The Anguttara Nikaya, the fourth division of the Sutta Pitaka, consists of
several thousand1 suttas arranged in eleven books (nipatas) according to
numerical content. For example, the first nipata — the Book of the Ones —
contains suttas concerning a single topic; the second nipata — the Book of the
Twos — contains suttas concerning pairs of things (e.g., a sutta about
tranquillity and insight; another about the two people one can never adequately
repay (one's parents); another about two kinds of happiness; etc.); the third
nipata contains suttas concerning three things (e.g., a sutta on the three kinds
of praiseworthy acts; another about three kinds of offense), and so on.
At first glance this may seem a rather pedantic classification scheme, but in
fact it often proves quite useful. For example, if you dimly recall having heard
something about the five subjects worthy of daily contemplation and you'd like
to track down the original passage in the Canon, a good place to begin your
search is the Book of the Fives in the Anguttara. (The Index by Number may also
be helpful in such cases.)
Two excellent print anthologies containing selected suttas from the Anguttara
Nikaya are Numerical Discourses of the Buddha: An Anthology from the Anguttara
Nikaya by Nyanaponika Thera and Bhikkhu Bodhi (Kandy, Sri Lanka: Buddhist
Publication Society, 1999; also published in the USA by Altamira Press) and
Handful of Leaves, Vol. 3, by Thanissaro Bhikkhu (distributed by the Sati Center
for Buddhist Studies).
The suttas are numbered here by nipata (book) and sutta, with the suttas
numbered sequentially from the start of each nipata, using as a guide the
Woodward & Hare PTS English translations of the Anguttara Nikaya (The Book of
the Gradual Sayings). Because suttas in the Anguttara have often been numbered
inconsistently in different Tipitaka editions and translations, I have also
provided alternate reference numbers in the braces {} that follow the sutta
descriptions. For all suttas, these alternate references include the volume and
starting page number in the PTS romanized Pali edition of the Anguttara Nikaya
(example: A i 60 = PTS Anguttara Nikaya volume one, page 60). For suttas in the
Ones and Twos, whose numberings are particularly problematic, I have also
included the nipata, vagga (chapter), and number of the sutta, with suttas
counted from the start of each vagga (example: II,iii,5 = Book of the Twos,
third vagga, fifth sutta).
The translator appears in the square brackets [].
Note
1. The exact count of suttas in the Anguttara depends on the particular edition
(Sri Lankan, Thai, or Burmese) and on the way the suttas are enumerated.
Jayawardhana says: "Although the text tells us that it consists of 9,557 suttas,
the present edition [the modern Sri Lankan Tipitaka] has only 8,777 suttas. Most
of these suttas are mere repetitions with a new word added here and there.
Therefore, the number of suttas distinctive in character could be brought down
to a little over one thousand" [Somapala Jayawardhana, Handbook of Pali
Literature (Colombo: Karunaratne, 1993), p. 12]. Bhikkhu Bodhi counts 2,344
suttas [Nyanaponika & Bodhi, Numerical Discourses of the Buddha, p. xv], while
Webb counts 2,308 [Russell Webb, An Analysis of the Pali Canon, (Kandy: Buddhist
Publication Society, 1975), p. 26].
1. Book of the Ones
AN 1.21-40: Ekadhamma Suttas — A Single Thing {I,iii,1-10 through I,iv,1-10; A
i 4} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha enumerates twenty things of singular importance
to the spiritual path.
AN 1.31-40: Adanta Sutta — Untamed (excerpts) {I,iv,1-4 and 9-10; A i 5}
[Woodward]. There's nothing so conducive to happiness as a mind that has been
tamed.
AN 1.45-46: Udakarahaka Sutta — A Pool of Water {I,v,5-6; A i 8} [Thanissaro].
The difference between a clear mind and a muddy one.
AN 1.47: Mudu Sutta — Soft {I,v,7; A i 8} [Thanissaro]. A simile for a mind
that's pliant.
AN 1.48: Lahu-parivatta Sutta — Quick to Reverse Itself {I,v,8; A i 9}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha, normally so adept at finding similes, is here at a
loss.
AN 1.49-52: Pabhassara Sutta — Luminous {I,v,9-10; I,vi,1-2; A i 10}
[Thanissaro]. The mind is inherently luminous; the unwise person can't even
see that it is obscured by defilements.
2. Book of the Twos
AN 2.5: Appativana Sutta — Relentlessly {II,i,5; A i 49} [Thanissaro]. What is
the one thing regarding which the Buddha does not recommend contentment?
AN 2.9: Lokapala Sutta — Guardians of the World {II,i,9; A i 50} [Ireland |
Thanissaro]. Conscience and concern — two qualities that keep one from harm.
AN 2.19: Kusala Sutta — Skillful {II,ii,9; A i 57} [Thanissaro]. Yes, it
really is possible to abandon unskillful habits and to develop skillful ones.
AN 2.21: Bala-pandita Sutta — Fools & Wise People {II,iii,1; A i 59}
[Thanissaro]. What's the difference between a fool and a wise person?
AN 2.23: Abhasita Sutta — What Was Not Said. {II,iii,3; A i 59}
AN 2.25: Neyyatha Sutta — A Meaning to be Inferred {II,iii,5; A i 60}
[Thanissaro].
Two short reminders not to misquote or misrepresent the Buddha's teachings.
AN 2.30: Vijja-bhagiya Sutta — A Share in Clear Knowing {II,iii,10; A i 61}
[Thanissaro]. How tranquillity (samatha) and insight (vipassana) function
together to uproot passion and ignorance.
AN 2.31-32: Kataññu Sutta — Gratitude {II,iv,1-2; A i 61} [Thanissaro]. We owe
a great debt to our parents. The gratitude we show to them is a measure of our
personal integrity.
AN 2.38: Kandarayana Sutta — To Kandarayana {II,iv,8; A i 67} [Thanissaro].
What makes a person an elder worthy of respect?
AN 2.98: Bala Sutta — Fools {II,x,1; A i 83} [Thanissaro]. Two kinds of fools.
AN 2.119: Dullabha Sutta — Hard to Find {II,xi,2; A i 86} [Thanissaro]. A
grateful person is hard to find.
AN 2.125-126: Ghosa Suttas — Voice {II,xi,8-9; A i 87} [Thanissaro].
Appropriate attention (yoniso manasikara) is a condition for Right View.
3. Book of the Threes
AN 3.2: Lakkhana Sutta — Characterized (by Action) {A i 102} [Thanissaro]. How
to recognize a wise person and a fool.
AN 3.15: Rathakara (Pacetana) Sutta — The Chariot Maker {A i 110}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha recalls a previous lifetime during which he was a
chariot-maker "skilled in dealing with the crookedness of wood." Now, as the
Buddha, he is skilled in dealing with the crookedness of thought, word, and
deed.
AN 3.22: Gilana Sutta — Sick People {A i 120} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
compares the Dhamma to good medicine.
