Ajahn Brahmali Podcast

Ajahn Brahmali gives a talk on the process by which meditation happens, exploring the three key qualities namely letting go, enjoyment, and mindfulness with a particular focus on letting go as the foundational quality that allows the others to follow.

He also describes the roles of other valuable meditation supports, including the gentle mind, morality (sila), and good company (kalyanamitta), as well as offering reflections on the chattering of the restless mind as it starts to relax and how thinking naturally fades away when the meditator recognizes the futility of solving life’s problems through thought.

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Ajahn Brahmali explains how to develop mindfulness in a way that supports and deepens Buddhist practice.

Recorded 2025-05-16

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali discusses how to approach everyday difficulties and societal challenges using Buddhist wisdom and practice. Drawing from the Dhamma, he offers a grounded perspective on managing stress, conflict, and uncertainty in a skillful and peaceful way.Many people look outward for solutions to life's challenges, but Buddhism emphasizes looking inward: examining how we respond, rather than what’s happening. You can’t control the world, but you can transform your response to it. That’s the heart of the Buddhist way to handle worldly problems, with calm, clarity, and compassion.

Recorded 2019-10-25

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Ajahn Brahmali explains how generosity is a foundation of the Buddhist path.

Recorded 2025-02-21

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali looks at different religions perspectives on the role of devotion and discusses the role and uses of devotion in Buddhist practice.

Recorded 2014-11-07

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali shares his experience of going to India recently, how spirituality is deeply rooted in India and the inspirations that he got from going to holy places.Recorded 2025-01-03

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explores the contrast between material progress and spiritual progress, encouraging a reflection on what truly brings meaning and fulfillment in life.

Material progress (wealth, technology, status) is often seen as success in the modern world. Yet, despite material advances, people continue to feel restless, anxious, and dissatisfied.

Spiritual progress means reducing defilements, cultivating virtues, and growing in wisdom, peace, and compassion. Unlike material gains, spiritual development leads to lasting contentment and inner freedom.

Recorded 2020-02-28

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the roots of conflict and disharmony, both within ourselves and in the world around us. Drawing from early Buddhist teachings, he explains how negativity, ego, and unwise reactions fuel unnecessary suffering, while qualities like kindness, patience, and understanding dissolve tension at its source.

Recorded 2025-05-20

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their...

Ajahn Brahmali recites the metta sutta which he discusses in the talk Conflict and Disharmony.

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explores the relationship between secularism and Buddhism, reflecting on how Buddhism fits into modern, often secular societies, and evaluating the movement known as “secular Buddhism.”

In the West, secular Buddhism does emphasize mindfulness, ethics, and psychological insight. However, it often downplays or excludes key elements like rebirth and karma.

While secular approaches make Buddhism more accessible, they risk cutting out essential elements that make the teachings of the Buddha (Dhamma) transformative. Buddhism can adapt to the modern world, but we must be careful not to dilute its esse...

Ajahn Brahmali explores how the Buddhist path may help with addiction.

Recorded 2025-03-14

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali delivers a thoughtful and accessible talk on one of the Buddha's most profound teachings: Dependent Origination (Paticca Samuppāda). He unpacks its structure, purpose, and role in understanding suffering and the path to its cessation.

Dependent Origination is the principle that everything arises due to conditions; nothing exists independently or permanently. Understanding this reveals the mechanics of existence which serve as a practical guide to uprooting suffering from its very source.

Recorded 2016-02-12

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali h...

Ajahn Brahmali continues his teaching on free will and conditioning, leading into why this teaching makes it so important for us to surround ourselves with the right people.

Recorded 2025-01-24

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali offers advice on how we can skillfully deal with situations where things are looking bad or the future feels threatened.

Recorded 2016-11-11

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explores how Buddhism understands and responds to war, revealing how our own karma shapes the challenges we face, and how we can meet them the Buddhist way.

Recorded 2024-05-10

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali reflects on the motivation behind Buddhist practice and what we can do to persevere. Ajahn Brahmali offers us an outlook of the world through impermanence, non-self, and suffering and gives us reasons to keep on walking the Buddhist path.

Recorded 2018-01-05

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via th...

