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In the fifth episode of our series on the core teachings of the Buddha, Michael challenges common interpretations of nirvana and The Four Noble Truths. Drawing from "The Noble Quest" in the Majjhima Nikaya, Michael presents nirvana as something subtle and accessible within our lived experience, rather than a distant state to be attained through practice. The Buddha's awakening is portrayed as earthly and non-absolute, suggesting that nirvana is not a fixed destination but a continuous process. By literalizing religious concepts and grounding them in everyday life, the Buddha invites us to confront impermanence and let go of rigid identities. The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone. Follow along with the Core Teachings of the Buddha playlist as we release new episodes: }https://soundcloud.com/michaelstoneteaching/sets/core-teachings-of-the-buddha