Bhikkhu Bodhi: Satipatthana Sutta, Part 13

This podcast explores the Second Noble Truth of Buddhism, which addresses the root of suffering as outlined in the Maha Saptipatthana Sutta. The speaker highlights craving, or tanha, as the primary cause and breaks it down into three types: sensual craving, craving for existence, and craving for non-existence. The conversation examines how these cravings lead to suffering, both in the moment—through feelings of frustration and disappointment—and in a broader karmic sense, by perpetuating the cycle of rebirth. The speaker carefully traces how craving arises and takes hold, connecting it to our six senses, the objects we perceive, our consciousness, and our feelings and perceptions. Throughout, there’s a strong emphasis on the role of mindful awareness in recognizing and overcoming this fundamental source of suffering.