Ajahn Brahmali reflects on the Metta Sutta, highlighting how true loving-kindness begins with cultivating your own virtue. He then shines a light on a rarely explored teaching from the Buddha: the five supportive factors of Right Effort (AN 5.53).

These include confidence in the Buddha (saddhā), maintaining health and good digestion, honesty and integrity, the steady energy of effort (viriya), and the wisdom to see the arising and passing away of phenomena. Together, these conditions create the fertile ground where meditation and insight can flourish.

Recorded 2024-07-28

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In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali addresses the role of sensual pleasures in the Buddhist path, clarifying common misunderstandings and explaining why the Buddha warned against overindulgence. He emphasizes that sensuality is not “evil” in itself, but that attachment to it binds us to suffering and prevents deeper peace.

Recorded 2014-01-17

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledgin...

Ajahn Brahmali explains that what we perceive as our free will are actually choices that are based on our conditioning. Ajahn emphasizes that regardless of free will or not, choices have results, causes, and conditioning that traps us into acting certain ways.

Recorded 2025-01-10

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali explains how a Buddhist outlook, or perception of the word, naturally shapes values, priorities, and daily conduct. He emphasizes that our perspective influences what we consider important, and Buddhist values emerge from seeing the world through the lens of wisdom, compassion, and impermanence.

Recorded 2018-04-27

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Victoria under the Creative Commons license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Victoria by joining their Patre...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the nature of the deep states of meditation called jhānas.

Recorded 2024-06-13

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this inspiring talk, Ajahn Brahmali redefines the idea of “success” from a Buddhist perspective, focusing not on worldly achievements but on spiritual qualities such as peace, kindness, and insight.

Recorded 2017-11-03

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this insightful talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores patience (kanti) as a spiritual superpower, a quality highly praised in the Buddhist suttas and vital to both meditation and everyday life.

Recorded 2023-05-24

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

The Buddha talks about the whole spiritual path as an act of purification. Ajahn Brahmali offers an inspiring talk on purifying our mind of defilements, such as anger and ill-will.

Recorded 2014-04-18

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this honest and insightful Dhamma talk, Ajahn Brahmali guides listeners through the process of understanding, relating to, and ultimately going beyond the inner critic, the voice of self-judgment that many of us carry. With clarity and compassion, he explores how Buddhist practice can help us meet that voice with kindness, mindfulness, and wisdom.

Recorded 2024-06-14

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Bu...

In this insightful talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores delusion (moha), one of the three unwholesome roots in Buddhist teachings, highlighting its role as a core obstacle to wisdom, peace, and awakening.

This talk encourages listeners to stay committed to the path, trusting that the gradual fading of delusion brings freedom, peace, and a more meaningful life.

Recorded 2018-04-06

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You ca...

In this reflective talk, Ajahn Brahmali discusses the idea that there is no such thing as "bad meditation." Drawing from his experiences traveling internationally, he highlights that meditation is less about reaching particular states or achievements and more about cultivating kindness, patience, and letting go.

Recorded 2024-06-12

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your suppor...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the concept of freedom through both a modern Western and a Buddhist lens, emphasizing that while both traditions value freedom, they understand it in fundamentally different ways.

Western freedom is often equated with autonomy: the ability to choose what to do, say, or consume. In Buddhism, the core idea of freedom is inner freedom: the freedom from the compulsion of desire and aversion.

Recorded 2017-04-21

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of...

Ajahn Brahmali discusses the intersection between the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Buddhist principles, sharing reflections from a recent experience at a university conference in Thailand. The talk explores how Buddhism can support, deepen, and even surpass the ambitions of global sustainability initiatives.

The SDGs seek external change, but Buddhism teaches that true change begins within.

Buddhist ethics (sīla), compassion, contentment, and mindfulness directly support goals such as:

Reducing inequality and poverty

Promoting education, health, and well-being

Protecting the environment through simplicity and non-harm

Duration: 01:16:12

Ajahn Brahmali explores the transformative power of Right View (sammā-diṭṭhi), explaining how developing accurate understanding of the Dhamma is the foundation for liberation.

Recorded 2021-01-16

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded in support of the Anukampa Bikkuni Project. Please see their donation page for ways to support!

