother, V M Morgan both came from South Wales in the United Kingdom. My father was a mining engineer and went to work in South India in the Kolar Gold fields in Mysore state (now called Karnataka).I was born in this

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-56559320574970952872008-11-03T17:05:00.003+08:002009-01-13T21:04:52.721+08:00

In case you are not aware, Luangta's daily morning meals and the desana that he gives after that is published live on a special Thai channel. I had the chance to watch it when I am in Thailand.On 1 November 08, the Thailand Princess Chulabhorn Walailak, came to visit Luangta at Wat Baan Taad. She sat and waited for Luangta to take his morning meals. After the morning meal, Luangta gave a desana

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-17990778645334896912008-10-13T23:18:00.005+08:002009-01-13T21:04:16.997+08:00

There are 4 major celebrations that you will expect to have lots and lots of people:1. Makha Puja day-the date for Makha Puja is not fixed. It follows the Thai calendar2. Anniversary of the passing away of Luangta's mother- 31 May3. Luangta's Birthday- 12 August4. Kathina (normally end of Oct or first/second week of Nov). For year 2008, it will be on 18 October 08.Therefore, if you are there, do

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-33172316362640395662008-10-13T22:43:00.007+08:002009-01-13T21:04:04.438+08:00

Kathina at Wat Baan Taad will be happening on 18 October 2008 (Saturday). It is estimated that many many people will be attending the event- to perform kathina.How to get to Wat Baan Taad:1. Take a flight to Bangkok airport (Suvarnabhumi airport).2. From there, take the airport bus (go down one level) AE4 that goes to Hualampong train station. The last I used the bus, it was 150 baht- the bus

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-37180061930254315362008-09-30T01:06:00.002+08:002009-01-13T21:03:46.542+08:00

Luangta used to walk back to his kuti after the morning meals. He also have been seen walking morning and evening walks by himself- and we look always look forward to catch a glimpse of him. That was the previous years when I go to Thailand to visit him.Recently, when I was in Thailand, I noticed from the live broadcast that once Luangta finished his morning meal, he will be escorted back to his

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-38136115559382651952008-09-12T01:18:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:03:22.788+08:00

There are Dhamma speakers out there who teaches Dhamma but do not like meditation. If one do not meditate, then the Dhamma arising from one's heart is from logical deduction. Basically, these people just go about with intellectual debates of the Tipitaka- you can find that in articles, forums and international debates. I am not saying all, but there are some. There is grave kammic consequence

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-91580835748006657382008-09-10T10:51:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:03:08.879+08:00

If you are sincere and want learn the true Dhamma, you have to first built up your store of merits or conditions that will support you towards that aspiration. Follow the basic practices like observing your sila (precepts), perform dana (be it monetary or with your time and energy to help others) and take time to meditate. Then, constantly make the aspiration to be able to find a good teacher.By

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-86747896045798643352008-09-06T23:24:00.005+08:002009-01-13T21:02:50.045+08:00

There are ups and downs in our practice. Sometimes we progress, sometimes we seemed stuck.Let's look at the simile of spiritual practice with the simile of a romantic relationship:Romantic relationship:Two persons meet and fall in love. There are periods of bliss- both persons can't wait to see one another and seemed to spend forever together- nothing seemed to be able to tear them apart. When

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-82302452848664745342008-04-05T19:32:00.003+08:002009-01-13T21:02:28.506+08:00

I am very fond of the doggie that you see in the picture on your right. I've developed this photo and kept it with me, always looking at the photo.During my first two stays in Wat Ban Taad, this doggie was still around. He's a old fella and also happened to be one of Luangta's favorite. Every morning after the morning dana and talk by Luangta, this doggie would walk and parade around the place

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-2749201743651704032008-04-05T19:07:00.005+08:002009-01-13T21:02:11.019+08:00

I cannot read Thai but Khun Mer, a Thai mae chi shared with me the story about Luang Por Mun.During the time of the Buddha, Luang Por Mun was a rich man and inspired by the Buddha's teachings, he gave up his wealth and seek ordination with his wife. As he was old, he was not able to learn the Dhamma as much as he would like to. But in that lifetime, he had made an aspiration to become the future

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-50210627517702178352007-11-24T23:41:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:01:54.545+08:00

I came upon a website with events on Kamma in Dhamma Media Channel, based in Thailand:More than sorrow- story of a woman who used to have everything, but lost it one by one. She asked Luang Phaw and her problems were explained.Mixed Rice, MummyBullet for LoveAnd other stories, you can scroll to the end of the page to view more.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-2388371233634825882007-11-24T11:21:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:01:28.244+08:00