AN 3.33: Nidana Sutta — Causes {A i 134; Thai III.34; BJT III.34}
[Thanissaro]. An action (kamma) performed by an arahant bears no kammic fruit.
This sutta explains why.
AN 3.34: Hatthaka Sutta — To Hatthaka (on Sleeping Well in the Cold Forest) {A
i 136; Thai III.35; BJT III.35} [Thanissaro]. Is a comfortable home the best
guarantee for a good night's sleep?
AN 3.38: Sukhamala Sutta — Refinement {A i 145; Thai III.39; BJT III.39}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes the insights that led him as a young man to
go forth, and how those insights apply to the conduct of our own lives.
AN 3.40: Adhipateyya Sutta — Governing Principles {A i 147} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes three governing principles that keep one's Dhamma practice
on-track. Beware: there's nowhere to hide from your unskillful actions!
AN 3.47: Sankhata Sutta — Fabricated {A i 152} [Thanissaro]. The marks by
which fabricated and unfabricated experiences can be recognized.
AN 3.48: Pabbata Sutta — A Mountain {A i 152} [Thanissaro]. A parent's
responsibility to his or her family. If you want your family to prosper, then
be like a mountain of virtue, conviction, and discernment.
AN 3.51: Dvejana Sutta — Two People (1). {A i 155; Thai III.52; BJT III.52}
AN 3.52: Dvejana Sutta — Two People (2) {A i 156; Thai III.53; BJT III.53}
[Thanissaro].
The Buddha offers advice to two aging brahmans who are facing the end of life.
AN 3.57: Vaccha Sutta — To Vaccha (on Giving) {A i 160; Thai III.58}
[Thanissaro]. Every act of generosity is meritorious, but some are more so
than others.
AN 3.60: Sangarava Sutta — To Sangarava {A i 168; Thai III.61} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha answers the accusation that the spiritual path he teaches is a
selfish one.
AN 3.61: Tittha Sutta — Sectarians {A i 173; Thai III.62} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha explains how three common views about pain and pleasure can, if
followed to their logical conclusion, lead to a life of inaction. He then
shows how pain and pleasure actually do come about and how they can be
transcended.
AN 3.62: Bhaya Sutta — Danger {A i 173} [Thanissaro]. Although fire, flood,
and war may threaten to divide families, the world is fraught with even
greater dangers. Here is a surefire way to overcome them all.
AN 3.65: Kalama Sutta — To the Kalamas/The Buddha's Charter of Free Inquiry {A
i 188; Thai III.66} [Thanissaro | Soma]. The Buddha explains to a group of
skeptics the proper criteria for accepting a spiritual teaching.
AN 3.66: Salha Sutta — To Salha {A i 193; Thai III.67} [Ñanamoli]. The arahant
Ven. Nandaka engages the layman Salha in a dialogue that ranges from
elementary principles all the way to the nature of arahantship.
AN 3.67: Kathavatthu Sutta — Topics for Discussion {A i 196} [Thanissaro].
This short discourse contains detailed practical instructions on how to answer
questions skillfully. A valuable teaching for politicians, debaters, and the
rest of us.
AN 3.68: Titthiya Sutta — Sectarians {A i 198} [Thanissaro]. How appropriate
attention (yoniso manasikara) lies at the heart of any effort to abandon the
roots of greed, hatred, and delusion.
AN 3.69: Mula Sutta — Roots {A i 201} [Thanissaro]. What motivates a person to
wrongly imprison people and subject them to beatings? The answer lies right
here, in your own heart.
AN 3.70: Muluposatha Sutta — The Roots of the Uposatha {A i 205; Thai III.71}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes to Visakha, the laywoman, right and wrong
ways of observing the Uposatha days. Those who observe the Uposatha correctly
are destined to reap heavenly rewards.
AN 3.71: Channa Sutta — To Channa the Wanderer {A i 215; Thai III.72}
[Thanissaro]. Ven. Ananda instructs Channa on abandoning the mental
defilements of passion, aversion, and delusion.
AN 3.72: Ajivaka Sutta — To the Fatalists' Student {A i 217; Thai III.73}
[Thanissaro]. Ven. Ananda gives a skillful answer to the questions, "Whose
teaching is right? Whose practice is right?"
AN 3.73: Sakka Sutta — To the Sakyan {A i 217; Thai III.74} [Thanissaro].
Mahanama asks the Buddha, "Which comes first: concentration or wisdom?" Ven.
Ananda answers on behalf of the Buddha, who is recovering from an illness.
AN 3.78: Silabbata Sutta — Precept & Practice {A i 225; Thai III.79}
[Thanissaro]. Are all religious paths fruitful? Ven. Ananda answers.
Gadrabha Sutta (AN 3.81 (ii)) — The Donkey {A i 229; Thai III.83}
[Thanissaro]. Practicing the Dhamma means more than simply acting the part.
AN 3.88: Sikkha Sutta — Trainings (1) {A i 235; Thai III.90}
AN 3.89: Sikkha Sutta — Trainings (2) {A i 235; Thai III.91} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha summarizes the three aspects of Dhamma practice that should be
developed.
AN 3.93: Accayika Sutta — Urgent {A i 239; Thai III.93} [Thanissaro]. Just as
a farmer can't predict when the fruit will ripen, so we can't predict when
Awakening will occur. So just keep your practice strong; the rest will take
care of itself.
AN 3.94: Ajaniya Sutta — The Thoroughbred {A i 244; Thai III.97} [Thanissaro].
What qualities make a monk worthy of respect?
AN 3.99: Lonaphala Sutta — The Salt Crystal {A i 249; Thai III.101}
[Thanissaro]. A Buddhist response to the question, "Why do bad things happen
to good people?"
AN 3.100 (i-x): Pansadhovaka Sutta — The Dirt-washer {A i 253; Thai III.102}
AN 3.100 (xi-xv): Nimitta Sutta — Themes {A i 255; Thai III.103} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha compares the skillful training of one's mind to the way a goldsmith
purifies gold ore.
AN 3.105: Kuta Sutta — The Peak of the Roof {A i 261; Thai III.110}
[Thanissaro]. Protect your mind, and you guard yourself from harm.
AN 3.120: Moneyya Sutta — Sagacity {A i 273; Thai III.123} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes three kinds of wisdom: bodily, verbal, and mental. (This is
one of the suttas selected by King Asoka (r. 270-232 BCE) to be studied and
reflected upon frequently by all practicing Buddhists. See That the True
Dhamma Might Last a Long Time: Readings Selected by King Asoka, by
Thanissaro.)
AN 3.123: Gotamaka-cetiya Sutta — At Gotamaka Shrine {A i 276; Thai III.126}
[Thanissaro]. What more do you want from the Buddha's teachings?
AN 3.126: Katuviya Sutta — Putrid {A i 279; Thai III.129} [Thanissaro]. When
you let your concentration slip and your mindfulness falter, there's no
telling what nasty sorts of flies will start swarming around you.