In this Dhamma talk, Ajahn Brahmali reflects on impermanence (Anicca), one of the most central and transformative insights in Buddhism.

Impermanence means that all conditioned things (bodies, feelings, perceptions, relationships, thoughts) are in constant flux, making them unreliable. The Buddha emphasized Anicca as a starting point for wisdom, leading to dispassion (Nibbida) and release from suffering.

By understanding that everything is subject to change, we begin to let go of attachment and live more wisely and compassionately, facing life with more ease.

Recorded 2024-03-29

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Ajahn Brahmali offers an encouraging and down-to-earth talk about the essential qualities of commitment and perseverance in sustaining a Buddhist practice. Drawing on both practical advice and spiritual insight, he speaks to the long-term mindset needed for deep transformation.

Perseverance is not about striving or perfection; it’s about patient, kind repetition. Over the years, even small acts of Dhamma practice can accumulate great inner peace and wisdom.

Recorded 2017-01-27

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the practical impact of Right View, not just what it is, but how deeply it influences our choices, emotions, and progress on the spiritual path.

Recorded 2024-01-05

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explains the Five Hindrances (mental obstacles that block inner peace and meditation) and shares practical methods for overcoming them based on the Buddha’s teachings.

The Five Hindrances:

Recorded 2018-07-08

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhis...

Ajahn Brahmali delves into the topic of right perception in the Buddhist path; explaining how our interpretation of experience shapes our behavior, emotions, morality, and our spiritual growth.

Recorded 2023-11-10

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali discusses how recognizing and skillfully responding to our mental states is central to Buddhist practice. The talk emphasizes the cultivation of wholesome states (rooted in kindness, clarity, contentment) and the reduction of unwholesome ones (based on greed, anger, delusion), forming the foundation for inner peace and spiritual growth.

Recorded 2018-12-23

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Wester...

Ajahn Brahmali discusses how to distinguish authentic Buddhist teachings from those that may be misrepresentations, diluted, or adapted in ways that stray from the original Dhamma.

He mentions that real Dhamma teachings should lead to peace, renunciation, contentment, and letting go. These teachings emphasize non-attachment, simplicity, morality, and wisdom.

If a teaching supports ego, acquisition, or sensual indulgence, it’s likely inauthentic.

Recorded 2023-04-30

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for fr...

Ajahn Brahmali reflects on one of the fundamental but often overlooked aspects of Buddhist practice: harmony. On a personal level, harmony arises from contentment, ethics, and kindness. In communities, it’s supported by mutual respect, humility, and non-contentious speech.

Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes the importance of cultivating kind speech, patience, and a forgiving attitude. He encourages us to reflect on whether our thoughts, words, and actions contribute to unity or division.

Recorded 2022-11-11

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and ma...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the role of perception in Buddhist practice, drawing from early Buddhist discourses to show how it can be trained and refined to support wisdom and liberation. Perception shapes how we respond to the world; therefore, training it is vital for spiritual development. Just as habits are formed by repetition, wise perceptions become more natural over time through consistent practice and mindfulness.

Recorded 2011-11-11

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western...

Ajahn Brahmali teaches us what real freedom is from the Buddha’s point of view. This kind of freedom isn’t about doing whatever one wants, but about being free from desire, attachments, and suffering. Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes that true freedom arises from discipline, renunciation, and mindfulness.

Recorded 2023-04-14

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging y...

Ajahn Brahmali describes the Buddha’s teaching on non-self, and how to use this teaching in practice. He encourages listeners to look at direct experience, not beliefs, to see how the sense of self is constructed and how it can be let go. Understanding non-self helps to diminish attachment, reduce suffering, and leads to liberation.

Recorded 2014-11-21

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support...

Ajahn Brahmali explores how Right View serves as the foundation for successful meditation practice and letting go in the Buddhist path. He talks about how Right View is the correct understanding of reality, particularly by seeing impermanence, non-self, and suffering.

Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes that true letting go is not forceful but happens naturally through insight. The more clearly that we see things as impermanent and not under our control, the more easily we can release our attachments.