I find many do not actually understand why Buddhists eat meat, even though our First Precept is on no-killing or non harm.The difference is in the intention. If you go to a market or a restaurant, points at the fish and instruct it to be killed, then the seller takes and kills it, then you have broken the first precept of non killing. This is even though you did not kill the being yourself but

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-88172970883064158812007-11-18T22:27:00.000+08:002007-11-18T22:41:07.589+08:00

How have your practice been?Of late, my practice had slacked. Sometimes, I open my eyes, wide awake in the wees hours of the morning and yet I choose to sleep in almost everytime. Thereafter, I will wake up feeling as if I had sleep paralysis. It's a very tiring and drained feeling. When I asked why I have a sleeping condition, ie wake up feeling tired, I was told by several teachers that it's my

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-41908336001311703442007-11-10T11:25:00.002+08:002009-01-13T21:00:50.978+08:00

Luangta’s (Ajahn Maha Boowa) 94th BirthdayTo view the photos in webshots, click HEREHere are the photos of Luangta's 94th Birthday taken at his monastery, Wat Ban Taad:On his birthday, many people came to pay respects and perform dana. Luangta sat at the main sala- the stream of devotees came non stop to pay homage and it went on for a few hours. For any normal human being, it would be tiring.

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-91106854896717569302007-11-08T21:31:00.001+08:002009-01-13T21:00:06.424+08:00

In the midst of compiling writings by others:Forest BuddhaFuture BhikkhuFloating Abu (Zen)This Upasika LifeMark GeorgeDear Buddha

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by Ajahn Maha BoowaThe Venerable Acariya Mun taught that all hearts have the same language. No matter what one's language or nationality, the heart has nothing but simple awareness, which is why he said that all hearts have the same language. When a thought arises, we understand it, but when we put it into words, it has to become this or that language, so that we don't really understand one

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-50153587162557228332007-11-08T20:53:00.001+08:002009-01-13T20:57:20.676+08:00

Chanting with audio:Pali Chanting & Chanting Script by Buddhanet AudioThe Chant of Metta by Imee OoiPubbanha Sutta- Discourse on Blessings, Script.Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (The Buddha's First Sermon); Pali script; English Translation.

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The following are taken from Ajahn Maha Boowa's book- Straight from the Heart. Ajahn Maha Boowa talked about an auspicious dream that he had:An Heir to the Dhamma A talk given to the monks at Wat Pa Baan Taad.The ordinary mind — no matter whose — when it doesn't yet have any standards and meets up with things that drag it here and there in the wrong directions, will tend to go rolling after those

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To practice meditation is one sort of food for the heart. Food for the body is not anything lasting. We eat in the morning and are hungry by noon. We eat at noon and are hungry again in the evening. If we're full today, tomorrow morning we'll be hungry again. We keep eating and defecating like this, and the day will never come when we've had enough. We'll have to keep looking for more and more

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Here are the resource sites whereby you can view photographs of various teachers from the Thai Forest Tradition:Vimutti Lineage- photos of all the Thai Forest Tradition's Great TeachersAjahn Maha Boowa/ Luangta's photosContemplatives- Photo Main page

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Below is extracted from the Notes section (page 478) of Venerable Acariya Mun Bhuridatta Thera- A Spiritual Biography:Spiritual partner. Literally, "one's partner in developing the spiritual perfections (parami).Most living beings have an individual, usually of the opposite sex with whom they have maintained an intimate, personal relationship spanning countless lifetimes over many eons of

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This is taken from Venerable Acariya Mun Bhuridatta Thera's Spiritual Biography (A Heart Released section) narrated by Ajahn Maha Boowa. The story was first translated in an earlier version of his biography (dark green colour). I read the book in the library and never forgotten the story.The story shows that most Dhamma seekers would normally have a spiritual partner.The Spiritual PartnerSitting

Thai Forest Traditionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15299990050399585308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5404509274997742219.post-2642056381546725792007-11-08T18:02:00.002+08:002009-01-13T21:11:18.687+08:00

Phra Ajaan Mun Bhuridatta Thera was born in 1870 in Baan Kham Bong, a farming village in Ubon Ratchathani province, northeastern Thailand. Ordained as a Buddhist monk in 1893, he spent the remainder of his life wandering through Thailand, Burma, and Laos, dwelling for the most part in the forest, engaged in the practice of meditation. He attracted an enormous following of students and, together

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Picture from left: Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta, Ajahn Maha Boowa and Ajahn Fan.I start this blog to compile sites and resources about the Great Masters from the Thai Forest Tradition. I realised that an online journal is an excellent way to compile resources and learnings. Over the years since I had first discovered Buddhism, there are so many links and resources that were lost when my PC crashed (

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