AN 3.130: Lekha Sutta — Inscriptions {A i 283; Thai III.133} [Thanissaro]. Why
hold on to your anger? Beware you don't let it get carved deep into your
psyche, like an inscription in solid rock.
AN 3.134: Dhamma-niyama Sutta — The Orderliness of the Dhamma {A i 286; Thai
III.137} [Thanissaro]. Whether or not a Buddha arises in the world, the three
characteristics of existence always remain: impermanence, stress, and
not-self.
4. Book of the Fours
AN 4.1: Anubuddha Sutta — Understanding {A ii 1} [Thanissaro]. Why do we
continue to wander aimlessly in samsara? It's because we haven't yet realized
four noble qualities.
AN 4.5: Anusota Sutta — With the Flow {A ii 5} [Thanissaro]. A reminder that
the popular advice to "just go with the flow" finds no support in the Buddha's
teachings.
AN 4.10: Yoga Sutta — Yokes {A ii 10} [Thanissaro]. In many discourses, the
Buddha speaks of "the unexcelled rest from the yoke." In this discourse he
explains what yokes he is referring to, and how that rest comes about.
AN 4.19: Agati Sutta — Off Course {A ii 18} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains
the difference between staying "on course" and straying "off course" in one's
Dhamma practice.
AN 4.24: Kalaka Sutta — At Kalaka's Park {A ii 23} [Thanissaro]. Even though
the Buddha has deep understanding, he doesn't take a stance on any of it.
AN 4.28: Ariya-vamsa Sutta — The Discourse on the Traditions of the Noble Ones
{A ii 27} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes four good qualities in a monk:
contentment with regard to robes, almsfood, and lodging, and finding pleasure
in cultivating wholesome mental states. (This is one of the suttas selected by
King Asoka (r. 270-232 BCE) to be studied and reflected upon frequently by all
practicing Buddhists. See That the True Dhamma Might Last a Long Time:
Readings Selected by King Asoka, by Thanissaro.)
AN 4.31: Cakka Sutta — Wheels {A ii 30} [Thanissaro]. Here is one kind of
four-wheel drive that is sure to keep you on the road.
AN 4.32: Sangaha Sutta — The Bonds of Fellowship {A ii 32} [Thanissaro]. The
qualities that help hold together a family — or any community.
AN 4.35: Vassakara Sutta — With Vassakara {A ii 34} [Thanissaro]. Four
distinguishing qualities of a wise person.
AN 4.36: Dona Sutta — With Dona {A ii 36} [Thanissaro]. A passerby, struck by
the Buddha's serene presence, asks him, "What are you? Are you a deva? A
spirit? A human being?" The Buddha's now-famous reply has made this one of the
most oft-quoted passages in the entire Canon.
AN 4.37: Aparihani Sutta — No Falling Away {A ii 38} [Thanissaro]. If one is
sincere in one's aspirations to realize Awakening, these four aspects of
Dhamma practice should be constantly developed.
AN 4.41: Samadhi Sutta — Concentration {A ii 44} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
explains how concentration, when fully developed, can bring about any one of
four different desirable results.
AN 4.42: Pañha Sutta — Questions {A ii 46} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha's
teachings on skillfulness and speech extend to mastering the art of answering
questions.
AN 4.45: Rohitassa Sutta — To Rohitassa {A ii 47} [Thanissaro]. A
well-traveled deva learns that we don't have to go to the ends of the world to
find an end to suffering; we need look no further than within this very body.
AN 4.49: Vipallasa Sutta — Perversions {A ii 52} [Olendzki (excerpt) |
Thanissaro]. Four kinds of misperceptions that keep us bound to the cycle of
rebirths.
AN 4.50: Upakkilesa Sutta — Obscurations {A ii 52} [Thanissaro]. Four
unskillful activities that prevent a monk from shining with Dhamma.
AN 4.55: Samajivina Sutta — Living in Tune {A ii 61} [Thanissaro]. Would you
like to live with your current spouse in future lives, too? Here's how.
AN 4.62: Anana Sutta — Debtless {A ii 69} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha tells the
wealthy lay-follower Anathapindika about four kinds of happiness that a
householder may enjoy. Some require wealth, but the best is free of charge.
AN 4.67: Ahina (Ahi) Sutta — By a Snake {A ii 72} [Piyadassi | Thanissaro].
How the practice of metta (loving-kindness) can serve as a protection against
harm.
AN 4.73: Sappurisa Sutta — A Person of Integrity {A ii 77} [Thanissaro]. Are
you a person of integrity? How you speak about yourself and others reveals
much about your personal integrity.
AN 4.77: Acintita Sutta — Unconjecturable {A ii 80} [Thanissaro]. If you spend
too much time pondering these four things you will surely drive yourself
crazy.
AN 4.79: Vanijja Sutta — Trade {A ii 81} [Thanissaro]. One reason why some
people succeed and others fail in their trades.
AN 4.85: Tamonata Sutta — Darkness {A ii 85} [Thanissaro]. A person's goodness
is measured not by his or her wealth, beauty, or status, but by the goodness
of his or her actions.
AN 4.94: Samadhi Sutta — Concentration (Tranquillity and Insight) {A ii 93}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains how correct meditation practice consists of
the development of both insight (vipassana) and tranquillity (samatha).
AN 4.95: Chavalata Sutta — The Firebrand {A ii 95} [Buddharakkhita |
Thanissaro]. Which is better: to practice Dhamma for one's own benefit or for
another's? The answer may surprise you.
AN 4.96: Raga-vinaya Sutta — The Subduing of Passion {A ii 96} [Thanissaro].
What does it mean to practice Dhamma for one's own benefit — and for
another's?
AN 4.99: Sikkha Sutta — Trainings {A ii 98} [Thanissaro]. It is best of all if
you not only follow the precepts yourself, but can support others in following
them, too.
AN 4.102: Valahaka Sutta — Thunderheads {A ii 103} [Thanissaro]. Reading
suttas is good, but there is more to be done. Go meditate!
AN 4.111: Kesi Sutta — To Kesi the Horsetrainer {A ii 111} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha explains to Kesi, a horsetrainer, how he teaches Dhamma. This brilliant
exposition warrants close study by every teacher, as it reveals the multiple
levels in which effective teaching operates: the Buddha speaks in terms that
the listener understands (horsetraining), he uses similes to great effect, and
he deftly answers the real question that lies behind the student's query
("Please, can you train me?").
AN 4.113: Patoda Sutta — The Goad-stick {A ii 114} [Thanissaro | Woodward].
How much dukkha does it take to motivate you to practice the Dhamma in
earnest? The Buddha illustrates his point with the famous simile of a
thoroughbred horse stirred to action by its rider.
AN 4.115: Thana Sutta — Courses of Action {A ii 118} [Thanissaro]. When faced
with a choice, how does one decide which course of action to follow? The
Buddha here offers some helpful advice.
