Bhikkhu Bodhi: Maha-assapura Sutta: The Greater Discourse at Assapura 6 of 8

In this podcast episode, the speaker explores the Buddhist idea of Jhana, or meditative absorption. They discuss five key mental factors—applied thought, sustained thought, joy, happiness, and one-pointedness—that, when developed through meditation, lead to the four Jhanas. The journey involves overcoming five hindrances: sensual desire, ill will, dullness, restlessness, and doubt, while also fostering a sense of seclusion from sensual pleasures and negative states. To clarify the subtle distinctions between joy and happiness, the speaker uses relatable similes and examples, and highlights how these factors function differently in Samatha (concentration) and Vipassanā (insight) meditation.