Mindfully listening is listening without being distracted, with the purpose of understanding and remembering with a calm and open mind.

The basic approach to learning the dharma is through hearing (listening), contemplation, and meditation.

Many methods can be applied to support listening attentively. One method is contemplating the three defects of listening which are: 1) not listening, 2) forgetting; and 3) listening with preconceived ideas or emotions.

In classical Mahayana texts, the three faulty kinds of listening are compared to different kinds of pots: 1) Not paying attention to the teachings is listening like an upside-down pot; 2) Not being able to retain what you hear is listening like a pot with holes in it; and 3) Having misguided motivation and mixing negative emotions with what you hear is listening like a pot containing poison.

Sati (Pali) and smrti (Sanskrit) both mean “what is remembered,” which can also be thought of as “not forgetting.” These concepts invite us to listen with attention and awareness.

Mindful listening is a generous practice that improves our capacity to understand others, remember, learn, and communicate effectively.

Practice conscious, mindful listening, free from reactivity.

• How does it feel to be heard or listened to?
• How does it feel to listen to others fully?
• How does this differ from the feelings that arise when not being heard or listened to?

Implement Buddhist frameworks for mindful listening by analyzing the “three defective pots” metaphor, evaluate personal listening habits against contemplative listening principles, and demonstrate deep listening practices that support both dharma study and compassionate communication with others.