Significance of Seventh Division
The Seventh Division in Theravada Buddhism pertains to a specific segment of teachings focused on the rules regarding shoes. This segment highlights the disciplined lifestyle that monks are expected to follow. It underscores the importance of adhering to particular guidelines, reflecting the regimented nature of monastic life. This aspect of Theravada teachings illustrates how even seemingly simple items like shoes can be integrated into the broader context of monastic discipline and conduct.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Seventh Division'
The Seventh Division in Buddhism pertains to a specific text segment that outlines rules about shoes, highlighting the disciplined and regimented lifestyle followed by monks within the tradition.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) A segment of text referring to specific teachings or rules concerning shoes, indicating the regimented nature of the monks' lifestyle.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) This phrase introduces a division of the text that concerns pregnant women and maidens.[2]
The concept of Seventh Division in local and regional sources
Seventh divisions denote a systematic breakdown of measurements, progressing into smaller units. This methodical approach emphasizes precision and clarity in data representation, making complex information more accessible and easily understandable.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) An extensive breakdown of measurements leading to increasingly smaller units.[3]
Classical concept of 'Seventh Division'
From: The Book of Gates
(1) It is a place in the Tuat, which the boat of the Sun passes through before arriving at the gateway called BEKHKHI.[4] (2) The Seventh Division is accessed via a gateway similar to the Sixth, guarded by nine gods, and is part of the journey through the Tuat.[5]
From: The Egyptian Heaven and Hell
(1) According to the text, the SEVENTH DIVISION, also known as the HOUR, is entered through the Gate PESTIT, which is guarded by the monster serpent AKHA-EN-MAAT.[6] (2) The Seventh Division of the Tuat, also known as THEPHET-SHETAT, presents a challenging region where AFU-RA's boat navigates through sandbanks and shallows, encountering serpents and crocodiles, requiring protection from Isis and SER.[7]
From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1
(1) The serpent who guards the pylon of the Seventh Division is called Akhan-maati, and the guardian at the end of the corridor is called Shepi, but the mutilated state of the scene renders it impossible to give the name of the pylon or of the guardian of the entrance to the corridor.[8]
From: The Book of Am-Tuat
(1) The Seventh Division of the Tuat is the segment of the underworld journeyed through by the Sun-god during the Seventh Hour, featuring specific deities, trials, and locations.[9]