Dharma study group: “The Removal of Distracting Thoughts”

Note: This group now meets both in person and online via Zoom. Email info@princetoninsightmeditation.org for Zoom meeting details.

In our next sutta course, we are going to cover the sutta “The Removal of Distracting Thoughts” (MN 20: Vitakkasanthana Sutta). The title of the sutta in the Chinese Agama is “Discourse on the Higher Mind” which Bhikku Bodhi regards as a more appropriate translation (somewhat ironically since Bhikku Bodhi’s own translation is “The Removal of Distracting Thoughts”). The higher mind (adhicitta) is the mind of samadhi, a mind of deep concentration. The sutta describes five very specific and practical ways to help develop the higher mind by removing unwholesome thoughts. So if you are interested in developing deeper levels of concentration, this sutta is for you. Each course session will include reading Bhikkhu Bodhi’s translation of the discourse; exploring the text in detail; doing practical meditations and exercises; and group discussions. All necessary course materials will be provided. 

Princeton Insight Meditation is offering this course free of charge. It is suitable for all levels of meditators including beginners.

Those who are able to commit to the full 7-week program of study and practice will benefit the most from the course. However, drop-ins are welcome.

For more information, visit the Dharma Study Group home page, or e-mail study@PrincetonInsightMeditation.org