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Talk on the Precepts and Ananda's Enlightenment
Retracing the footprints of the Buddha from Vaishali to the Sala forest, the journey includes a visit to the village of Buddhatola, where the locals display immense generosity and maintain a simple spiritual life. In Bhandagama, the teaching centers on sila, samadhi, and prajna—precepts, concentration, and understanding. Precepts are presented not as commandments imposed by an authority, but as the practice of mindfulness necessary for safety and happiness, much like observing the rules of the road. The Kalama Sutra is discussed as the charter for free inquiry, urging practitioners to use their own intelligence to determine if a teaching results in joy and peace rather than relying on tradition, authority, or rumors.
As the path leads to Pava, Cunda the blacksmith offers the last meal of sukara mushrooms. Despite experiencing violent pain, care is taken to assure Cunda that his offering is of equal merit to the first meal offered by Sujata. Arriving at the Sala grove in Kushinagar, the sun sets and flowers fall as the final instructions are given. Subhadda becomes the last disciple, receiving the teaching of the Noble Eightfold Path. It is revealed that all present have attained one of the four fruits of the practice:
- Stream Entering
- One Returning
- No Returning
- Arhatship
Entering deep concentration, the final admonition is given: “Things are impermanent. Please do strive in order to attain your own liberation.” Following the Parinirvana, the Malla people organize a grand funeral, and the cremation awaits the arrival of Mahakasyapa. The relics are subsequently divided into eight portions for distribution among different kingdoms. Months later, the first international Buddhist council is convened in Rajagriha. Ananda, initially excluded for lacking full liberation, meditates diligently and attains enlightenment in the moment between standing and lying down, securing his place in the council to recite the Dharma.