Turning the Wheel of Truth: Commentary on the Buddha's First Teaching

(Paperback)

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Immediately after his enlightenment, the Buddha gave a talk that contained within it the foundation for all further Buddhist teachings. The text of this remarkable discourse is presented here and is brilliantly illuminated by a respected, contemporary teacher of the Theravada tradition. This discourse by the Buddha, called "The Sutta That Set in Motion the Wheel of the Truth", is revered by all schools of Buddhism, yet it isn't studied regularly due to the density of the material it contains. Ajahn Sucitto's engaging, chapter-by-chapter unpacking of the text makes it accessible for everyone, showing how it serves as a complete digest of all the Buddhist teachings, and thus, as a worthy guide for life. His commentary includes enlightening discussions of fundamental Buddhist ideas and principles such as: The Middle Way, The Eightfold Path, The Four Noble Truths, Buddhist cosmology, Karma, and Enlightenment.

Reviews

Ajahn Sucitto takes one of the most essential of all Buddhist teachings and illuminates it with depth, perspective, and clarity. His teachings offer an immediate and straightforward vision of Dharma, like a lamp in the darkness.Jack Kornfield, author of Teachings of the Buddha

An invaluable contribution to our understanding of the Buddha's teaching on the four noble truths. In a clear and thorough way, Ajahn Sucitto helps us study these teachings in the service of the liberating practice of understanding ourselves.Larry Rosenberg, author of Breath by Breath

An accessible commentary on the philosophy of the middle way and the four noble truths. Buddhadharma

Utterly familiar and, at the same time, uplifting and fresh great Dharma. For new meditators, this volume is a practical and jargon-free guide to all the core classical teachings. As an experienced beginner, I found Sucittos discussions of dependent origination and the nature of stream-entry particularly helpful.Inquiring Mind

Author Bio

Ajahn Sucitto has been a Buddhist monk in the Thai Forest tradition since 1979, and has been teaching in the West since 1981. He is the abbot of Cittaviveka in England, the first Buddhist forest monastery established in the West. He is also the author of Rude Awakenings as well as several books for free distribution. For more information, see www.cittaviveka.org.