Significance of Anagami
Anagami, in Theravada Buddhism, refers to a non-returner who has attained the third stage of enlightenment. This state is characterized by the eradication of specific desires, such as ill-will and sensuous clinging, which prevents rebirth in the sensual realms. Although Anagami individuals have made significant spiritual progress, some residual desires may still persist. Ultimately, Anagami represents a crucial developmental stage on the path toward full liberation, where individuals will be reborn in Pure Abodes until achieving Arahatship.
Synonyms: Non-returner, Once-returner, Enlightened being
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Anagami'
Anagami in Buddhism refers to the third stage of enlightenment, characterized by the eradication of desire and aversion, marking a non-returner who avoids rebirth in the sensual realms, yet may cling to certain forms of existence.
From: Cetasikas
(1) The third stage of enlightenment in Buddhism, where one has completely abandoned attachment to sensual pleasures and has no conditions for aversion.[1] (2) The third stage of enlightenment where one has eradicated the canker of sensuous desire but still clings to rebirth.[2] (3) The non-returner, a stage of enlightenment that overcomes ill-will and certain desires but may still cling to rebirth ideals.[3] (4) Anagami refers to a stage of enlightenment where an individual has eradicated dosa and does not cling to sense objects.[4] (5) A person who has attained the third stage of enlightenment, having eradicated the tendency to slandering and harsh speech.[5]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The third of the three lower fruits, indicating one who has attained a significant level of spiritual development according to Buddhist teachings.[6] (2) A Never-Returner who has completely eradicated specific fetters and does not return to the cycle of birth and death.[7] (3) The third stage of awakening in Buddhism, indicating a 'non-returner' who will not be reborn in the human realm.[8] (4) One who has developed the Never-Returning Path and will not return to the sense sphere but is born in Pure Abodes until attaining Arahatship.[9] (5) Individuals who have attained a stage of sainthood and have eradicated certain types of akusala consciousness.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A never-returner who has completely eradicated the desire for sensual gratification and will not be reborn in the human realm.[11] (2) A non-returner; a noble disciple who has reached the third stage of holiness and will not return to the sensual realm after rebirth.[12] (3) A non-returner, free from lower fetters and not returning to the sensual worlds.[13] (4) The third stage of sainthood, reflecting a significant degree of enlightenment where certain fetters are broken.[14]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) The non-returner, who has attained the third stage of enlightenment, advancing further in the eradication of ignorance.[15] (2) The third stage of enlightenment in Buddhism, indicating a person who has completely eradicated desire and aversion and will no longer be reborn in the sensuous realm.[16] (3) The third stage of enlightenment where one is liberated from the attachment to sensory objects but still possesses some residual desires.[17] (4) The non-returner, the third stage of enlightenment in Buddhism, characterized by the complete eradication of dosa.[18]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The third stage of enlightenment in Buddhism, representing a non-returner who will not return to the cycle of rebirth after their current life.[19] (2) A state of being in Buddhism indicating one who has attained a level of enlightenment, avoiding rebirth in the sensual realms.[20]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) A higher spiritual state beyond Sagadagami that necessitates significant dedication to Dana and Sila.[21]