Make a Sutta Reading Practice Plan
By writing down our intentions to engage daily with the words of the Buddha, we increase our chances of success.
Daily Reading
Make a wish: Closing our Sutta Practice Session
As we read the suttas, we are always trying to see the truth of the teachings in our own lives. When we finish our practice, we can do a quick reflection to help solidify this intention. Begin by making a quick summary in your head of the teaching you just read. It doesn’t have to … Read more
Using an E-book Reader for Sutta Reading Practice: Kindle, Nook, etc.
Although it is recommended that you do your sutta reading practice from a book and not from the computer, using an e-book reader in some circumstances might work as well as a paper book. For the purpose of these recommendations, an e-book reader refers to a device that is dedicated to just reading books, such … Read more
Dhammapada As a Daily Practice
The Dhammapada is an excellent text for a daily sutta practice. The verses are packed with material for contemplation as well as implementation. The reading can usually be done in as little as five minutes a day plus as much reflection time as you are able to give. If you do not have an established … Read more
Motivate with Links of Dhamma
Use this easy technique to motivate yourself to stick with your reading practice even when it is difficult or inconvenient.
Majjhima Nikaya as a Daily Sutta Reading Practice
If you have an interest in learning what the Blessed One taught and you can devote 20–30 minutes to daily sutta reading practice, the Majjhima Nikaya will be an excellent text with which to work. It is especially suitable for people with an interest in applying the teaching to their lives, either through meditation or … Read more
When to Do Your Sutta Reading Practice
When is the best time to do your sutta practice? It will probably be different for everyone, but here are some suggestions. You may want to first decide how much time you will need to spend each day. Schedule a regular time Try and find a time that will work every day or almost every … Read more
How Long to Do Your Sutta Reading Practice Each Day
When deciding how long to commit to practicing each day, it is important to remember that there is value whatever time you spend reading suttas each day. The effectiveness comes in having the right attitude and consistent daily contact with the teachings. Even if you were only to read a single verse from the Dhammapada … Read more
When You Complete a Book of Suttas
Non-repetition is the bane of scriptures; neglect is the bane of a home; slovenliness is the bane of personal appearance, and heedlessness is the bane of a guard. Dhp 241, translated by Achariya Buddharakhitta Coming to the end of your first book of suttas will likely give you a sense of accomplishment. In fact, you … Read more
How To: Sutta Reading Practice Basics
The logistics of a sutta practice are fairly straightforward. Choose a text and read some of it every day. Here you will find more specific suggestions for the basic aspects of a sutta practice.