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FACE TO FACE | EASTERN HORIZON 27

and explore techniques to calm the mind and cultivate methodology, a powerful lens for exploring and
awareness. Eventually, we realize that we are not understanding the Dhamma(s) of mind, matter and
really attached to a substance, but to the escape, the reality itself. The value of the Abhidhamma lies in how
sensation it produces! (vedanā) This insight opens it enhances our practice. A down to earth example is
a big door. Without naming terms or doctrines, we the second chapter of the “Abhidhammattha-saṅgaha”
are now exploring key links of dependent origination wherein the ingredients of our minds are described.
(paṭiccasamuppāda): contact → feeling → craving → It offers a digestible and detailed map of our common
clinging, the roots of addiction and suffering in all inner experience, helping us to see this mind not as a
of us. An essential value follows: Self-responsibility. fixed entity, but as a conditioned process. It provides
We are responsible for what we do, especially now. tools to recognize the characteristics, functions,
We can’t blame anyone (kammassakomhi). Then and causes of wholesome and unwholesome states,
we explore the importance of ethical conduct, the empowering us to purify the mind with precision,
beauty of freeing oneself from guilt, remorse, and enhancing and sharpening both right effort and insight.
agitation. We regain inner strength and dignity (sīla Debates about the origins of the Abhidhamma arise

and sīlanussati). We cultivate compassion, forgiveness at the extremes— either trying to dismiss it entirely,
and loving-kindness towards ourselves and our family or, trying to attribute every word to the Buddha. Yet,
(Karunā, Mettā). Finally, we emphasize the importance when it clearly elucidates essential principles like the
of constructive friendships (kalyāṇamittatā), and the Five Aggregates or Dependent Origination, how can
joy of independence (Anissitassa pīti). When exploring it be unrelated to the Buddha? Further, when some
with children and teens, we begin by awakening the explanations appeared centuries after the Buddha’s
sense of the preciousness of their minds and that passing, how can it be entirely his voice? A balanced
clarity, happiness and freedom are what’s truly cool. middle stand honors both the root and the flowering. A
After some introduction and activities, we view images teacher once said: “While some argue about the origin
of people before and after drug use and ask, “What do of a medicine… I prefer to use it and be cured.” With the
you think happened here?” They know. They get it. We Buddha, Dhamma and Saṅgha as the beacons, at peace
talk about their strength: “You are the only one who with its origins and with all the benefits it provides,
can protect your mind, and your potential for good is the Abhidhamma is not dry scholasticism. With proper
enormous!” We explore how what we long for such as guidance, it becomes a living, interesting and bright tool
fun, connection, and creativity, is already within, free, for transformation. When approached with openness, it
independent and without troubles. You are valuable. We is not a burden but a treasure, Ehipassiko.
are equals. The power of decision is in your hands. You
I understand you are setting up the Mexican
are respected, trusted, and loved. Forward we walk.
Buddhist Center (Paññābhūmi) to introduce
You are well versed in the Abhidhamma though and propagate Buddhism in South America. As
some Buddhist teachers have suggested it is better Buddhism is relatively new in South America,
to focus on the suttas as they represent the original would you introduce Buddhism strictly from your
teachings of the Buddha. Where is the value of the Theravada lineage, or more from a non-sectarian
Abhidhamma in our study and practice of Buddhism? angle, or even as a secular philosophy of life?

The suttas are the heartwood of the Buddha’s teaching, In the introduction, exploration and development of
and their study and application is essential. At the same the Dhamma, there are stages, and the rhythm depends
time, the Abhidhamma—while in part a development more on the listener than on the speaker. Fortunately,
by the ancient masters—grew from the seeds planted even in its most traditional forms, the Dhamma
by the Buddha and was carefully cultivated by the cherishes and promotes universal values like ethical
Saṅgha, in whom, we also take refuge. Taken as a integrity, kindness, mindfulness, compassion that
tool, the Abhidhamma offers a precise and profound are non-sectarian and also can be applied in secular