Week 177 - Paṭisallāṇa Sutta: “Retreat into Seclusion” (SN 22.6).

Week 177 - Paṭisallāṇa Sutta: “Retreat into Seclusion” (SN 22.6) (Recorded on March 28th, 2026). PDF link to a free digital copy of the Sutta can be obtained from the website: https://www.mindreleased.com/pali-suttas Today's sutta exploration session was devoted to the Paṭisallāṇa Sutta (“Retreat into Seclusion”), where Lord Buddha teaches the Bhikkhus how to use the Five Aggregates (form, feeling, perception, habitual drives, and consciousness) to cut oneself free from suffering, by no longer delighting in and ceaselessly pursuing pleasant sense experiences, as one comes to see the point of arising and the point of disappearance of each of these aggregates (thus their impermanent nature) through the means of meditation. Here, Bhante Candana clarified that in this Dhamma and Discipline, what we mean by meditation is 'samatha' and 'vipassana,' meaning, both calm and insight, which work hand in hand and are never separate, just like the two wings of a bird. Bhante also spoke at length on what seclusion truly means, both physical and mental, and how to seclude oneself wisely, so as not to cause harm to oneself and others, by making sure safety is maintained at all times. Just sitting in a cave or on top of a mountain does not make one an Arahant, Bhante reminded the listener, so Right View remains indispensable.  If you like to support Bhante, you may consider donating via: https://gofund.me/9d161e0e Please NOTE: As a Buddhist monk, living without the support of a local Buddhist temple or community, Bhikkhu Candana survives through the generosity of individuals and the occasional donations he receives to obtain his food, shelter, transportation, and medicine from supporters across the globe, as he continues his relentless work of preserving the Dispensation (Sāsana), by translating the Suttas and sharing The Dhamma, as taught by The Buddha.