Enlightenment Legacies

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “pratyekabuddha," an individual who attains awakening independently: they do not rely on the teachings of a Buddha in their final lifetime before attaining nirvāṇa. Unlike śrāvakas and bodhisattvas, pratyekabuddhas achieve enlightenment through solitary practice and contemplation.

Discussed in this episode: pratyekabuddha. The pratyekabuddha is a distinct archetype in Buddhi...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “tathāgata," one of the ten epithets of the Buddha. In mainstream Buddhism, the term tathāgata functions as a descriptor of the Buddha. In the Mahāyāna, the concept of tathāgata finds resonance in the doctrine of the tathāgatagarbha, the “essence” of the tathāgata. In the Vajrayāna, in turn, the term tathāgata assumes yet another role in the concept of the pañcatathāgata, or...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword Vimalakīrti, the lay protagonist of the Vimalakīrtinirdeśa, a masterpiece that blends doctrinal depth with narrative flair. This Buddhist scripture weaves Vimalakīrti’s dialogues and miracles to critique and transcend the perceived limitations of early Buddhist thought.

Discussed in this episode: Vimalakīrti. The Vimalakīrtinirdeśa, in English “Vimalakīrti’s Instructions,” i...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword gati, or "destiny," a term that offers reflection on the cyclical nature of existence and the moral foundations of rebirth.

Discussed in this episode: gati (translating to “destiny”) refers to one of the five or six realms within saṃsāra where rebirth may occur. These realms, arranged in ascending order of desirability, include nāraka (“hell denizens”), preta (“hungry ghosts...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword naiṣkramya, or "renunciation," regarded as the initial step for those seeking to escape from the cycle of rebirths, or saṃsāra (“wandering”).

Discussed in this episode: naiṣkramya (translating to “renunciation”): the act of leaving behind the mundane life to embark on a religious vocation. Renunciation involves a move away from the sensory world towards a life dedicated to r...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “abhidharma,” a crucial development in Buddhist literature, emerging as a systematic exposition of the Buddha’s teachings and forming a part of the Tripiṭaka (“Three Baskets”).

Discussed in this episode: “abhidharma” (translating to “higher teachings” or “higher dharma”): a critical and analytical elaboration of Buddhist doctrines, particularly concerning epistemology, psych...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “arhat,” with its meaning in the context of mainstream Buddhist schools, and how, in the Mahāyāna, the ideal of the arhat is considered inferior to that of both the bodhisattva and the buddha.

Discussed in this episode: “arhat,” or “worthy one:” a being who has eradicated all afflictions (kleśa) and will not be reborn, as they will enter nirvāṇa upon death. This state is ach...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “guru,” its emphasis in Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna traditions, and the guru's role transcending that of a mere teacher to become a vital guide on the path to enlightenment. 

Discussed in this episode: “guru,” referring a highly revered teacher or guide. This term connotes a figure of significant weight and authority, typically serving as a mentor or instructor in religious pract...

In this episode, Martino talks about the Buddhist keyword “duḥkha,” its literary origins in the Four Truths of the Nobles, and the significance of various types of suffering including birth, aging, sickness, death, and the pain of not achieving desires. 

Discussed in this episode: “duḥkha,” referring to the intrinsic suffering or unsatisfactoriness permeating human existence. It encompasses not just physical and emotional pain, but...