Abstract Thinking: [13.02] Bhavana Of The Rarity Of Enlightenment - Accomplishment of Enlightenment

The acquisition of a holistic or right point-of-view is the first step towards the accomplishment of enlightenment. He who finds wholeness of vision, progresses through sadhana till he achieves enlightenment.

A person possessed of right vision has five characteristics:

1. Belief - in the reality of the self, the law of karman, and the like
2. Tranquillity - quiescence of passions such as anger, etc
3. Keen desire for salvation
4. Detachment - dispassionateness, renunciation.
   
   It is of three kinds:
   
   detachment from worldly affairs,
   detachment from the body,
   detachment from pleasure.
   
5. Compassion - Kindliness, friendship towards all, fellow feeling.

Non-violence is synonymous with pity, compassion. A beautiful analysis of it is to be found in Panchadhyayi, where it is said - "That kindliness which is extended to all living beings, should be called compassion. The feeling of friendliness, beings established in the middle path, non-use of injury-causing instruments and the abandonment of enmity - all these fall under compassion." Here the pure character of mercy is brought out as a matter of fact that mercifulness which shuns all oppression, is real compassion.