Buddha standpoint of Theravada (Sthavira)

PART 2

Buddha, in view of the Theravada

(Sthavira)

 N If standing from the perspective of history of Indian Buddhism look we will see the evolution of Buddhist thought India is complex. Buddhism has gone through three different periods, each period has its own system of thought, not the same. The first is Theravada Buddhism, at this stage, only Buddhist Sangha is a community living in harmony, for liberation and enlightenment making purposes. Sangha living in monastic life, real-migrant, taking solitude as a means of meditation practice, dismisses all things related to the family and the world, not debate on issues transcendental philosophy figure, we can say this is characteristic of the Theravada Buddhist period. Next came The period Buddhist sects, this is the blooming period of the Buddhist ideology, philosophical issues metaphysical formerly Buddha kept silence, has now been brought sectarian dissected and discussed analyzed. The idea that 'the law is real' theory of sex Sarvastivada (Sarvastivadin) became the official ideology of the period. It also is a factor thought to form 'the law is not' of Mahayana Buddhism. We can say, this is the thought process of the development of Indian Buddhism.

 In the course of this development, a milestone of Buddhist thought India that we need to note that the idea of the year of the Great God (Mahadeva) [1] has made ​​internal division sangha into two major schools of Theravada (Sthavira) and Mahasanghikas (Mah Œ sa º ghika). From these two systems of thought later developed into the ideology of Buddhism.

Under " General Comment Comment walk "record that after the Buddha's about 100 years, unions have increased internal dissent right understanding about the Year of the Great God (Mahadeva). As a result of the controversy that led to a rift Sangha, Buddhism split into two sects: Theravada (Shavira) and the Great Assembly (Mahasanghika). Meaningful content and process in the evolution of the complex, from the University debate between God and the Elders to the controversy between the Theravada sect and Mahasanghikas are two different events on the also vary in time and thought, but we mistakenly thought to be an event, which led to the confusion that Mahasanghikas thoughts are thoughts of the Great God, but the results of the study authors it is not so. The content and meaning of the year that the Great God had given meaning rejected the deification of the Buddha contemporary Buddhist [2] . But after Mass the sect was mythologized Buddha, which means that in the view of the Great God of the Buddha's views on Mahasanghikas completely opposite. So why in the historical record that Buddhism, God is Great sect leader Mahasanghikas? Thus, the cult of the Great Mahasanghikas favor of what areas? I think Mahasanghikas not inherit and promote the idea of Dai Thien year only inherits the spirit of his reforms. It's just that, Mahasanghikas use his spiritual reform to reform Buddhism, change of purpose 'self level' of the Theravada Buddhist purpose 'of tha' Mass or Buddhist Mahayana , for the purpose of socialization Buddhism, spiritual enforcement staff level research, forming the basis of thought 'Bodhisattva' of Mahayana Buddhism following [3] . Without criticizing the reform spirit of the Great God in the beginning, the reform ideology, socialization Buddhism's success Mahasanghikas difficult. Buddhist Events renewal is consistent with policies take time and make Buddhism the state religion of Ashoka (Asoka). Thus, taking the spirit Mahasanghikas reforms of the Great God as the foundation for the renewal of his stance, that does not mean Mahasanghikas get the idea of the year of the Great God do for his thoughts.

Therefore, the discussion of this article, to clarify topics: 'Buddha Theravada standpoint of the Ministry'. issue should be clarified before entering into the discussion is the concept 'The Venerable' (Sthavira), are used here only for those with the vision of the Buddha is not to deify, whether it is God or the Great Venerable Ministry later.

This article is not discussed in the topic of the Great God, but the idea of ​​his work in promoting the role and value of human beings. That is people-centered issues discussed, rejected the metaphysical notions and myths, unrealistic, not to human contact. This is why I see him as a character of The Venerable.

During the study of the history of Buddhist thought India, discovered in Agama texts or doing pretty much Nikàya with content related to the controversial issues between the Ministry sect. For example, ' Suffering State Economic Aggregates '(Culadukkhandhasutta) in " Business Central "(Majjhima-Nikaya), Buddha deny Him who is the omniscience, is necessary. Affordable, this is the base point to the Great God of the following year made ​​the idea of work, describing disprove the myth of the Buddha. I think, between the two ideas are closely linked. We can say this is also the view of the Buddha of Theravada sect or, more precisely, is the point of the Buddha under the " Central Business " .

According to his " walk Luan Tong Gong " , Theravada Buddhism and Mahasanghikas have different views about Buddha. The Venerable Ministry said that the Buddha was a real historical figure, the position of the person he attempts to practice, except the greed hatred and ignorance, has finally become a Buddha (Buddha), who has been enlightening and liberating. In contrast, the Mahasanghikas not see Buddha so that the Buddha is said that people of the world, not a normal person, his appearance is just the 'manifest', for goods of birth that turned out. The reason is because I want to spread the Buddhist society need to borrow, these cultural ideas, even the way the myth of their masters, to create mass appeal, as a means of teaching beings . This is the ideological differences between Theravada Buddhism and Mahasanghikas.

The research objective of this article is mainly to find out the views of the Department of Theravada Buddha. Since then, we have suggested a new perspective on the year of the Great God, that is in the content of Dai Thien closely related ideas Buddha denies he is the most installed, most set is in " Business Central "(Majjhima-Nikaya).

Official sources used in this article is Nikaya, A Ham, " Walking Ton g Luan Luan " , " The Argument " (Kathavatthu) and some classic thua.vv. University. research method was used philosophical, analyzed the Buddhist materials relevant to the topic of research. Hopefully with this approach shed light on some of the issues as presented above.

 

1.   Buddha's historical figures

In the Buddhist scriptures there are two different concepts but with the Buddha described as the ' world 'or' of the world '. Here, the concept of ' world 'to refer to the historical Buddha and the concept' of the world 'is only to deify the Buddha.  