AN 4.123: Jhana Sutta — Mental Absorption (1) {A ii 125} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes four possible courses of rebirth open to someone who
practices jhana.
AN 4.124: Jhana Sutta — Mental Absorption (2) {A ii 126} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes another possible course of rebirth open to someone who
practices jhana.
AN 4.125: Metta Sutta — Good Will (1) {A ii 128} [Ñanamoli | Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes four possible courses of rebirth open to someone who
practices the brahma-vihara (good will, compassion, appreciative joy, and
equanimity).
AN 4.126: Metta Sutta — Good Will (2) {A ii 129} [Ñanamoli | Thanissaro]. The
Buddha describes another possible course of rebirth open to someone who
practices the brahma-vihara (good will, compassion, appreciative joy, and
equanimity).
AN 4.144: Obhasa Sutta — Brightness {A ii 139} [Thanissaro]. What provides the
most brightness in life?
AN 4.159: Bhikkhuni Sutta — The Nun {A ii 144} [Thanissaro]. Ven. Ananda
teaches a nun that, although craving can be used to overcome craving, and
conceit to overcome conceit, the same principle does not hold for sexual
intercourse.
AN 4.170: Yuganaddha Sutta — In Tandem {A ii 156} [Thanissaro]. Ven. Ananda
describes the paths to arahantship by which insight (vipassana) and
tranquillity (samatha) work hand-in-hand.
AN 4.174: Kotthita Sutta — To Kotthita {A ii 161} [Thanissaro]. How the Buddha
answers the question, "What lies beyond Nibbana?"
AN 4.178: Jambali Sutta — The Waste-water Pool {A ii 165} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha uses some memorable similes to describe the overcoming of
self-identification and ignorance.
AN 4.179: Nibbana Sutta — Unbinding {A ii 166} [Thanissaro]. Why do some
people gain Awakening in this life, while others don't?
AN 4.181: Yodhajiva Sutta — The Warrior {A ii 170} [Thanissaro]. An
accomplished meditator — like a great warrior — develops these four qualities.
AN 4.183: Suta Sutta — On What is Heard {A ii 172} [Thanissaro]. Why the
principle of truthfulness does not imply total frankness or openness.
AN 4.184: Abhaya Sutta — Fearless {A ii 173} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains
to Janussonin four ways to overcome the fear of death.
AN 4.192: Thana Sutta — Traits {A ii 187} [Thanissaro]. How can you recognize
a good and wise person? The Buddha explains what qualities to look for and how
to spot them.
AN 4.199: Tanha Sutta — Craving {A ii 211} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha enumerates
the many kinds of tangled thoughts experienced by a mind not yet free of
craving. Sound familiar?
AN 4.200: Pema Sutta — Affection {A ii 213} [Thanissaro]. The opinions of our
friends and enemies often influence our own thoughts and feelings about
others. This kind of thinking is rooted in craving, and the Buddha offers a
cure.
AN 4.235: Ariyamagga Sutta — The Noble Path {A ii 237} [Thanissaro]. Skillful
actions (kamma) eventually bring good results, while unskillful ones bring
bad. But best of all are the actions that lead to the ending of kamma
altogether.
AN 4.252: Pariyesana Sutta — Searches {A ii 247} [Thanissaro]. What are you
searching for? Are you looking for happiness in all the wrong places? Are you
looking for a lasting, noble happiness?
AN 4.255: Kula Sutta — On Families {A ii 249} [Thanissaro]. How a family loses
or preserves its wealth.
AN 4.259: Araññika Sutta — A Wilderness Dweller {A ii 250} [Thanissaro]. What
sort of person is fit to live in the wilderness?
5. Book of the Fives
AN 5.2: Vitthara Sutta — (Strengths) in Detail {A iii 1} [Thanissaro]. A
summary of the five "strengths" (bala) to be developed in Dhamma practice.
AN 5.20: Hita Sutta — Benefit {A iii 14} [Thanissaro]. How to practice Dhamma
for the benefit of both oneself and others.
AN 5.25: Anugghita Sutta — Supported {A iii 20} [Thanissaro]. Five factors
that lead to the fulfillment of right view.
AN 5.27: Samadhi Sutta — (Immeasurable) Concentration {A iii 24} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha encourages the practice of the brahmavihara (sublime states of
metta, karuna, mudita, and upekkha) as a basis for concentration practice, as
it leads to five important realizations.
AN 5.28: Samadhanga Sutta — The Factors of Concentration {A iii 25}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains how the progressive development of jhana
(absorption) leads to the development of the supranormal powers and Awakening.
AN 5.30: Nagita Sutta — To Nagita {A iii 30} [Thanissaro]. The raucous
carryings-on of a group of brahmans lead the Buddha to reflect on the rewards
of detachment.
AN 5.34: Siha Sutta — To General Siha (On Generosity) {A iii 38} [Thanissaro].
General Siha, known for his generosity, asks the Buddha about the fruits of
generosity that one can experience in this life. The Buddha describes four
such fruits; a fifth (a happy rebirth) Siha can only take on faith.
AN 5.36: Kaladana Sutta — Seasonable Gifts {A iii 41} [Thanissaro]. Gifts
given at the proper time bear the greatest fruit. Here the Buddha describes
five such occasions. [Often chanted by monks as a blessing after receiving
food or other offerings.]
AN 5.37: Bhojana Sutta — A Meal {A iii 42} [Thanissaro]. Whenever one gives
the gift of food, five wonderful things are also given, automatically, to both
giver and recipient alike. [Often chanted by monks as a blessing after
receiving food or other offerings.]
AN 5.38: Saddha Sutta — Conviction {A iii 42} [Thanissaro]. The five rewards
that a layperson can expect for having conviction (faith) in the Triple Gem.
AN 5.41: Adiya Sutta — Benefits to be Obtained (from Wealth) {A iii 45}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes for the wealthy householder Anathapindika
five skillful ways of using one's money that bring immense benefits to the
giver — benefits that last long after all the wealth is gone. [Often chanted
by monks as a blessing after receiving food or other offerings.]
AN 5.43: Ittha Sutta — What is Welcome {A iii 47} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
explains to Anathapindika how true happiness can never be achieved merely by
wishing for it.
AN 5.49: Kosala Sutta — The Kosalan {A iii 57} [Hecker/Khema | Thanissaro].
When Queen Mallika dies, her husband, King Pasenadi, is overcome with grief.
The Buddha advises the king on how to free himself of obsessive grieving.
AN 5.51: Avarana Sutta — Obstacles {A iii 58} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha invokes
a vivid simile to illustrate the hazards posed by the hindrances.
AN 5.53: Anga Sutta — Factors (for Exertion) {A iii 63} [Thanissaro]. The five
factors that sustain the proper level of exertion toward the goal.
AN 5.57: Upajjhatthana Sutta — Subjects for Contemplation {A iii 71}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes the "five facts that one should reflect on
often, whether one is a woman or a man, lay or ordained."
