Final Realization (Nisthamarga)

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in Buddhism, The path to enlightenment is a complex and gradual process involving multiple stages of spiritual development.. The Final Realization, o Nisthamarga, It is the last stretch of this path, where the practitioner reaches complete lighting or nirvana. This concept is found in various Buddhist schools, in both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, although interpretations and associated practices may vary. Next, We will explore in detail what Nisthamarga means, how it is conceptualized in different Buddhist traditions, and what practices and realizations are associated with this end state.

I. Concept of Final Realization in Buddhism

The term Nisthamarga comes from Sanskrit: Beneath means “culmination” or “finality”, and Marga means “way” or “way.”. Together, Nisthamarga can be translated as “the path of culmination” or “the path of final realization.”. In general terms, refers to the culminating point of the Buddhist path, where full understanding of reality and definitive liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering is achieved, known as Samsara.

Final Realization is not simply a state of intellectual understanding, but a profound transformation of the mind and being. It is the realization of the true nature of all things, characterized by ultimate wisdom (prajña), unlimited compassion and complete freedom from mental delusions (afflictions). In this state, the practitioner becomes a Buddha, a completely enlightened being who has overcome all afflictions and achieved Nirvana.

II. Nisthamarga in Different Buddhist Traditions

Although Final Realization is a common goal in all forms of Buddhism, The Theravada and Mahayana traditions offer different perspectives and approaches to this process..

1. Theravada: He Director and Individual Liberation

In Theravada Buddhism, Final Realization is associated with the state of Director, which is the term used to describe someone who has achieved Nirvana. He Director is one who has eradicated all mental impurities and has completed the path of enlightenment.

The path to this state is described through the Noble Eightfold Path, which includes ethical practices, meditation and wisdom. The culmination of these practices leads to direct knowledge of the Four Noble Truths and the understanding of impermanence. (anicca), the suffering (dukkha) and non-selfhood (Anatta).

Nibbana (Nirvana) in the Theravada
Nibbana, o Nirvana, described as the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth. It is a state of peace and total freedom, where attachments no longer exist, aversions nor ignorance that feed Samsara. Although Nirvana is mentioned as an ultimate goal, It is important to understand that it is not a place or a state of existence, but rather the extinction of the causes of suffering.

2. Mahayana: He Bodhisattva and Universal Illumination

V. The Final Realization: The State of Buddhahood

The state of Buddhahood, or full illumination, It is the culmination of the Nisthamarga. Attaining Buddhahood means that the practitioner has fully realized the nature of reality and has eradicated all causes of suffering.. This state is characterized by three main qualities:

1. Perfect Wisdom (Prajña)
Perfect wisdom implies a complete understanding of the emptiness and interdependence of all phenomena. A Buddha sees reality as it is, without ego distortions and mental delusions. This wisdom is both profound and direct, allowing the Buddha to act spontaneously and compassionately.

2. Infinite Compassion (Karuna)
Infinite compassion is a Buddha's unwavering motivation to free all beings from suffering.. This compassion does not discriminate and extends to all beings, regardless of their behavior or nature. A Buddha uses his wisdom to guide beings on the path to liberation, adapting his teachings to the needs and abilities of each individual.

3. Supernatural Powers (Siddhis)
Although it is not the objective of the path, A Buddha is said to possess supernatural powers., as the ability to manifest in multiple forms, know the thoughts of others and remember past lives. These siddhis are the natural result of total purification of the mind and are used to benefit all beings..

The Final Nirvana (Parinirvana)
Parinirvana is the final state that a Buddha reaches upon leaving the physical body.. In the Mahayana, It is taught that a Buddha remains in the world to guide other beings until they all achieve enlightenment. However, Parinirvana represents the complete cessation of conditioned existence and entry into absolute Nirvana..

Conclusion

The Final Realization, o Nisthamarga, represents the culmination point of the Buddhist path, where the practitioner achieves full enlightenment and is freed from the cycle of birth and death. This process is neither easy nor quick., and requires a deep commitment to spiritual practice, including meditation, the cultivation of wisdom, Ethics, compassion and detachment. along this road, the practitioner faces numerous obstacles that must be overcome to move towards the final goal.

Although different Buddhist traditions offer unique approaches and perspectives on Final Realization, They all agree that enlightenment is a state of profound and total transformation.. Achieving Buddhahood not only involves personal liberation, but also an eternal commitment to helping all beings achieve the same realization. Therefore, Nisthamarga is both the end of personal suffering and the beginning of an existence dedicated to the well-being of all beings..

This process culminates in Buddhahood, a state of perfect wisdom, infinite compassion and absolute freedom. It is the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, and although it is a lofty goal, The path to Final Realization is open to all who sincerely commit themselves to the teachings and practices of the Buddha..