According to historical sources recorded in the scriptures related to historical Buddha, though not complete, but determined that Buddha Shakyamuni (Sakyas-muni) was born in the sixth century before BC, is the country's central India, caste iron interests, Shakya clan (Sakyas), his father was Suddhodana (Suddhodana) was the King of Kapilavastu (Kapilavastu), mother's Queen Ma Ya (Maya). According to the contemporary custom of Prince Siddhartha (Siddhattha) married very soon with Princess Yasodhara (Yasodhara) and gave birth to a son named Rahula (Rahula). In 29 years, he feels life is imperfect human being, not as you want, afflictions and sorrow fins are covered himself and all beings, so he has decided to leave the palace, the beautiful wife poetry, of religion lessons. From there he became a hermit, living a homeless life of wandering in the jungle. Over six years of ascetic practices, the body just skin and bones, but no goal, but He became a school director, so he gave up the life of ascetic practices. With his own experience, he underwent 49 days of night practice of meditation and finally enlightenment and liberation, the people as Buddha (Budhha), who turns 36 years old that year. After enlightenment, he took the rest of his life preaching beings, until his death 80 years. So he has 45 years of living sermon, His teachings were later compiled the disciples called three organ classics include: Economics, Law and Argument. This is an overview of the history of the Buddha.

If we base Agama resources or Nikaya, there are quite a lot of recording the life and activities of the Buddha is simple and very human. He also walking outside, eat and sleep well sick body like human beings, not like the description of " Thich Pho Ca " [4] or in the classics of Mahayana Buddhism, the Buddha is a 'Superman' did not know nothing (omnipresent tri), not what not to do (omnipresent power) and is capable of popular culture (omnipresent) of the Buddha.

According to that legend, which causes him to feel the monastic life is impermanent, life is miserable human being. This kind of suffering, in addition to objective factors, it also involves subjective factors, such as anxiety and suffering the injustice of the caste system of Brahmin caste. They imposed on the people of contemporary society, and even suffering anxiety about the survival of the country Kapilavastu that he will have to shoulder, before the threat of invasion by neighboring countries have disabilities La (Kosala). etc. .. All this suffering anxiety, have become factors to Prince Siddhartha choice between two paths, one is making a cakkavatti, his father's successor , take politics as a career, territorial defense and enforcement of its policy of equality; two are chosen path leading monastic school, doing masters (Zhuan King) to resolve the anxiety of His own suffering and human suffering including the survival of the organization His country. It is a legitimate factor to Prince Siddhartha choose the path of guidance lessons. [5]

The contents of the Buddha enlightenment under the bodhi tree of dependent kh by ​​your (pratitya-samutpada), based on this rule discovered four Buddha's truth is life: life is suffering (dukkha base); cause birth size (apron); the cessation of suffering (Kill soles); and the way to end suffering (sole director). Is the law of dependent origination operation of both psychological and physical, so his teachings are called truth [6] . With that, the Buddha pointed out the nature of human capital is impermanent (anitya), not the self (anatman), without being self-perpetuating nature of self that must rely on each other to survive. From this theory, suggests we found that the doctrine of dependent origination and selflessness of Buddhism became invisible general theory of multi-phase systems of philosophical thought ' on down can uniformity 'in " Austria means Letter "(Upanisads) of the ruling class of powerful Brahmins. This is why the Buddha after his enlightenment brainer think there should or should not declare what he discovered.

From this sense, we can see content meditative Buddha under the Bodhi tree during 49 days and nights associated with the specific issues of pressing contemporary society, including the philosophical issues political, religious, social ... and even the problem of human suffering, such as the institutional division of Indian society into four classes of Brahmin, and even problems death of Kapilavastu country became the premise of his thoughts. What kind of pain are expressed in many different forms, but based on its properties, the analysis Sariputra into 8 types of suffering as' Business discrimination truth '(Saccavibhangacittasutta) in " Business Central "Episode 3 [7] . In particular, being suffering, suffering elderly, the sick suffering, suffering death, pain XI warm contingent on the type of the body's natural pain. Resentment chapter format, affinity separation sudden pain and suffering for those suffering psychological, caused by humans. Why are humans born but who belong to the ruling class wealth, has power, joy, and still others belong to the class being treated as slaves for life, living in miserable misfortune? This is the question that youth Bubha Todeyyaputta given problem and ask the Buddha explained [8] speaks of the suffering of people living under regimes that class.

So to understand why people have this suffering, the Buddha had discovered the theory of origin (pratitya-samutpada) is the principle form the physical world and the human suffering. "This has to be the other has" the universal principles form the universe. From this principle of dependent origination explains why people suffering form the condition by 12. Begins with 'ignorance' and finally 'Lao Tzu', sorrowful suffering mental afflictions is the state of human suffering. As such, constitute the cause of suffering is ignorance, not by Brahma, God or any god has the power to bless or to mediate human man-made, man is the owner of all karma. Buddha explains why human life is so different now not the same force [9] . Karma is conscious. Consciousness seems to be driven by intellectual life will bring happiness and peace. Consciousness seems to be driven by ignorance is the cause of suffering life unhappy. Thus, the Buddha content thoughtfully enlightenment under the bodhi tree intimately involved with the lives of real people, not what is beyond the human world.

However, after the Buddha's, because the disciples His devotion, mythology is more traditional Indian culture to the development of Buddhism is not how to avoid the influence of religious traditions of other religions. Buddhist circulating in the human world, for want of others, to integrate into society, should also gradually formed this opinion. Since then Buddha suddenly become a supernatural divine. Maybe that's why the union has increased the controversy over the years of the Great God (Mahadeva) [10] , the result of this controversy has led to a split into two sects of Buddhism: Theravada Ministry (Sthavira) and Mahasanghikas (Mahasamgika) which according to legend is the man of Dai Thien sect Mahasanghikas. Mass Concept at that time only for the many, not just ideology, this is the point we need to pay attention.

Over the years this content indicate disagreement between the two sects Buddha. Dai Thien [11] has strongly criticized contemporary Buddhist deify the Buddha [12] , loss of clarity, expressed the opposite view of what the Buddha taught expounded, reaction physician superstitious practices of Indian society.

Perhaps this is the most accurate answer for why the young monk Dai Thien ideological supporters. He was the one who paved the way for the renewal, break conservative ideology of the monk, as a prerequisite for the development of Mahayana Buddhist thought later. But his ideas differ from the ideas of the sect's after Mahasanghikas, because he was rejected deification problems Buddha, but the thought of the sect of Mahasanghikas later, by contrast, only inherit open mind receptive to the observatory only, so we should not assume that the thought of God is Great ideas Mahasanghikas or Mahayana Buddhism.

