How Defilements Cause Birth and Death

This reading for contemplation/meditation about the nature of the citta has been excerpted from several discourses given by Acharya Maha Boowa.Ajahn Maha Boowa or Bua (1913–2011) was one of the most revered Thai Forest masters of the 20th century, a direct disciple of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. Known for his uncompromising practice and penetrating insight, he dedicated his life to the realization and teaching of the Dhamma in its most direct, experiential form.Ajahn Maha Boowa emphasized the centrality of the citta (heart-mind)—the luminous, knowing essence underlying all experience. Through rigorous meditation, he described how defilements (kilesas) obscure this innate clarity, and how disciplined mindfulness and wisdom can dismantle these obscurations layer by layer. His teachings often highlighted the distinction between the knowing awareness and the phenomena that arise within it, pointing practitioners toward a direct recognition of the unconditioned.He spoke vividly about the battle with the kilesas, encouraging fearless investigation of craving, self-identity, and attachment, and stressing that true freedom lies in complete release from these forces. Ajahn Maha Boowa's guidance combined fierce determination with deep compassion, urging practitioners to verify the Dhamma for themselves through sustained practice rather than mere intellectual understanding.Through his teachings and the establishment of Wat Pa Baan Taad, he helped preserve and revitalize the Thai Forest tradition, leaving a legacy of profound meditative instruction centered on direct realization of Nibbāna.Further information about this tradition and teacher can be found here: https://forestdhamma.org/_______________________________🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.🔆 Thank you to everyone who has written to inquire about offering a donation or gift. You are welcome to do so, and all offerings will go towards supporting monastic requisites and overheads at Viveka Hermitage.There are two options to donate using this email address: vivekahermitage@gmail.com with PayPalor using this link: https://paypal.me/VivekaHermitage Alternatively, donations can also be made via 𝐖𝐈𝐒𝐄 - you can use this direct link:https://wise.com/pay/me/margarets448or please contact us on the email above for account details if you have problems.