Recorded 2021-04-18

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In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali speaks on the theme of benefits and pitfalls of renunciation. Being more of an internal phenomenon rather than a mere external state, the Pali word for renunciation, Nekhamma, refers to letting go of the world of the five senses. One of the main benefits of the monastic life is the company of Kalyanamittas, spiritual friends, and they bring out the best in us. It is accentuated by a teacher who is a living example of the Dhamma. The dangers of the monastic life often arise from using force and willpower to suppress negative mind...

Ajahn Brahmali teaches how to cultivate mettā, or loving-kindness, as a vital part of Buddhist practice. To develop mettā, we must train the mind to see others through compassion, not judgment or fear. Mettā purifies the mind, reduces anger and ill-will, and is a foundation for deep meditation.

Recorded 2023-04-07

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledgi...

Ajahn Brahmali shares how insight and spiritual growth can be developed not just through formal meditation, but by learning from everyday life, a teaching inspired by Ajahn Chah’s principle: “Everything teaches you.”

With mindfulness and right view, daily experiences become your Dhamma teachers. Whether you are aging, sick, or grieving, these are not interruptions, rather they are the very path to awakening.

Recorded 2023-03-24

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the essential Buddhist theme of letting go, addressing what it truly means, why it's important, and how to practice it effectively. Letting go involves gradually loosening the hold of desires, expectations, ego, and fixed views. As we practice, we begin to see that the peace of letting go is far greater than the fleeting pleasure of attachments.

Recorded 2022-01-07

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Cr...

Ajahn Brahmali explains the authentic framework of Buddhist meditation as taught by the Buddha, grounding the discussion in the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta and broader Pali Canon teachings. The Buddha emphasized gentleness, joy, and patience in meditation, not striving or controlling. Ajahn Brahmali points out that meditation develops naturally when one cultivates the conditions for peace, such as practicing compassion and understanding Right View.

Recorded 2022-02-25

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Austr...

Ajahn Brahmali discusses the powerful Buddhist metaphor of “going against the stream,” explaining what it means in practice and how it can be a guide for spiritual development.

The “stream” represents the habits, instincts, and societal norms that push us toward desire, aversion, ego, and delusion. The Buddha described those who follow the Noble Eightfold Path as going upstream, against the current of ordinary life driven by craving and ignorance.

Ajahn Brahmali reassures listeners that although it's hard, going against the stream is deeply rewarding, as it leads to peace, c...

Ajahn Brahmali offers a heartfelt talk on generosity (dāna), explaining why it's not just a nice moral act but a powerful spiritual practice that lays the foundation for deeper progress on the Buddhist path. Practicing generosity is not just giving material things, but also giving time, attention, forgiveness, and kindness.

Recorded 2021-11-12

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pled...

Ajahn Brahmali explores Right View, emphasizing its essential role as the foundation of the entire Buddhist path. Right View is the correct understanding of reality, particularly in terms of:

Right View helps reduce craving, aversion, and delusion, replacing them with clarity, peace, and wisdom.

Recorded 2022-04-22

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia...

Ajahn Brahmali explores the essential quality of compassion (karuṇā) in Buddhism, emphasizing how it must be balanced with wisdom to become truly transformative.

Compassion, in Buddhism, means genuinely wishing to alleviate the suffering of others. True compassion uplifts both the giver and the receiver.

Wisdom ensures compassion is skillful and effective, rooted in understanding the true nature of suffering, impermanence, and non-self. Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes that compassion must respect causes and conditions, recognizing what can and cannot be changed.

Recorded 2021-12-10

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Ajahn Brahmali shares a light-hearted yet deeply practical talk on the six supporting factors that lead to strong and stable mindfulness. His focus is on how to nourish mindfulness through everyday habits and attitudes, not just meditation. You don’t force mindfulness; you nurture its conditions, and it arises on its own.

Recorded 2022-04-03

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Victoria under the Creative Commons license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Victoria by joining their P...

This is from a series of daily meditation and Dhamma teachings offered by the monks at Bodhinyana Monastery and nuns at Dhammasara to support the community during the Coronavirus pandemic.

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

This is from a series of daily meditation and Dhamma teachings offered by the monks at Bodhinyana Monastery to support the community during the Coronavirus pandemic.