The difference between the ideology of Theravada and Mahasanghikas is the difference between the daily life of two sangha. The aim of the Ministry is part of Venerable quest for enlightenment. Anyone who wants to achieve this goal should be to give up family life, living the monastic life of countless families in mountainous solitude and meditation practice. Thus, the Buddha's teachings were taught in a function or Nikàya and dictates rules are closely associated with this life.

However, the purpose of the monastic Mahasanghikas is different, for purposes of enlightenment and liberation also have a responsibility to do the 'myth dharma', taking the saving sentient beings as a career. Because enforcement spiritual 'preaching birth' method should living in the mountain forests of the Sangha no longer appropriate, and instead settled in life, right in the heart of social life, convenient implementation crystal god save the staff level. The changes in daily life of the Sangha led to a change in the rule, is the specific regulations on the scope of the monastic life in a certain social context. Life changing events, the rule change, will inevitably lead to a different interpretation of his teachings, thought reform and renewal which appear. This is the reason why Buddhism split into two sects: Theravada and Mahasanghikas. Thought Mahayana Buddhism is the pinnacle for renewed reform movement, thought Bodhisattva of Mahayana Buddhism broke the principles of the monastic life of primitive Buddhism.

So to implement the spirit of beings, or the Buddhist Mahayana Mass can not use a rigid form, which must declare the means to the level of grace beings. The flip side of this means the spirit is easy for the introduction of forms of folk religious nature, mythologized Buddha, making it attractive for purely religious world. In relation to the mythological described in " Walk Ton g Luan Luan "states that:

Buddhas are Exalted rank of the world, all the Tathagata do not have gonorrhea or, Tathagata's words have purpose Zhuan Falun, the buddhas are taking a negative silence [13] to say legal, Tathagata's words were meant as real, physical body of the Tathagata has no edge, dread power of the Buddha has no limits, longevity and infinite Buddhas ... Buddha does not have a dream. As answer these questions without thinking ... All Bodhisattvas enter not undergo fetal stage until fertilization figurative, bodhisattvas enter the pregnant form wrinkled white elephant in the womb , as well as the birth Bodhisattva also from the mother's right arm .... [14]

The content and meaning of the text has led to us, Mahasanghikas that Buddha is the one who 'of the world', not the ordinary man of flesh and blood like us humans. The appearance of him just the 'manifest', not really, so the conception, birth and during pregnancy, do not follow the Bodhisattva of human factors in society, the life Pregnancy is not the result of intercourse, blood father by the mother crystal form, which by the way via a dream, that white elephant chun and pregnant belly. Also, the birth (birth) of the Bodhisattvas unlike people, who are born from the armpit or the mother's right side.

This description, meant to exaggerate, to deify the Buddha. want to give a bodhisattva or a Buddha completely clean, from body to mind, even to form factors are also human deification, although he was born with a human form, but not the dominant pollution. Was Mahayana Buddhism has employed cultural beliefs and male-supremacy in India to describe the Buddha? This is a point to be noticed and studied. His longevity is immeasurable, not the law of impermanence origination dominant, imposing his magic powers and endless, incredible, his words were meant to speak the Dharma, no words joking as they ta.vv.. Anyway, here is the view from the perspective of Buddha Mahasanghikas well as Mahayana Buddhism. Under this view is not the Buddha who is the 'outside world', he came to life just as the 'manifest'.

 In contrast, the Venerable Ministry does not accept the way the Buddha described as the 'world of' define him like that was a real historical figure, he is a man of flesh and blood, still must be impermanent phenomena of the world changes, as described in " Walk religious g Luan Luan " as follows:

The Arahat still tangible worldliness and outflows ... the liberation of the Buddha II surplus goods no different ... It should be understood that the Bodhisattva is a being .... just not what to say by Tathagata have transferred legal purposes, the Buddha did not have to use all kinds of sound legal speak, the words of the Blessed One is not always the truth. [15]

The content and meaning of this passage shows us proof that the Department does not agree Venerable deify the Buddha, so he boldly said that four great body of the Buddha is the property illegally Buddha or Bodhisattva when he brings the human body, be sure to change the law of impermanence, sick, even the termination of this life, nobody inevitable, whether it is the enlightened . Then we call the Buddha was enlightened and liberated mean anything? Here we should understand the concept of 'enlightenment' is the correct understanding, correct awareness about certain issues. Due enlightened understanding the nature of things, so we are not forming afflictions disturbances; life without disturbances so called 'liberation'. Thus, the concept of 'enlightenment' and 'liberation' of psychological not physical, so we should not confuse that people have 'enlightened' and 'liberation' is entirely in clean both body and mind, not of law is dominated ephemeral. This is the meaning of the sentence: 'The Arahat still useful and very illegal contraband'. 'Friendship illegally' is a concept only Arahat still defilement of the body, ie the constituent body of Arhat blood father is fine by me. Arhat is the human body should still be subject to the law of impermanence change, disease dau.vv ... 'No Omission' is the concept of interest only to the Arahat was completely clean, no longer involved hatred and ignorance. Because no anger and ignorance, so even though he has lived in the impermanent world is full of suffering, but not because of this change make him suffer. This is the meaning of the phrase "Bodhisattva is a being only", meaning that the Buddha was a human being, from the position of the man he had become a Buddha, not a deity from the How to unfamiliar world. Standing Buddha from a human perspective, so all he said was not all that holy language, he also said sometimes the words happy harmony with people, these words do not mean the 'Zhuan Falun'.

In summary, the two sects have different views about Buddha. Mahasanghikas said that Buddha is not human, he is the one of world capital. The presence of Him in the world is a 'manifest'. For the purpose of edification beings create confidence, so the Buddha as the general human condition, but in fact he had become a Buddha from countless lifetimes. Pregnancy, childbirth is not uncleanness of the mother, which indicates the purity of the Buddha, meaning meet the religious needs of the people at that time, especially in India, which has traditional man's culture, that of the female body is a vile defilements. Buddhism itself does not accept this view, but Mahasanghikas Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism for the purpose of preaching the Dharma, of beings, who are superstitious beliefs put heavy, interesting things magic, so Mahayana Buddhism has deify the Buddha, for the purpose of media who love to direct guided.

