Liberation (Ages 15-18)
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334DeathAnalyze the three contemplations regarding death; compare Buddhist and non-Buddhist concepts of rebirth; and consider how to develop a more curious and less fearful relationship with mortality.
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404Right MindfulnessAnalyze an experience of mindful pausing, evaluating immediate thoughts and feelings without judgment, and critiquing your chosen response.
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408Fame and AnonymityEvaluate personal motivations regarding fame and notoriety, and implement actions that are free from both craving recognition and fearing obscurity.
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412Right EffortAnalyze the four aspects of right effort by identifying examples of helpful and harmful mental states in daily life; evaluate how joyful effort differs from forced effort in personal practice; and implement the principles of right effort in daily life, analyzing opportunities to cultivate wholesome thoughts and actions while evaluating how this practice transforms well-being and relationships.
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416Refraining 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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417Refraining from stealingAnalyze 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.
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418Abstaining from IntoxicantsDifferentiate 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.
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419The 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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420The 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.
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422The Paramita of Dana/GenerosityDifferentiate between ordinary giving and transcendent generosity (dana) that expects nothing in return; analyze how the quality of mind (caga) influences the spiritual impact of generous acts; and design a practice of multi-dimensional giving that cultivates non-attachment while addressing the varied but specific needs of others.