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this reflective talk, Ajahn Brahmali discusses the themes of death and what it reveals about life, meaning, and the spiritual path. He approaches death not with fear, but with clarity and compassion, seeing it as one of the most profound contemplations in Buddhism.

Recorded 2020-05-01

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via th...

This is from a series of daily meditation and Dhamma teachings offered by the monks at Bodhinyana Monastery to support the community during the Coronavirus pandemic.

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

This is from a series of daily meditation and Dhamma teachings, offered by the monks at Bodhinyana Monastery, to support the community during the Coronavirus pandemic.

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali offers a talk on the nature of consciousness and how understanding it plays a vital role in spiritual growth. Delivered during the early COVID-19 lockdowns, the talk weaves in reflections on change, uncertainty, and the deeper workings of the mind.

Consciousness is not a fixed self or soul, but a process that arises dependent on conditions. Seeing its conditioned nature helps us step out of suffering and move toward liberation.

Recorded 2020-03-20

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made...

Ajahn Brahmali gives an excellent talk about finding the meaning of life, and an overview of how religion, science and philosophy has evolved over time. Ajahn then talks about how the mind is being reintroduced to science and philosophy over the recent years, and how that could is an optimistic outlook of the future. Ajahn Brahmali then tells a powerful story of the big fire at Bodhinyana Monastery at January 1991 - to convey how we can focus on the process with care, kindness and integrity rather than being result-oriented. 

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Ajahn Brahmali explores the theme of identity, both in everyday life and in the context of Buddhist wisdom. The talk is sparked by his own experience of recently becoming an Australian citizen, which led him to reflect on what identity really means.

According to the Buddha, identity is a mental fabrication based on attaching to the five khandas or aspects of experience (body, feeling, perception, will, consciousness). The buddha taught that these aspects are all impermanent, out of control, and therefore not a self.

Recorded 2020-02-07

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Ajahn Brahmali explores the common question: “Is Buddhism a religion?” He offers thoughtful reflections on how we define Buddhism and why that definition matters for both practitioners and newcomers.

Buddhism is practical and experiential, focusing on ethics, meditation, and insight rather than dogma or ritual. Ajahn Brahmali suggests Buddhism is best seen as a training or path, a way to understand the nature of suffering, to live with wisdom and compassion, and to ultimately realize how to be free from suffering (nibbana).

Although Buddhism shares features with religion (moral framework, community, teachings), its...

According to the Suttas, a corrupt leader can corrupt the whole society. Ajahn Brahmali discusses the importance of voting for moral leaders and for having compassion towards politicians. Ajahn reminds us that our world is never going to be perfect, so we shouldn’t become upset over political issues. Instead we should focus our attention on being generous and kind.

Politics affects everyone, but for Buddhists, the real path is internal. Use political concerns to deepen your practice, not derail it. What matters most is how you respond, not just what you believe.

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Ajahn Brahmali gives a practical talk on how to reflect wisely on the Buddha’s teachings (Dhamma), emphasizing that contemplation is an essential part of the path, alongside meditation and ethical living.Contemplation helps internalize the teachings, so they are felt and lived, not just known intellectually.

Recorded 2019-11-29

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging...

Ajahn Brahmali offers a thoughtful talk on the role of lay Buddhists in the Buddha’s path, emphasizing that deep spiritual practice is not limited to monastics and that laypeople have a vital and honored place in the Buddha's teachings (Dhamma).

Even with jobs and families, laypeople can progress deeply by:

Reflecting on the Dhamma.

Using life’s challenges as opportunities for patience, non-attachment, and wisdom.

Maintaining a strong foundation in ethical conduct and cultivating Right View.

Recorded 2019-11-22

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Ajahn Brahmali humorously addresses the title “The Easy Way to Awakening,” using it as a launching point to discuss the practical, gradual, and joyful nature of the Buddhist path. The Buddhist path is not about forcing or striving, it’s about creating the right causes and conditions for awakening to unfold naturally. Awakening arises naturally from ethical conduct, renunciation, and wisdom applied over time.

Recorded 2019-06-29

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠C...

Ajahn Brahmali discusses the role and significance of monastic life in Buddhism, highlighting why it remains a vital aspect of the Buddha's teachings (Dhamma) and what both individuals and society gain from preserving it. While not everyone can become a monk or nun, valuing and supporting monasticism ensures that the Dhamma remains available, authentic, and transformative for future generations.

