Characteristics of Ten Paramithas (Perfections)
From TheBuddhism.Net
Characteristics of Paramithas according to Pali Canon
Characteristic of ‘Dana paramitha’ is giving away what one owns. Its objective is eliminating greed. It could be understood as detachment of possessions. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Dana paramitha’ is one’s possessions.
Characteristic of ‘Sila paramitha’ is controlling one’s body and word against committing sins. Its objective is eliminating impiety (wickedness). It could be understood as purity. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Sila paramitha’ is one’s modesty.
Characteristic of ‘Nekkhamma (Nayishkramya) Paramitha’ is renunciation of desire, passion and worldly existence. Its objective is exposing the evil effects of desire, passion and worldly existence.It could be understood as aversion towards passion and worldly existence. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Nekkhamma (Nayishkramya) Paramitha’ is sympathy.
Characteristic of ‘Panna paramitha’ is seeing and realizing the reality of everything. Its objective is brightening up what one should know. It could be understood as not loosing ones bearing or not getting lost. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Panna paramitha’ is contemplation.
Characteristic of ‘Virya paramitha’ is effort. Its objective is the right endeavor to attain enlightenment. It could be understood as willpower and determination. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Virya paramitha’ is sorrow or anguish.
Characteristic of ‘Kshanthi paramitha’ is patience. Its objective is to stay unaffected and unmoved by the goodness and evil in this world. It could be understood as tolerance and not opposing others. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Kshanthi paramitha’ is the knowledge of reality.
Characteristic of ‘Sathya paramitha’ is not leading others in the wrong direction. Its objective is exposing the reality. It could be understood as use of good and truthful words.The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Sathya paramitha’ is not doing wrong deeds.
Characteristic of ‘Adhishtana paramitha’ is determination in attaining enlightenment. Its objective is conquering the opposing elements to enlightenment. It could be understood as equipoise in attaining enlightenment. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ’Adhishtana paramitha’ is the nature of things.
Characteristic of ‘Metta paramitha’ is helping the beings. Its objective is eliminating hatred. It could be understood as mildness or soft heartedness. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ’Metta paramitha’ is agreeableness of the beings.
Characteristic of ‘Upekkha paramitha’ is being neutral. Its objective is considering the beings and matters both good and bad equally. It could be understood as appeasement of desire and hatred. The nearest entity which helps to achieve ‘Upekkha paramitha’ is reflecting that Karma belongs to all beings.
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If we prefect these paramithas then we will become a enlightened being. Thats why the Buddha is the flower of humanity as his body, speech and mind are represented by such qualities. The Buddha is one who will not harm us in whatever shape or form because they are more compassionate to us than we are to ourselves 🙂