A Study of the Perfection Cultivation and Enlightenment of Ven. Kangkharevatathera

Abstract

This research paper contains 2 main objectives; 1) to study of life and the perfection cultivation of Ven.Kankharevatathera, and 2) to analyze the enlightenment of Ven.Kankharevatathera. The data research was collected from Tipitaka as well as its commentaries, texts concerned, then being analyzed, summarized and finally compiled. It was a qualitative methodology. Its findings were that all of Noble One has accumulated their perfection from previous lives until it became fulfilled in last life with enlightenment. “Parāmī” refers to the special virtues which lead to perfection attainment consisting of 10 virtues, i.e., giving, moral deeds, renunciation, wisdom, effort, forbearance, truthfulness, resolution, loving-kindness and equanimity. These qualities will lead those who performed them to final goal, Nibbana. Ven.Kankharevatathera made the wish to reach the excellent position of Jhāna entering. In the time of Padumuttara Buddha, he had offered Mahādāna or great offerings to Sangha presided by the Buddha, finally was predicted by Padumuttara Buddha that in the time of Gotama Buddha, his wish of excellent position on Jhāna entering, will be completed, and his given name will be Revata. The enlightenment means the realization of true nature of all phenomena arising in every present moment through practical knowledge of Four Noble Truth, entering into nine supramundane planes. This would be happened by rightly training following the “37 Bodhipakkhiyadhamma”. Ven.Kankhsarevata uses Jhāna as its base, observing all phenomena based on Dhammānupassanāsatipaṭṭhāna, seeing the absolute objects; 5 aggregates, elements and sensual contacts etc. experiencing the rise and falls of all temporary appearances in accordance with 7 Purification principle. No longer, his pure mind entered into Arahantaship.