To achieve the necessary requirements to become a Buddha, a Universal Master in the Buddhist tradition, the aspirant will have to prepare himself for an unthinkably long period of time; numerous lifetimes during which the future Buddha will be called a bodhisattva, aspiring to the complete enlightenment of the Buddha nature. In every life, the bodhisattva must prepare himself, with selfless gestures and great meditation exercises, to acquire the essential qualities of a Buddha. According to the doctrine of reincarnation, in fact, also followed by Buddhism, at birth our mind is not a clean slate but carries with it all the qualities and tendencies accumulated in previous lives. Consequently, becoming a Buddha requires the full attainment, to the highest degree, of all moral and spiritual qualities which reach their apex in Buddha nature. These qualities are called parami or paramitas, transcendental virtues or refinements. The various Buddhist schools propose a list of paramis that are slightly different from each other. In the Theravada tradition for example, there are said to be ten: generosity, righteous moral conduct, renunciation, wisdom, energy, patience, sincerity, determination, compassionate kindness and equanimity. In every existence, life after life, through countless cosmic eternities, a bodhisattva must cultivate these sublime virtues in all their manifold aspects.
Steps
Step 1. Listen to the teachings and 'renounce' the conventional world (not necessarily abandoning it) with its ideologies, temptations, etc
This means, deepening the spiritual theme by reading, attending the events of the local Buddhist community, searching the forums on the internet, asking questions, entering into the graces of the religious community, the immaculate Buddha and all the other holders of the Dharma. Perfect beings do not feel the need to teach, so it will be up to you to ask them to do so. However, Mahayana Buddhists feel almost compelled by their compassion to share the teachings. Concretely, prepare to be a container into which doctrines can be poured. The ideal vessel must possess 3 qualities to receive the teachings: 1) It is not already full or upside down. It is necessary to put aside pride in what you already know in order to receive new teachings and express a clear willingness to learn. 2) It is not dirty. You absolutely must not try to mix the teachings with what is already present inside the container, it would only lead to great confusion. 3) It's not broken. Remember what you are taught, otherwise the teachings will fall straight out of the vessel.
Step 2. Contemplate the teachings
Don't just passively accept the teachings, explore them thoroughly and research their meaning. Always consider the context of teaching and try to clear up any doubts, prejudices and misconceptions that you carry with you. It can always be done by reading material on the subject, going to meetings and debates, and asking advice from true Buddhist Masters.
Step 3. Meditate on the teachings
The teachings are a means at your disposal to achieve lasting peace and happiness. They are not ends in themselves. Accumulating the teachings without integrating them into your daily life is like making a cake and baking it without eating it. Without meditation, you will not be able to grasp the finer points and awareness will struggle to develop.
Advice
- Another way of seeing may be to think that we are all drowning in the sea of our past karma (deeds and related retaliation). A drowning person cannot save another, so just try to save yourself. When you are enlightened, there will be a limitless ocean of beings to be of benefit and you can devote your efforts to the future enlightenment of others.
- It is difficult to measure one's progress on the path and even more difficult to evaluate the accomplishments of others. However, disinterest in various samsaric experiences (of the outer world) and an increased feeling of compassion towards the sufferer are good signs.
- Trying to spread the teachings and help other sentient beings, without having solid awareness, is like passing the torch to another person to stay in the dark. Only a realized master is able to light another person's torch and maintain his splendor.
- The path to enlightenment takes a very long time and is full of obstacles. However, there is no result or greater joy. The skies are limited, like all phenomenal existence, they do not last forever and the stay inside them, even if long, remains temporary. Eventually, even the gods reincarnate when their merits fade. Consequently, the wise seek only perfect enlightenment.
- Take it easy.
- "Meditation without having had a guide is the way of the beast", Sakya Pandita. So make an effort to learn more, whatever your abilities.
- Every sentient being possesses the Buddha nature. Even bacteria on the sole of your shoes can reach it. If you concentrate all your attention and mental energy on this purpose, you will necessarily achieve absolute peace.
- Look inside yourself, not outside.
- The path to enlightenment is profound, like no other.
Warnings
- Obstacles on the way to enlightenment can indicate progress. They would not arise if there was nothing to stand in the way, which is your intention to attain enlightenment.
- Receive the teachings and withdraw, do not get involved in politics and worldly affairs. Once you have become a realized master, you will be able to allow yourself to argue for the benefit of others, not before.
- Don't show off what you have learned to brag and feel superior, understand why Buddhism is called the 'Middle Way'.
