Inner Awareness
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419EThe ParamitasAnalyze 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.
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429EMudrasDemonstrate basic symbolic gestures (mudras) common across Buddhist traditions, and analyze the meaning and purpose of each.
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427EMantra of CompassionAnalyze the symbolic meaning of each syllable in OM MANI PADME HUM; evaluate how mantra recitation functions as both meditation practice and a method for cultivating compassion; and implement regular practice while documenting personal observations about the relationship between mantra repetition and emotional patterns or responses to challenging situations.
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426EEight Worldly Dharmas: OverviewAnalyze the eight worldly concerns by categorizing specific life experiences into the four opposing pairs, evaluate how attachment to these conditions creates cycles of hope and fear that perpetuate samsara, and synthesize understanding by developing equanimity practices that demonstrate freedom from dependence on external circumstances for well-being.
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416ERefraining from Sexual MisconductAnalyze the Buddhist understanding of sexual misconduct within the context of consent, honesty, and non-harm; evaluate how the principles of respect and mindfulness apply to intimate relationships; and synthesize understanding by examining how this precept supports both personal integrity and healthy community relationships.
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424EBodhicittaDefine both relative and absolute bodhicitta. Assess the personal motivations behind daily choices and adopt practices that turn everyday activities into acts of altruism aimed at benefiting all sentient beings.
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423EThe Paramita of Ksanti/PatienceAnalyze the three forms of Buddhist patience: enduring harm from others, persevering through practice difficulties, and accepting ultimate truths; evaluate personal triggers that challenge patience practice; and implement strategies for maintaining equanimity that transform irritation into opportunities for wisdom development.
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421EGain and LossImplement a positive, playful approach to competition without attachment to outcomes; practice observing and releasing arising emotions without dwelling on them; and create expressions of goodwill toward opponents.
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420EThe Paramita of Virya/DiligenceAnalyze the distinction between ordinary effort and joyful diligence (virya) in Buddhist practice; evaluate personal experiences of learning dharma through the three-step process of listening, contemplation, and meditation; and synthesize understanding by implementing consistent practice that demonstrates “cheerful commitment” to inner development.