Q: Why are sensual desires disallowed in the practice of The Path?

A: Most desire derives from feelings of pleasure. While pleasurable feelings are not bad in and of themselves, they are inherently fleeting; one cannot abide permanently in feelings of pleasure. When an object of desire fails to be satisfied, one's desire turns to anger, an unpleasurable feeling. This is the flow of nature and the means by which stress arises and we suffer as a result of sensual desire. 

Remember the natural law of the ti-lakkhana, anicca, dukkha, and anatta (Dhamma letter no. 14-21) - the basis of the practice for which ultimate happiness is the goal. Things are changing all the time; all phenomena is impermanent (anicca). One’s resistance to these facts is met with dissatisfaction (dukkha).

Additionally, keep in the mind the relationship of lobha (greed), dosa (aversion), and moha (delusion). Moha is the root of all defilements and underlying cause of lobha and dosa. When reality proves unsatisfactory with regard to one’s lobha, dosa arises. Therefore, certain desires can serve as hindrances to the practice.

May you be liberated from any bondages!

May you eradicate all defilement!

With Metta,

Ayyā Kosallā
Edited by Max Montgomery 

We have begun translating the English version of The Dhamma Letter to Korean. Please click here for the Korean version.

한국어로 담마레터를 읽고 싶으신 분은 여기를 클릭 해주세요.

If you have any questions related to dhamma, please feel free to ask. You can reach Ayya Kosalla directly at bhikkhuni.kosalla@gmail.com. We will answer your questions and include them in future Dhamma Letters.

Bhikkuni Kosalla Vipassini resides in Mahabodhi Meditation Vihara in Arizona, USA. Donations are gratefully accepted, whether you provide needed requisites for the monastic, or offer funds. If you are inspired to donate, you may do so.

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Buddha Sāsanaṁ Ciraṁ Tiṭṭhatu! 
May the Buddha’s teachings last a long time!

​Bhavatu Sabba Sotiṁ ca Maṅgalaṁ ca!!  
May everyone be led on the path of peace and blessing!!

Sādhu Sādhu Sādhu !