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Enlightenment

- Enlightenment vs. seeing the true nature of one's mind
- The difference between gradual enlightenment and sudden enlightenment
- How can we attain enlightenment
- The meaning of enlightenment and Buddhahood
- Is enlightenment equivalent to Buddhahood?

How can we attain enlightenment?

Attaining enlightenments is not easy for most people. But with diligent practice, one can definitely gain useful confirming experiences.

Enlightenment vs. seeing the true nature of one's mind

Enlightenment means the development of wisdom, the perfection of character, and the eradication of the afflictions, and it all lies in whether we are willing to let go ouf our ego or self. To achieve this we must first realize conceptually that all things are without substance, and then use Buddhist methods to transform our minds.

The difference between gradual enlightenment and sudden enlightenment

"Gradual enlightenment and sudden enlightenment serve the same purpose. As long as one becomes enlightened, it is good. It depends on one's karmic capacity whether one will attain gradual or sudden enlightenment. After attaining enlightenment one still has to practice so as to achieve the state of perfect buddhahood. "

The meaning of enlightenment and Buddhahood

The Lotus Sutra teaches about the supreme, thorough, and ultimate Buddhadharma; though it won't make us a Buddha immediately, at least it teaches us to take on the first step on the path to Buddhahood. The Shurangama Sutra shows us how different methods lead to the same enlightenment, though it doesn't mean that one will attain enlightenment instantaneously after hearing it. Nevertheless, they certainly help us alleviate our attachment and affliction.

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The True Self in the Buddhist Perspective

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