Bhikkhu Bodhi: Satipatthana Sutta, Part 8

This podcast explores the fourth foundation of mindfulness from the Satipatthana Sutta: Dhammanupasana, or the contemplation of Dhammas (phenomena). The speaker unpacks the rich meaning of "Dhamma," ultimately framing Dhammanupasana as a way to reflect on all phenomena, aimed at deepening our understanding of the Buddha's teachings. The conversation begins with the five hindrances—unwholesome mental factors—as the starting point for contemplation, then moves through the five aggregates, sense bases, seven factors of enlightenment, and culminates with the Four Noble Truths. The speaker notes that while there is a suggested order, these hindrances can emerge at any point in the process. The podcast wraps up with a thorough discussion on how to contemplate sense desire, stressing the importance of mindful awareness and understanding its underlying causes, while also considering how these insights can be applied by lay practitioners.