In contrast, the Venerable Ministry said that the Buddha was a human being, from the perspective of a man who Buddha. The difference between human beings and the Buddha is the only difference between people with and without intellectual wisdom. Wise people known as the Buddha (Buddha ) , since this means that the enlightened, or in other words, who has eradicated greed hatred and ignorance. We are unenlightened ordinary man, not the exception greed hatred and ignorance, so-called being.

Through this definition we can see the difference between the Buddha and sentient beings is only a difference of spirit or rather knowledge, not physical differences, ie the body. That is, even though the Buddha was not a Buddhist or, still carrying the human body is still subject to the law of impermanence and change, subject to the law of birth, old age, disease and death, while still alive to feel no hunger, emotions hot and cold ... not when the Buddha was no longer the phenomenon. Such a Buddha known as Buddha history [16] .

 

2.   Buddha is the master

So far everyone knows Buddhism is a religion, but standing on the meaning of religion is to understand Buddhism is not religion, because Buddhism does not have the right spirit, the Buddha himself did not claim he was a religious teacher, he himself confirmed that he was only pointing out the truth of life is suffering and how to get rid of the pain, to be happy and at peace. Those who want to achieve this goal, to practice on their own, modified temperaments, mum of treatment, choice of life or happiness are suffering because of our own human choice, not by Buddha decisions or God, Buddha is the only guru directions only. The doctrine of dependent origination and causal He confirmed that. ' Economic Activity 'in the' Business Central A function "Buddha very clearly stated his position as follows:

What can mortal fears arise, brethren, all the fear that arises for the fool, not the sage; What can ordinary disappointments arise, brethren, all that frustration arises for the fool, not the sage; What Qualities have trouble arises, brethren, all that trouble arises for the fool, not the sage . [17]

This teaching is very simple but the content contains a deep meaning, not the voice of justice of the law of causality, but we speak of the Buddha in human pedagogy.

The Buddha said that psychological fear, anxiety, depression ... the result of foolish heart, in Buddhism is called 'ignorance'. Ignorance is the underlying cause of all suffering. For example, the status of a person suffering as a result of gambling passion for gambling, the gambling enthusiasts emerge from greed, greed is the expression of stupidity center, so is foolish origin of suffering.

That's how we get rid of suffering? Do we need God to Buddha to his original crime reduction fun? According to Buddhism, no one has the right to give us pleasure or pain we are doomed, because the origin of suffering from heart appear foolish, but foolish heart was right in the heart of beings, not as in Buddhism or God, and that ignorance is a psychological state rather than an object to form 'please' and 'for'. Thus, people who want to rid the pain only single measures are taken understanding, get wisdom as a means to rid her idiocy. For example, the darkness and the light is not pleased and. Where there is light, the place that no one can bring into the darkness, whether that person is the Buddha or God, as opposed to somewhere where there is no light, the darkness he suffered, whether God or Buddha is not place that can turn light. Also, we can not ask the Buddha for wisdom that we ourselves do not practice, do not light up the torch of his own.

Thus, Buddha worthless for human life? Please answer that the Buddha is to help human society very much, because he was the one who discovered the duality of life is suffering and happiness. He points out that suffering is always associated with ignorance; and happiness always associated with wisdom. His definition of ignorance is the illusion that I know it's not true, since expertise in Pali Canon called 'not as physical volition' or in Mahayana scriptures called 'crazy dream' . Because crazy not see true, the behavior should lead to mistakes, mistakes from behavior leading to desired results; something that does not appear like that is something that is born of suffering. That is why the Buddha said that the origin of suffering is ignorance. Likewise, always happy associated intellectual Pali Sanskrit called Panna called pra-jnaparamit Π. These two words imply different meanings, but both intellectual meaning, that is the correct understanding, called Pali Canon 'as of volition' in " Lotus Sutra "called 'cross as the'. So understanding exactly true, should lead to action to correct, due to actions taken to correct the results should be happy. That is why the Buddha said that wisdom is the cause of peaceful life and happiness.

If we accept this interpretation, then we should not see Buddha as a god, has the right to bring down ruin blessing for everyone, because he said that ignorance is the source of sorrow, wisdom is the source of happiness. Wisdom appears only through the efforts of practice, practice discipline and insight, not what falls from the sky, or by anyone for.

Therefore, we should not mistakenly think you see the Buddha as God, has the power to bless or reconciled, his only masters are indications path to nirvana. Contents and the meaning of the word 'guru' in Buddhism, is not synonymous with the concept of the Christian God, as the meaning of the word 'guru' non-concept 'Creative' and 'power', whereas the meaning of the word 'God', then this implies two meanings. This is something we need to pay attention. Therefore, in practice the process of an in-home or in-home Buddhism, Buddha only serve as a teacher, thorough instructions for disciples defilements roads that lead to the live peacefully and happily. The road which we must practice, not Buddha who make a difference; we should not just believe the Buddha himself did not need to see the wrong and correct, then one day, He will give us the enlightenment. Related to this idea, in " Samyutta Nikaya "(Samyutta-Nikaya) Episode 3, 'product Elders' Buddha taught that:

The roads are not good at, this Tissa, is for the ordinary man. The roads are good, the Tissa, is for the Tathagata, Arhat level, Enlightenment. [18]

Here the Buddha pointed out, ordinary beings who do not know the path to nirvana, while the Tathagata (Tathagata), Arahats (Arahato) is well known and has been practicing the path that. Do not knowing 'path to enlightenment' so being propelled into rebirth, also known as the Tathagata and practice that way, so he was enlightenment. From this sense, we also suggested a significant other to understand the difference between the Buddha beings as 'know' and 'do not know', the Buddha is said, beings who do not know. So we want to achieve enlightenment and liberation can not be stopped in the belief that efforts to implement 'diligent', 'concept', 'on' and 'wisdom'. Wisdom is of liberation. Also, 'Economic Ganakamoggallana Sutta 'in the' Business Central "(Majjhima Nikaya" recorded conversations between the Buddha and Moggallana, with clear views contents of the Buddha role in the birth of his career.

