Dear Jon and Nina,

Jon, thanks for your post.

1. I consider that an expressed interest. So, that is good news for Nina. ;-)

2. There is no doubt English translations of the commentaries would be valuable, and I am sure Nina would be able to provide excellent translations from the Pali. If you are keen to make it a regular feature, please propose your ideas.

3. Bhikkhu Bodhi is right in his reflections of his first published translation. That the commentaries present a "narrower, more specific view" of the Buddha's teachings. I simply like to add "to a known target audience". For that matter, I am as keen as you to gain insight into the commentaries.

4. My method of study gives preference to the suttas. It is fortunate that most of them are now available in English translations, which are helpful when I read the Pali. Given a certain topic, I prefer to check out what the Buddha mentioned in all the suttas, the teachings and the metaphors he used, and consult the commentaries only as necessary.

Nina, I realise that we shouldn't let your efforts go to waste. And, I know you are always happy to contribute your time and effort. Do keep the posts coming, and post as it best suits you.


metta,
Yong Peng.