AN 5.64: Vuddhi Sutta — Growth {A iii 79} [Thanissaro]. What does it mean to
grow in the Dhamma?
AN 5.73: Dhamma-viharin Sutta — One Who Dwells in the Dhamma {A iii 85}
[Thanissaro]. What does it mean to be truly committed to the Dhamma?
AN 5.75: Yodhajiva Sutta — The Warrior (1) {A iii 89}
AN 5.76: Yodhajiva Sutta — The Warrior (2) {A iii 93} [Thanissaro].
Two suttas on how a monk intent on reaching the goal must steadfastly guard
his celibacy in the face of all temptation.
AN 5.77: Anagata-bhayani Sutta — The Discourse on Future Dangers (1) {A iii
100}
AN 5.78: Anagata-bhayani Sutta — The Discourse on Future Dangers (2) {A iii
103}
AN 5.79: Anagata-bhayani Sutta — The Discourse on Future Dangers (3) {A iii
105}
AN 5.80: Anagata-bhayani Sutta — The Discourse on Future Dangers (4) {A iii
108}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha reminds the monks that the practice of Dhamma should
not be put off for a later date, for there are no guarantees that the future
will provide any opportunities for practice. (These suttas are among those
selected by King Asoka (r. 270-232 BCE) to be studied and reflected upon
frequently by all practicing Buddhists. See That the True Dhamma Might Last a
Long Time: Readings Selected by King Asoka, by Thanissaro.)
AN 5.96: Sutadhara Sutta — One Who Retains What He Has Heard {A iii 119}
AN 5.97: Katha Sutta — Talk {A iii 119}
AN 5.98: Arañña Sutta — Wilderness {A iii 120} [Thanissaro].
Three short suttas that describe five qualities a meditator should develop in
order to reach the goal.
AN 5.114: Andhakavinda Sutta — At Andhakavinda {A iii 138} [Thanissaro]. Five
things that the Buddha exhorted his newly ordained monks to do. Laypeople
should take heed, too!
AN 5.121: Gilana Sutta — To a Sick Man {A iii 142} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
reminds a sick monk that by keeping five particular themes of meditation well
established, even a sick person can realize Awakening.
AN 5.129: Parikuppa Sutta — In Agony {A iii 146} [Thanissaro]. Five grave
deeds that prevent one from realising any of the noble attainments in this
lifetime.
AN 5.130: Sampada Sutta — Being Consummate {A iii 147} [Thanissaro]. Which of
life's many kinds of losses should we be truly concerned about? Which of
life's many kinds of rewards should we truly aspire toward?
AN 5.139: Akkhama Sutta — Not Resilient {A iii 157} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
uses powerful imagery from the battlefield to underscore the importance of
developing mastery over the senses.
AN 5.140: Sotar Sutta — The Listener {A iii 161} [Thanissaro]. Five qualities
one should develop to gain mastery of the senses and become a truly worthy
person.
AN 5.148: Sappurisadana Sutta — A Person of Integrity's Gifts {A iii 172}
[Thanissaro]. Five attributes of gift-giving that distinguish a person of
integrity.
AN 5.159: Udayi Sutta — About Udayin {A iii 184} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
explains to Ven. Ananda the five prerequisites for teaching Dhamma to others.
AN 5.161: Aghatavinaya Sutta — Subduing Hatred (1) {A iii 185} [Thanissaro |
Ñanamoli]. Five skillful ways of dealing with people who annoy you.
AN 5.162: Aghatavinaya Sutta — Subduing Hatred (2) {A iii 186} [Thanissaro].
Sariputta describes five skillful ways of dealing with feelings of hatred
toward others.
AN 5.165: Pañhapuccha Sutta — On Asking Questions {A iii 191} [Thanissaro].
Five possible motives behind asking a question.
AN 5.175: Candala Sutta — The Outcaste {A iii 206} [Thanissaro]. This
discourse lists — first in negative and then in positive form — the basic
requirements for being a Buddhist lay follower in good standing.
AN 5.176: Piti Sutta — Rapture {A iii 206} [Thanissaro]. Instructions to a
generous lay person: Generosity is good, but there is still more to be done.
An even greater happiness awaits if you practice meditation to attain an
internal state of seclusion and rapture.
AN 5.177: Vanijja Sutta — Business (Wrong Livelihood) {A iii 208}
[Thanissaro]. Five kinds of wrong livelihood for lay followers.
AN 5.179: Gihi Sutta — The Householder {A iii 211} [Thanissaro]. How to
recognize a lay stream-winner.
AN 5.180: Gavesin Sutta — About Gavesin {A iii 214} [Thanissaro]. How the
pursuit of excellence — and a competitive spirit — led a layman and his
friends to attain arahantship. This story made even the Buddha smile.
AN 5.196: Supina Sutta — Dreams {A iii 240} [Thanissaro]. Five dreams that
appeared to the Buddha before his Awakening, together with their
interpretation.
AN 5.198: Vaca Sutta — A Statement {A iii 243} [Thanissaro]. The secret to
blameless speech.
AN 5.200: Nissaraniya Sutta — Leading to Escape {A iii 245} Five qualities of
mind that lead to true freedom.
AN 5.202: Dhammassavana Sutta — Listening to the Dhamma {A iii 248}
[Thanissaro]. The five rewards in listening to the Dhamma.
Macchariya Suttas (AN 5.254-259) — Stinginess {A iii 272} [Thanissaro].
Generosity isn't just a nice idea: it is a requisite for progress along the
Buddha's Path.
6. Book of the Sixes
AN 6.12: Saraniya Sutta — Conducive to Amiability {A iii 289} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha describes how to behave with one's peers in ways that engender
mutual feelings of fellowship, friendship, and respect.
AN 6.13: Nissaraniya Sutta — Means of Escape {A iii 290} [Thanissaro]. Six
qualities that, when fully developed, lead to liberation.
AN 6.16: Nakula Sutta — Nakula's Parents {A iii 296} [Thanissaro]. A wise
female householder consoles her worried husband as he faces death from a grave
illness.
AN 6.19: Maranasati Sutta — Mindfulness of Death (1) {A iii 303}
AN 6.20: Maranasati Sutta — Mindfulness of Death (2) {A iii 306} [Thanissaro].
Death could come at any time. Are you ready?
AN 6.41: Daruka-khandha Sutta — The Wood Pile {A iii 340} [Thanissaro]. If you
ever wanted to know how psychic transformation works, here's a brief primer.
AN 6.42: Nagita Sutta — To Nagita {A iii 341} [Thanissaro]. While dwelling in
a forest grove, the Buddha speaks in praise of modesty, contentment,
unentanglement, and seclusion in the wilderness. (See AN 8.86 for a longer
version of this conversation.)
AN 6.45: Ina Sutta — Debt {A iii 351} [Thanissaro]. How falling under the grip
of sensuality is like falling heavily into debt.
AN 6.46: Cunda Sutta — Cunda {A iii 355} [Thanissaro]. Why the world needs
both meditators and those who devote themselves to the study of Dhamma.