Recorded 2019-05-24

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BWSA) under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can su...

In the wake of the 2019 Easter terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, Ajahn Brahmali offers a compassionate and thoughtful reflection on how to process suffering, violence, and loss through the lens of Buddhist teachings.

Events like terrorism challenge our emotional and moral frameworks. Buddhism does not ignore suffering, rather it teaches how to respond to it wisely and compassionately. Tragedy can also be an opportunity to deepen practice, reflect on life’s fragility, and develop spiritual maturity.

Buddhism offers a unique perspective: suffering is not an endpoint, but a doorway to insight. When we meet the wo...

Ajahn Brahmali reflects deeply on the themes of death and impermanence, drawing from his personal experience following the passing of his father. He uses this as a heartfelt entry point into one of the most central contemplations in Buddhism.

Death is an unavoidable part of life that many avoid thinking about, yet Buddhism encourages us to face it directly and honestly. The impermanence of life reminds us of what truly matters and helps loosen our attachment to worldly concerns.Impermanence isn’t just a truth about the world; it’s the gateway to wisdom. By contemplating death skil...

Ajahn Brahmali offers a detailed and encouraging talk on samādhi, or meditative stillness, explaining its meaning, purpose, and crucial role on the Buddhist path. He addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding deep meditation.

Samādhi refers to deep states of mental stillness and clarity. It is not mere relaxation or concentration, but a fully collected and peaceful mind, free of distraction and defilement.

Samādhi is essential for developing wisdom. It purifies the mind, making it more receptive to insight into impermanence, suffering, and non-self.

Recorded 2019-02-08

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Ajahn Brahmali discusses the importance of inspiration (pasāda) in Buddhist practice and explains where to look, and not look, for it. He emphasizes that right inspiration energizes practice and keeps it aligned with the Buddha’s original path.True inspiration is quiet, steady, and rooted in wisdom. It grows when we align with the Buddha’s path and reflect on teachings that bring peace, clarity, and letting go. Seek inspiration that deepens your practice, not just entertains the mind.

Recorded 2019-01-25

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This talk by Ajahn...

Ajahn Brahmali offers a foundational talk on what Buddhism is really about, centered on its core framework: the Four Noble Truths. This talk is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners, as it revisits the essential insights of the Buddha’s awakening.The Four Noble Truths:

The Four Noble Truths are experiential; meant to be seen and lived, not merely studied.

Recorded 2018-11-23

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These ta...

In this personal and reflective talk, Ajahn Brahmali shares the motivations, experiences, and insights that led him to become a Buddhist monk.

Recorded 2018-07-12

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali delivers an insightful talk exploring the concept of true freedom from a Buddhist perspective. The session begins with reflections on meditation and segues into a deeper discussion about what it really means to be free. Real freedom is not doing whatever we want but being free from the desires that control us.

Recorded 2018-07-09

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Wester...

A talk given on a short day retreat at Thames Buddhist Vihara as part of Ajahn Brahmali’s tour in the UK in support of Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project.

Recorded 2018-06-30

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explores the distinction between “original” and “traditional” Buddhism, encouraging a thoughtful return to the Buddha’s earliest teachings to better understand the essence of the Dhamma.Original Buddhism refers to the direct experience and insights of the Buddha. These teachings are preserved in the early suttas (especially in the Pāli Canon).

Traditional Buddhism includes the rituals, cultural practices, commentaries, and institutions that developed over centuries. While much of it is valuable, it often adds layers that can obscure the original intent.The closer we align with the Buddha’s original vision, the more effe...

Ajahn Brahmali gives a fascinating talk on the future of Buddhism, citing what the Buddha himself said on this topic, and connecting it with what it means to practice in the current age.

Recorded 2016-04-01

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this Dhamma talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores the core Buddhist principle of impermanence (anicca), showing how a deep understanding of change can transform our relationship with life, reduce suffering, and open the door to liberation.

Impermanence means that everything in our experience is unstable, subject to change, and ultimately not dependable. This includes all physical phenomena, mental states, relationships, emotions, and even spiritual states. Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes that anicca is not just philosophical, it’s a truth to be directly seen in one’s own experience.

