Sis. Sunanda explaining why joy is important to one’s spiritual development.

Sis. Sunanda Ong’s Service Sunday Dhamma talk on 29 November was a lively and animated session.  The mood was most apt for her talk on joy and happiness.  Devotees were asked what they understood about ‘joy’ and ‘wisdom’.

To give them time to mull over the question, devotees were divided into small groups to discuss the question and share their opinions and ideas. Afterwards, they had to act out their answers in a sketch. Needless to say, there was plenty of laughter during the group presentations.

Participants giving a group presentation.

Sis. Sunanda, who is the Director of Nalanda Dhamma School, then explained why joy or Piti was important to one’s spiritual development.  The Buddha taught that Piti is the fourth factor of Enlightenment.  Those who are not joyful will become indifferent to the Dhamma and develop an aversion for the practice of meditation.  Sis. Sunanda also explained that the fundamental factor of a truly happy person is contentment.

Devotees were divided into small groups and asked to discussed what they understood about ‘joy’ and ‘wisdom’.

Piti is a mental quality which suffuses both body and mind, and we have to build it up by our own effort, reflection, and concentrated activity.  Hence, joy and wisdom are intertwined and one cannot exist without the other.  We thank Sis. Sunanda for her interesting and thought-provoking Dhamma talk.  Sadhu anumodana!

Participants preparing for their group presentation.