The Island Within

This book is about Bhante Ñāṇadīpa, an incredible figure and, for many, the ideal forest monk. We might read about such people from centuries ago, like the Venerable Mahå Kassapa, in the ancient Buddhist texts, or read about the more recent famous Thai forest monks, such as the late Venerable Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. His very remote forest swellings (kuṭī) were basic, without a front wall. He was dedicated to living the forest life to the fullest. He was strict with himself; such was the discipline he chose, and he was not concerned if it was pleasing or distasteful to others. Nothing stopped him. He continued to dig ever deeper into the hindrances and defilements of his mind, his anger and fear, and aimed for the final realization of the Buddha’s Teaching. He carried on along the lonely and thorny path, despite the physical hardships and illnesses he endured, such as malaria and attacks from elephants and other wild animals. And despite being very close to death many times, he persevered, year after year, approaching and entering old age, indifferent to others’ praise or blame. Through it all, he always walked the straight path, never abandoning his resolve.

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