Bhikkhu Bodhi: Shorter Discourse to Saccaka, Part 1 of 3

In this podcast episode, we dive into the 35th sutta of the Majjhima Nikaya, where the Buddha engages in a thought-provoking debate with the skilled debater Saccaka. Confident in his abilities, Saccaka challenges the Buddha's teachings on non-self (anatta), advocating for a self-centered view of the five aggregates. Through insightful questioning and clever analogies, the Buddha exposes the flaws in Saccaka's arguments, ultimately leaving him speechless. The episode highlights the intricacies of their discussion, particularly noting the initial absence of the concept of suffering (dukkha) in the Buddha's teachings, inviting listeners to ponder this important aspect further.