Venerable Moggallana asked:

- The disciples of Gotama Sa, Sa Gotama is recommended when such education and teaching so that all evidence must be Nibbana or just have some evidence? [19]

The religious answer:

- Hey Brahmin, some of my disciples, when such preaching, teaching such, some evidence is Nibbana, some are not evidence . [20]

Moggallana asked:

- Dear Venerable Gotama, what's due, what conditioned by the presence of Nirvana, in the presence of a path to nirvana, in the presence of the venerable Gotama level directions, however venerable disciples Gotama, the Catholic religion Gotama recommendations such as teaching, some evidence is Nibbana, some are not certified? [21]

The religion does not directly answer the question of enemy indirect answer by placing the opposite problem. Answering aims to grab the opponent's answer as the answer for yourself. So Buddha question: if someone asked him about the road to Rajgir, he answered them thoroughly should follow this path to success, but they do not follow the instructions of him, then he can not reach Rajgir? Ganaka the Brahmin Moggallana replied 'no', so The religious answer:

Likewise, the Brahmins, in the presence of Nirvana, in the presence of a path to nirvana, and while there was only sugar levels. But my disciples, teaching is one such extension, such teaching, some evidence is Nibbana, some are not certified. Here is a Brahmin, what are we doing? As only the future directions. [22]

Through the conversation, Buddha and Brahmin Moggallana Ganaka confirmed: Nirvana Truth (titthat'eva nibbanam), there is a path to nirvana (tiṭṭhati nibbanagami-maggo). This suggests that we understand, Buddhism is not a religion should view life only suffering and sorrow, which indicates that Buddhism, in addition to suffering life, human life also happiness and life path to happiness. This is a very positive perspective of Buddhism, an educational point very clear and practical feasibility.

But here there is a problem is posed, how we achieve that happy life? We totally rely on 'faith' to someday take us to the Buddha Nirvana, or that we ourselves try to practice his teachings to the enlightenment? Passages that conduct has given us a clear answer: 'Tathagata is just a guide' only. That means that even though there is nirvana, there is the path to Nirvana, and the Tathagata is the only path, but if we do not practice what Tathagata had instructions, or not practice accordance with the instructions, one can not reach Nirvana. The reason why? Simple answer is that we do not practice or not practice true Buddhist teachings, so in His disciples, though all are practiced under the guidance of the Blessed One teach, but who attained, but also did not see results, like Ganaka Moggallana had directions for pedestrians, but pedestrians do not follow the instructions, the results are not to the purpose. That is not the fault of the fault directions that pedestrians do not follow. That is why the Buddha said: Tathagata is only a guide (Maggakkhayi, Brahmana, Tathagato-The Tathagata is one who shows the way).

 The meaning of this statement, clarifying his Buddha is not the 'God' or 'Spirit' has the right to reward those who feel satisfied, or punishment for those who fail to obey His will. According to Buddhism, the law of cause and effect is very intelligent, so shall you sow, no one has the right to make other people suffering or happiness, sorrow and happiness of each person by themselves create. This is why the Buddha says:

Be yourself island for yourself, brethren, take refuge in yourself, not rely on someone else. Take legal work island, take refuge law, no one else to rely. [23]

We can say, here is the tendency of Buddhist education, always uphold the spirit knew 'duty' and 'responsibility'. The duty and responsibility to know what is not good Buddhists but also a good citizen in society. In my opinion, this tendency education should be implemented in today's society - a society that tends to conflict between the achievements of science and education system purely religious. Overestimated the achievements of science and technology is the cause of social chaos, moral role lightly, losing affection between people, between parent and child, between friends ... On the other hand, the intensity dance forms of religious life theocratic element will halt the development of society, far removed from the spirit of duty and responsibility to know people, cause obstruction to the young generation to religion . Youth only know the achievements of physical science, not knowing the value of religious education would have despise moral risk, leading to despise responsible duties to ourselves, with family and finally responsible duty to society. These two extremes are formed and occur in our society. In my opinion, the system of Buddhist education will help people not to fall into two extremes, that is not too highly self-satisfied with the result of physical science, and not exaggerated religious activities Net Drugs, theocratic nature. As Buddhist education to enhance the role of wisdom, to know duties and responsibilities, and do take intellectual lodestar build ethical lifestyle, does not prevent the progress of people and always fit needs of social progress.

In addition sense Buddha is a religious teacher, in " Economic Journal A function ", doing some 389 Buddha himself for himself as the 'Herbalist', was recorded as follows:

There are four methods such great achievements called medical realm, throne worthy king. What are the four? The first is smart to know the disease, the second is cleverly known cause of the disease, the third is smart to know how to cure, to later disease recurrence was not anymore ... Application Offering Tathagata, the Great Enlightenment Italy who is the king four virtues achievement, being healed so well. What are the four? It is said here is suffering Tathagata has said as true Noble Truths; This is a file format known as so holy empire; This is the noble truth of suffering known as destroy truth; \ Here is suffering destroy sole director known as truth .... [24]

First Buddha stated on the characteristics of a 'health food' in the world, there are four characteristics: first, it is likely diagnose illness; secondly, to know the root causes of diseases; third known method of healing; Wednesday, after completed treatment no recurrence of the disease. Here are 4 characteristics that a 'health food' in the world should have.

Also, Buddha is also a 'health food', but he is not health food that is worldly physician 'of the world'. So how is called a physician's of the world? Based on the contents and meaning texts has led on, we found that the reason he called the physician of the world, because He is the prophet who has legal evidence from easy (Catvari-aryasatyani): The first hard to (Duhkha-satya), the actual extent of human life, including two types of pain, suffering kind of kind of natural and spiritual suffering. What kind of pain is about as natural as hunger, cold hot, sick tat.vv.. Anyone there, or whether it is Buddhist holy. Types of psychological suffering, just for the state of suffering comes from psychology, but to love one another as life separation (separation of suffering love), pray without (suffering sudden demand), hate that must live near each other (resentment chapter format). Secondly apron (samudaya -satya ) is the cause of the generation of human suffering, it is ignorance, is represented by hearts desire. Tuesday is the Empire Kill (nirodha-satya), is a state of peacefulness and happiness, while terminating human greed hatred and ignorance, also known as the state of Nirvana. Wednesday is the sole director (Marga-satya), the approach path or defilements, ie the eightfold path, starting as of right ... In short, meaningful content of teachings from De explaining about two aspects of human life, one that includes aspects of defilement Noble Truth and aprons, say human life which is the cause of suffering and misery born; two are present regardless of defilement or purity, including Kill soles and sole director, reflecting know if human life, this life is for our life happy and peaceful, even in this life.

