Significance of Silabbatupadana
Silabbatupadana, in Theravada Buddhism, refers to the clinging to rituals and practices that do not contribute to the cessation of suffering or true spiritual growth. It encompasses the belief that salvation can be achieved through certain ineffective practices, including animal worship and unrelated rites. This attachment to rituals potentially leads individuals to unfortunate consequences, as it prioritizes superficial practices over the fundamental teachings of the Four Noble Truths. Silabbatupadana highlights the dangers of mistaking ritualistic adherence for genuine spiritual progress.
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Buddhist concept of 'Silabbatupadana'
Silabbatupadana in Buddhism signifies an attachment to rituals and practices perceived as pathways to salvation, which ultimately hinder true spiritual growth, promote false beliefs, and can lead to unfortunate states, deviating from the Four Noble Truths.
(1) Clinging to wrong practices that do not lead to cessation of suffering.[1] (2) A term suggesting attachment to rites and rituals that can lead individuals to unfortunate states, such as the four lower worlds.[2] (3) Attachment to rituals and practices as a means to salvation, especially when such practices do not lead to true spiritual growth.[3] (4) A belief that one can attain salvation through certain practices unrelated to the Four Noble Truths, including worshipping animals and performing rites.[4] (5) A specific false belief that pertains to the attachment to rituals and practices over the essence of spiritual truth.[5]
(1) Silabbatupadana is the overwhelming desire for wrong practices and observances, which is one of the types of Upadana, or grasping.[6]