PATH TO LIBERATION : THE WAY OF THE ARAHANT IN THE ARAHANT SUTTA

Abstract

The Arahant in Theravāda Buddhist Scriptures: An Arahant, as described in Theravāda Buddhist scriptures, is one who has eradicated all defilements and completely abandoned the ten fetters: Sakkāyadiṭṭhi (self-identity view), Vicikicchā (doubt), Sīlabbata-parāmāsa (clinging to rituals), Kāmarāga (sensual desire), Paṭigha (ill-will), Rūparāga (attachment to form), Arūparāga (attachment to formlessness), Māna (conceit), Uddhacca (restlessness), and Avijjā (ignorance). Arahants are categorized into four types: 1) Sukkhavipassaka – Those who have eradicated defilements but possess no extraordinary knowledge. 2) Tevijja – Those who have eradicated defilements and attained the Threefold Knowledge (Tevijjā).3) Chaḷabhiññā-Those who have eradicated defilements and possess the Sixfold Superknowledge (Abhiññā).4) Cetopariṣambhiddappatta–Those who have eradicated defilements and mastered the Four Analytical Knowledges (Paṭisambhidā): analytical knowledge of meaning (Atthapaṭisambhidā), of Dhamma (Dhammappaṭisambhidā), of language (Niruttipaṭisambhidā), and of improvisation (Paṭibhānapaṭisambhidā). Analyzing the Path of Arahantship in the Arahant Sutta: The practice focuses on abandoning the ten fetters to free the mind from conventional realities. It involves adhering to the Seven Treasures (Sattaratana) to cultivate virtue, maintaining mindfulness of the Dhamma in every moment, and practicing diligent contemplation to understand causes and effects. Arahants are complete in the Ten Perfections (Dasavidha-guṇa), live by the Noble Eightfold Path (Aṭṭhaṅgika Magga), and follow the Middle Way. Additionally, they uphold the Seven True Dhammas (Saddhamma) and the Threefold Training (Tisikkhā) to regulate their behavior, purifying body, speech, and mind. This disciplined practice ultimately leads to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment in Nibbāna.