From this we mean that Buddhism is not a religion pessimistic attitude, looking at life with the eyes only suffering and sorrow, the pursuit of a peaceful life on the other side of the world, as a number people think. According to me, Buddhism is a religion dares to look at the truth, frankly Buddha pointed out the inherent life of suffering and the cause of that pain. Not only that, but the Buddhism points out, in addition to suffering life, human life also have peace and happiness and the path to that life. Life is peaceful and happy life is not after committing suicide, go across the new world, but it was right in this life, upon termination of greed, anger and ignorance is when he appeared happy right. Thus, we can not assume that Buddhism is a religion that is a negative religion positive, not pessimistic religion that is a positive religion, not a religion just to mention of the world, but also refers to the spirit incarnate.

Then the physician who is helping the world reduce the human suffering of the body. Buddha's physician, but not all of his treatment specialist treatment 'physical sickness' which specializes in treatment 'heart disease' of beings. Body but not sick but with heart full of greed, hatred and ignorance are suffering depression piled like mountains, but the disease itself but from the generous hearts full of introspection and insight, life still feels peaceful and happy.

In summary, the Buddha is only a 'guru' or a 'physician', meaning this extremely insightful. Some people do not understand the significance that this reduces the value of the Buddha. In my opinion, it does not detract from the prestige of His opposite also increase his prestige, especially in today's society.

With the lives of human smuggling peanuts in the past without the light of science and technology, religion in general and Buddhism in particular has borrowed unfamiliarity before the abnormal phenomenon occurs as the nature of facilities educate people. Deify the Buddha, with the aim of helping people to stay away from evil, do good, to human life to be happy and at peace. In today's society, especially in Western societies with a good education system, science plus advanced techniques, the natural phenomena were gradually discovered, there is no doubt of the people, education means that mythical, no longer applies anymore, then why do not we use the inherent spirit in light of the Buddha to introduce to people and society today? Why do not we introduce the Buddha in the flesh, with bright wisdom in His Vietnamese people, especially younger generations - generations equip a basic knowledge before entering life? Thus, the historical Buddha very important role in our society.

 

3.   between the cell site and the Arahat Buddha

If we base Doing A resource of content or Nikaya, the Buddha we see refers to the four stages are: 1. Tu has completed (Srotapana-phala), 2. Freezer function (Sakrdagami-phala), 3. Anagami (Angami-phala), 4. Arhat (Arahat). This results in four fruit Arahat is the highest results, in addition to the other results no longer Buddha Shakyamuni is only us through Arahat. But after the Buddha's about more than 100 years, the Great God (Mahadeva) made ​​5 of [25] , has led to controversial results divided into two sects of Buddhism: Mahasanghikas (Mahasamghika) and The Venerable (Sthavira). Mahasanghikas that: 1. Arhat still ejaculate phenomena during sleep. 2. still have any defilement senseless , 3. status still hesitant. 4. still have the problem only point raised by others . 5. director from that due to sound [26] ; The Venerable whereas disagree. From this event, the following four Mahayana Buddhist view is four direct result of Theravada fruition bar text, not by Bodhisattva and Buddhahood. But in fact, the monk of the Buddha look like, we need to understand before we discuss the views of Mahasanghikas. Related to the point that we are discussing, sources earliest record of canonic Nikàya as follows:

As hybrid (Tathagato), brethren, are Arahats, Enlightenment ... [27]

Here Buddha confirmed, Tathagata (Tathagato) is Arahats (Arahat), as well as Enlightenment (sammà-sambuddho); Arhat is also the Tathāgata, the Buddha, the supreme Buddha, three this title was only for a enlightenment, the name does not have high or low. This is the point we should note, is the view of the Theravada Buddhist period, or rather the period of Doing A function or Nikaya, the period incurred no distinction between Arhat and Buddha .

Also mentioned in the last paragraph shows that factors Tathagata (Tathagato), Arhat (Arahat), Enlightenment (sammà-sambuddho) and the monk attained enlightenment there Arhat same content, there is a general principle that no attachment to form, feeling, perception, volition and consciousness, so he separated from the boring and excellent ... so boring and away from sharp .. . should not be greedy for attachment to the colors ... so not greedy for color ... so get rid of pain due form, feeling, perception, consciousness caused. There is nothing called 'brethren are liberated by wisdom' that he wanted to emphasize, only wisdom can enlightenment and liberation, denotes not meaningful content between the Buddha's enlightenment and the rate parade was not the same deliverance. In that case, the Buddha and the monks of arahantahood are the same reasonable? To solve this problem, in " Samyutta Nikaya "episode 3, the Buddha explained as follows:

 

Bhikshus! Here the Tathagata, application level hardware, and the supreme Buddha, monks were liberated by the knowledge that there is something else wrong? Is there anything specific? [28]

Bhikshus! Here the Tathagata, application level hardware, supreme Buddha is a person who starts up the path, do not arouse the awakened path, the path has not been expounded expounded, is the knowledge, understanding and awareness realization that path. Bhikshus! And the good men on the way from Italy that also saw the holy practice arahantahood. [29]

Through passage has led us to see clearly the nature of defects between the Buddha and the disciples have attained Arahat . If such passages on determining the Buddha attained between Him with the Arahat is the same, then this passage Buddha presents the differences between him and the disciple is the one who did not witness Arhat same. difference between him and the Arahat only difference, he was the one who discovered the path to enlightenment and liberation, and the Arhat disciples who he kept practice on the road and also as his enlightenment. In summary, the similarities between the Buddha and Arahat is attained, the difference between the Buddha and the monks attained Arhat, is the difference between the path and explore the conformation that path.

From the content and meaning of this passage, we see evidence for that, in the Theravada Buddhist period or rather of Theravada sects agreed that results Arahat is the highest results Lord Shakyamuni attained only Arahat, in addition to the other with no results.

Then Bodhisattva results (Boddhi-sattva) and various Buddha like?

Based from the resources of a function or Nikàya describe the concept of Bodhisattva is not the result enlightenment, the Buddha describes when he left home, not attained any public fruition, so-called Bodhisattvas. Thus, if we stand from the perspective of Theravada sect, the concept of a bodhisattva is not the only result to a home. But the period of " Bon birth "," The Bon " or Southern literary communication during the " Jataka " , the concept appears to carry a different meaning, the bodhisattva is viewed as a result do not is ordinary. In fact, if we base the analysis from Boddhi-sattva, it also contains two different meanings. From 'Boddhi-sattva' as two words 'boddhi' (enlightenment) and 'sattva' (beings) that the composite. Here, if we consider the word as an adjective boddhi, qualify for sattva, Boddhi-sattva, the concept must be understood as sentient species characteristic of enlightenment. This analysis, meaning Buddha or Arahat which are sentient beings, from the position of the man who became Buddha, the Buddha denied or bodhisattvas of the world's people. This is way out of Theravada sect, see Buddha as a historical figure.