AN 6.47: Sanditthika Sutta — Visible Here-&-Now {A iii 355} [Thanissaro]. A
few of the more obvious ways in which the Dhamma is visible here-&-now.
AN 6.49: Khema Sutta — With Khema {A iii 357} [Thanissaro]. Having abandoned
all sense of self, arahants don't regard themselves as better than, worse
than, or equal to anyone else.
AN 6.54: Dhammika Sutta — Dhammika (excerpts) {A iii 364} [Olendzki]. In the
first of these excerpts, the Buddha uses a telling simile to explain the
meaning of his most common epithet, Tathagata — "the Thus-Gone one." In the
second, the Buddha tells a story illustrating how patient endurance is the
best response to the insults of others.
AN 6.55: Sona Sutta — About Sona {A iii 374} [Thanissaro]. In this famous
sutta the Buddha explains to Ven. Sona that balancing one's effort in
meditation practice is like tuning a musical instrument.
AN 6.63: Nibbedhika Sutta — Penetrative {A iii 410} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
explains that mastery of the Dhamma comes from meditating on six factors in
the mind, each of which should be understood deeply in six different ways.
This sutta contains a lovely short verse pointing out the true cause of
attachment based on sensuality.
AN 6.85: Siti Sutta — Cooled {A iii 434} [Thanissaro]. Six qualities required
to achieve Awakening.
AN 6.86: Avaranata Sutta — Obstructions {A iii 435} [Thanissaro]. Six
qualities that prevent, and six that foster, the development of skillful
states of mind.
AN 6.87: Kammavaranata Sutta — Kamma Obstructions {A iii 436} [Thanissaro].
Six things that can render one incapable of developing skillful mental
qualities.
AN 6.88: Sussusa Sutta — Listening Well {A iii 437} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha's
instructions on how to listen to the Dhamma so that it can be truly taken to
heart.
AN 6.97: Anisansa Sutta — Rewards {A iii 440} [Thanissaro]. Six rewards of
stream-entry.
AN 6.102: Anodhi Sutta — Without Exception (1) {A iii 442}
AN 6.103: Anodhi Sutta — Without Exception (2) {A iii 442}
AN 6.104: Anodhi Sutta — Without Exception (3) {A iii 442} [Thanissaro].
What six things motivate one to see the three characteristics of anicca,
dukkha, and anatta?
7. Book of the Sevens
AN 7.6: Dhana Sutta — Treasure {A iv 5} [Thanissaro]. If one possesses these
seven treasures in the heart, one's life will not have been lived in vain.
AN 7.7: Ugga Sutta — To Ugga {A iv 6} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha teaches Ugga of
seven treasures in the heart that, unlike worldly treasures, are always safe
from "fire, flood, kings, thieves, or hateful heirs."
AN 7.11: Anusaya Sutta — Obsessions (1) {A iv 9} [Thanissaro]. An enumeration
of the seven anusaya (obsessions or latent tendencies).
AN 7.12: Anusaya Sutta — Obsessions (2) {A iv 9} [Thanissaro]. On abandoning
the seven anusaya (obsessions or latent tendencies).
AN 7.15: Udakupama Sutta — The Water Simile {A iv 10} [Thanissaro]. In a
beautiful progression of metaphors, the Buddha illustrates the various levels
to which people allow their grasp of Dhamma to take them. How far are you
willing to go?
AN 7.21: Bhikkhu-aparihaniya Sutta — Conditions for No Decline Among the Monks
{A iv 21} [Thanissaro]. The seven conditions that lead to the long-term
welfare of the Sangha.
AN 7.35: Mitta Sutta — A Friend {A iv 31} [Thanissaro]. What is a true friend?
AN 7.46: Sañña Sutta — Perceptions {A iv 46} [Thanissaro]. Seven inner
reflections that are well worth pursuing.
AN 7.48: Saññoga Sutta — Bondage {A iv 57} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains
how dwelling on one's sexual identity only leads to greater suffering.
AN 7.49: Dana Sutta — Giving {A iv 59} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes some
of the motivations one might have for being generous. The karmic fruits of
giving depend heavily on one's motives.
AN 7.51: Avyakata Sutta — Undeclared {A iv 67} [Thanissaro]. Why does doubt
not arise in the mind of a stream-enterer?
AN 7.56: Kimila (Kimbila) Sutta — To Kimila {A iv 84} [Thanissaro]. You say
you want Buddhism to thrive in the West? In this sutta the Buddha explains to
Ven. Kimila what is required of those who wish to see the Dhamma last a long,
long time.
AN 7.58: Capala (Pacala) Sutta — Nodding {A iv 85} [Thanissaro]. Do you
sometimes nod off during meditation? Here the Buddha catches Ven. Maha
Moggallana nodding off, and offers him a graduated prescription for overcoming
drowsiness.
AN 7.60: Kodhana Sutta — An Angry Person {A iv 94} [Ñanamoli | Thanissaro].
Seven dangers of giving in to anger.
AN 7.63: Nagara Sutta — The Fortress {A iv 105} [Thanissaro]. Seven qualities
that must be developed for the truest kind of homeland security.
AN 7.64: Dhammaññu Sutta — One With a Sense of the Dhamma {A iv 113}
[Thanissaro]. Do you want to be worthy of other people's respect? Here the
Buddha describes seven qualities that make one a respectable and honorable
individual.
AN 7.68: Aggikkhandopama Sutta — The Mass of Fire Comparison {A iv 128}
[Yahoo! Pali Group]. The Buddha warns a group of monks about the danger of
abusing the generosity and good faith of their lay supporters.
AN 7.70: Arakenanusasani Sutta — Araka's Teachings {A iv 136} [Thanissaro].
Seven beautiful similes on the brevity of the human lifespan. Use your short
time here well!
AN 7.80: Satthusasana Sutta — To Upali (The Teacher's Instruction) {A iv 143}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains to Ven. Upali how to recognize authentic
teachings of Dhamma.
8. Book of the Eights
AN 8.2: Pañña Sutta — Discernment {A iv 151} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha outlines
the skills that one must develop in order for wisdom to unfold.
AN 8.6: Lokavipatti Sutta — The Failings of the World {A iv 157} [Thanissaro].
The eight worldly conditions. The difference between an ordinary person and an
Awakened one manifests in how they respond to life's inevitable ups and downs.
AN 8.13: Ajañña Sutta — The Thoroughbred {A iv 188} [Thanissaro]. Eight
praiseworthy qualities that a good monk possesses.
AN 8.14: Khalunga Sutta — Unruly {A iv 190} [Thanissaro]. Eight unskillful
ways of reacting to an accusation, compared to the eight habits of unruly,
untamable horses.
AN 8.23: Hatthaka Sutta — About Hatthaka (1) {A iv 216} [Thanissaro]. Eight
qualities rarely found in people of power and wealth.
