Luang Phor Akaradet (Ajaan Dtan)
Devotee: If a layperson is unable to cut off worldly attachments to be ordained, and yet they still want to attain a basic level of the Dhamma, what kind of kammathan would be most suitable for them khrap?
LP Dtan: Actually, one should use wise consideration in maranasati (recollection and awareness of death).
This is one of the things that people try to avoid thinking about. But one must recollect death so as to not become complacent and careless.
If we recollect death we can cut off greed, anger and desire. We bring the mind back to the present. And we understand that the life we are living is constantly uncertain - life may not last long.
Consequently we will start to do good and live a virtuous life in preparation. The best meditation is contemplation of death. It can make the mind come back and not be careless.
The remaining time we have left, what should we do to make the most out of it?
The mind will recollect the past, the days, months and years have passed, for 10 years, have we accrued enough goodness or not? And if we haven’t, consider how much time we have left [to perform goodness].
Therefore in considering death, one becomes less heedless. We will see the urgency to strive to perfect our parami, all 10 of them, to do good deeds, to keep our precepts, as well as to pawana. This kammathan is appropriate and suitable for everyone.
Luang Phor Akaradet (Ajaan Dtan)
Wat Boonyawat, Chonburi Province
8 May 2023
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