The Buddha and His Teachings | Nārada Mahāthera
Narrated by: David Zachoval
* narrated in Czech language
Buddha and his Teaching – Audiobook Guide
The Life of the Buddha and the Origins of the Saṅgha
Chapters 1–14
This section follows the life of Prince Siddhattha Gotama from his birth, renunciation, and quest for truth to his Enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree, the delivery of his first discourse, and the establishment of the monastic community. It also introduces his relatives, disciples, supporters, and opponents.
The Foundations of the Buddha’s Teaching
Chapters 15–17
An introduction to the essence of the Buddha’s Dhamma. Narada Mahā Thera explains the distinctive characteristics of Buddhism and presents the Four Noble Truths, which form the heart of the Buddha’s teaching.
Kamma, Rebirth, and the Cycle of Existence
Chapters 18–32
The most extensive section of the book explores the law of kamma, rebirth, dependent origination (paṭicca-samuppāda), the various planes of existence, and the doctrine of non-self (anattā). It explains how suffering arises and how beings remain bound to saṃsāra.
Nibbāna and the Path to Liberation
Chapters 33–39
This section examines the highest goal of Buddhist practice—Nibbāna. It discusses its nature, the obstacles that hinder spiritual development, and the gradual path leading to liberation and the attainment of arahantship.
Perfections and the Practical Path in Daily Life
Chapters 40–44
The concluding chapters present the Bodhisatta ideal, the Ten Perfections (pāramī), the Four Sublime States (brahmavihāra), the changing conditions of worldly life, and practical reflections on the challenges of human existence. Together, they demonstrate how the Buddha’s teaching can be cultivated and applied in everyday life.
Appendix – Selected Suttas
• Maṅgala Sutta -
• Parābhava Sutta – The Discourse on Downfall
• Vasala Sutta – The Outcaste
• Ratana Sutta – The Jewels
• Mettā Sutta – Loving-Kindness
• Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta I
• Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta II
A collection of important discourses from the Pāli Canon that complement the main themes of the book and provide practical guidance for daily life and meditation practice.
