A Practical Exploration of Anger in the Early Buddhist Discourses

Anger is one of the most powerful and persuasive human emotions. It can feel justified, energising, and even necessary – yet the Buddha consistently presents it as a source of suffering, distortion, and limitation.

Many of us encounter Buddhist teachings on anger through summaries, later texts, or modern interpretations. In this short Sutta Study series, we will turn directly to a small selection of early Buddhist texts from the Pāli Canon to see how the Buddha and the early tradition approached anger directly.

Drawing on discourses from the Saṃyutta and Aṅguttara Nikāyas, a verse from the Theragāthā, and short passages from the Dhammapada, we will explore anger from several perspectives: how it arises in response to insult, how it relates to power and strength, its consequences, and how understanding and practice can gradually transform it. Rather than offering a single solution, we’ll see how the Buddha provided a range of skilful responses, encouraging curiosity and openness to different approaches.

This series is suitable for those with some familiarity with Buddhist practice who are interested in studying the suttas or reflecting on the role of anger in the path to freedom. No prior textual study experience is necessary to join and benefit from the series. 

Each session will include a guided meditation, a reading of the texts with commentary, and time for group discussion. We will focus on how these teachings can help us respond skillfully to anger in everyday life, making the practice relevant and accessible.