Entering the Stream of Dhamma

I would like to begin by discussing the meaning of the title, “Entering the Stream of Dhamma,” so that we understand it in the same way. All followers of the Dhamma want to enter the stream of Dhamma, but we may be talking about different things. In fact, there is only one true meaning. My explanation is for you to consider, review and contemplate with wisdom before you decide whether or not it is right.

The Noble Ones, from the sotapanna stage on, are those who have entered the stream of Dhamma. Although sotapannas, those reaching the first of the four levels of Noble Ones, have not yet been completely purified, they are enlightened enough to see clearly the right path to Nibbana, the Final Goal or the complete eradication of suffering. In other words, they have undoubtedly entered the stream leading to Nibbana with no turning back, and know this for themselves the first moment they step into this path. At that point they become Stream Enterers, and are regarded as nitaya-puggala, people who are advancing toward Nibbana and will never return to the stage of ordinary people. Even though they may be reborn in this world, they will experience no more than seven lives before attaining Nibbana.

The Lord Buddha taught clearly and reasonably how to enter the stream of Dhamma. In his time, his followers practiced in accordance with the Noble Eightfold Path and attained the Noble Fruitions. If we want to reach the same goal, we must strictly follow the Lord Buddha’s teachings, and we will enter the stream of Dhamma just like the people in his time. What the Noble Fruitions were like in the past is still the same now and will continue to be so forever.

Phra Acariya Thoon Khippapanno

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