Ashin Sarana explains the basic differences between the four levels of Enlightenment. There are many more, this is only the basic from the Pali scriptures. Unfortunately, even with the detailed descriptions for each level of Enlightenment, there are still many disputes, misunderstandings, and misconceptions regarding these attainments. People who attained the first or second level sometimes think they haven't attained it, which we know already from the Buddha's time (see Mahanama Sutta suttacentral.net/sn55.21/en/s... ). Much more often are the cases when people think they have attained a level of Enlightenment but later themselves find out that didn't attain anything. An Arahant, however, always knows he is an Arahant... Unfortunately, more often people think they are Arahants and later they find out that they are not.
Note for clarification - The craving for jhana is abandoned by the third level of Enlightenment, i.e., an Anagami when he/she is on the verge to become an Arahant. First, one needs to be an Anagami - and some Anagamis have jhanas and oftentimes have an attachment, craving for them. However, as they are going to become Arahants they need to abandon all of their attachment to jhanas so that they can become Arahants. It is common for Arahants who attained jhana either before they became Arahants or as an additional benefit to the final level of Enlightenment to enter jhanas and dwell in them. This would be always for a specific purpose, such as loving-kindness or The Attainment of Cessation (Nirodhasamapatti).
Filmed on the 24th of January, 2020, in Thabarwa Yeikthar, Thanlyin, Myanmar, by Ko Aung Thu Linn. Subtitles also prepared Ko Aung Thu Linn. Filming equipment was donated by Sayalay Daw Ayukalyani.
May all beings be happy and healthy.
23 авг 2020
