Venerable Chao Khun Phra Mongkol-Thepmuni Luang Phor Sodh Candasaro We dedicate this book and any merit it may generate, along with all our efforts at Wat Luang Phor Sodh – The beautiful campus, the Abbot’s teachings, Phra Mah Cetiya Somdej, the International Retreats, the Thai Retreats, and the 24- hour Meditation Vih ra – to our beloved

The compilation of Dr. Phra Rajyanvisith (Hon. D.)’s Sunday Dham­ma Talks from January though June, 2009.

am deeply indebted to the National Broadcasting SystemofThailand formaking these SundayDhammaTalks possible.May their valiant efforts continue to prosperwith the efficacy of the merit accumulated from this Dhamma propagation. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank PhraKhruBaitikaDr.BartonYanathiro for serving as interviewer during these broadcasts and as the editor of this volume. May he also share in reaping the benefits of anymerit generated. Finally, letme also expressmydeep gratitude to Phra Mahà Prasert Paññàseññho and PhraNatpakananGuõaïkaro of theWatLuangPhorSodhPublication’sOffice, to PhraMahà Somchat and theWat Luang Phor SodhAudio-Visual Staff, to PhraWatcharapol Thirajitto for photography, and tomy faithful Secretary PhraMahà Chainipoj for their indispensable support inmaking this endeavor successful.

The compilation of Dr. Phra Rajyanvisith or Phra Thepyanmongkol (Hon. D.)’s Sunday Dham­ma Talks from July though December, 2009.

“A terrific introduction to the Buddha’s teachings.” —Paul Blairon, California Literary Review This indispensable volume is a lucid and faithful account of the Buddha’s teachings. “For years,” says the Journal of the Buddhist Society, “the newcomer to Buddhism has lacked a simple and reliable introduction to the complexities of the subject. Dr. Rahula’s What the Buddha Taught fills the need as only could be done by one having a firm grasp of the vast material to be sifted. It is a model of what a book should be that is addressed first of all to ‘the educated and intelligent reader.’ Authoritative and clear, logical and sober, this study is as comprehensive as it is masterly.” This edition contains a selection of illustrative texts from the Suttas and the Dhammapada (specially translated by the author), sixteen illustrations, and a bibliography, glossary, and index. “[Rahula’s] succinct, clear overview of Buddhist concepts has never been surpassed. It is the standard.” —Library Journal