An Analytical Study of the Eight Marvels of the Dhamma-Vinaya in Buddhist Scriptures

Abstract

In this thesis, three objectives were purposely made: (1) to examine the essence (sārattha) of miraculous phenomena in Buddhism, (2) to study the eight miraculous qualities of the Doctrine and Discipline (Dhamma-Vinaya), and (3) to analyze the guidelines for practicing the eight marvels of the Dhamma-Vinaya as recorded in Buddhist scriptures. This study employs a documentary research methodology, focusing on primary sources from the Tipiṭaka and its Commentaries (Aṭṭhakathā), as well as other relevant academic works.

The findings showed that the fundamental miraculous essences in Buddhism consist of four significant events: (1) the Descent (Okkanti) of the Bodhisatta from Tusita Heaven into the mother’s womb; (2) the Birth (Jāti) of the Bodhisatta from the maternal womb; (3) the attainment of Supreme Enlightenment (Anuttara-Sammā-Sambodhi), which marks the realization of Buddhahood; and (4) the proclamation of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, the First Discourse.

Furthermore, the Eight Miraculous Qualities of the Dhamma-Vinaya are identified as follows: (1) a system of gradual training in accordance with the Threefold Training (Ti-sikkhā); (2) the strict observance of monastic discipline in line with the 227 Pātimokkha rules; (3) the removal of immoral individuals from the community, reflecting the benefits of maintaining virtue (Sīla); (4) the attainment of equal status as sons of the Sakyan (Sakya-putta), consistent with the principle of noble friendship (Kalyāṇamitta); (5) the inexhaustible nature of Nibbāna, corresponding to Anupādisesa-Nibbāna; (6) the singular taste of liberation (Vimutti-rasa) achieved through the cessation of defilements (Kilesa); (7) the presence of profound doctrinal treasures corresponding to the Factors of Enlightenment (Bodhipakkhiya-dhamma); and (8) the Dhamma-Vinaya as the noble abode for great beings, represented by the four types of Noble Individuals (Ariya-puggala).

In addition, the miraculous nature of the Dhamma-Vinaya can be understood through five core dimensions: the transcendence of caste distinctions upon entering the monastic order through the realization of the Four Noble Truths (Ariya-sacca), the Five Aggregates (Khandha), and the Gradual Instruction (Anupubbikathā); the systematic separation of immoral individuals from the Noble Ones (Ariya), as illustrated in historical accounts during the Buddha’s time; the strict adherence to disciplinary rules (Sikkhāpada) even in life-threatening situations; the structured progression of training within the framework of the Threefold Saddhamma—comprising Study (Pariyatti), Practice (Paṭipatti), and Realization (Paṭivedha); and the attainment of a life liberated from defilements through the Taste of Liberation (Vimutti-rasa), culminating in the realization of the four Noble stages: Sotāpanna, Sakadāgāmī, Anāgāmi, and Arahant respectively.