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Ajahn Sumedho


Full Name and Common Aliases


Ajahn Sumedho is a pen name used by Geoffrey Deering, an American-born British Buddhist monk.

Birth and Death Dates


Born in 1935, Ajahn Sumedho passed away on June 10th, 2022, at the age of 87.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: British
Profession: Buddhist Monk, Author

Early Life and Background


Ajahn Sumedho was born in the United States but moved to England with his family at a young age. He studied English literature at Oxford University before becoming interested in Buddhism in his early twenties. In 1962, he traveled to Thailand to study under prominent Buddhist masters of the Forest Tradition.

Major Accomplishments


Ajahn Sumedho spent over five decades studying and practicing Buddhism in Asia and Europe. During this time, he became a respected authority on Theravada Buddhism and was instrumental in establishing several monasteries and meditation centers worldwide.

Notable Works or Actions


In 1969, Ajahn Sumedho co-founded Chithurst Buddhist Monastery in West Sussex, England. This monastery has become a prominent center for the practice of Theravada Buddhism in Europe. He also wrote extensively on Buddhist teachings, including several books and articles that have been widely read and respected.

Impact and Legacy


Ajahn Sumedho's contributions to Western Buddhism are immeasurable. As one of the first Western monks to be ordained in Thailand, he paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps. His emphasis on mindfulness and personal responsibility has had a lasting impact on countless individuals seeking spiritual growth.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Ajahn Sumedho's wisdom and compassion have made him a beloved figure within Buddhist communities worldwide. His teachings emphasize the importance of living in the present moment, cultivating awareness, and developing a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place within the world.

As a respected author and teacher, Ajahn Sumedho has inspired countless individuals to deepen their practice and explore the depths of Buddhist wisdom. Through his life's work, he has shown that spiritual growth is possible for anyone willing to dedicate themselves to the path.

In summary, Ajahn Sumedho's remarkable life was dedicated to the pursuit of spiritual understanding and the sharing of this knowledge with others. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations as they navigate the complexities of modern life.

Quotes by Ajahn Sumedho

The point is, the Four Stages are not for ego-development or attainment; they are a skilful means for recognizing the way we cling to things.
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The point is, the Four Stages are not for ego-development or attainment; they are a skilful means for recognizing the way we cling to things.
The problem is grasping the clock. So what do I do? Let it go, lay it aside – put it down gently without any kind of aversion. Then I can pick it up again, see what time it is and lay it aside when necessary.
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The problem is grasping the clock. So what do I do? Let it go, lay it aside – put it down gently without any kind of aversion. Then I can pick it up again, see what time it is and lay it aside when necessary.
Of course we can always imagine more perfect conditions, how it should be ideally, how everyone should behave. But it is not our task to create an ideal. It’s our task to see how it is, and to learn from the world as it is. For the awakening of the heart, conditions are always good enough.
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Of course we can always imagine more perfect conditions, how it should be ideally, how everyone should behave. But it is not our task to create an ideal. It’s our task to see how it is, and to learn from the world as it is. For the awakening of the heart, conditions are always good enough.
Suttas are not meant to be ‘sacred scriptures’ that tell us what to believe. One should read them, listen to them, think about them, contemplate them, and investigate the present reality, the present experience with them. Then, and only then, can one insightfully know the truth beyond words.
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Suttas are not meant to be ‘sacred scriptures’ that tell us what to believe. One should read them, listen to them, think about them, contemplate them, and investigate the present reality, the present experience with them. Then, and only then, can one insightfully know the truth beyond words.
Whatever you think you are, that’s not what you are.
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Whatever you think you are, that’s not what you are.
The problem is grasping the clock. So what do I do? Let it go, lay it aside - put it down gently without any kind of aversion. Then I can pick it up again, see what time it is and lay it aside when necessary.
"
The problem is grasping the clock. So what do I do? Let it go, lay it aside - put it down gently without any kind of aversion. Then I can pick it up again, see what time it is and lay it aside when necessary.
I contemplated my greed for peace. And I did not seek tranquillity anymore.
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I contemplated my greed for peace. And I did not seek tranquillity anymore.
Meditation is a skilful letting go: gently but with resolution.
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Meditation is a skilful letting go: gently but with resolution.
Instead of becoming the world’s expert on Buddhism, just let go, let go, let go.
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Instead of becoming the world’s expert on Buddhism, just let go, let go, let go.
Suttas are not meant to be 'sacred scriptures' that tell us what to believe. One should read them, listen to them, think about them, contemplate them, and investigate the present reality, the present experience with them. Then, and only then, can one insightfully know the truth beyond words.
"
Suttas are not meant to be 'sacred scriptures' that tell us what to believe. One should read them, listen to them, think about them, contemplate them, and investigate the present reality, the present experience with them. Then, and only then, can one insightfully know the truth beyond words.
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