FAQS WITH S.N. GOENKA

Attachment In Dhamma much emphasis has been given to leading a life of simplicity and detachment. In the world today,

Beliefs What is the Dharma of ātma, soul? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Observe yourself and you will find what is happening inside.

Aren’t there any chance happenings, random occurrences without a cause? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Nothing happens without a cause. It is

What is the difference between Vipassana and concentration? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Vipassana is not merely concentration. Vipassana is observation

What is wrong with wanting material things to make life more comfortable? Mr. S. N. Goenka: If it is a real

-How to practice Vipassana in daily life? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Take a Vipassana course, and then you will understand

-What is Dhamma? Mr. S. N. Goenka: What one’s mind contains, at this moment, is Dhamma. Dhamma is everything there

-I heard a famous person speak recently, someone who was obviously very insightful, very wise, very intelligent, very brilliant—but also,

-What do you mean by ‘being equanimous’? Mr. S. N. Goenka: When you do not react, you are equanimous.    

-Before, you mentioned that Buddha was enlightened. What do you mean by “enlightened”? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Someone who explores

-Why is vegetarian food helpful for meditation? Mr. S. N. Goenka: When you eat meat or something, then this being –

-We have heard that a large pagoda is being built near Mumbai. What is the purpose of this pagoda? How

-How to come out of inferiority / superiority complexes? Mr. S. N. Goenka: This is what Vipassana does. Every complex

-By reciting mantra or by visualisation some meditators can reach a very calm and peaceful state of mind and can

-What is metta? Mr. S. N. Goenka: Metta or Metta Bhavana is the technique of generating vibrations of goodwill and compassion