What is Insight (Vipassana) Meditation?

Insight or vipassana meditation is a relatively recent form of Buddhist practice, but one with deep roots back into history. We will discuss its characteristics, its history, and distinguish it from other popular forms of Buddhist meditation.

Book:

Sutta mentioned:

Thanks to Patrons:
Matthew Smith

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[madelinelafferty]

I just completed a 10 day Vipassana course. My life has been a complete roller coaster for the past 21 years of my life. I’m happy to say that I’ve been committed to learning about and implementing so many lifestyle changes since then. It was like a boot camp for my brain and for learning to live a better life.

[mshereebailey]

I have listened to many Buddhist teachers speak. I found Doug’s discussion to be very clear and help regarding insight meditation and its history.

[gggrace]

One of the best explanations of vipassana I have heard. Thank you, Dr. Doug.

[victorroux]

Completed two ten day vipassana retreats and have been using this meditation technique since 2018. It is a wonderful technique

[davidknight]

Thank you Doug I am so grateful for your clear exposition 🙏🏻

[phlipperbrooks]

I've been sitting for 30+ years in Theravadan monasteries and in Zen centers, and recently renewed my practice after getting away from study and practice for several years. And I find your videos among the clearest and most informative I've ever heard or read. Gassho.

[alibukhari]

I came this video because I wanted to understand the difference between the mindfulness and vipassana meditation, and I'm happy to say that Dough explained quite clearly. I am doing mindfulness for almost a month and it has done wonders in terms of anxiety and mood control, and now I want to learn more about vipassana. Thank you Dough.

[Courage-to-BE]

Vipassana meditation has changed my life. I completed my first 10 day course in 2018 and have taken 2 subsequent courses. I am currently trying to decide if I will do a Sit and Serve program which would be for several months. I was able to silence the inner critic and anxiety that has plagued me for most of my life which was no small feat. I have so many good things to say about Vipassana. Thanks for the video!

[alexisleggeri]

Clear, solid and contextualized, that's the best explanation I've heard on Vissapana.

I really appreciate that the somewhat social science approach does not sacrifice the spiritual aspect of the teachings.

You really hit the sweet spot between the East and the West. Thank you so much for this! I'll check your other videos 🙂

[tseshannon]

Awesome video. I just went to a 10-day Vipassana course and it was a wonderful introductory to the technique. Highly recommend to everyone who’s interested.

[JaspervR]

Very clear explanation of a difficult subject. Thanks!

[annam]

Thank you so much for being so clear and easy to understand.

[anonymoususer]

Doug... you are THE MAN!! I truly appreciate this breakdown and explanation. 😎🙌🏾

[amittaneja]

Doug, been watching a few of your videos. I love how you simplify it so well and consisely. To me, your one of my favourits to go to go learn more about bhuddism over monks, etc. I am a 'westerner', so perhaps thats why. But I just love what you're putting out. Thank you.

[nevergiveup]

Thank you for your detailed explanations of insightful meditations. 👍 it's very helpful and all positive. 🤙

[isabellexi]

Very rigorous treatment of these issues! Thanks Doug.

[sarathw]

A good summary of this difficult subject.

[jessecooper]

Thanks for the book recommendation Doug

[willd.]

I’ve heard of vipassana meditation so many times, and I didn’t know that it’s the type of meditation that I always do. Interesting.

[yongjiean]

This is a great video. I think Ledi Sayadaw was trying to map out a framework from which the practictioner could realise the teachings of the Buddha (anicca dukkha anatta) and not lost in the teachings. But probably the master also stressd on the importance of mental clarity from jhana to be able to contemplate.