What is the sequence of stages in the gradual path described in the Tevijja Sutta?
The sequence begins with a householder listening to the truth and acquiring faith before leaving household life for homelessness. The practitioner then adopts moral precepts, guards the six sense-doors, and practices mindfulness of the body to find an isolated spot for meditation. This process leads to purifying the mind of hindrances and attaining the four rupa-jhanas before destroying the cankers and perceiving liberation.
How does Buddhaghosa describe the seven specific purifications in the Visuddhimagga?
Buddhaghosa outlines purity of conduct as the first purification followed by purity of mind and purity of view. Overcoming doubt constitutes the fourth stage while knowledge and vision of what is path and not path form the fifth step. Contemplation of the course of practice makes up the sixth phase and the final purification arrives through knowledge and vision itself.
What are the six perfections practiced in Mahayana Buddhism according to the Avatamsaka Sutra?
Generosity forms the first perfection followed by virtue and morality as the second aspect. Patience and tolerance constitute the third aspect while energy and diligence make up the fourth stage. One-pointed concentration represents the fifth perfection and wisdom completes the list as the sixth paramita.
How do Annuttara-yoga tantras distinguish generation and completion stages within highest class tantra practice?
Generation stage involves deity yoga through visualizations identifying oneself with a meditational Buddha and seeing their body as the deity's body. Completion stage uses either method path or liberation path approaches where Kundalini practices direct wind energy into heart chakra during method path application. Mahamudra remains after physical and mental transformation occurs and applies mindfulness as preparation for Dzogchen realization.
What distinction did Shenhui make regarding sudden enlightenment in 8th century Chan Buddhism?
Shenhui made sudden enlightenment a hallmark of Chan Buddhism during the 8th century Chinese court struggle between Caodong and Lin-ji schools. Guifeng Zongmi argued that sudden awakening points to true nature followed by gradual cultivation toward Buddhahood. Chinul emphasized insight into true nature is sudden yet requires practice to ripen full enlightenment.