Inner Awareness

• 437EThe Qualities of the Buddha

  Analyze the Buddha’s qualities as described in traditional texts across multiple sources; evaluate which Buddha qualities most effectively inspire personal development; and implement contemplative practices that cultivate specific Buddha qualities while assessing their impact on daily ethical decision-making and relationships with others.
• 418EAbstaining from Intoxicants

  Differentiate between the precept against intoxicants and the broader principle of mattanuta (knowing the right amount); analyze how mindful consumption supports clarity of mind and ethical behavior; and evaluate personal consumption patterns across various domains (substances, media, material goods) using Buddhist principles of moderation and awareness.
• 417ERefraining from stealing

  Analyze the concept of “taking what is not given” beyond simple theft to include deception, exploitation, and environmental harm; evaluate the karmic relationship between stealing and loss as described in Buddhist teachings; and synthesize understanding by implementing practices of generosity (dana) that counteract acquisitive tendencies.
• 433EShrine Room Etiquette

  Analyze shrine room etiquette practices as external expressions of internal reverence for the three jewels; evaluate how mindful behavior in sacred spaces cultivates respect, awareness, and devotion; and implement appropriate ritual conduct while explaining how these practices function as mind-training techniques that transform outer behavior into inner spiritual development.
• 434EYou Are Your Own Master

  Analyze how the Buddha’s teaching on self-mastery challenges common assumptions about external salvation or rescue, and synthesize understanding by designing accountability practices that demonstrate personal responsibility for ethical choices and inner development.
• 435EThe Middle Way between Extremes

  Implement techniques for physical, mental, and emotional balancing, and analyze how equilibrium in each area supports the others.
• 436EThe Story of the Frog in the Well

  Implement practices that cultivate an expansive, “bird’s eye view” perspective, and analyze the frog-in-the-well parable to illustrate the limitations of narrow viewpoints, and to remember that a bigger perspective is possible.
• 438EPracticing Refuge for Others

  Implement awareness practices to generate a calm, grounded center, and evaluate how being present and nonjudgmental serves as effective support for others.
• 441EBuddhist and Ordinary Refuge

  Analyze the fundamental differences between Buddhist refuge (three jewels) and ordinary refuge practices by evaluating their effectiveness in providing protection from fear and suffering. Create criteria for assessing the wholesomeness of various refuge sources using the eightfold path as a framework, then apply these criteria to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of refuge in contemporary life experiences.