In contrast, the second explanation, see the word 'Boddhi' as a verb and 'sattva' is a noun as the object of, and subject of the sentence is understood, so the word 'boddhi-sattva' carries the Bodhisattva means one who enlightened bodhisattva to life with the aim of making the task of beings. This interpretation is consistent with the concept of Buddha Buddhist Mahasanghikas or Mahayana Buddhism, the bodhisattva is that people of the world, has been enlightening and liberating, as discussed in Section 2 ' Buddha is a real historical character '. This is a different interpretation of the concept of Bodhisattva of two major schools of Buddhism.

Next, the word Buddha (Buddha) Is not a fruit? From a learning perspective documents that look, in the tradition of classic Nikàya A function or mentioned only four results. The concept of the Buddha (Buddha) only for enlightenment, is not meant to fruition, because they really do grasp of the law, and he defilements, evidence Arhat. Knowing very well that the main event is described by the concept of enlightenment, ie the Buddha, which means enlightened, because the bud is the verb which means enlightenment, and DHA is the past participle of the verb bud , also more like English ed suffix, to describe an action completed, belong to the past. Thus the concept of Buddha means enlightened, this concept only for a Arahat, who was freed, we can also see it as a fruition - Buddhahood, but in traditional Southern classics not seen mentioned Buddhahood, which only results Arahat is the highest results. The concept of Buddhahood to Mahasanghikas period or periods rather Mahayana Buddhism, namely " Doing Wonderful Dharma States' view 'Buddhahood' is the highest results, more results Arahat . In the spirit of this experience, see the fruition of four results Sravakayanika Theravada, not equal results Buddhas, Bodhisattvas location results even higher results Arahat. From this point, suggested to us that, in the Buddhist scriptures there are many words, share the same name, but different in meaning. This is the point where we need to pay attention, or they will fall into the misunderstanding, arising even useless debate.

 

4.   Buddha is not necessarily rank position

We have discussed over the Buddha is a historical figure, the birth of his work is a 'guru'. Now we continue to learn the Buddha is the most affordable set position, necessarily prejudice, which means that whatever he knows and whatever he saw. Discussing this problem, if we based on different sources, the Buddha which also carry different meanings. According to the Venerable resources of the Ministry, namely " Business Central " (Majjhima-Nikaya), which has some experience with the content deny the Buddha's omniscience level, is the most essential; means disprove the notion that the Buddha was capable of something and knowing something well understood. But according to the sources of Mahayana Buddhism believes the Buddha is omniscient level is full, there are infinite possibilities. Derived from the two schools where there is dissent? In my opinion, this is closely linked to the issue of the Buddhist missionaries Mahasanghikas, especially Mahayana Buddhism, Buddhist University because they want the Dharma common to all members of society. So for this goal, Buddhism Mahasanghikas to borrow the form of folk beliefs, customs and traditions of the Indian people as a means to lead people to Buddhism, Buddhist, if not done Thus, intimacy is difficult religious beings, difficulty completing tasks propagate dharma. Like when Buddhism spread to China, is the objections grapes, to borrow Buddhist ideas of Chinese culture to explain Buddhism to the indigenous people accepted Buddhism, New Buddhism a chance to survive and grow in this country. Buddhism in India, too, because at first Buddhist Sangha as a practice, to meditate in solitude life, take the self-enlightenment work purposes. That differs from the Sangha to live and work in society, taking the purpose of being made. Thus, Buddhism need to enhance the role 'means' for easy integration into society, its enforcement purposes. Mahasanghikas or Buddhist Mahayana which also influenced the beliefs of other religions, which is also the Buddha deification.

If based on traditional religious culture of India, we see the concept and necessary omniscience is described which is how the Patriarch of Jainism, Buddhism is not. As 'Elementary Aggregates Business Suffering '(Cula-dukkhakkhandha-Sutta) in' Business Central 'Buddha said as follows:

... This Mahanama, that is to say that the answer I Nigantha as follows: "Hey Sage, Nigantha Nataputta - who is the all-knowing, full comments, claiming to have comprehensive knowledge as follows: 'Whether we can go there stand, sleep and wake, knowledge is always continuous existence where we ' ... [30]

Here dispatched events from Ni (Nigantha-Nataputta) said that Nigantha-Nataputta [31] who is the 'all-knowing', 'is full', who claim to be comprehensive knowledge, when he walking outside , even while awake and during sleep, the knowledge he has always existed and sober, not constantly interrupted.

Here, the concept of omniscience, is the whole meaning anything and know anything is found, the conclusion is not in heaven or on earth, or of his work, in the past, present present or future, while awake or asleep will see and know all. Here is how to describe the level of literacy patriarchs Jainism. Buddha himself thinking how about this? 'Doing Three Ming Vacchagota' (Tevijja-Vacchagotta Sutta) in ' Business Central 'recorded words between Vaccha oral and Buddha as follows:

Venerable sir, I hear the following: 'The recluse Gotama is the most essential level position, is the most essential level is. He claimed to have knowledge entirely: "When I go, when I stand, when I sleep and when I wake, knowledge is always present, constantly" Exalted .... Bach, he talks about the Exalted be true to what has been said, what he does not slander with no real Exalted .... no? [32]

Bhagavan replied:

This Vaccha, who said the following: 'The recluse Gotama is the most essential level position, is the most essential level is. He claimed to have knowledge entirely: "When I go, when I stand, when I sleep and when I wake, knowledge is always present, constantly" '. Voila they say about me is not true to what has been said, they slander me with no real .... [33]

Here, the question of Vaccha, "I hear people gossip and say: Sa Gotama who is the omniscience, the most essential is" Exalted means that when walking outside even when sleeping and waking, knowledge of Bhagavan always awake, do not know they have such rumors are not true? This question is to confirm Exalted: The rumors this is not real words, slandering Exalted.