Recorded 2016-02-26

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In this thought-provoking talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores the concept of cosmology from a Buddhist perspective, drawing connections between ancient Buddhist insights and modern scientific understandings of the universe. He approaches the topic with both curiosity and care, emphasizing that the Buddha’s primary focus was liberation, not astronomy.

The Buddha used cosmology not to explain the stars, but to show the vastness and fragility of conditioned existence.

Recorded 2015-11-28

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of...

Ajahn Brahmali examines the Buddha’s teachings on volition (cetanā) and the difference between the foolish and the wise, framing the discussion around how our choices shape both our meditation practice and our lives. His approach is practical, aiming to help listeners apply Buddhist principles to daily living and spiritual development.

Recorded 2015-05-10

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Victoria under the Creative Commons license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Victoria by joining their Patreon.

Ajahn Brahmali reflects on the first discourse of the Buddha, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (“Setting the Wheel of Dhamma in Motion”), which outlines the core of the Buddha’s teaching: the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

The Noble Eightfold Path is not a list of options but a dynamic process. When Right View is well-established, the whole wheel of the Dhamma turns, leading us step-by-step to liberation.

Recorded 2015-05-10

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the...

In this structured and engaging Dhamma talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores two fundamental aspects of the Buddhist path: Right View (Sammā Diṭṭhi) and Spiritual Friendship (Kalyāṇa-mittatā). These two elements form the foundation and support system for deep, lasting spiritual progress.

Recorded 2015-05-09

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This talk by Ajahn Brahmali was recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Victoria under the Creative Commons license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Victoria by joining their Patreon.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali gives a clear explanation of samatha (calm) and vipassanā (clear seeing); the two core components of Buddhist meditation practice. He offers practical insights into how these two qualities interact and support each other on the path to awakening.

Samatha means tranquility, stillness, or calm. It is developed through practices like mindfulness of breathing, loving-kindness, or body awareness. Samatha leads to deep states of stillness, which purify the mind and prepare it for clear seeing.

Vipassanā is commonly translated as “insight,” though Ajahn Brahmali notes that this may not fully capture its meaning. It refers...

Ajahn Brahmali discusses the essential role of mental purification (through morality, ethics, and virtue) in establishing strong and effective mindfulness. The talk emphasizes that meditation doesn’t begin with technique alone, it begins with how we live and relate to the world around us.

Recorded 2012-07-20

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Saddhā, or confidence, is one of the five spiritual faculties in Buddhist teaching. Confidence is different from blind faith. Confidence is the force inside of you that pushes you along the spiritual path.

The first aspect of Buddhist confidence is gained through making observations and inferences about a person over a period of time.  A person who has extraordinarily inspiring and infusing attributes. These attributes arouse interest in the person’s teaching, leading to confidence both in the person and in their teachings.

The second aspect is the confidence in the ancient Buddhist heritage, the Sutta. With t...

Ajahn Brahmali talks about how virtue, especially of the mind, gives rise to mindfulness and how mindfulness is instrumental to successful meditation.

Recorded 2012-03-23

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this reflective Vesak evening talk, Ajahn Brahmali invites listeners to deepen their connection with the historical Buddha, not just as a figure of reverence, but as a real human being who lived, awakened, and taught. The talk honors Vesak, which celebrates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing, by focusing on his character, teachings, and timeless relevance.

Recorded 2010-05-28

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the...

From a Buddhist perspective, thinking about death isn’t a negative, dark and depressing act, but rather, thinking about death can be very useful, putting life in perspective, and even leading the mind in to peace. Ajahn Brahmali gives advice on how to wisely contemplate death.

Recorded 2009-12-25

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your suppor...

In this talk, Ajahn Brahmali introduces and explains the concept of dependent origination (paṭicca samuppāda), one of the Buddha’s most profound and insightful teachings. Though often seen as complex, Ajahn Brahmali presents it in a way that is accessible, practical, and deeply relevant to spiritual practice.

Dependent origination describes how suffering arises through a chain of cause-and-effect relationships. It shows that everything we experience is conditioned, nothing exists independently or permanently. This teaching is central to understanding the cycle of rebirth (saṃsāra) and how to break free from it.

