Academic Area Pathways
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599EOpanayikoAnalyze the difference between accepting teachings through belief, versus discovering truth through direct experience, then evaluate how applying a Buddhist concept in daily life—such as impermanence or compassion—can lead to personal insights. Compare direct experience with theoretical understanding of dharma teachings, and assess whether this experiential approach demonstrates the quality of opanayiko by genuinely leading toward inner clarity and transformation.
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458EBuddhanatureAnalyze how the concept of buddhanature may affect one’s outlook on life; compare and contrast the principle of buddhanature with other religious or philosophical beliefs; and assess how the understanding of innate goodness transforms relationships.
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465ERight SamadhiAnalyze the relationship between mental stability, ethical conduct, and the development of insight; evaluate how right samadhi differs from ordinary concentration through examining motivation and ethical foundation; and implement systematic concentration practices while documenting how sustained attention supports both daily clarity and deeper understanding of mind’s nature.
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466ERight ActionAnalyze potential consequences of actions in different areas of life, honestly acknowledging personal challenges and ethical blind spots, and create a systematic approach to decision-making that prioritizes universal well-being and harmony.
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502ETanha: Sensory EnjoymentImplement mindful self-care practices that honor the body as a vehicle for awakening, and analyze how unrestrained sensory craving creates suffering.
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510EMusical AwakeningAnalyze how specific musical elements in chosen pieces convey Buddhist values, evaluating how qualities like mindfulness, compassion, courage, or insight are expressed through sound.
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521EAbhidharma: Sensory AwarenessIdentify the six sense faculties and twelve ayatanas and connect them to our experience of conditioned perception. Evaluate how habitual reactions to pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral sensations can limit our perceptions. Implement mindfulness practices utilizing awareness of sensory processes.
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431ESetting BoundariesAnalyze various methods for creating sacred space and practice boundaries in contemplative settings; evaluate how intentional boundary-setting affects group concentration, respect, and spiritual atmosphere; and implement systematic approaches to establishing practice containers that support both individual focus and collective contemplative experience.
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436EThe Story of the Frog in the WellImplement 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.