thanks cooran and bhante,

Yes you are right, now this reminds me of the suttas of when Buddha was explaining to the physician of the king about blamelessness of eating meat and was won over and became a disciple. Glad i'm blameless in this matter.

So yesterday I was eating sushi and after I remember that I might have read somewhere that Buddha advised the Bhikkhu's from eating raw fish, snakes, and other stuff. I don't remember where I read it from , I think it was a translation of the Vinyana. Anyway, I was wandering why did he tell them to ...

Thanks for the replies! That is very encouraging. Looks like I have a bit of prep-work to do but at least it's a start.

Is it possible to attain jhana while meditating while living at home with family around? Because in the suttas it says you need to be secluded from sensual pleasures.
Say like I wanted to just go to work then come home and meditate and not use any entertainment.

That is a teaching from the Commentaries, not the Tipitaka. There are some reports of lay disciples in the Tipitaka who attained enlightenment and in all cases they either ordained or passed away within 7 days. The Commentaries made it a 'compulsory' action, but it is not found or described that wa...

I think I read that a lay-disciple can reach nibbana, but that when he does he either has to go live at a monastery or he will die. Can someone explain what is the meaning of this? Like does he physically die?

Thanks everyone for your replies.

I like your quotes Bodom, I think I will try to follow that.

Can someone fill me in on the details on this precept for a lay-disciple? How do I know I'm going to far and breaking this precept?

Thanks Daverupa

I do see one place there that I might be interested in.

Anyone know any good Theravada monasteries is western Massachusetts? I'm in search for a teacher to help guide me on the path.
Thanks in advance for any info
metta

Anyone know any new info on the release date? I finished the samyutta not too long ago by Bhikkhu Bodhi and I can't wait to read this one aswell.

I think it might create the innocent appearance as an infancy because a child has no sense of self or ego. But even as adults our minds get defiled by the world with lust, hatred and delusion. Then just like an innocent child we are prone to suffering because we don't have wisdom and understanding. ...

It's like that for all beginner's. I think you should just keep focusing on one-pointed meditation on the breath at the tip of the nostrils until you can calm and quiet the mind. It gets easier with more practice.

I been having trouble because of sinus problems in my head.

Oh thanks for the replies Chris and matheesha. I appreciate the quote and explanations.
With metta

I don't mean to disrespect in anyway, I know that Lord Buddha gave us these precepts for the good and well-fare of all beings. I was just wandering if someone could give me a quote on why Lord Buddha gave us this precept on not to use high or comfy beds? Thanks in advance for you kind replies :anja...