Overview
In the same discourse where he taught wealth management, the Buddha immediately balanced the teaching by reminding the layperson that physical wealth ends at death. To ensure happiness in the next life (and movement toward ultimate liberation), a householder must simultaneously develop these four spiritual assets.
The List
- Saddhāsampadā - Accomplishment in faith: Possessing unshakeable confidence in the enlightenment of the Buddha, recognizing him as the supreme teacher of gods and humans.
- Sīlasampadā - Accomplishment in virtue: Strictly adhering to the Five Precepts—abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxication.
- Cāgasampadā - Accomplishment in generosity: Living at home with a heart free from the stain of stinginess, being open-handed, delighting in relinquishment, and being accessible to beggars and monastics.
- Paññāsampadā - Accomplishment in wisdom: Possessing the insight that sees the arising and passing away of phenomena, which is noble, penetrative, and leads directly to the complete destruction of suffering.
Textual References
- Canonical: Dīghajāṇu Sutta (AN 8.54) – The Buddha states that these four qualities lead to happiness and welfare in future lives.