Human Development

Cessation-awareness

Description:
In Hinduism [nirodha] refers to that awareness when the distinction between subject and object disappears and the mind in a state of rest is subdued. In Buddhism, [nirodha] is the cessation or annihilation of many of the trappings of mortality. It may refer to: cessation of suffering in [nirvana], the state of one who has attained knowledge of the third noble truth; cessation of passions as the cause of suffering; cessation of the cycle of birth and death; cessation of feelings and views. If there is cessation of all causes of rebirth then [nirodha] becomes identical with [nirvana]. In Tibetan Sakya Buddhism, this state is characterized particularly as an escape from cyclic existence (samsara). However, it also implies the reality of cessation. The higher nirvana is dynamic so that bodhisattvas do not distinguish between the reality of nirvana and samsara. Arhats in cessation are represented as being roused by the boundless light of the Buddha Amitabha, so that they may advance into the mahayana and realize the bodhisattva ideal in the Great Vehicle.
Context:
In Tibetan Sakya Buddhism this is one of the states in the "Ascension Stages Game". In some sets it is numbered 48 on the board.<