In Praise of the Naga Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi(6-22-2024)

In this podcast episode, we explore the Naga Sutta, revealing it as a poetic journey through devotion, faith, and spiritual growth in early Buddhism. The speaker highlights the term "naga," showcasing how the Buddha reinterprets it to signify not just physical traits but a spiritual essence characterized by purity in mind, body, and speech. Using vivid metaphors and similes, the Buddha emerges as a wise and mindful figure, resembling a mythical being who transcends worldly distractions and the cycle of samsara. This discussion ultimately guides listeners toward a deeper understanding of nirvana and the principles of an ideal monastic life.