A DISCOURSE ON THE ABODE OF THE NOBLE ONES – FALSE VIEWS AND FALSE PURSUITS

A DISCOURSE ON THE ABODE OF THE NOBLE ONES – FALSE VIEWS AND FALSE PURSUITS

The two important Ariyaavaasa dhamma that we have to consider now are those which all for the renunciation of false views about life after death. These views center on the ego that is supposed to survive death and take up its abode in another physical body and the belief that rejects any idea of an afterlife and insists on the annihilation of a living being by death. These two false beliefs can be overcome through the constant practice of mindfulness.

Equally to be rejected by the yogi on the holy path are the two false pursuits, viz., persuit of sensual pleasure and the pursuit of life. The first puruit dominates the yogi until he attains the third stage on the path. The second pursuit is motivated by will-to-live. It does not end even at the third stage for there is still a lingering desire for immaterial existence. The yogi can overcome this attachment to life only on the attainment of Arahatship. He should therefore renounce the unwholesome pursuits and the false beliefs. He should follow the Nole Eightold Path that will free him from illusions and unwholesome desires.

The yogi should also seek the fourth state of jhaana with its cessation of out-and-in breathing. He will have to make special effort to attain it since it is not within the reach of every Arahat. It is exclusively meant for specially gifted Arahats. Still, if the yogi cannot make great effort, it will do as well for him to bypass the jhaanic state and seek Nibbaana. For when he attains Nibbaana, it makes no difference whether he is an ordinary Arahat or an Outstanding Arahat or a Buddha