AN 8.24: Hatthaka Sutta — About Hatthaka (2) {A iv 218} [Thanissaro]. The
Buddha's advice on how to win a large following.
AN 8.25: Mahanama Sutta — Being a Lay Buddhist {A iv 219} [Kumara]. What is a
lay follower? A virtuous lay follower? A lay follower engaged in his own
welfare? His own and others'?
AN 8.26: Jivaka Sutta — To Jivaka (On Being a Lay Follower) {A iv 222}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains how a lay follower can best work for the
welfare of others.
AN 8.30: Anuruddha Sutta — To Anuruddha {A iv 228} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
tells of eight good qualities in the heart that, if actively cultivated, help
lead us toward the goal.
AN 8.39: Abhisanda Sutta — Rewards {A iv 245} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha tells
of eight rewards that can be expected from skillful conduct.
AN 8.40: Vipaka Sutta — Results {A iv 247} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes
the unpleasant consequences of not sticking to the precepts.
AN 8.41: Uposatha Sutta — The Uposatha Observance {A iv 248}
[Ñanavara/Kantasilo]. The Buddha summarizes the eight uposatha day
observances.
AN 8.43: Visakhuposatha Sutta — The Discourse to Visakha on the Uposatha with
the Eight Practices {A iv 255} [Bhikkhu Khantipalo]. The Buddha explains to
Visakha, a devout laywoman, the benefits of following the uposatha day
(observance day) practices.
AN 8.53: Gotami Sutta — To Gotami {A iv 280} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains
to Mahapajapati Gotami (his aunt) how to recognize authentic teachings of
Dhamma.
AN 8.54: Vyagghapajja (Dighajanu) Sutta — Conditions of Welfare/ To Dighajanu
{A iv 281} [Narada | Thanissaro]. The Buddha's instructions for householders
on how to preserve and increase wealth and happiness, in both the mundane and
spiritual senses.
AN 8.63: Sankhitta Sutta — In Brief (Good Will, Mindfulness, and
Concentration) {A iv 299} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha describes the practices of
the four sublime states (metta, karuna, mudita, and upekkha) and of the four
frames of reference (foundations of mindfulness) as a basis for concentration
practice.
AN 8.80: Kusita-Arambhavatthu Sutta — The Grounds for Laziness and the Arousal
of Energy {A iv 332} [Thanissaro]. "I'm too tired too meditate! I'm too
hungry! I'm too full!" Sound familiar? The Buddha has some sound advice for
overcoming this kind of laziness.
AN 8.86: Yasa Sutta — Honor {A iv 340} [Thanissaro]. While dwelling in a
forest grove, the Buddha speaks in praise of modesty, contentment,
unentanglement, and seclusion in the wilderness. (This sutta is a longer
version of the conversation reported in AN 6.42.)
9. Book of the Nines
AN 9.1: Sambodhi Sutta — Self-awakening {A iv 350} [Thanissaro]. Having
admirable friends, companions, and comrades is an essential part of the path
to Awakening.
AN 9.7: Sutava Sutta — To Sutavan {A iv 369} [Thanissaro]. Nine unskillful
acts an Awakened one is incapable of doing.
AN 9.13: Kotthita Sutta — With Kotthita {A iv 381} [Thanissaro]. The holy life
is lived, not with the purpose of altering the results of past actions, but
with the purpose of gaining direct knowledge of the four noble truths.
AN 9.14: Samiddhi Sutta — About Samiddhi {A iv 382} [Thanissaro]. Where do
thoughts and intentions come from?
AN 9.15: Ganda Sutta — A Boil {A iv 384} [Thanissaro]. Nine good reasons not
to get enchanted with the body.
AN 9.16: Sañña Sutta — Perceptions {A iv 386} [Thanissaro]. Nine useful
perceptions.
AN 9.34: Nibbana Sutta — Unbinding {A iv 414} [Thanissaro]. Ven. Sariputta
explains to Ven. Udayin how even the most exquisitely refined and beautiful
mental states are beset with dukkha; only Nibbana itself can truly be called
"pleasant."
AN 9.35: Gavi Sutta — The Cow {A iv 418} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains
that if you try to move on to the next level of concentration before you've
mastered the last, you're sure to stumble, like a foolish cow on a steep hill.
AN 9.36: Jhana Sutta — Mental Absorption {A iv 422} [Thanissaro]. Meditation,
like archery, is a skill that develops over time, through practice, practice,
practice.
AN 9.37: Ananda Sutta — With Ananda {A iv 426} [Thanissaro]. On subtle states
of concentration in which the sense spheres are present to one's awareness,
but one is not taking mental note of them.
AN 9.40: Naga Sutta — The Tusker {A iv 433} [Thanissaro]. With gentle humor,
the Buddha tells how to allay the itch in your mind.
AN 9.41: Tapussa Sutta — To Tapussa (On Renunciation) {A iv 438} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha tells how the long road of meditation practice that culminates in
Awakening begins with appreciating the value of renunciation.
AN 9.42: Pañcala Sutta — Pañcala's Verse {A iv 448} [Thanissaro]. How jhana
leads the meditator out from the confines of the mind.
AN 9.43: Kayasakkhi Sutta — Bodily Witness {A iv 451}
AN 9.44: Paññavimutti Sutta — Released Through Discernment {A iv 452}
AN 9.45: Ubhatobhaga Sutta — (Released) Both Ways {A iv 453} [Thanissaro].
In this group of short suttas, Ven. Ananda answers Ven. Udayin's lingering
questions about the meaning of several key terms that the Buddha uses in other
suttas: What is a "bodily witness"? What is "discernment-release"? What is
"released both ways"? Ven. Ananda shows here that the development of jhana
plays an integral part in the development of wisdom.
AN 9.62: Bhabba Sutta — Capable {A iv 456} [Thanissaro]. Nine barriers to
arahantship.
AN 9.63: Sikkha-dubbalya Sutta — Things That Weaken the Training {A iv 457}
[Thanissaro]. How to overcome the obstructions to one's progress in
meditation.
AN 9.64: Nivarana Sutta — Hindrances {A iv 457} [Thanissaro]. How to overcome
the five hindrances.
10. Book of the Tens
AN 10.6: Samadhi Sutta — Concentration {A v 7}
AN 10.7: Sariputta Sutta — With Sariputta {A v 8}
[Thanissaro]. Two descriptions of the concentration in which the mind is
inclined toward the Deathless.
AN 10.13: Sanyojana Sutta — Fetters {A v 17} [Thanissaro].
The ten fetters that bind us to the cycle of birth and death.
AN 10.15: Appamada Sutta — Heedfulness {A v 21} [Thanissaro]. Ten similes to
illustrate the point that heedfulness is the foremost of all skillful
qualities.
AN 10.17: Natha Sutta — Protectors {A v 23} [Thanissaro]. Ten qualities that
provide protection for the mind.
AN 10.20: Ariyavasa Sutta — Dwellings of the Noble Ones {A v 30} [Thanissaro].
