The closer you reach happiness, the closer you get to the Dharma

Abstract

         The book "The Closer You Reach Happiness, the Closer You Get to the Dharma " originated from a sermon delivered by Phra Thepwethi (Prayut Payutto) at the Siriraj Buddhist Community Fair, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Siriraj Hospital, and the Self-Development Project, Mahidol University. on the occasion of the Dhamma Practice Week on Visakha Bucha Day, Wednesday, May 29, 1991. Originally story titled "Reaching the Dhamma in Buddhism," it was changed to "The Closer You Reach Happiness, the Closer You Get to the Dharma." The structure and content of the book discusses three levels of happiness: 1) sensual happiness, characterized by its reliance on the five senses; 2) mental happiness, characterized by its transitory nature, lasting only as long as one is in a state of concentration; and 3) freedom happiness, characterized by its freedom from the shortcomings of the two levels of happiness. In short, it is independent of material possessions and independent of time, or, more briefly, free from suffering. The highlight of this book is its approach to creating lasting happiness through mental freedom. And true happiness, Phra Thepwethi (Prayut Payutto) has presented Dhamma principles in a form that can be practically applied in daily life, enabling readers to adapt them to their daily lives. And the reasoned explanations make this book a valuable guide for those who wish to seek happiness in life and society.