Quick comments:
End of p. 1, it states: “This creates a philosophical problem for a literal interpretation of mundane right view, which often involves ensuring a favorable rebirth. As the user rightly points out, this seems to conflict with the central doctrine of anatta (no-self). The idea of a fixed, enduring self that persists from life to life to enjoy the fruits of merit is a metaphysical concept the Buddha explicitly avoided.”
- The concept of rebirth (unlike the concept of reincarnation in Hinduism) does not conflict with the core idea of a ‘no-everlasting self.’
- See “What Reincarnates? – Concept of a Lifestream.”
On p. 3: “The evidence from textual criticism and scholars like Gombrich strongly supports the thesis that the formal classification of Right View into mundane and supramundane tiers is a later scholastic development..”
- No. The eight factors of the mundane eightfold path and the Noble Eightfold Path are discussed in detail in the “Mahācattārīsaka Sutta (MN 117)“, starting with the mundane and Noble Sammā Diṭṭhi, which I linked to.
- One learns and comprehends that kamma (actions, speech, and thoughts with a defiled mind) leads to corresponding consequences (kamma vipaka) while on the mundane path. One cannot comprehend the Noble (supramundane) Samma Ditthi without that.
- I see that you referenced the above sutta on p. 4. That is good.
Regarding the discussion on ‘Samma‘:
- ‘Sammā‘ can be taken to mean “right’ or ‘correct’ in the mundane path.
- In the lokuttara sense, “sammā” is derived from “saṅ” + “mā,” meaning “to become free of saṅ.” Saṅ represents defilements or rāga, dōsa, mōha. Here, “mā” means “becomes free of.” For example:
- “Mā hoti jāti, jāti” means “may I be free of repeated birth.”
- “mā mé bāla samāgamō” means “may I be free of association with those who are ignorant of Dhammā.”
- See “What is “San”? Meaning of Sansara (or Samsara).”
Let me know if you need further input on any other specific parts of the document.