Qualities of mind in which noble ones are at home.
AN 10.29: Kosala Sutta — The Kosalan {A v 59} [Thanissaro]. Like supremacy in
the human and deva worlds, exalted states of mind — even experiences of
all-encompassing white light and non-dual consciousness — are all subject to
change and aberration. Some people criticized the Buddha for showing the way
to freedom from this change and aberration. In this sutta the Buddha offers a
series of contemplations for inducing disenchantment and dispassion for even
the most supreme things in the cosmos.
AN 10.24: Cunda Sutta — Cunda {A v 41} [Thanissaro]. Anyone who claims to know
the Dhamma, and yet still has a mind overcome by defilement, is like a person
who talks about wealth but can produce none when it's needed.
AN 10.27: Mahapañha Sutta — The Great Questions (excerpt) {A v 48}
[Nyanaponika]. One thing to become dispassionate towards.
AN 10.46: Sakka Sutta — To the Sakyans (on the Uposatha) {A v 86}
[Thanissaro]. Money can't buy you happiness, but practicing Dhamma can.
AN 10.48: Dasa Dhamma Sutta — Ten Things {A v 87} [Piyadassi | Thanissaro].
Ten things that an ordained monk must reflect on often.
AN 10.51: Sacitta Sutta — One's Own Mind {A v 92} [Thanissaro]. How to read
your own mind.
AN 10.58: Mula Sutta — Rooted {A v 106} [Thanissaro]. What is the root of all
phenomena (sabbe dhamma)? Is Nibbana itself a phenomenon, or is it the end of
all phenomena?
AN 10.60: Girimananda Sutta — To Girimananda {A v 108} [Piyadassi |
Thanissaro]. The Buddha instructs Ven. Girimananda, who is ill, on the ten
themes of meditation that can heal both mind and body.
AN 10.69: Kathavatthu Sutta — Topics of Conversation (1) {A v 128}
[Thanissaro]. Ten wholesome topics of conversation as an alternative to
gossip.
AN 10.70: Kathavatthu Sutta — Topics of Conversation (2) {A v 129}
[Thanissaro]. Right speech is most praiseworthy when you embody the good
things you talk about.
AN 10.71: Akankha Sutta — Wishes {A v 131} [Thanissaro]. This discourse lists
ten reasons, of ascending worth, for perfecting the precepts and being
committed to the development of calm (samatha) and insight (vipassana). An
interesting feature of this discussion is that the Buddha does not separate
insight and jhana into separate paths of practice, and actually cites insight,
together with tranquillity, as a prerequisite for mastering the four jhanas.
AN 10.80: Aghata Sutta — Hatred {A v 150} [Thanissaro]. When hatred arises in
the mind what do you do? Here are ten possible antidotes.
AN 10.81: Bahuna Sutta — To Bahuna {A v 151} [Thanissaro]. Of what is an
Awakened being freed?
AN 10.92: Vera Sutta — Animosity {A v 182} [Thanissaro]. What it takes for a
lay person to become a stream-winner.
AN 10.93: Ditthi Sutta — Views {A v 185} [Thanissaro]. The householder
Anathapindika instructs a group of non-Buddhist wanderers on the nature of
Right View.
AN 10.94: Vajjiya Sutta — About Vajjiya {A v 189} [Thanissaro]. A lay disciple
answers the charge that the Buddha doesn't have any straightforward teachings.
AN 10.95: Uttiya Sutta — To Uttiya {A v 193} [Thanissaro]. Is the goal of the
Buddha's teachings to liberate all beings?
AN 10.96: Kokanuda Sutta — To Kokanuda (On Viewpoints) {A v 196} [Thanissaro].
Ven. Ananda explains that wisdom is not based on subscribing to this or that
point of view.
AN 10.103: Micchatta Sutta — Wrongness {A v 211} Success or failure on the
Path hinges on the extent to which one has right view.
AN 10.104: Bija Sutta — The Seed {A v 212} [Thanissaro]. Two similes
illustrate how success or failure on the Path hinges on right view.
AN 10.108: Virecana Sutta — A Purgative {A v 218} [Thanissaro]. Sometimes even
the best medicines for the body don't work. Here, the Buddha offers a "noble
purgative" for the mind that never fails.
AN 10.176: Cunda Kammaraputta Sutta — To Cunda the Silversmith {A v 263}
[Thanissaro]. The Buddha explains to Cunda that genuine self-purification
comes about not from performing sacred rites, but by cultivating skillfulness
in one's thoughts, words, and deeds.
AN 10.177: Janussonin Sutta — To Janussonin (On Offerings to the Dead) {A v
269} [Thanissaro]. Who stands to benefit most from a gift given in another's
honor?
AN 10.208: Brahmavihara Sutta — The Sublime Attitudes {A v 300} [Thanissaro].
The Buddha's instructions on the practice and rewards of the four sublime
attitudes: metta (goodwill, loving-kindness), karuna (compassion), mudita
(appreciative joy), and upekkha (equanimity).
11. Book of the Elevens
AN 11.1: Kimattha Sutta — What is the Purpose? {A v 311} [Thanissaro]. Why
does the Buddha repeatedly implore us to cultivate sila (virtue)?
AN 11.2: Cetana Sutta — An Act of Will {A v 312} [Thanissaro]. Good qualities
in the heart naturally lead to the development of other good qualities. And it
all starts with sila (virtue).
AN 11.10: Sandha Sutta — To Sandha {A v 323} [Thanissaro]. What makes the
arahant's experience of jhana unique?
AN 11.12: Mahanama Sutta — To Mahanama (1) {A v 328} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
instructs the householder Mahanama on the importance of developing the six
recollections (recollection of the Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha, one's own virtues,
one's own generosity, and the devas).
AN 11.13: Mahanama Sutta — To Mahanama (2) {A v 332} [Thanissaro]. The Buddha
further instructs the householder Mahanama on the importance of developing the
six recollections, reminding him to develop these recollections in every
posture, even "while you are busy at work, while you are resting in your home
crowded with children."
AN 11.16: Metta (Mettanisamsa) Sutta — Good Will {A v 342; BJT calls this the
Mettanisamsa Sutta; Thai, Burmese, and PTS call it Metta Sutta.} [Piyadassi |
Thanissaro]. Eleven benefits arising from the practice of metta (loving
kindness, or good-will) meditation.
AN 11.17: Dasama Sutta — To Dasama {A v 342} [Thanissaro]. Ven. Ananda
describes eleven modes of practice that can lead to the Deathless. (This sutta
is identical to MN 52, but without the preamble.)
AN 11.18: Gopalaka Sutta — The Cowherd {A v 347} [Thanissaro]. Eleven factors
that are conducive to spiritual growth, and eleven that are obstructive. (This
sutta is identical to MN 33, but without the preamble.)
The Numerical Discourses of the Buddha: A Complete Translation of the Anguttara Nikaya (Teachings of the Buddha)
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