Writings on Buddhism

I have been a practitioner of Theravada Buddhism for many years now. At one point in my life, my practice included a significant amount of study, and during the course of that study I amassed a lot of personal commentary on the suttas. I should think that most of this commentary will be of limited interest to most readers, but I offer it anyway in the spirit of open sharing of Dhamma.

Commentary on the Anguttura Nikaya

The "Numerical" discourses kept me busy for quite a while. My commentary isn't complete by any means, but it does contain a lot of useful information about one of the least-read sections of the Pali Canon.

Commentary on the Samyutta Nikaya

The "Collected" discourses may not have the overall exposure of the Majjhima Nikaya, or "Middle-Length" discourses, but some of the most focused, precise, and profound teachings of the Theravada tradition may be found within its vast expanse.

This section is sure to continue expanding—I have a lot more material to comb through.

Commentary on the Sutta Nipata

The oldest stratum of surviving Buddhist teachings, and possibly the most valuable. The sense of the Buddha's voice is palpable in the raw energy and often headlong power of this short collection of teachings.

Commentary on the Udana

Another very old collection of Buddhist teachings, short and pithy and well worth exploring.

Commentary on the Buddhavamsa

A late Theravada work showing clearly the impact of later Mahayana styles. I found it fascinating, if somewhat...well...offputting at times.

FAQs on Buddhism

A little document that tries to answer common questions about Buddhism.

A Commentary on the "Flood" Sutra

A length commentary on the opening sutta of the Samyutta Nikaya, one of my few full-length essays on a Buddhist topic.

Quotes from Buddhist Teachers

A collection of some quotes I've collected from modern-day Buddhist teachers.

Sayadaw U Janaka's Meditation Guidelines

Sayadaw's booklet on Vipassana meditation was a constant companion for quite some time. I offer it here to any who want to learn Vipassana from a master.

The Teachings

The teachings are invitations to investigate, discern, and see for ourselves.

Joseph Goldstein