In this episode of Teaching Peace, we explore Chapter 10 of the Dhammapada: Violence (Pali: donda, literally “the stick”)—a sobering meditation on the roots, cycles, and transformation of violence, from interpersonal harm to systemic injustice.

Through a trauma-aware and liberationist lens, Jason Storbakken reflects on the Buddha’s powerful insight:
“Those who oppress others to maintain their own happiness transfer sorrow even to the next generation.” (v. 131)

Drawing on Johan Galtung’s typology of violence—direct, structural, and cultural—we consider how violence is normalized and transmitted across generations. Yet, Gautama Buddha offers a liberative alternative: resisting oppression through the pursuit of personal and collective liberation. From the breath-based wisdom of Hawaiian Aloha to the transformative practice of deep listening, this episode highlights how peace begins within and ripples outward into relationships, communities, and systems.

We also trace the spiritual lineage of dreadlocks from Indian ascetics to Caribbean Maroons, and hear the Buddha’s challenge to religious performance without inner peace:
“A close-minded, hard-hearted religious devotee... remains far from the noble path.” (v. 141)

Join us as we examine how violence is sustained—and how it can be disrupted through breath, presence, and compassionate action.

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