Chapter 4 - Human Personality

• The 5 Aggregates (Skandas) are parts that make up an individual, not permanent.
• Form/Matter in the 5 Aggregates (Skandas) are the physical elements.
• Feelings in the 5 Aggregates (Skandas) change with external changes.
• Perception in the 5 Aggregates (Skandas) is based on experience and constantly changing.
• Mental Formation in the 5 Aggregates (Skandas) is a reaction to feelings, influenced by Karma.
• Consciousness in the 5 Aggregates (Skandas) reacts based on the combination of other aggregates.
• No permanent individual (self) exists according to Nagasena and the Chariot analogy.
• Individuals are a combination of elements (5 aggregates).
• The name is a label for these elements.
• Once the elements cease, the self ceases.
• Dhammapada 113 highlights the importance of understanding impermanence.
• Theravada Buddhism emphasizes less but still considers impermanence and no self crucial.
• Mahayana Buddhism applies the concept of impermanence and no self to everything, emphasizing emptiness (Sunyata).
• Tathagata-garbha (Buddha-nature) is the potential within all to become a Buddha, not something you have (like a soul) but something you are.
• All beings are connected; Buddha-nature is already enlightened.
• Tathagata-garbha (Buddha-nature) is contradictory to no self and impermanence and is not accepted in Theravada Buddhism.
• The 6 Perfections (Paramitas) in Mahayana Buddhism are virtues that strengthen practice and bring enlightenment.
• Generosity in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) is linked to Bodhisattva ideals of helping others.
• Morality in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) follows Buddhist guidelines, finds a personal balance.
• Patience in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) is with others and oneself.
• Energy in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) develops character and energy for enlightenment; it can be used to help others.
• Meditation in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) involves concentrating on the idea of no self and interconnectedness.
• Wisdom in the 6 Perfections (Paramitas) involves understanding no self and embracing Sunyata teaching.