Significance of Fifth Division

The keyphrase "Fifth Division" in Theravada refers to a section that includes classifications guiding community actions and decisions. This division likely includes teachings or rules specifically for nuns and addresses behavioral classifications noted in the text. Overall, the Fifth Division serves as an important categorical framework for understanding community dynamics and ethical conduct within the Theravada tradition.

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Fifth Division'

Buddhism Books

The Fifth Division in Buddhism refers to a categorical section concerning behavior, guiding community actions and decisions, and likely pertains to teachings or rules specifically for nuns.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara

(1) This division addresses rules or offenses related to a picture-gallery and other related activities, as described in the text provided.[1] (2) A section that encompasses classifications that guide the actions and decisions within the community.[2]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)

(1) A specific categorization or section mentioned in the text, possibly relating to rules or guidelines.[3]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (2): Bhikkhuni-vibhanga (the analysis of Nun’ rules)

(1) A distinct classification or category of teachings or rules within the monastic texts, possibly focusing on specific practices or artifacts.[4]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Jain concept of 'Fifth Division'

Jainism Books

The Fifth Division in Jainism signifies a time period reached by all living beings, reflecting the profound influence of Jain teachings on existence and spiritual progress.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The text mentions the fifth division of time, which has been attained by us and all living things, indicating the impact of the teachings.[5]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Classical concept of 'Fifth Division'

Various literature Books

Meaning of Fifth Division in Ancient Egyptian mythology, history and philosophy:
Egypt Books

From: The Book of Gates

(1) The Fifth Division of the Tuat is the location that the boat of Ra passed through before arriving at the gateway which leads to the Sixth Division.[6] (2) It is where the boat of the sun arrived after passing through the Fourth Division, accessible through a gateway similar to the previous one.[7]

From: The Egyptian Heaven and Hell

(1) It is similar to the Fourth Division, but different from the Book Am-Tuat and has no connection with the kingdom of Seker, according to provided information.[8] (2) The Fifth Division, also referred to as an hour or circle, is named AMENT and holds secret ways and doors leading to the hidden chamber within the holy place of the Land of SEKER, where his flesh and body reside in their ancient forms.[9]

From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1

(1) The pylon of this or Fifth Hour is called Ȧrit, and the serpent who guards it bears the name of Teka-hrȧ.[10]

Egypt was an ancient civilization ruled by pharaohs that left behind an extensive cultural heritage and mythology. The Egyptians build the Pyramids of Giza and various temples of great size. Located in North Africa, part of this civilization’s success is the effective use of the River Nile. Their religious pantheon included many Gods dispersed over various belief systems, philosophies and cults.