Among the treasures of the Sutta Piṭaka, a handful of discourses tend to stand out, like lighthouses guiding seekers through the Buddha’s vast ocean of teachings.

• Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)
Often called “Setting Rolling the Wheel of Dhamma,” this very first sermon at Sarnath is legendary for introducing the Middle Way, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path. It rattles off the path to liberation with laser-like clarity—no wonder it’s dubbed the Buddha’s “lion’s roar.”

• Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta (SN 22.59)
Right on the heels of the first teaching, this “Discourse on the Not-Self Characteristic” dismantles the idea of a permanent “I.” Even today, neuroscientists and mindfulness practitioners nod in agreement: the sense of self is more fluid than steel.

• Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta (MN 10/DN 22)
The “Foundations of Mindfulness” sutta has become a staple in every modern meditation retreat and mindfulness app (yes, those Headspace and Calm sessions owe a nod here). It lays out body-, feeling-, mind- and dhamma-observations, offering a practical map for inner exploration.

• Sigālovāda Sutta (DN 31)
Dubbed the “Layperson’s Code of Discipline,” this sutta reads like an ancient guide to healthy relationships—family, friends, employers—even neighbors. Think of it as the original etiquette handbook, with timeless advice on mutual respect.

• Karaniya Metta Sutta (Sn 1.8)
The “Discourse on Loving-Kindness” weaves simple yet profound verses, encouraging boundless goodwill. Its contagious resonance has inspired countless Metta circles and social media challenges promoting kindness in turbulent times.

• Kalama Sutta (AN 3.65)
Fighting fake news before fake news was a thing, this discourse urges independent inquiry: “Don’t go upon hearsay… but when you know for yourselves…” It’s like the Buddha’s quality-control checklist for today’s information overload.

These suttas continue to ripple through centuries, reshaping scholarship, therapeutic practice, and everyday lives. Whether whispered in a monastery or tapped out on a smartphone screen, their messages still hit home—timeless and ever-relevant.