TThe term paramita itself has two meanings. One signifies perfection, the realization of the ultimate wisdom that characterizes enlightenment.

The second meaning is a uniquely Mahayana perspective, and refers to that which goes beyond or transcends—the truth that all phenomena are free of independent existence. For this reason they are known as the transcendent perfections. Practicing the paramitas takes us beyond suffering and carries us to the shore of liberation.

In this context, the subject, object, and action of each paramita are free of self-essence—there is “no one” to gain something and “no one” to receive it. To use generosity as an example, this would mean that the giver, the person receiving, and, therefore, the act of giving, all lack any independent fixed existence. Seeing things as illusory and interdependent in this way—in accord with the core Buddhist concept of shunyata or emptiness—prevents spiritual pride and attachment to one’s own good deeds. This means that when we really practice the paramitas, we’re not doing it just to get something or to feel special. We don’t hold on tightly to “me,” or to what we’re doing, or to what we want to get from it. Instead, we start to see that everything is connected and doesn’t exist all by itself. The paramitas help us become kinder and wiser, and they also help us see the deeper truth about how things really are.

The paramitas appear in early Buddhist texts of the Theravada tradition, though they hold greater significance in the Mahayana. The number of paramitas varies in different traditions—sometimes there are four, six, or ten. The most common grouping includes the six paramitas of generosity, ethical conduct, patience, diligence, meditation, and wisdom. Unless a different set is chosen, students should be familiar with these six.

Dana, or generosity, means giving freely of one’s time, energy, material resources, compassion, or kindness, without expecting anything in return. Sila, or discipline, is refraining from harming oneself or others. Ksanti, or patience, means developing a long-term perspective towards oneself and others, and not expecting a quick fix. Virya, or diligence, is joyful effort in wholesome activities and dharma practice. Dhyana, or meditation, refers to the development of a calm, clear, and focused mind, as well as gaining insight into the mind itself through concentration practice. Prajna, or wisdom, is higher knowledge that leads to insight into the nature of reality—seeing things as they truly are, without confusion.

Practitioners aim to cultivate the qualities of the paramitas in their lives, bit by bit. The practice of the paramitas leads all the way to enlightenment, and can be applied by anyone, at any time.

Contemplate the meaning of one of the paramitas when facing a challenging situation with others—does the reflection help?

• Which of the paramitas makes the most sense?
• Which seems the most difficult?
• Which is the hardest to remember?

Analyze the six paramitas by comparing their unique qualities and purposes; evaluate how each perfection addresses specific obstacles to awakening; and demonstrate their interconnected nature by practicing one paramita while observing how it naturally supports the development of others in daily life.