Mahānāma the Sakyanperson

When the Buddha inaugurates a new assembly hall for the Sakyans of Kapilavatthu, he asks the venerable Ānanda to teach the assembly. Ānanda outlines the comprehensive path of a disciple in training—detailing the perfection of virtue, sense restraint, moderation in eating, wakefulness, the seven good qualities, and the four jhānas—culminating in the breakthroughs of true knowledge.

When Mahānāma worries about dying amid Kapilavatthu's chaotic streets with a distracted mind, the Buddha reassures him using the simile of a leaning tree.

The Sakyans complain that the Buddha declared Saraṇāni a stream-enterer despite his failure in the training. The Buddha explains that taking refuge guarantees safety from lower realms. Outlining six types of individuals freed from suffering, he uses a simile of seeds planted in good and bad fields to show that practicing a well proclaimed Dhamma guarantees the fruit of liberation.

The Sakyans complain that the Buddha declared Saraṇāni a stream-enterer even though he drank intoxicating liquor and failed the training. The Buddha explains that one who takes refuge for a long time cannot fall into states of suffering. He details six types of practitioners freed from lower realms, including those with mere faith and affection.

When Mahānāma inquires about the frequent abidings of a stream-enterer who has cognized the Dhamma, the Buddha reveals six foundational recollections. A frequent cultivation of these recollections allows the stream-enterer to remain completely steady even when living amidst unbalanced and afflicted people.

When Mahānāma asks how busy lay disciples should dwell when the Teacher departs, the Buddha reveals how five spiritual strengths support the six recollections and help one dwell in balance among troubled people.

When Mahānāma asks how busy lay disciples should dwell when the Teacher departs, the Buddha reveals how five spiritual strengths support the six recollections.