We often hear the most Exalted is installed, but why in this economic Exalted deny this? As in part one of this article, we introduce generalized Venerable Mass Ministry and the Ministry have different views about Buddha. Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhists believe that Buddha is the most installed, but Theravada sect is not acceptable. The reason why? The monk said that Buddha was a real historical character, not the outside world. From the human perspective, but look, the Buddha was a man, but that man has eradicated greed hatred and delusion, it is called the Buddha, but his understanding of the world beyond , not only that but his understanding is very clean, but not so wide that see Him who is the prophet is full, because the whole concept is all-knowing this can be explained not only while walking outside that even during sleep are also mindful, present understanding of money. This is exactly what the Buddha did not accept Him as omniscient full rank is, the people who may not have knowledge in all areas of life, especially not knowing the awake during sleep, Sleep apnea is a time to relax the nervous system, can not live without sleep, sleep can not say is wake up. In the content or Nikàya A description of the respite was short-Buddha, the first night midnight meditation, when he always sleeps center towards awakening, which means no sleep Exalted fascination like us, when will the province right noises, but by no means 'awakening' or no sleep. Perhaps this is the reason why the Buddha first agree he is not necessarily rank position, the most essential is, this is also the point to the Great God (Mahadeva) use it as a basis for the view that , Arhat still ejaculate while dreaming sleep. Another reason that in this economic Buddha denies he is not the most essential level position, is the most essential, because He is the true respect of life. The truth of how life is said like this, say no more nor less say, because words are often more or less says hurt for life, rather than making life happy. Question 'as of volition ' [34] A function in business or Nikàya proved that. Perhaps this is why the Buddha always refutes the form of self-directed health Ba-la-keeper and the superstitious practices of the people of India. Generally, he does not accept fiction and deification, because it will not help to get rid of suffering, enlightenment, and liberation, otherwise it makes tracing obstacle to truth, so Buddha has denied this rumor.

From the perspective of this text, let us think of the work " The Great Tri Comment " Bodhisattva Nagarjuna criticized that:

Again, some have argued that the One Buddha is not installed level. Why is that? Because the law in boundless world, how can a person's capacity to know? Head of Buddha Prajna Paramita, it's like nowhere pure form, in some immeasurable way, naturally say, I was most omniscience, because to get rid of the suspicion of being, so to should say "Ma Ma Economics Prajna Paramita Da [35] .

The content and meaning of the last paragraph above suggests we understand that, Bodhisattva Nagarjuna explains why the Buddha said , " Paramita Sutra Da " , because to feel comfortable eradicated or Ministry of the Theravada (Hinayana), said that the Buddha is not necessarily rank position, so to say this prayer. From this point, and suggestions for us to understand, Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhism does not accept the views of The Venerable. Buddhist viewpoint Mass and Mahayana Buddha is said that people of the world, has become a Buddha from countless lifetimes; event as a child of the King, was born in garden-ni Lam-Pi, asceticism, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, all of which are the 'manifest' [36] of the Buddha, which should not be which alleged that the Buddha was human, there is birth there is death ...; This perspective indicates the difference between the two schools and the Venerable Mass of. Therefore, when we talk about the Buddha we should clarify this issue to avoid useless controversy.

 

5.   Conclusions

Buddhism is like trees covered in deep forests spent four seasons spring, summer, autumn and winter, cold weather unusually hot, depending on the trunk that also changes. The change in color of the trunk does not mean changing the nature of the tree.

Also, look at the length of the history of Buddhism are living longer than 2,500 years, Buddhism not only in India but grow to this day almost Buddhist presence in all the earth. The difference in space and time, social and human thinking are factors that lead to the evolution of Buddhism.

From the Theravada Buddhist sect Ministry, and the Ministry of Buddhist sect of Mahayana Buddhism, which implicates the process of evolution of Buddhism in India, and has expressed a high degree of adaptability of Buddhism . Characteristics of each stage of Buddhism reflect directly or indirectly by that society, or rather it is the needs of people in that society.

In more than 100 years after the Buddha's Buddhism split into two factions Venerable Mass Ministry and Ministry. The Venerable is the elder ranks veteran conservative views, want to protect the integrity of the living forms of the Buddha's period. In contrast, Mahasanghikas mostly young children increases, tends Buddhist Liberal renewal, so called Mahasanghikas, which gradually developed into Mahayana Buddhism.

This two-sectarian vision of the Buddha are not the same. Venerable said that the Buddha was a human being, is a real historical character, after he underwent 49 days and nights of meditation under the Bodhi tree, the supreme Buddha ranks, until then the new known as the Buddha.

But Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhists believe that Buddha was of the world, He came down to just the ' manifest ' , as a means to religious beings, t r He became reality Israel Buddha of infinite life. Therefore Mahasanghikas Mahayana Buddhism and the Buddha described religious, cultural nuances divine Buddha.

Since then the problem arises between these two schools also look different, Venerable Ministry said that the Buddha is only masters or just a brilliant physician and guide to living beings, that those who love soot escape misery in the world, but we want to be born enlightenment to cultivate themselves, defilements, light up the light of intelligence in each person's heart, not to beg.

Mahayana Mahasanghikas and enhanced role for ruling, thus becoming the Buddha has endless possibilities, dread forces extremely well, can save sentient beings.

Another point, the Venerable said that Arahat results and Buddhist alike, no results are higher than the results public, not through the difference between the Buddha and the Buddha Arhat who find the path to enlightenment was the Arahat is the only way that medical practice. But Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhism that Arahat not result in Buddhahood. And finally Venerable Ministry said that the Buddha is not necessarily the position, necessarily is, but Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhism does not share the view that the Buddha said that the mind is most essential, necessary is, what is known is that all.

This is the fundamental difference between the Buddha's two major sects of Buddhism. That suggests we understand that, when we introduced the Buddha must distinguish, our stance to introduce the Buddha, and when we stand on the need to follow up any cases in view of schools of thought that, if we do not face a conflict.END=VIETNAMESE TRANSLATE ENGLISH BY=THICH CHAN TANH.GIAC TAM.WORLD VIETNAMESE BUDDHIST ORDER=VIETNAMESE BUDDHIST NUN =GOLDEN LOTUS MONASTERY=AUSTRALIA,SYDNEY.3/4/2014.NAM MO SAKYAMUNI BUDDHA.( 3 TIMES ).