Duration: 00:48:10

In this thoughtful and encouraging talk, Ajahn Brahmali reflects on dukkha (suffering), not to discourage, but to motivate and deepen our understanding of the Buddhist path. He emphasizes that seeing suffering clearly is not pessimistic; rather, it is the first step toward true happiness and liberation.

Ajahn Brahmali encourages seeing suffering not just in isolated events, but as a condition of existence shaped by craving, delusion, and impermanence. Much of what we call happiness is fragile and conditioned, which means it ultimately leads to disappointment.

Ajahn Brahmali invites us to look honestly...

Ajahn Brahmali presents a rich and inspiring talk on what it means to develop the mind in the Buddhist tradition. He explains that mental development is one of the Buddha’s greatest discoveries, and that true happiness and freedom come not from the world outside, but from training and refining the inner world.

Mental development is a gradual path, where patient effort and gentle awareness lead to deep happiness, wisdom, and the end of suffering.

Recorded 2009-01-23

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have be...

If were are able to see impermanence in the world we are able to see life as it really is. However, really seeing and understanding the quality of permanence in life is harder than we think. Ajahn Brahmali discusses what the problem of impermanence really means and how seeing it clearly can lead to greater freedom.

Recorded 2008-12-26

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can suppo...

Many people – even many Buddhists – know very little about, or have mistaken ideas, about who the historical Buddha really is. Ajahn Brahmali sets aside the myths and legends and gives an historical account of the life of Siddhartha Gautama – the Buddha, and connects this to how it can enhance our practice in the here and now.

Recorded 2008-10-24

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the...

In this gentle and practical Dhamma talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores the meaning, power, and purpose of loving-kindness (mettā), a core quality in Buddhist practice that nurtures both personal well-being and compassionate relationships with others.

Recorded 2008-06-13

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ license. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali discusses the search for the meaning to life and the development of the spiritual path.

Recorded 2008-04-04

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

Ajahn Brahmali explains how the central mental development teachings of samatha (calm) and vipassana (insight) as well as how these qualities are closely related to each and how they work together to enhance the spiritual practice.

Recorded 2008-03-28

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this foundational talk, Ajahn Brahmali explores the meaning, purpose, and development of mindfulness (sati) from a Buddhist perspective. He reflects on how mindfulness is often presented in secular contexts and re-centers the discussion within the early Buddhist teachings, emphasizing that mindfulness is not just about awareness, but about creating the conditions for awakening and liberation.

Recorded 2008-02-15

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can suppo...

In this warm and personal talk, Ajahn Brahmali reflects on his recent pilgrimage to India, using it as a lens to explore the spiritual value and deeper purpose of pilgrimage in the Buddhist tradition. Rather than focusing on travel details, he shares insights into how such journeys can inspire practice, deepen faith, and connect us with the Buddha’s life and teachings.

Recorded 2007-12-28

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia un...

In this thought-provoking talk, Ajahn Brahmali addresses the often controversial topic of rebirth in Buddhism. He explores both the doctrinal importance of rebirth and the practical consequences of understanding, or dismissing, it. His goal is to clarify why rebirth matters deeply in Buddhist practice, and how it fits into the larger path of awakening.

Recorded 2007-11-02

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddh...

Ajahn Brahmali talks about how our actions (karma) bring about future results (vipaka) which impacts upon our well-being. He gives a broad ranging talk on what it really means to make “good karma” or “bad karma”.

Recorded 2007-04-06

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These talks by Ajahn Brahmali have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the ⁠Creative Commons⁠ licence. ⁠You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.⁠

In this heartfelt talk, Ajahn Brahmali focuses on morality (sīla), a foundational yet often overlooked pillar of Buddhist practice. Though simple on the surface, he shows how morality is deeply transformative, shaping not only our actions but the entire path to inner peace and awakening.

Morality in Buddhism refers to living ethically, guided by compassion and non-harming. It includes practicing the five precepts: refraining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, false speech, and intoxicants. Ajahn Brahmali emphasizes that these are not rules imposed from outside, but tools for happiness and clarity.

Duration: 01:06:59